Gaza's seed bank revival

Hanadi Muhanna has revived a seed bank in Gaza, housing around thirty varieties of native seeds, with about 150 farmers involved in its recovery. The project began after years of war and a harsh blockade that severely limited agricultural resources and access to seeds.

Seeds as a symbol of survival

Hanadi emphasizes that seeds represent the possibility of perseverance and survival. She describes seeds as "life," highlighting their critical role in ensuring food security for Gazans amid ongoing conflict and destruction.

War and displacement disrupt farming

The war in Gaza has caused extensive damage, with over 87% of agricultural land destroyed or damaged, and 8,700 wells ruined. This has drastically reduced food production, making fresh food nearly inaccessible for many in the region.

Historical context of food control

Dr. Ahmed Abu Shaban explains that the dismantling of Gaza's food system is an extension of long-standing policies that have limited Palestinian food sovereignty. These policies have weakened local agricultural capabilities and created a dependency on external sources.

Smuggling as a lifeline for seeds

Before the war, seeds often entered Gaza through smuggling via tunnels to Egypt. However, the destruction of these tunnels has limited the availability of seeds. Humanitarian organizations are now restricted from importing seeds, further complicating efforts to restore local farming.

Rebuilding through community effort

Despite these challenges, Hanadi and other farmers have formed a network to pool resources and revive seed production. This effort has not only helped farmers but also encouraged non-farmers to grow food, fostering a spirit of mutual aid and resilience in the face of adversity.