Bevis Mushimbwa is a farmer hailing from Mulisa village in Senior Chief Shakumbila’s jurisdiction, Shibuyunji district. Since embarking on his farming journey in 1995, Bevis has been deeply rooted in the cultivation of both local and hybrid seeds. His commitment to sustainable farming practices led him to join the Community Technology Development Trust in 2017. There he underwent extensive training in Participatory Plant Breeding (PPB), Farmer Seed Enterprise (FSE), local food plants, nutrition, and advocacy, igniting his passion for seed systems advocacy.
The Farmers’ Rights Champion shared his insights on Zambia’s seed laws as well as the value of empowering farmers to maintain control over their own seed.
How do you believe the proposed changes to the Zambian seed laws will impact farmers, especially those in remote or marginalised areas?
I have concerns regarding clauses that may not favour small-scale farmers and their indigenous seeds. Legislation that elevates rather than diminishes our contributions—especially those made in isolated or underprivileged communities—is crucial.
In your opinion, what are the key challenges that Zambian farmers currently face regarding access to seeds, and do you think the proposed changes address these challenges?
I point out the expensive nature of seed acquisition and the logistical hurdles of accessing seeds from distant points. Unfortunately, the proposed changes in the bill do not adequately address these pressing issues. We need more inclusive policies that prioritise the needs of small-scale farmers.
How do you envision the role of local communities and small-scale farmers in shaping agricultural policies, particularly those related to seed laws?
I advocate for our active involvement in decision-making processes. It’s crucial to have farmer participation, given our significant contribution to the agricultural sector.
Can you share a specific experience or example that highlights the importance of preserving traditional seed varieties in Zambia?
From personal experience, I can’t emphasise enough the significance of preserving traditional seed varieties in Zambia. Our local seeds are our identity, readily available, cost-effective, and possess nutritional and medicinal properties. We also have seed custodians and community seed banks in some areas, facilitating seed preservation.
What strategies do you think could be effective in ensuring that the proposed changes lead to positive outcomes for both farmers and the agricultural sector as a whole?
I believe that incorporating farmers’ submissions into the proposed changes could lead to positive outcomes for both farmers and the agricultural sector. By listening to and integrating our perspectives, policymakers can ensure more effective and inclusive seed law reforms.
How can the government, NGOs, and the private sector collaborate to ensure that these changes promote inclusivity and benefit all stakeholders in the agricultural value chain?
It’s crucial for government entities, NGOs, and the private sector to collaborate to promote inclusivity and benefit all stakeholders in the agricultural value chain. By working together, we can create a conducive environment for sustainable agriculture.
Are there any success stories or best practices from other regions that you think Zambia can learn from in implementing seed law reforms?
Yes, India’s seed law policies recognise the importance of their local seed.
Could you provide a personal statement or quote expressing your thoughts and concerns about the proposed changes to Zambian seed laws, which can be shared as part of our campaign?
I have compared the performance of local seeds and hybrid seeds; the difference is minimal in terms of yield, but there are a lot of advantages to our local seeds. For instance, they are drought-tolerant, resistant to pests and diseases like army worms, and can be recycled year in and year out. Additionally, I support having ZARI handle the local seed register rather than SCCI.