Historical Background

SOZO began in 2009 as a two-person seed shop serving maize growers in the Eastern Province. Today it is an integrated agribusiness supplying certified seed, agricultural inputs, agronomy training and market linkages in all 30 districts.

Our first demonstration plot, Nyagatare — now replicated 45 times nationwide.

Milestones

• 2009 — Founded as a certified seed retailer in Nyagatare.
• 2013 — First hybrid maize demonstration plot; 120 farmers trained.
• 2016 — Vegetable seed and crop protection lines added.
• 2019 — Agronomy department established; 12 field agronomists recruited.
• 2022 — Climate-resilient variety programme launched with research partners.
• 2025 — 12,000+ farmers reached in a single season across 30 districts.

Seed grading and packaging at the Kigali processing unit.