The Last Seed focuses on broad themes relating to the state of food and agriculture in Africa in the 21st century. Placing the struggle over the control of seed at the center, it explains the processes that have led to this moment in human history and what it would take to interact with the planet in a way that does not threaten the very basis of life on Earth. The film raises two fundamental questions - what have we lost, and who can show us a better way? - and attempts to answer these questions using music, dance, moving visuals, and the lived experiences and stories of African small-scale food producers. Experts outline the extent of the corporate capture crisis, explaining the underlying science, politics, and economics in simple terms, punctuated by vibrant animations. Agroecological farmers from various African nations give testimony on the sustainability and adaptability of their agricultural practices and share morsels of wisdom worth exploring. The film ends on an upbeat note as Senegalese women rise up, determined to protect their seeds and indigenous knowledge for future generations.
Producer(s): Jan Urhahn
Director: Andrea Gema
Editor: Andrea Gema
Cinematography: Nick Burton Moore
Andréa Gema is South African filmmaker who has worked in the film and advertising industry for over 10 years, taking a special interest in making sure complex stories are told in an engaging and refreshing way. Having volunteered with multiple NGOs throughout her life, she readily took this opportunity to combine her film skills with the hope of change, by depicting this important story for both African and international audiences to see.