The challenges faced by South Africa’s food systems, are complex and stem back to its history, in particular, the Eastern Cape province, where the majority of the population is still regarded as being poor even long after democracy was achieved. Moving forward requires a non-silo approach from key actors and influencers (along with their interests […]
How can food system mapping fit in?
Due to the complexities around food, an approach that allows all stakeholders involved in food systems to become more cognisant of food system decisions is food mapping. Food mapping can be described in different ways. Food system mapping gathers information on local food systems in an area. This includes information on locations of food, food […]
Use of indicators for food system transformations
In my previous post, I wrote about the South African food system. Here I would like to introduce you to the concept of indicators, how it is used in South Africa, and why it is important to food and nutrition security. Indicators are used as a measure of progress over a period of time and […]
A snapshot of South Africa’s food system
Seeing that my research is based in a South African province (Eastern Cape), I think that it is important to give you an overview of South Africa’s food system and its challenges. Of course, it runs much deeper than this and there are always two sides to the coin. Therefore, this overview is only a […]
How does going meat-free support people, the planet and the animals?
For as long as I can remember, I have always been extremely interested in climate change and earth system processes. From civil engineering to environmental chemistry and management, I have loved the area of climate science and how the planet functions. Once I learned about food systems and their impact on climate change, I struggled […]
Why are food system transformations taking centre stage?
In recent times we are being exposed to an increasing number of articles about climate change, sustainability, and food systems. How come? One of the most challenging issues of our time is climate change. Depleting resources, degradation of land, loss of biodiversity and so many other issues are increasing greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs). Factors such […]
Food production, climate change, and marginalization. How are they linked?
How we produce and consume food has become unsustainable and is also a contributor to climate change; therefore, our food systems require transformation. This transformation is not only needed to address food insecurity but should also address nutrition, health, and poverty which promotes sustainable development. So, what is the problem with the current system of […]
THE TIME FOR “SLOW” FASHION IS HERE!
We love fashion. We always have. Dating far back to the Moghuls and French Revolution, history has taught us that fashion is important, fashion is a way of expression and fashion brings out who we are. Over the years, fast fashion has taken over our lives and we purchase far more than required. Landfills are […]
SAVING COAL-ADDICTED SOUTH AFRICA FROM THE DARKNESS?
It’s 2021, there is an energy crisis, and approximately 80% of South Africa’s energy is still being derived from coal. Why hasn’t this changed and why does it need to change? As one of the largest coal generators in the world, South Africa continues to produce coal power via state-owned Eskom’s old and problematic coal […]
IFIAD 2021 – A year for action: food and climate
A Year of Action: Food and Climate. The theme of the 2021 IFIAD conference echoes the most necessary debates and conversations of the year; speakers from diverse backgrounds and skills came together to communicate the need for action and much more. With a tremendous number of key issues discussed, the conference delivered knowledge and know-how […]