Towards Sustainable Use of Resources Organisation (TSURO) Trust is restoring social cohesion in Chimanimani district through working with smallholder farmers organised into small groups that enable them to learn and share knowledge and skills around farm saved seeds. TSURO Trust calls these groups Seed Study Groups.
Eliza Ndima (63), is one of the many smallholder farmers working with TSURO Trust. She is a member of the Chiedza Seed Study Group, a group comprising of 30 members in Chimanimani district, Ward 16. Eliza grows a number of open pollinated maize, finger millet and groundnuts varieties.
She says being a member of a seed study group gives her a sense of belonging.
“I feel like we are a family. We have one common vision and we don’t segregate. Every member has an equal chance to participate. We work as a team,” says Eliza.
Eliza’s Seed Study Group shares knowledge, skills and resources aimed at strengthening group members’ capabilities to grow, save and exchange farm saved seeds. Eliza says this helps her to address challenges that she faces.
“We meet once per month and explore a number of agreed topics such as natural pest management, seed saving practices, land preparation and seed production and crop monitoring,” says Eliza.
A strong bond has been created among Seed Study Group members. This has promoted unity, friendship and strengthened community togetherness. Members of Seed Study Groups working with TSURO Trust monitor their crop fields. They share knowledge and skills to ensure quality seed is produced for themselves and their community.
“Our main vision is to have our own community seed bank and supply diverse quality seeds,” says Eliza.