The DivAgri — revenue diversification in Africa through bio-based and circular agricultural innovations — project at Stellenbosch University aims to equip small-scale farmers in Africa to adapt to climate change by introducing them to bio-based technologies that use fewer resources and use circular economy principles. This European Union-sponsored research project, which falls under the Horizon 2020 programme, is taking place in South Africa, Ghana, Namibia, Botswana and Mozambique. The biotechnologies being trialled include a slow-release, energy efficient, clay-based irrigation system; a kiln to make biochar for improved soil health; a constructed wetland to purify polluted water; a small-scale biorefinery for mushroom production; a desalination greenhouse; biogas production from farm waste for fuelling cookers; and the intercropping of plants to lessen pest invasion. This project is important for food security because it encourages researchers to develop technologies that can make a difference to the livelihood of small-scale farmers in Africa, who are responsible for feeding most of the continent, and who are struggling to produce enough. The researchers have formed the cooperative SA Farmlink that will support the farmers over the next five years through advice and continued contact. The implementation of transdisciplinary research methodology, which involves the farmers as co-researchers, enables the cross-pollination of scientific and indigenous value systems.
Educational Qualifications
- B.Agric.Admin, Stellenbosch University
- M.Phil Aquaculture, Stellenbosch University
Greatest achievements
- The establishment of a multi-country network of universities and research organisations in Africa and Europe that are committed to improving the livelihood of small-scale farmers in Africa through the upscaling of biotechnology and the circular economy.
- The implementation of robust transdisciplinary research methodology that involves farmers as co-researchers in knowledge generation enabling the cross-pollination of scientific and indigenous value systems.
- The implementation of a multi-disciplinary research process that enables transdisciplinary knowledge to emerge that is in the service of the community.
- The development and implementation of a sustainability framework that enables us to measure our contribution to the livelihoods of the small-scale farmers on the project.
- The development of more than seven potentially lucrative value chains using biotechnology and circular economy for small-scale farmers to choose from.
What advice would you give to future generations?
We have no alternative but to care for the planet because it is our only home and that of our children. When we take more from Earth than we give, it means we are robbing ourselves of the pleasure of a deep connection to this beautiful, fragile planet. Living is so much more than the piling up of possessions or the pursuit of every conceivable pleasure. It is about realising how we humans are part of an amazing ecological system that sustains us and requires us to give the best of ourselves for us all to survive. It is a deeply spiritual endeavour that requires our all.