"We are the guardians of seeds"

"Females are guardians of seeds and should therefore continue to uplift that role – for food is (agri)culture that is the right of all citizens. Warmth, beauty, diversity, routine, organisation, dedication and prosperity are all qualities associated with being a woman and naturally shape a farm."

Her career path

Busisiwe is a nurse educator from South Africa. Besides, she has been an entrepreneur and service provider for the Department of Education in a school nutrition programme.

When she had to leave her city life in 2014, she was introduced to Agroecology. That's when she became an agroecology farmer and trainer for leading organic agriculture projects. Now, also in collaboration with FiBL.

A full-time care role

"I come from farming families on both my parents' side. So, from an early age, I had to do farm chores, like having to water the vegetable garden before going to school.

It was my nursing profession that taught me the importance of nutrition for health and well-being. Being a female farmer emphasises the care role that comes with being a big sister, a mother, a wife and a community player."

A long way to go

"The blame on women for poverty, malnutrition and hunger is not far off. More opportunities are said to be given to females and youth, yet, in practice, cultures keep them disadvantaged.

I now focus on agroforests to make sure there is abundance of fruits, nuts, medicinal plants, edible weeds, indigenous vegetables and cash crops to generate income, improve livelihoods and create jobs."