Traditional seed and exchange systems cement social relations and provide a safety net: A case study from KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

ABSTRACT

Millions of small-scale farmers on the African continent save and exchange the seed of their traditional crops, yet the social and cultural values of these systems remain under-researched. Through ethnographic research conducted in the KwaZulu-Natal Province of South Africa, this study sets out to improve understanding about the mechanisms and significance of traditional seed exchange networks. Findings suggest that traditional crops are central; their seed is highly valued; and systems of exchange play complex and nuanced roles. Critical for food sovereignty, these systems act as a back-up in the case of harvest failure, and enhance social cohesion through strengthening community and familial ties.

KEYWORDS:

• Agricultural biodiversity
• agroecology
• farmer-led seed systems
• small-scale farmers
• traditional crops

Notes

1. The key informants were: The headman (form of traditional leader) of Lindizwe; the agroecology manager of the NGO Biowatch; an expert on community seed banks; the curator of the South African national genebank; and a practitioner from LIMA Rural Development Foundation – implementing agents contracted by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture to facilitate rural food security programs.