Leverage indigenous knowledge for resilient, inclusive and gender-responsive agrifood system
As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2026, we proudly recognize and appreciate the
incredible women farmers whose dedication and strength continue to make a difference in the
communities we serve. In most parts of Uganda, women are custodians of indigenous
knowledge, food and seeds. They work hard to drive sustainable agriculture by preserving
indigenous and local seed varieties that are drought-resistant. They promote indigenous
agricultural practices, such as intercropping and the selection of drought-tolerant crops that have
traditionally supported sustainable agriculture. These practices help in conserving soil fertility,
managing pests, and enhancing water efficiency, providing household food security and seed
sovereignty.
Despite its effectiveness, indigenous knowledge is frequently undervalued and overlooked in
formal research agendas, policy frameworks, and agricultural extension services. (The Uganda
National Culture Policy). Current agrifood interventions often overlook context-appropriate and
resilient indigenous knowledge systems, resulting in missed opportunities for production of
healthy foods and improved nutrition.
Incorporating indigenous knowledge into national laws protects cultural heritage and promotes
environmental sustainability. It supports local agriculture, and strengthens community-based,
cost-effective environmental conservation (UNCST).
Leveraging the complementarities between indigenous knowledge and formal scientific
knowledge in agricultural practices offers a powerful approach to sustainable development. This
integrated approach can advance sustainability, food security and nutrition outcomes across
diverse agro-ecological zones. Women pass down indigenous knowledge of the cultivation of
traditional foods to the younger generations.
Empowering women to have access to and use of land to promote sustainable agricultural
practices such as agroecology which is a great alternative to industrial farming is very crucial in
addressing household food insecurity. We gain much when we empower the women farmers who
are practicing indigenous knowledge to produce healthy, safe and nutritious foods for all.
