| The Malabo Declaration, adopted by the African Union in 2014, sets ambitious goals for agricultural transformation. It emphasises the importance of ending hunger, reducing poverty, and ensuring sustainable agriculture. Central to these goals is the concept of food and seed sovereignty—the right of people to define their own food and agriculture systems, ensuring that they are ecologically, socially, economically, and culturally appropriate. Food and seed sovereignty is not just about access to food; it is about control over the entire food system. It empowers communities to produce food sustainably, preserves indigenous knowledge, and protects biodiversity. This approach contrasts sharply with industrial agriculture, which often leads to the loss of traditional seeds, dependency on multinational corporations, and environmental degradation.Rural women are at the heart of Africa’s agricultural sector. They are the custodians of traditional knowledge, the stewards of our seeds, and the backbone of our food systems. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), women in sub-Saharan Africa contribute up to 60-80% of the labour used in food production. Despite their critical role, rural women often face significant barriers, including limited access to land, credit, education, and decision-making processes.We have been advocating for the rights and recognition of rural women. The RWA emphasises that for food and seed sovereignty to be realised, rural women must be supported and empowered. This includes ensuring their access to resources, enhancing their participation in policy-making, and recognizing their contributions to sustainable agriculture. As we commemorate Africa Day, let us recognize that food and seed sovereignty is not just a goal but a necessity for the future of our continent. By ensuring our governments honour the principles of the Malabo Declaration and supporting the vital role of rural women, we can build a more sustainable, resilient, and equitable food system. In the words of an African proverb, “The food that is in the land belongs to the people.” We need to honour this wisdom by championing sustainable food and seed sovereignty in Africa. |
