Agroecology : The Path to Food System Resilience

The Agroecological Approach

Agroecology is an approach to agriculture that seeks to promote ecological balance and sustainability. It emphasizes the importance of biodiversity, soil health, and efficient water use. The core principles of agroecology include:

Biodiversity conservation: Agroecology aims to maintain and promote biodiversity in agricultural landscapes, recognizing the importance of ecosystem services such as pollination, pest control, and nutrient cycling. Soil conservation and health: Agroecology prioritizes soil conservation and health, using techniques such as crop rotation, cover cropping, and organic amendments to maintain soil fertility and structure. Efficient water use: Agroecology promotes efficient water use through practices such as drip irrigation, mulching, and conservation tillage. * Social justice and equity: Agroecology seeks to promote social justice and equity by supporting small-scale farmers, improving rural livelihoods, and enhancing food access for marginalized communities. ## The Benefits of Agroecology**

The Benefits of Agroecology

Agroecology offers numerous benefits for the environment, human health, and the economy.

Leydi Casimiro is a pioneer in the field of Agroecological Sciences in Cuba, and her work is having a significant impact on the country’s agricultural sector.

The Challenges of Agroecological Farming in Cuba

Cuba is a country with a rich agricultural heritage, but it faces numerous challenges in its transition to agroecological farming. The effects of climate change, lack of resources and infrastructure, and limited access to markets are just a few of the obstacles that Cuban farmers face. The country’s agricultural sector is heavily reliant on a few large-scale farms, which can lead to a lack of diversity in crops and a reliance on a few key crops. Climate change is having a significant impact on Cuba’s agricultural sector, with rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns affecting crop yields and quality.

The farm is managed by the third generation of the same family, who have been working on the agritourism and agritourism activities for over 40 years.

The Farm’s History and Family Legacy

The Tenuta di Paganico has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. The farm was founded by the family’s ancestors, who were passionate about agriculture and animal husbandry. Over the years, the family has expanded its activities, incorporating organic farming methods and introducing new breeds of cattle and pigs.

The Slow Food Movement and its Goals

The Slow Food movement, founded in 1986 by Carlo Petrini, is a global network of individuals and organizations that promote sustainable food systems and local food cultures. The movement’s primary goal is to challenge the dominant industrial food system and promote a more mindful and equitable approach to food production, distribution, and consumption. At its core, the Slow Food movement is about celebrating the diversity of local food cultures and promoting the values of sustainability, quality, and community. The movement’s motto, “Good Food, Right to Food,” reflects its commitment to ensuring that everyone has access to nutritious and delicious food.

The Role of Slow Food Farms in the Movement

Slow Food Farms, such as Finca del Medio and Tenuta di Paganico, play a crucial role in the Slow Food movement.

By increasing the number of crop varieties, we increase the genetic diversity of the crops and reduce the risks of disease. This is in addition to the traditional farming practices we use, such as crop rotation, composting, and using natural pest control methods. Mr. Mukiibi believes that “the key to improving crop yields is to increase biological diversity.” He also states that “the more diverse the farming system, the more resilient it will be to disease and climate change.” He emphasizes that it’s not just about increasing crop yields, but about creating a more sustainable and equitable food system. Mukiibi’s approach to farming is guided by Slow Food’s principles, which prioritize the value of local and traditional farming practices, as well as the importance of preserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable agriculture. Slow Food’s international president, along with other farmers and activists, is advocating for a shift away from industrial agriculture and towards more sustainable and equitable food systems. This includes promoting the use of traditional farming practices, supporting local food systems, and reducing the reliance on chemical pesticides and fertilizers. Mukiibi’s family farm is also a model for the community, demonstrating the potential for small-scale farming to contribute to food security, economic development, and environmental sustainability. His approach is seen as a beacon of hope for the region, inspiring other farmers to adopt similar practices and promoting a more sustainable food system for the future. By increasing biological diversity and promoting sustainable agriculture, Mr. Mukiibi aims to create a more resilient and equitable food system that benefits not only the farm but also the community and the environment.