By George George Idowu
In the rapidly evolving landscape of global agriculture, agroecology stands out as a transformative approach, particularly for South Africa.
Professor Kingsley Ayisi, an esteemed agroecologist and the director of the Centre for Global Change at the University of Limpopo, is at the forefront of promoting this innovative practice.
During a recent episode of Farmer’s Inside Track, Ayisi delved into the core principles of agroecology, offering insights into how it could reshape the future of farming in South Africa.
According to Prof. Ayisi, agroecology is more than just a farming method; it is a philosophy that integrates ecological practices with agricultural production.
He explains that it is a way of farming that harmonises with nature rather than working against it. This approach is not just about growing crops; it’s about restoring ecosystems, enhancing biodiversity, and ultimately creating more resilient farming systems.
According to the professor, agroecology differs from conventional agriculture in that it focuses on the interconnections within the farming system. This includes the relationships between plants, animals, humans, and the environment. Farmers can create more sustainable and productive systems by understanding and utilising these relationships.
One of the critical concepts in agroecology is the idea of agroecosystems. These are managed systems of food production that differ from natural ecosystems but still aim to replicate some of their ecological functions.
Prof. Ayisi notes that agroecosystems can range from monocultures, which involve the cultivation of a single crop, to more diverse systems that incorporate multiple crops and other ecological practices.
“We have the natural ecosystem, which is your wild areas. The moment you decide to manage the production of agriculture, crops, or animals, you already transit into the agroecosystem,” he explains.
He advocates diversifying crops and integrating practices such as intercropping, agroforestry, and cover cropping. These practices enhance productivity and encourage biodiversity, thereby helping to restore ecological balance.
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“We have deviated from the original practices that our forefathers used to practice. Now we have an agroecosystem that can be purely monoculture, one crop, and that’s it. This is where the agroecological principles that we are promoting come in, trying to deviate from single or less species interaction and bringing a lot of diversity while still producing the food we need,” the Prof. emphasises.
A crucial aspect of agroecology is integrating indigenous knowledge into modern farming practices. The renowned professor highlighted that traditional farming methods, which have been adapted to local conditions over generations, are invaluable for creating resilient and sustainable agricultural systems.
“The advantage of indigenous crops is that they are adapted to the area. So, they tend to withstand climate variability and change much better. You also have to know the reason why you are producing that. Is it for food security? It would be best if you defined it,” he says.
By incorporating indigenous knowledge, farmers can enhance the resilience of their crops and ensure food security, even in the face of climate change. This knowledge, combined with modern ecological practices, creates a powerful tool for sustainable agriculture.
In his discussion, Prof Ayisi also sheds light on several agroecological practices that are gaining traction in South Africa:
Agroforestry: Integrating trees and shrubs into farming systems to create more diverse and sustainable agricultural landscapes.
Cover Cropping: The use of cover crops to protect and enrich the soil, reduce erosion, and enhance biodiversity.
Vermicomposting: The process of using worms to convert organic waste into nutrient-rich compost can significantly improve soil health.
Crop Rotation: Alternating crops in a specific order to improve soil fertility, reduce pest and disease cycles, and enhance farm productivity.
Agroecology represents a significant shift in how farming should be approached, especially in regions like South Africa, where climate variability and the need for sustainable practices are paramount.
As Professor Ayisi advocates, integrating ecological principles and indigenous knowledge into agriculture is beneficial and necessary for the future of farming.
