THIS instalment is a continuation from last week, on the paper implications of seed retention policy on African Farmers and ecosystems: An ESG Perspective (part 2).

In this instalment we are touching on ethical considerations on imposing anti-seed retention regulations, case studies and examples of successful seed retention programmes in Africa, case studies of communities impacted seed retention policy in other parts of the world and

lessons learned from other environmental social and governance (ESG)-related controversies and their resolution.

Anti-seed retention regulations

Imposing anti-seed retention regulations that harm local farmers and ecosystems raises several ethical considerations that need to be carefully evaluated. Some of the key ethical considerations in this context include:

Impact on local farmers: One of the primary ethical considerations is the potential harm to local farmers who rely on traditional seed saving practices for their livelihoods. Imposing regulations that restrict seed retention could undermine the autonomy and rights of these farmers, particularly if they are unable to afford or access alternative seeds. This could lead to a loss of traditional knowledge and practices that have been passed down through generations.

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Food security and access to seeds: Ethical concerns arise if anti-seed retention regulations limit local farmers' access to diverse and affordable seed varieties. Restrictions that favour commercial seed companies over local seed saving practices could jeopardize food security and agricultural diversity, especially in regions where farmers rely on traditional seeds adapted to local conditions.

Ecological impact: Regulations that discourage or prohibit seed retention may lead to increased reliance on commercial seeds that are often bred for high input agriculture and may not be well-suited to local ecosystems. This could result in decreased biodiversity, loss of indigenous seed varieties, and potential harm to ecosystems and wildlife that depend on diverse plant species.

Cultural considerations: Traditional seed saving practices are often deeply rooted in the cultural heritage and identity of local communities. Imposing regulations that undermine these practices could erode cultural traditions and disrupt social cohesion within communities that have long relied on seed saving as a way of life.

Power dynamics and equity: Anti-seed retention regulations that disproportionately benefit commercial seed companies or larger agribusinesses over small-scale farmers raise concerns about power dynamics and equity. It is essential to consider the potential impact of regulations on marginalized communities, ensuring that policies are inclusive and do not exacerbate existing disparities in access to resources and decision-making power.

Informed consent and participation: Ethical considerations also include ensuring that local farmers are adequately informed and have the opportunity to participate in decision-making processes related to seed retention regulations. Meaningful engagement with affected communities is essential to ensure that their voices are heard, and their perspectives are taken into account in policy development and implementation.

Below are successful seed retention programmes in Africa:

AOCC

The The African Orphan Crops Consortium (AOCC) is a collaborative effort involving the World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF), the African Union, and other partners. The consortium aims to improve the nutritional content and productivity of underutilised African crops by preserving and utilising traditional seed varieties. By promoting the retention of indigenous crops and seeds, the AOCC contributes to biodiversity conservation and enhances food security in Africa.

Community seed saving initiatives

Various community-based organisations and NGOs across Africa have implemented successful seed retention programs by establishing seed banks and promoting community seed saving initiatives. These programmes empower local farmers to preserve and exchange traditional seed varieties, ensuring agricultural diversity and resilience to environmental challenges.

Case studies of communities

Seed retention policies, which restrict farmers from saving and reusing seeds from their harvest, have been a contentious issue in many parts of Africa. These policies are often implemented as part of broader agricultural regulations or agreements related to intellectual property rights, trade, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

One notable case study is the impact of seed laws and trade agreements on smallholder farmers in countries like Ghana, Kenya, and Uganda. These policies have sometimes restricted farmers' traditional practices of saving, exchanging, and selling seeds, leading to increased dependence on commercial seeds supplied by multinational corporations.

This shift has had negative consequences on farmers' livelihoods, biodiversity, and food security.

In response to these challenges, various organisations, farmers' groups, and civil society actors have advocated for the protection of farmers' rights to save, exchange, and sell seeds.

They have also called for the promotion of agroecological practices, seed sovereignty, and community seed banks as alternatives to restrictive seed policies.

While there have been some successful initiatives and campaigns to address these issues at the local and national levels, resolving the broader impacts of seed retention policies often requires sustained advocacy, policy change, and support for agroecological approaches to farming.

However, it is important to note that the implementation of policies related to seed retention and agriculture can have varying impacts on different communities, depending on factors such as local context, governance structures, and stakeholder engagement.Lessons learned

Palm oil production in Southeast Asia: The palm oil industry has faced significant ESG-related controversies related to deforestation, land grabbing, and human rights violations. Companies operating in this sector have learned the importance of transparency, stakeholder engagement, and sustainable sourcing practices to address these challenges and improve their ESG performance.

Mining industry in Latin America: The mining industry in Latin America has grappled with environmental degradation, community displacement, and social unrest. Companies in this sector have learned the importance of conducting thorough environmental and social impact assessments, engaging with local communities, and implementing responsible mining practices to mitigate negative impacts and build trust with stakeholders.

Textile industry in South Asia: The textile industry in South Asia has faced criticism for poor working conditions, child labour, and environmental pollution. Companies in this sector have learned the importance of ensuring fair labour practices, investing in sustainable manufacturing processes, and engaging with supply chain partners to address ESG risks and enhance their social and environmental performance.

These examples highlight the importance of proactive management of ESG issues, stakeholder engagement, and transparency in addressing controversies and improving sustainability performance across various industries and regions.

Conclusion

Disrupting traditional food farming systems can have wide-ranging social and ethical implications that go beyond just agricultural practices. It is important to consider the social, cultural, and economic context of communities when introducing changes to food systems to ensure that the well-being and livelihoods of people are protected and sustainable development is promoted.

Seed sovereignty is a fundamental component of sustainable agriculture and food security. By promoting biodiversity, supporting local adaptation, reducing dependence on external inputs, empowering farmers, preserving cultural heritage, and enhancing resilience, seed sovereignty plays a crucial role in creating a more sustainable and equitable food system.

When considering anti-seed retention regulations that may harm local farmers and ecosystems, it is crucial to weigh the potential benefits against the ethical considerations outlined above.

Policymakers and stakeholders must engage in transparent and inclusive dialogue to develop regulations that uphold ethical principles, protect the rights of local farmers, and promote sustainable agricultural practices that support both people and the environment.

Ndoro-Mkombachoto is a former academic and banker. She has consulted widely in strategy, entrepreneurship and private sector development for organisations that include Seed Co Africa, Hwange Colliery, RBZ/CGC, Standard Bank of South Africa, Home Loans, IFC/World Bank, UNDP, USAid, Danida, Cida, Kellogg Foundation, among others, as a writer, property investor, developer and manager. — @HeartfeltwithGloria/ +263 772 236 341.