Since 1989, SANSOR has been the
designated authority to manage and execute all functions pertaining to seed
certification on behalf of the government. This is achieved by means of a core
administrative staff and use of mote than 160 private seed inspectors who are trained,
examined, and authorized to conduct specific functions. Total seed certification has
almost doubled over the past 5 years. Presently, SANSOR is responsible for quality of seed
crops produced on more than 60 000 hectares.
In terms
of a contract between SANSOR and the Agricultural Research Council, breeding lines and new
varieties are made available for evaluation by seed trade members under testing
agreements.
This leads to license agreements on parent lines and varieties for
commercial production and marketing of seed. In some cases SANSOR is also responsible for
distribution of breeder seed. Royalties are collected on behalf of these research
institutes. At present, some 55 varieties and 90 licence agreements are managed. For some
species these functions are extended internationally.
SANSOR continues to be active in
assisting government on amending seed legislation and plant breeders rights.
It participated as member of the government working group which developed new legislation
on genetically modified organisms. It is represented on the national plant genetics
resources committee, and it submits proposals on issues dealing with biosafety and
biodiversity.
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