Family2Family(F2F)
Mr and Mrs Ngoshi's homestead at Nyakudya, Domboshava
As small scale farmers
What happens within and to the household is critical to local, regional and global food system, households whether 'Family Farms' or otherwise, which are an important engine-room for decisions about what to grow, buy and eat and recycle. Households are a critical point in the struggle to feed the planet.
For small scale holder farmers
This may involve leveraging social connections to secure better land or enlisting labor during critical times in the agricultural cycle while also considering environmental considerations.
Emphasis on the importance of seed. Food security comes from a healthy seed bank
Tree planting is a huge must in the Domboshava community, especially moringa trees for feed and indigenous trees to replenish the diminishing forests and fruit trees for the homesteads to control or help with climate change whilst giving fruit.
Agriculture Solutions: Adapting to Changing Geopolitics, Environment, and Trends
Hunger, malnutrition, and early childhood stunting remain critical issues in many parts of the developing world. In the face of shifting global dynamics such as changing geopolitics, climate change, and economic uncertainty, a more resilient and adaptive approach to agriculture is urgently needed. The Family-to-Family model, which promotes broad participation and community engagement, offers a promising path forward. By strengthening local economies and fostering sustainable practices, this model empowers families to take control of their food security and economic well-being.
The project focuses on sustainable agricultural solutions like permaculture gardening, rainwater harvesting, and raising small animals, birds, and bees. These practices increase food production, enhance climate resilience, reduce environmental impact, and build long-term sustainability. Families, including the most marginalized, can actively contribute to these solutions rather than remaining passive victims of their circumstances.
Permaculture offers a transformative approach by working in harmony with nature rather than exploiting it. The goal is to create high-yield, nutrition-dense food systems that are climate-smart and adaptable to changing environmental conditions. This decentralized, home-based model provides a safety net for families, offering long-term solutions to droughts, food shortages, and other climate-related disruptions. As we face global challenges, this localized, sustainable agriculture is more critical than ever in building resilient communities and ensuring food sovereignty in an unpredictable future.
FOOD → ECONOMICS → BIG BUSINESS → BIG DOLLARS
- Seed Banks
- Boreholes & Wells
FOOD → GOOD NUTRITION → HEALTHY COMMUNITIES.
- Organic & Nutrition gardens
- Small animals
- Small grain agriculture
- Goats
- Rabbits
- Pigs etc.
- Poultry Indigenous chickens
- Guinea fowls
- Turkey
- Quail
- Ducks
SMALL HOLDER FARMERS → PRIMARY PRODUCERS → FOOD PRODUCTION.
- Rainwater harvesting
- Permaculture
- Small grain agriculture
As households focus on the sustainable practices outlined above, their produce reaches desired markets, allowing them to earn the income they deserve. Knowing that there is a reliable and accessible market motivates farmers to prioritize quality and consistency in their produce. This not only benefits the local economy but also ensures a steady supply of goods for families and communities.
In particular, the diaspora, which often seeks products such as dried, canned, or bottled goods, can directly source these items from the farms. This creates a mutually beneficial arrangement: families in the diaspora can access fresh, high-quality products, while local farmers gain access to broader markets and additional income streams. Diaspora communities can play a vital role in supporting the growth of these initiatives by mobilizing resources and providing training, helping to scale up these sustainable practices in local communities.
We encourage other communities across Zimbabwe to adopt this model, recognizing that real change happens at the grassroots level. For this initiative to be truly impactful, it must work on the ground. Through collaboration with like-minded individuals and organizations, we aim to create a sustainable future for all.
Key Areas of Focus:
- Training and Capacity Building: Providing farmers with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed.
- Field Shows: Demonstrating best practices and innovations in agriculture.
- Value Addition: Transforming produce through processes such as drying, vacuum sealing, bottling, and canning to increase shelf life and marketability.
- Marketing Follow-ups & Reports: Ensuring consistent sales and feedback loops to improve production and distribution.
- Village Libraries: Establishing community resources for ongoing education and support.