Supervision of Seed Banks: Advancing Sustainability in Kabambare (Maniema)

As part of the promotion of agroecology and food sovereignty, a key supervision mission was conducted in Maniema Province. With the technical support of CBCS Network and SOCEARUCO Kabambare, the mission assessed paddy rice seed banks (NERICA 4 variety) and cocoa cultivation in the Kabambare Territory.

The mission evaluated the performance of the seed banks, assessed the quality of seed stocks, and facilitated discussions on best practices for the conservation and distribution of locally adapted seeds.

Through an open and participatory dialogue with farmers from seven communities—Mulala, Lupanga, Kapeya, Kitoy, Kirubi, Mwangundu, and Kaliumba—the mission highlighted a strong commitment to sustainable agriculture and the protection of the Congo Basin forests.

Key observations from the field:

- Farmers are increasingly cultivating NERICA 4 rice on fallow land instead of clearing primary forests. This strategic approach helps replenish and strengthen the seed banks in each community.

- By producing outside primary forests, local communities demonstrate that agroecology is an effective solution to food insecurity while contributing to climate change mitigation and forest conservation.

- Crop fields are generally in good condition thanks to the dedication of local farmers. However, additional technical support is still needed to further improve sustainable production.

Action is already underway in Kabambare. Farmers have begun preparing fallow fields for Season A while continuing the careful maintenance of cocoa plantations in preparation for the next harvest.

This supervision mission reaffirms the vital importance of continuous technical support to strengthen the capacities of local seed bank managers and ensure the long-term sustainability of these achievements.

Together, let us strengthen seed banks for a resilient, agroecological, and food-sovereign agriculture in Maniema.

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