Key facts
- Palestinian farmers are rebuilding a seed bank in Gaza after its destruction in early 2024.
- The bank now holds about 32 local seed varieties, stored in a makeshift tent.
- Heirloom seeds are favored for their resilience and ability to be replanted.
- The initiative aims to support farmers cultivating land near the 'Yellow Line', despite risks.
- The agricultural sector in Gaza has suffered extensive devastation, impacting livelihoods.
Palestinian farmers in Gaza are working to re-establish a local seed bank and encourage cultivation on the limited land available, following the destruction of a previous facility in early 2024. The initiative, led by farmer Salama Muhanna, aims to preserve native crops and provide a resilient food source amidst ongoing conflict and restricted access to imported seeds.
The rebuilt seed bank, now a modest collection of 32 local varieties stored in burlap sacks and plastic containers in a makeshift tent in Deir Al-Balah, is a crucial effort to maintain agricultural heritage. Muhanna emphasizes that these heirloom seeds are more resilient and can be saved and replanted year after year, unlike hybrid varieties that require import.
Farmers are also cultivating seedlings in fields surrounding the tent and planting seeds from the bank in areas close to the 'Yellow Line,' a zone along the Gaza border. Despite the dangers posed by Israeli military activity and gunfire in these areas, farmers like Khaled Al-Astal express determination to cultivate their land, which constitutes only about 25% to 30% of Gaza's total area.
Before the war, agriculture and fishing were vital to the livelihoods of approximately 560,000 people in Gaza. The current efforts, while significant for those involved, are seen as a small measure compared to the vast needs of the agricultural sector. The seed bank and local seeds serve as a critical lifeline, especially when Israel tightens import restrictions and humanitarian aid flows, a measure that has been condemned by Palestinians and rights groups.