In an era of various threats to food security, a robust system that champions the importance of eradicating hunger, and community resilience is needed. One such individual who believes in such a vision is Mr. Emmanuel Momoh, whose work reimagines food security through sustainable practices and community empowerment.
Momoh is the founder of the African Food Basket Project (AFBP), an initiative that grows and distributes African vegetables to African international students at UC Davis.
He said this project is more than just a means to provide culturally relevant food; it is a lifeline that connects students to their heritage and promotes better health through nutritious diets.
“The AFBP also serves as a training ground, mentoring individuals in sustainable agriculture practices. Through hands-on experience, these participants learn to grow food that is both healthy and culturally significant, fostering a new generation of leaders in food security,” he said.
“One of the key elements of Mr. Momoh’s work is the promotion of food sovereignty. By training individuals to cultivate their own food, the AFBP empowers them to become self-reliant and resilient.
“This is a crucial deviation from the industrial food systems that prioritize mass production, often at the expense of environmental sustainability and social equity. Industrial agriculture frequently uses the narrative of “feeding the world” to justify unsustainable practices.”
He said studies have highlighted the importance of garden spaces in creating resilient food networks, especially during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Garden spaces like the AFBP not only provide access to fresh, nutritious, and affordable food but also serve as spaces for education and social interaction. They reduce food waste, conserve agrobiodiversity, and improve individual well-being. For immigrants and disenfranchised groups, these gardens are vital in connecting to their cultural roots and enhancing their overall quality of life.”
Momoh said his research and practical applications highlight the stark contrasts and potential synergies between industrial food systems and localized, sustainable agricultural practices.
He noted that his work addresses the misconceptions that small-scale farming cannot meet global food demands. Instead, by reducing food waste and promoting sustainable practices, projects like the AFBP show that community-driven agriculture can play a significant role in achieving food security.
