Rescuing Africa's endangered vegetable species for posterity

Africa's rich and diverse vegetable species are facing a threat of extinction, prompting the implementation of a comprehensive rescue plan to conserve these precious resources for future generations. CNBC Africa's Tabitha Muthoni recently engaged with Gabriel Rugalema, Regional Director for the Southern and Eastern Africa Region at the World Vegetable Center, to shed light on the importance of preserving Africa's endangered vegetable species. Rugalema highlighted the urgent need for action, emphasizing that every locality in Africa has its favorite vegetables that are at risk of disappearing. In countries like East Africa, traditional vegetables like spider plant and managu are becoming increasingly scarce, with some even being classified as weeds. The rescue plan aims not only to save disappearing species but also to collect and conserve all types of vegetables, including wild, semi-cultivated, and cultivated varieties. One of the main objectives of the rescue plan is to preserve these vegetables for posterity. Rugalema expressed his desire for future generations to be able to witness and appreciate the rich diversity of African vegetables. Additionally, the conservation efforts are crucial for advancing scientific research, medical research, nutrition research, and agronomic research. Furthermore, the rescue plan aims to utilize these vegetables not only for nutrition but also for economic purposes, such as generating income and employment opportunities in urbanizing African communities. With the continent facing rapid urbanization and an increasing need for nutritious food options, the preservation of traditional vegetables could play a vital role in addressing these challenges. To ensure the success of the rescue plan, Rugalema outlined several key measures that are being implemented. These include studying the plants in detail, collecting seeds and non-seed materials, and preserving them in gene banks. Gene banks serve as repositories for plant genetic resources, storing seeds at ultra-low temperatures to maintain their viability for extended periods, up to 100 years in some cases. Despite the importance of the rescue plan, funding remains a significant challenge. With an estimated cost of $125 million over the next 10 years, Rugalema emphasized the need for financial support to sustain the conservation efforts. While the funding target may seem daunting, Rugalema underscored the plan's role as a tool for visibility, commitment to action, communication, and resource mobilization. In conclusion, the Africa biodiversity vegetable rescue plan represents a critical initiative to safeguard the continent's diverse vegetable species. By prioritizing the conservation of traditional vegetables, the plan not only ensures the preservation of cultural heritage but also holds the potential to drive scientific innovation, economic development, and improved nutrition across Africa.