Due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, many of the items imported from Europe are becoming difficult to obtain. These two countries are major global suppliers of wheat, barley corn, and sunflower seeds, and as a result, the prices of those goods have skyrocketed over the past several months.2 Countries all over the world are on the brink of facing a “hurricane of hunger,” according to the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres.1
However, it’s not just the price of food that has increased. Russia is also the biggest exporter of the most widely-used fertilizer in the world, causing a dramatic increase in fertilizer prices, as well.1 Lack of access to both food and agricultural supplies like fertilizer could send up to 1.7 billion people worldwide into poverty and hunger.2
What does this mean for Africa?
Africa is facing a food shortage of at least 30 million tonnes of food.3 This is expected to have a devastating effect on the already vulnerable communities. Due to the combined effect of the food shortage and lingering effects of the pandemic, the number of people suffering from acute hunger in Africa alone is expected to rise from 276 to 323 million, with Sub-Saharan Africa predicted to see the greatest increases.4
What can we do to help?
According to the Group President of the African Development Bank, “Food aid cannot feed Africa. Africa needs seeds in the ground.” 3
Cents for Seeds can help meet this need. Putting seeds in the ground is exactly what the female farmers of the project have been doing for over 10 years in rural northern Uganda. Just last year, 18,000 women were empowered with seed loans, which they turned into food and economic security.
This year, we plan to reach even more women.
This June, there are 2,464 new women who are registered to receive sesame seed loans. Sesame seeds are a cash crop, providing a yield that leads to both food and income. In addition to seeds, they will be given a farming tool, access to a Village Savings and Loan (VSLA) program, educational workshops and agronomy training, and a group leader to help support them throughout the program.
Now more than ever, seeds are needed to help combat the rapidly approaching famine.
Every small action counts toward larger change.
Just $30 can provide a 30kg seed loan this June. Can you help?
Thank you so much for all of the support you have already given to the Cents for Seeds project and the women of northern Uganda. Your impact will last for generations to come.
