Seed is at the heart of the indigenous way of life. It symbolises the cycles of life itself, it gives life and it supports the biodiversity of the landscape of which it is a part. But without healthy soil and water seed cannot grow. Therefore we advocate for a holistic approach to these livelihood practices where seeds are recuperated and shared; the soil is regenerated; and water systems are protected by the protection of the forests.
A number of local seeds are being recuperated including finger millet, maize, beans, sesame, indigenous vegetables, as well as increasing the awareness of wild greens and fruits. The finger millet is the sacred seed of the VhaVenda people, and Dzomo la Mupo is encouraging the revival of this crop. As well as encouraging community members to plant their own nurseries of indigenous trees which can restore local areas where indigenous forest has been destroyed.
We host and facilitate workshops on seed within the communities, involving practical and theoretical participation. We are also encouraging community members to plant their own nurseries of indigenous trees, this way local communities can rebuild their ecosystem, including the restoration of local areas where indigenous forest has been destroyed.
