African Vegetables’ Path to the Svalbard Seed Vault

The World Vegetable Center’s Africa Vegetable Genebank sent a significant batch of accessions for safety backup to the Global Seed Vault in Svalbard this October 2024. This batch includes 2,137 accessions from 73 species, carefully curated from WorldVeg’s extensive collection of highly nutritious African vegetable landraces. These accessions will also be sent to WorldVeg’s International Vegetable Genebank to have the material backed-up in two locations in line with international genebank standards. Each accession is meticulously packed with 400 seeds, adhering to the highest standards of seed preservation. This was done with support of NORAD, the FAO Plant Treaty, and the Crop Trust that are supporting the operations of Africa’s Vegetable Genebank to ensure seeds are conserved are available for current and next generations. The Africa’s Vegetable Genebank operations are also supported by the TAVI project.

Figure 1: Seed packets meticulously prepared for long-term preservation in the Global Seed Vault.

Among these accessions are three remarkable yet often overlooked species: Bidens pilosa (blackjack), Corchorus spp. (jute mallow), and Cleome gynandra (spider Plant). Despite their exceptional nutritional value, these species are frequently neglected in favor of more commercial vegetables. They are prime examples of “Neglected and Underutilized Species” (NUS), each carrying a legacy of traditional agricultural practices and offering immense potential for future food and nutrition security.

Bidens pilosa, commonly known as “blackjack” or “Sunga”, is often seen as a nuisance and pulled out from gardens and fields. However, its young leaves are rich in essential nutrients, including vitamins A and C, calcium, and magnesium, making it a valuable addition to a healthy diet. Traditionally, blackjack has been used in folk medicine to treat various ailments including malaria and digestive issues, but its role as a nutrient-rich leafy green is often overlooked.

Figure 2: Bidens pilosa (Blackjack).

Jute mallow, known in different regions as “Molokhia” or “Mrenda” in Swahili language is a green that many might shy away from due to its unique slimy texture. Yet, this plant is a nutritional powerhouse, rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as iron and calcium. Its leaves, used in soups and stews cherished in African, Middle Eastern, and Asian cuisines, are highly valued for their ability to nourish and heal. The sliminess that some find off-putting is actually a sign of its high soluble fiber content, which is excellent for digestive health.

Figure 3: Jute Mallow

Figure 4: Spider plant

By preserving these species alongside more commonly grown crops, we ensure that their significant contributions to our diets and overall health are not lost. The shipment of this batch for safety backup is a crucial step in our ongoing commitment to safeguarding invaluable genetic resources of vegetable crops. This effort contributes significantly to global food security and the preservation of biodiversity for future generations. 

Figure 5: From meticulous packing and rigorous testing to careful storage, every step ensures the preservation of seed quality for future generations.