In many African indigenous communities, African traditional religion played a vital role in shaping food preferences and practices, informing their approach to food and health sovereignty. Since time immemorial, indigenous communities have incorporated African traditional religion into networks of relationships, customs, and knowledge to make up their food and health sovereignty systems. The restoration of food sovereignty and preservation of community food security all contribute to the health and well-being of indigenous communities in South Africa; hence indigenous food sovereignty systems are so crucial. Despite its significance, African traditional religion has been largely neglected by many, including food sovereignty programs, relevant stakeholders, and policymakers, who should oversee its role in informing sustainable food practices and community well-being. Drawing upon interdisciplinary literature and policy documents, the chapter explores the role of African traditional religion in food and health sovereignty, the key principles guiding these systems, and the ways in which they intersect with issues of land rights, environmental stewardship, and social justice. The chapter further highlights the challenges posed by colonial legacies, globalization, and neoliberal policies and identifies strategies for supporting and revitalizing indigenous food sovereignty movements. The chapter aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the importance of African traditional religion in indigenous food and health sovereignty.

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Indigenous Food and Health Sovereignty Systems in South Africa: Challenges and Prospects

  • Diane Thelma Molokwa,
  • Xholiso Ennocent Khazamula

摘要

In many African indigenous communities, African traditional religion played a vital role in shaping food preferences and practices, informing their approach to food and health sovereignty. Since time immemorial, indigenous communities have incorporated African traditional religion into networks of relationships, customs, and knowledge to make up their food and health sovereignty systems. The restoration of food sovereignty and preservation of community food security all contribute to the health and well-being of indigenous communities in South Africa; hence indigenous food sovereignty systems are so crucial. Despite its significance, African traditional religion has been largely neglected by many, including food sovereignty programs, relevant stakeholders, and policymakers, who should oversee its role in informing sustainable food practices and community well-being. Drawing upon interdisciplinary literature and policy documents, the chapter explores the role of African traditional religion in food and health sovereignty, the key principles guiding these systems, and the ways in which they intersect with issues of land rights, environmental stewardship, and social justice. The chapter further highlights the challenges posed by colonial legacies, globalization, and neoliberal policies and identifies strategies for supporting and revitalizing indigenous food sovereignty movements. The chapter aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the importance of African traditional religion in indigenous food and health sovereignty.