Euckeria Mpande’s passion for Zambia’s agriculture industry has shown brightly throughout the last decade. Her unrelenting commitment to community engagement has helped numerous farmers by implementing new approaches such as participatory plant breeding and targeted marketing strategies. Euckeria defends farmers’ rights, recognising their extensive knowledge of the soil and expertise in picking the best seeds for their individual needs. This conviction drives her advocacy for farmer participation in agricultural decision-making. Euckeria is more than just an advocate; she is a farmer as well. This direct experience ensures that Zambian farmers’ views and needs are reflected in the policies and practices that form the future of sustainable agriculture.
Euckeria’s story has demonstrated the enormous benefit of enabling farmers to make informed seed decisions. When farmers participate in seed selection, they promote a sense of ownership and resilience in their communities. Euckeria’s passion is more than just theoretical; she actively engages with farmers to develop crop varieties that are especially matched to their local environment. By putting farmers at the centre of agricultural growth, Euckeria envisions a future where policies prioritise their needs.
We spoke to the Farmers’ Rights Champion about the challenges and opportunities within Zambia’s current seed laws.
How do you believe the proposed changes in the Zambian seed laws will impact farmers, especially those in marginalised areas?
These changes will hopefully empower farmers in some ways, especially those in marginalised areas. By allowing farmers to breed varieties tailored to their environment and enabling them to sell their local seeds, we can create a more equitable agricultural system.
What are the key challenges Zambian farmers currently face regarding access to seeds, and do you think the proposed changes address these challenges?
Many farmers struggle to afford seeds, and the varieties available may not align with their preferences. Proposed changes to include local varieties as seeds offer a solution, making seeds more accessible and addressing farmers’ needs while boosting household incomes.
How do you envision the role of local communities and small-scale farmers in shaping agricultural policies, particularly those related to seed laws?
Farmers are the cornerstone of agricultural policymaking. By involving them in policy development, we ensure that policies are rooted in practical experience and meet the needs of those on the ground, ultimately enhancing food security at both household and national levels.
Can you share an example highlighting the importance of preserving traditional seed varieties in Zambia?
During a period of erratic rainfall, local varieties outperformed hybrids, showcasing their adaptability and resilience. This highlights the importance of preserving traditional seeds and integrating agroecological practices into farming.
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?
Proposed changes to include local varieties as seeds offer a solution, making seeds more accessible and addressing farmers’ needs while boosting household incomes.
Are there any specific concerns related to environmental sustainability that you believe should be taken into account in the context of the proposed seed law changes?
Intensifying agroecological practices will help farmers maintain soil health and accessibility without relying heavily on chemical inputs.
How can collaboration between the government, NGOs, and the private sector ensure inclusivity and benefit all stakeholders in the agricultural value chain?
All stakeholders must have a seat at the table to ensure cohesive policymaking.
Are there any success stories or best practices from other regions that Zambia can learn from in implementing seed law reforms?
Neighbouring countries like Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya are formulating policies on agroecology with support from international organisations like the FAO.