BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM
Over 100,000 seeds from 177 species across Africa were recently deposited in the Svalbard Global Seed Vault in Norway. Often called the “Doomsday Vault,” this repository is designed to safeguard the world’s crop diversity in the event of global crises. Among the latest additions are seeds from plants that are essential for building climate resilience, such as Faidherbia albida, which enriches soil with nitrogen, and Cordia africana, a tree prized for its strength and durability.
Dr. Éliane Ubalijoro, chief executive of the Center for International Forestry Research and World Agroforestry (CIFOR-ICRAF), delivered the seeds, expressing a profound sentiment about their significance. “For me, seeds are about hope,” Ubalijoro said. “They’re about moving beyond survival, particularly when you come from places that have gone through really difficult times.” Ubalijoro, who hails from Rwanda, drew on the experience of her home country, which relied on seed banks to rebuild after the 1994 genocide.
Learning from past crises to fight climate change
Countries that have survived disaster and conflict may lead the way in combating climate change, Ubalijoro suggested. “We understand the urgency,” she said. “We understand what it is to go through deep despair and having to rebuild completely.” Her perspective emphasizes how past traumas can inform proactive approaches to preserving biodiversity.
Ubalijoro highlighted the importance of learning from Indigenous knowledge systems, especially in regions that oscillate between drought and wetlands, such as parts of Asia, Africa, and Latin America. By integrating traditional practices into modern solutions, these areas can develop the resilience needed to face environmental challenges.
Building ecological balance with native species
Ensuring that native trees thrive is a crucial component of biodiversity preservation. Planting the wrong species in unsuitable areas can result in “ecological deserts,” where local pollinators fail to recognize or feed on the trees, ultimately diminishing biodiversity. Ubalijoro underscored this risk, advocating for more thoughtful reforestation efforts.
Among the species deposited in the vault, Faidherbia albida stands out for its ability to convert atmospheric nitrogen into a usable form for plants, significantly enhancing soil health. Acacia polyacantha, known for its medicinal properties, and Adansonia digitata, the nutrient-rich African baobab, also hold promise for bolstering both ecosystems and local communities.
The power of women’s role in agriculture
In many African countries, women play a vital role in agriculture, representing over sixty percent of the workforce in some regions. Recognizing and supporting their contributions is essential to safeguarding crop diversity. “We must ensure the biodiversity that is needed to protect these ‘women’s crops’ and make sure they are prioritized,” Ubalijoro said.
Her statement resonates strongly in a continent where women are often the custodians of traditional farming practices and seed-saving methods. Ensuring that these practices thrive could be pivotal for Africa’s food security and sustainability.
Seeds for a greener, resilient future
The recent deposit of seeds in the Svalbard Vault is not just about preserving the past—it’s a forward-looking strategy to ensure a resilient future. For Ubalijoro, the mission is personal as well as professional. “I’m a mother. I viscerally feel the need to preserve our planet’s biodiversity,” she shared.
The diverse range of seeds, from the soil-enhancing Sesbania sesban to the moisture-resistant Cordia africana, underscores a comprehensive approach to resilience. By preserving these seeds, the Svalbard Vault serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us that even in the face of crisis, the roots of a sustainable future are being planted today.
