Abstract

Seed banks play a crucial role in sustainable agriculture, particularly in develop- ing countries where farming is central to rural economies. Indigenous seed banks, managed by local communities, focus on preserving traditional seed varieties that are better adapted to local climatic conditions and pest challenges. However, these community-managed banks face challenges within a political and economic frame- work that often undermines their effectiveness. The rise of conglomerate agriculture, with its emphasis on hybrid and genetically modified seeds, has pushed many indige- nous varieties into decline, threatening food security and sustainability. This paper explores the indigenous seed landscape in Ghana and the political economy sur- rounding biopiracy, where global corporations’ appropriate local genetic resources for commercial gain. It identifies the barriers that farmers face in accessing high- quality local seeds and the market structures that favour hybrid and modified seeds. The paper advocates for decentralized, community-based seed preservation systems as a cost-effective solution to improving access to seeds, thus reducing reliance on expensive commercial alternatives. Using the Meta Seed Bank of the Nile Valley Multiversity as a case study, the paper outlines the processes for replicating indige- nous seed banks in other developing countries. The study finds that well-organized, locally managed seed banks provide an effective solution to the challenges posed by the lack of quality seeds and the dominance of modified varieties. It emphasizes the role of indigenous seeds in combating environmental degradation, improving nutrition, and enhancing pest and disease resistance. This research offers valuable lessons for other developing countries, advocating for the integration of community- driven seed preservation models into national agricultural systems to promote food sovereignty and enhance resilience in the face of climate change. Such initiatives can reduce dependency on external seed markets and foster more sustainable farm- ing practices.