Greening the Sahara with Josef Garvi

Have you ever wondered how a wilted, shriveled tree could hold the solution to malnutrition and desertification? You're in for a revelation in this chat with Josef Garvi, founder of Sahara Sahel Foods. We uncover the surprising potential of indigenous, wild trees in the Sahel region. Despite their unassuming appearance, these trees can outproduce annual cereals by more than two-fold. Sahara Sahel Foods is tapping into this untapped resource to create an array of nutritious foods, from pseudo cereals and porridge to food oils and fruit powders.
One can't help but marvel at nature's bounty as we delve into the world of indigenous trees and their role in boosting crop productivity. These hardy trees, built to survive in the harshest of climates, can yield double the dried seeds that rain-fed crops can manage. We explore the wisdom of creating biodiverse fields by intermixing these trees with other crops and the symbiotic benefits of practicing polyculture.
Lastly, we focus on Niger, a country marked by unpredictability in climatic conditions and an ever-growing population. We discuss the irreplaceable role of biodiversity in fostering resilience. Josef, a Swede-Norwegian turned Nigerian, shares his inspiring work to restore the Sahara's greenery. Despite the challenges, he continues his mission, advocating for the planting of indigenous plants and nuts to foster a more hopeful environmental future.
This conversation is a call to action for all of us, a challenge to look beyond appearances and see the potential in the unlikeliest of places. Tune in, be inspired, and join the movement to make a difference.
--------- TIME STAMPS ---------
(00:08) - Promoting Indigenous Trees and Foods
(16:39) - Increasing Crop Productivity With Indigenous Trees
(20:59) - Protecting Biodiversity in Niger
(25:24) - Restoring Greenery in the Sahara
(32:20) - Inspiring Mission and Call to Action
--------

Subscribe to Saving Tomorrow’s Planet Podcast

• Apple
• Spotify