Towards a holistic framework: Exploring the relationship between seed security and food security dynamics among smallholder farmers in Chimanimani, Zimbabwe

Agriculture is the primary livelihood for households in rural Southern Africa, with crop production a crucial source of food and income. Although government and development partners provide seed and crop inputs to enhance crop production and food security, the causal link between seed security and food security is not always evident. This study aims to investigate the relationship between seed security and food security among smallholder farming households in Chimanimani, eastern Zimbabwe. Specifically, it seeks to examine how different seed systems contribute to varying seed security outcomes, explore the influence of household characteristics on both seed and food security, and identify the broader socio-economic, environmental, and policy-related factors shaping these outcomes. Ultimately, the study intends to develop a framework that strengthens understanding of the relationship between seed security and food security, thereby providing insights to support the resilience and livelihoods of smallholder farmers. Data were collected via a household survey of 227 participants, in-depth interviews with key respondents, and focus groups. Using a systems lens and quadrant typology, the study analysed seed and food security across diverse agro-ecologies, seed systems, and socio-environmental factors, leading to a framework illustrating their interrelationships. Results reveal a complex, non-linear relationship between seed and food security, shaped by socio-economic, political, and climatic factors. Our findings question assumptions that seed security always ensures food security or that seed insecurity always causes food insecurity. The study highlights challenges of using seed distribution and subsidies to address seed security, and urges context-specific interventions that address systemic constraints and reflect farmers' realities. • The study highlights the impact of farmers' seed systems on seed security and food security outcomes. • Key household characteristics that influence seed and food security: farming practices, household assets, location. • Critical to consider socio-economic, environmental, and policy factors impacting seed and food security.