Water Wheel March/April 2023: Underutilised Crops

Abstract

Cover feature Clicking the puzzle pieces in place to commercialise indigenous crop production Yet, many still remember. “Their documentation has been neglected, but for consumers, they are very relevant,” says agricultural economist and senior lecturer at the University of South Africa (UNISA) Graduate School of Business Leadership, Dr Binganidzo Muchara. They lack scientific scrutiny in comparison to conventional and commercial crops, he explains. However, on a mission to help ensure that each South African has access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food for active and healthy lifestyles at all times, the WRC has turned back to South Africa’s agricultural roots. For decades, the organisation has geared significant funding towards filling the scientific knowledge gaps in the way of the uptake and commercialisation of indigenous crops. This January, another integral piece of the puzzle has been slotted into place, documenting a major aspect of our domestic ‘super foods’ for the first time.

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