Women farmers: the missing link in South Africa’s food policy

SOUTH Africa’s food systems are failing the poor: a quarter of our population has limited access to food and one in four children under the age of five is stunted due to chronic malnutrition.

- SIBONGISENI PEACOCK

This is because food is unaffordable for many households that rely on social grants as their main source of income. For instance, the monthly Child Support Grant of R560, which reaches about 13 million children is 41% below the average cost of a monthly food basket of R5 380.62. This problem is not only about affordability but of quality and accessibility. Cheap ultra-processed foods, consumed by many living in low-income communities, may stave off hunger but they lack protein and essential micronutrients that people need to be healthy. Food affordability, quality and accessibility are the cornerstones of dignity, health and resilience.

Until our national policies address all three dimensions, our country’s food systems will continue to embed inequality instead of unlocking opportunity. These policies must tackle how food is produced, wasted and how it reaches households. This is where agroecology and enabling women farmers can make a big difference. Put simply, agroecology is about finding ways to farm that are good for local markets, communities and nature. It makes food more affordable by lowering input costs and simplifying supply chains. Agroecology promotes the growth of nutrient-dense crops and decentralises agricultural production through home gardens, community food hubs and smallholder networks, making fresh produce more accessible. Agroecology also strengthens resilience - of people and the environment - helping to restore soil and water systems and protect households against climate shocks and food inflation.