Recently, the historic Steve Biko Centre in Ginsberg, Eastern Cape, became a powerful site of reflection and resistance as it hosted the Food Sovereignty Indaba, a two-day gathering under the theme “Resilient Roots for Circles of Renewal: Empowering Communities, Nourishing Nations.” Hosted by our fellows Nangamso Ka NomaHlubi-Koza of Umhlaba Yimpilo, MaBhelandile ‘Bells’ Twani of Intlungu YaseMatyotyombeni, and Nazeer Sonday from the Atlantic Fellows for Racial Equity, the Indaba centred on grassroots knowledge and leadership in shaping food justice solutions.
The Indaba brought together small-scale farmers, activists, researchers, academics, and grassroots leaders from across the country. According to Statistics South Africa’s 2023 General Household Survey, 17.6% of households in South Africa reported experiencing hunger, and nearly 30% of children rely on school feeding schemes for their daily nutrition. The Eastern Cape is one of the mainly affected provinces.
At the centre of the gathering was a call to action: to reclaim food systems through community-led solutions grounded in justice, sovereignty, and dignity.
During a compelling session titled “Land Justice and Reform,” Mazibuko Jara from the Zabalaza Pathways Institute posed a question:
“If a country can produce enough food to meet its needs, then why do so many people go without food?”
Jara’s address highlighted the structural disconnect between food production and access, pointing to unequal land ownership, economic marginalisation, and weak political will as major obstacles to achieving food justice.
Mama Nontsikelelo “Ntsiki” Biko, who played an active role in shaping society and continues to be a strong force for justice in her community, also attended the Indaba.
She urged community members and activists in the room to continue where her generation left off.
“Don’t give up. Let’s continue to work hard here in the Eastern Cape, I see incredible strength and determination in the women around me. You are capable, you are powerful. There are things I can no longer do, but together, you can carry this work forward. Thank you, and keep going,” she said.
The Food Sovereignty Indaba concluded with a renewed commitment among participants to build community-led food systems that prioritise justice, sustainability, and access for all, rooted in the belief that food is not a commodity but a human right.
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