Today, we are thrilled to feature Mercia Andrews, a passionate leader at TCOE (Trust for Community Outreach and Education). Mercia’s journey began as an art teacher, where her creative background laid the foundation for her innovative approach to leadership and advocacy, particularly for rural women.

At TCOE, Mercia has been instrumental in championing the voices of rural women, small-scale farmers, and fishers. Her commitment to these communities is deeply intertwined with critical issues such as food security, land rights, and seed sovereignty. As we explore her insights, we will delve into the significance of recognizing women as key agents of change in agroecology and food sovereignty across Southern Africa.

We discussed the upcoming exhibition, “Guardians of Seed, Land, and Life,” which highlights the vital role women play as seed guardians. This exhibition not only showcases their contributions to biodiversity and sustainable practices but also challenges the traditional narratives surrounding rural women, celebrating their resilience and self-reliance. The exhibition is now officially open from 8-16th November.

Through Mercia’s experiences and the impactful work of TCOE, we aim to inspire a deeper understanding of the importance of seed sovereignty and the transformative power of rural women in shaping the future of food security.

Guest: Mercia Andrews – Director at Trust for Community Outreach and Education