Exploring an Indigenous food-based strategy in rural communities: A qualitative study in Vhembe District, South Africa

• Co-creation ensures culturally relevant, lasting food security solutions. • Indigenous food strategies affirm traditional knowledge and practices. • Community-led action supports SDG 2: Achieving Zero Hunger locally. • Empowered communities drive lasting change through local food innovation. Indigenous plant production has been integral to the lifestyles of Indigenous homesteads. However, modernization has led to a decline in the value and optimal utilization of these foods, despite their abundance in many rural communities. These micronutrient-rich crops are crucial for household food security, but studies highlight that the essential pillars of food access and utilization have been overshadowed by the focus on food availability. This study aimed to explore an Indigenous food-based strategy to address and counteract the food insecurity and malnutrition experienced by many rural households in the Vhembe District, South Africa. A qualitative research approach, grounded in a Participatory Action Research design, was employed to engage the community in addressing food security and nutrition challenges. Nine community co-creation workshops were conducted with a total of 172 participants. The research team utilized intervention mapping during strategy development workshops to collaboratively identify and refine actionable solutions. A key emerging strategy focused on enhancing community education in agricultural practices and financial literacy. Emphasis was placed on revitalizing neglected small-scale farms and empowering women through their active involvement in subsistence farming. Ultimately, the process led to the co-creation of an Indigenous, food-based strategy, developed with full community participation.