Date: 23rd August 2023
Location: Hlokozi (Ubuhlebezwe) and Centocow (Dr NDZ), South Africa
Organisers: WLTP (Women’s Land and Tenure Programme)
Participants: 27 participants, including 17 girls and 10 women from various local communities, schools, and groups, such as the WLTP Gardeners.
Activities:
The Just Transition workshop focused on key concepts related to climate change, agroecology, and the need for a just transition in agriculture and food systems. Facilitated by Buyelaphi Sibiya and Nqobile Masuku, the workshop included discussions on the threats to food systems, the role of indigenous knowledge, and the principles of agroecology. Participants also engaged in practical exercises, such as sharing indigenous seeds, and intergenerational knowledge exchanges that bridged the gap between elders and younger community members. Additionally, the workshop provided a platform for discussing how to integrate these practices into local agricultural policy and development.
Outcomes:
Participants left with a comprehensive understanding of just transition principles and how these relate to sustainable agriculture and food systems. They were empowered with the knowledge of how agroecology can contribute to biodiversity conservation and reduce carbon emissions. One key outcome was the enhanced appreciation for indigenous farming methods, with gardeners expressing a commitment to preserve and share traditional agricultural knowledge. The workshop also promoted active engagement in policy-making, encouraging participants to advocate for climate policies that support sustainable agricultural practices and food security.
Key Highlights:
- Intergenerational Knowledge Exchange: One of the standout features of the workshop was the valuable exchange between older and younger generations, fostering a deep understanding of the importance of preserving indigenous farming techniques.
- Agroecology and Just Transition: Participants gained insight into how agroecology goes beyond food security, with a focus on improving biodiversity and mitigating climate change. This approach was appreciated for its relevance in everyday life and its role in creating sustainable futures.
- Community Engagement: The workshop created a space for unity and collaboration, with participants sharing seeds, music, and stories, while actively participating in group discussions. This sense of community and collective responsibility was a powerful motivator for ongoing action.
- Future Advocacy and Policy Impact: A key takeaway was the importance of gardeners’ active participation in policy development, particularly in areas like the Climate Change Bill, to influence decisions that will shape the future of agriculture and food systems in South Africa.
The feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing a desire to spread the knowledge learned and continue advocating for sustainable practices within their communities.