On 19th – 20th September, ZiLAN participated in the National Food and Seed Festivals, a regional event that drew attendees from South Africa, Mozambique and beyond. The festival championed the use of traditional seed to promote biodiversity, food security and climate resilience, amid growing reliance on hybrid varieties. ZiLAN stood out through the active involvement of Chinyika farmers, who showcased and sold produce from their organic gardens. The event offered rich opportunities for networking, knowledge exchange, and expanding ZiLAN’ visibility among new communities, partners, and potential funders. The two-day gathering proved vital in strengthening the importance of seed sovereignty and empowering smallholder farmers through strategic collaborations and market exposure.