Food Sovereignty and Local Seed Systems in South Africa
Farmers Magazine | 22.01.2026 20:15
Food sovereignty is a growing focus in South Africa as communities seek control over how food is produced, distributed, and consumed. Unlike food security, which emphasizes availability, food sovereignty emphasizes the rights of people to decide their own agricultural practices, prioritize local food systems, and maintain cultural and ecological integrity. Central to this concept are local seed systems, which ensure farmers have access to diverse, resilient, and locally adapted seeds. These systems strengthen community control over agriculture, preserve biodiversity, and reduce dependence on commercial seed companies.
