info@seedandknowledge.org+27 68 042 9093

How We Work

In essence, SKI works in a way that enhances the relationship between people, sectors, interests, genders, generations and the earth. The main focus of all SKI partners, whether engaged in research, advocacy, training, or working with farmers, is to support communities towards becoming healthy and resilient.

Most importantly this means that communities have a robust confidence in their knowledge and ability to farm and live on their land sustainably. It means communities have access to enough, good quality seed, are always able to grow a diversity of healthy plants and enjoy food sovereignty. We are very clear that working on Agroecology, seed and knowledge, as important as it is in itself, is also an entry point into the bigger process of re-building fragmented communities.

Our Theory of Change, strategy and principles of practice have been guided through experience and learning from each other. With learning at the heart of what we do, our practice is responsive, respectful and resourceful.

  • Collaborating and sharing information, skills and knowledge with farmers and other CSOs they work with and encouraging farmers or CSOs they work with to do the same.
  • Promoting farmer independency and their ability to control processes and plans and not become dependent on partner organisations, but rather build reliance within and between their own groups.
  • Ensuring active participation of those with whom they work in all areas of the work, including in the completion of baselines, the development of plans, and the training of others.
  • Working in respectful, open and transparent ways, e.g. ensuring that research and/or survey results are shared with farmers and other interested actors.
  • Working consciously and inclusively through committed engagements that empower farmers and partners and thus build relationships of trust and ownership.

We work to empower individuals, organisations and communities to be confident in their knowledge, to be inspired and from there to influence others.

Based on our Theory of Change and guided by shared principles, we work together with others to have impact on three key interrelated areas: Diverse farmer-led seed systems, Agroecology and Resilient Communities. Our approach is focused on strengthening and spreading the practices of agroecology and farmer-led seed systems; contributing to a growing movement on agroecology and farmers’ rights in the region; and to shift the discourse in policy, educational and public spaces.