Combating Hunger and Malnutrition in Africa Using Ancient Grains
Scientists from North-West University are collaborating with academic, government, and industry partners across Africa to develop sustainable food solutions for communities in need.
What Are Ancient Grains?
Ancient grains are crops that have been cultivated for thousands of years with minimal genetic modification, retaining their original nutritional profiles. Unlike modern hybrid grains, these heritage crops offer exceptional benefits for both people and the planet.
Our project focuses primarily on amaranth, chia, buckwheat, and flax, which together cover a full year’s growing seasons. These crops, along with other traditional grains like millet, quinoa, teff, and sorghum cultivated by our collaborators, represent a powerful solution to food security challenges.
Why Ancient Grains Matter:
Nutrient-dense
Rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals
Health-conscious
Most varieties are low or no gluten
Climate resilient
Tolerant to low rainfall and high temperatures
Sustainable
Adapted to local growing conditions with minimal inputs
Our Strategy
We’re developing an open-source blueprint for commercial farming of selected ancient grains and initiating its implementation in rural communities. Our approach is designed for sustainability and scalability, relying on communities “passing it forward” by assisting neighbouring villages to replicate the project.
Our Approach
Building a Complete Value Chain
True food security requires more than just growing crops. We’re simultaneously developing the full value chain for ancient grains to ensure sustainability and enable community participation in value creation. From agricultural production to processing, product development, and market access, we’re creating opportunities at every stage.
Our collaborating institutions are also developing innovative food products and recipes using ancient grains, helping to build consumer awareness and demand for these nutritious alternatives.
Project Management
To ensure a commercial approach in our execution and maximize impact, we have contracted NWU Enterprises as project manager. This partnership brings business expertise and strategic oversight to our agricultural and scientific mission.
Who We Are
This Strategic Impact Project draws from the expertise of a multidisciplinary team of big impact enthusiasts spanning environmental, agricultural, consumer, and nutritional sciences. It is led by:
Prof. Jacques Berner, School of Biological Sciences, Unit for Environmental Sciences & Management, NWU, email: Jacques.Berner@nwu.ac.za
Prof. Sydney Mavengahama—School of Agricultural Sciences, Food Security and Safety Niche Area, NWU, email: Sydney.Mavengahama@nwu.ac.za
Ms Cherelle Abrahams—Consumer Sciences, Food, NWU, email: Cherelle.Abrahams@nwu.ac.za
Mr Hannes Malan—Commercialization Manager, Technology Transfer and Innovation Support Office, NWU, email: Hannes.Malan@nwu.ac.za
The Ancient Grains Project is part of NWU’s broader commitment to sustainability and community impact and was kick-started with strategic funding from the NWU Executive Management.
