Seeds of resilience: Why traditional seed systems matter in East Africa
Across East Africa, a quiet revolution is brewing underground – a seed revolution. Dr. Venter Mwongera, Communications Lead at the African Biodiversity Network, argues that this revolution isn’t driven by technology, but by a revival of ancient wisdom – farmer-managed seed systems. These traditional practices hold the key to food security, biodiversity, and climate resilience, and ABN is at the forefront of the movement to empower farmers and protect their heritage.
Imagine Imani, a Tanzanian farmer with sun-kissed skin and a determined glint in her eyes. Each year, after the harvest, she meticulously selects the finest seeds from her sorghum crop. These aren’t just any seeds; they’re a living legacy, a testament to the ingenuity of her ancestors. These heirloom varieties, nurtured for centuries, are perfectly adapted to the region’s scorching sun and unpredictable rainfall. They’re not only drought-resistant and pest-tolerant, but also boast a unique flavour that’s been a staple on Tanzanian tables for generations. By saving and sharing these seeds, Imani isn’t just feeding her family, she’s contributing to a vibrant tapestry of agricultural biodiversity, a safety net against unforeseen challenges.
However, FMSS face an uphill battle. Modern seed policies often tilt the scales in favour of large commercial seed companies. These companies churn out standardized, high-yielding varieties that require specific fertilizers, pesticides, and controlled environments to thrive. This creates a system of dependence for farmers like Imani, pushing them towards ever-increasing debt and making them vulnerable to volatile market fluctuations. Additionally, stringent intellectual property laws can restrict their right to save seeds from these commercially produced varieties, further undermining their autonomy and traditional practices.
The advocates of change
Amidst these challenges, a wave of hope is indeed rising, led by the African Biodiversity Network (ABN). The Network advocates for policies that empower farmers and honor the cultural significance of seeds, recognizing them as symbols of resilience, cultural identity, and the profound connection communities have with their land. Notably, the Network has released a desktop research report titled “Building Farmer-Managed Seed Systems and Preserving Indigenous Seeds in East Africa.” This collaborative virtual research, involving partners from Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, was spearheaded by Dr. Daniel Maingi, Coordinator of Growth Partners Africa and an ABN partner from Kenya.
The report provides deep insights into the state of FMSS policies and the cultural relevance of indigenous seeds, among other unique aspects cherished by communities in the region. The full report is accessible on the ABN website through the provided link in the reading resources section at the bottom of this article. Additionally, Resolution 372 by the African Commission, implemented with leadership from the Network, adds another layer of protection. It acknowledges Sacred Natural Sites and Territories (SNS&Ts) as areas where indigenous communities have safeguarded traditional seed management practices for centuries. These sites serve as crucial reservoirs of genetic diversity, ensuring the continual evolution and adaptation of Africa’s precious seeds.
The benefits of nurturing FMSS extend far beyond cultural preservation. These systems offer seeds that are not only affordable and accessible to smallholder farmers but also more resilient in the face of climate change. Unlike commercially produced varieties, heirloom seeds have adapted to local weather patterns over generations. They can withstand droughts, resist pests and diseases naturally, and require minimal external inputs. By supporting FMSS, we’re not just ensuring food security for the present, but also investing in a future where communities like Amina’s can adapt to a changing climate and continue to nourish themselves and their land.
The Call to Action:
- The future of East Africa’s food systems hinges on a collective effort. Here’s what we can do:
- Policy Reform: National seed policies need to be revised to recognize and actively support FMSS. This includes ensuring access to resources, research, and knowledge sharing opportunities for smallholder farmers.
- Legal Advocacy: Intellectual property laws must be reformed to protect farmers’ rights to save, exchange, and sell seeds, while safeguarding traditional knowledge from biopiracy.
- Investing in the Future: Increased funding for FMSS research and development is essential. This will allow for the development of improved seed selection and storage techniques, as well as the creation of robust community seed banks.
- Building Capacity: Training farmers and extension workers in FMSS practices empowers communities to manage their own seed security and adapt to changing conditions.
- Collaboration is Key: Stakeholders – governments, NGOs, research institutions, seed companies, and farmers’ organizations – need to work together to create a supportive environment for FMSS to flourish. This includes fostering knowledge exchange, promoting fair market access for farmer-produced seeds, and advocating for policies that prioritize long-term sustainability over short-term profit.
By taking these steps, we can cultivate a future where East Africa’s seed systems are not just productive, but also diverse, resilient, and rooted in the wisdom of generations past. This seed revolution, led by the calloused hands of farmers like Amina, promises a future where food sovereignty and cultural heritage go hand in hand. It’s a future where the seeds sown today will nourish not just bodies, but also the spirit of a continent.
Link to further reading: