In the semi-arid regions of Eastern Kenya, particularly Kitui and Makueni counties, smallholder farmers confront the harsh realities of erratic rainfall, prolonged droughts, and degraded soils.
These environmental challenges, intensified by climate change, threaten the livelihoods and food security of communities that rely heavily on agriculture. Amidst these adversities, indigenous seed systems emerge as a beacon of hope, offering resilience and sustainability rooted in generations of local knowledge.
Indigenous seeds, such as beans, maize and sorghum varieties, have been cultivated and preserved by local farmers over centuries. These varieties are not only well-adapted to the local agro-ecological conditions, exhibiting traits like drought tolerance and early maturity, but also hold cultural significance, being integral to community traditions and identities.
However, the dominance of formal seed systems, propelled by government policies and commercial interests, has marginalised the native varieties.
Hybrid and genetically modified seeds, often promoted for their high yields under optimal conditions, are ill-suited to the variable and resource-constrained environments of semi-arid regions.
Their high cost and dependence on external inputs further alienate smallholder farmers, leading to increased vulnerability and food insecurity.
Recognising the critical role of indigenous seeds, various community initiatives have emerged to conserve and promote these varieties. Organisations like the Seed Savers Network-Kenya have been instrumental in supporting such community efforts.
Through training programmes and the establishment of seed fairs, they facilitate the sharing and exchange of indigenous seeds, fostering a sense of ownership and empowerment among farmers.
These initiatives underscore the importance of participatory approaches in agricultural development, where farmers are not mere beneficiaries but active agents of change. Revitalising indigenous seed systems is not merely about preserving the past; it is about securing the future.
Despite the evident benefits of indigenous seed systems, existing policies pose significant challenges. The Seeds and Plant Varieties Act of 2012, for example, restricts the sharing and exchange of uncertified seeds, criminalising traditional practices that have sustained communities for generations. Such regulations not only undermine seed sovereignty but also threaten biodiversity and resilience in the face of climate change.
To address these issues, there is a pressing need for policy reforms that recognise and support farmer-managed seed systems. This includes legal frameworks that protect farmers' rights to save, use, exchange, and sell indigenous seeds.
Moreover, integrating indigenous knowledge into national agricultural strategies can enhance the adaptability and sustainability of food systems.
Revitalising indigenous seed systems is not merely about preserving the past; it is about securing the future. In the face of mounting environmental challenges, these systems offer practical solutions grounded in local realities.
By embracing and supporting indigenous seeds, we can build resilient agricultural systems that ensure food security, conserve biodiversity, and uphold the cultural heritage of communities in Eastern Kenya and beyond.
The writer is an agronomist and a Master’s student at Lukenya University.
