Justice Ncube (25), the Documentation and Research Officer for Fambidzanai Permaculture Centre says the recently held seed fair organised by the Goromonzi Organic Farmers’ Association (GOFA), a group of smallholder farmers working with FPC in Goromonzi district raised awareness on the importance of seed and nutrition at household level.
The seed fair, which ran under the theme ‘Seed Security is Food Security’, was held on 24 June 2019 at the Goromonzi Rural District Council Hall. It attracted approximately 110 people representing smallholder farmers, agricultural extension officers, traditional leaders and district leaders.
“Seventy-eight smallholder farmers showcased and exchanged diverse seeds. There was a 20.5 percent increase in the number of farmers who exhibited seed from last year’s seed fair,” said Justice.
Speaking at the event, the Councillor for Ward 12 in Goromonzi West constituency, Kandwakuenda Magaya encouraged farmers to keep the tradition of seed growing and saving alive.
“I would not be happy to see this generation of traditional seed preservers perishing without replacement. I therefore urge every farmer here to recruit at least one member who is going to carry on with this vital role in the society after him or her,” said Kondwakuenda Magaya.
Justice said farmers shared and traded approximately 30 seed varieties in what he dubbed a colourful event that reflects farmers’ commitment to performing the old age practice of growing, saving and trading farm saved seeds.
“This seed fair truly humbled me. It showed me how seed is tied to our culture and tradition,” said Justice.