Women Environs Zambia (WEZ) is championing food sovereignty and agricultural sustainability in Monze District through the Farmers Trading Center (FTC) using their Seed Pass-On Program. At its core, this initiative embodies the tenets of feminist solidarity—sharing resources, knowledge, and responsibility to uplift all. The seed itself, a seemingly small symbol, transforms into a powerful tool for empowerment when placed in the hands of women. By distributing sunflower and sorghum seeds to local farmers, Women Environs in Zambia (WEZ) fostered a cycle of sustainability where recipients are encouraged to pass on seeds after harvest to others in need. Launched in November 2024, this initiative supports rural women farmers by distributing drought-resistant sunflower and sorghum seeds and promoting sustainable agricultural practices such as agroecology. The program’s seed pass-on model ensures that farmers who receive seeds share their harvests with other community members, creating a cycle of support that strengthens food sovereignty and promotes resilience against climate change. Farmers actively participated in orientation sessions on planting techniques and the seed pass-on system, and they were trained to use seed pass-on forms to track distribution and ensure transparency. WEZ staff conducted field visits to assess readiness and provided tailored advice to farmers.

The FTC Secretary shared encouraging insights about the community’s willingness to work towards the success of the seed pass-on program. She acknowledged the enthusiasm of the farmers and emphasised their commitment to upholding the program’s principles. This, she noted, would be instrumental in achieving the program’s goal of enhancing food security and resilience within the region. Women Farmers further demonstrated enthusiasm and commitment to the program, with most fields well-prepared, though some required further soil enhancement. Orientation sessions equipped participants with essential skills for better crop management. To further enhance the program’s impact, WEZ will continue to conduct training sessions on sustainable farming practices and establish monitoring and evaluation systems to track progress and address challenges.

The women farmers of Miyoba Area demonstrated remarkable leadership and grit. They embraced the initiative with enthusiasm, readying their fields and adopting climate-resilient practices, even in the face of droughts and other adversities. The shared experiences, advice, and encouragement exchanged during the event highlight the strength of collective wisdom. The Seed Pass-On initiative also serves as a reminder that sustainable development cannot exist without dismantling systemic barriers. Women, often the backbone of agricultural communities, face unique challenges in accessing resources, training, and decision-making power. WEZ works to address these inequalities, not as a favour to women but as a necessity for societal progress. Programs like these shine a light on the potential unleashed when women are equipped with tools to thrive and lead.

The pass-on initiative was also done in Hinjali, which is almost 200 kilometres from the country capital with over 50 rural women farmers. The Hinjali Seed Pass-On event exemplifies WEZ’s commitment to fostering resilience and community-driven growth. This impactful program, hosted on November 29, 2024, in Monze District, marked another milestone in strengthening food sovereignty, environmental conservation, and self-reliance among rural women farmers in the district. The event commenced with a strong message of collective responsibility. Community leaders and Women Environs staff emphasised the transformative power of the seed pass-on approach. Farmers received an array of drought-resistant, high-yield seeds tailored to local agricultural needs, alongside detailed guidance on their management. In the pass-on process, seeds represent more than immediate resources—they are a future investment, creating a ripple effect of food sovereignty and shared prosperity.

This initiative is a practical, community-focused solution to improving agricultural productivity and food sovereignty. By supporting programs like this, WEZ fosters resilience and self-reliance in rural communities. When seeds are planted, whether in the soil or in the hearts of people, they symbolise growth, connection, and hope. The women of Monze district remind us that change begins with these small, intentional acts of care and collaboration. It is our responsibility, as individuals and as a society, to nurture this growth and ensure its reach across every corner of the globe.