ICS-GROUP

Stakeholder engagement
While the company demonstrates that it undertakes stakeholder engagement activities with the Mali Seed Association, it has an opportunity to disclose an overview of issues raised through stakeholder engagement activities as well as how it identifies its most relevant stakeholders.

The company provides limited insight into its position and activities related to genetic resources and intellectual property management. As it is important that seed companies contribute to genetic resources and intellectual property management that supports smallholder agriculture, the company could provide more insights into its activities for others to learn from.

Plant breeding activities in index countries and breeding programme for specific traits
The company has its own breeding programme in the index region which includes the development of a number of traits particularly important for smallholder farmers, such as resistance to abiotic stress and early maturing varieties. The company also focuses on incorporating resistance and tolerance to regionally important pests and diseases, notably Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus (TYLCV). The company could provide greater disclosure on its breeding activities in the index region, such as the location of its breeding stations.

Seed production activities in index region
The company does not have seed production locations in the region. It has the opportunity to introduce seed production locations in the region and engage with local seed companies and farmer organisations, respecting social and labour rights of workers. This would contribute to the transfer of advanced technologies and strengthen both local expertise and a sustainable business climate.

Distribution channels
The company has distribution channels in Cote d’Ivoire, Mali and Senegal. However, it can disclose information on how it services remote areas in these index countries.

Diverse portfolio
While the company has both vegetables and field crops in its portfolio, it can increase disclosure regarding the number of varieties and seed types offered for each crop.

No relevant disclosure was found for the company in the capacity building measurement area.

Maize
Potato
Sunflower

Cabbage
Carrot
Cucumber
Eggplant
Melon
Onion
Pepper (hot)
Pepper (sweet)
Tomato
Watermelon

Download the portfolios of all companies in the 2021 index for Western and Central Africa here.