The Hare and the Elephant 

By

Mali

Once upon a time, deep within the forest, the elephant and the hare dwelt side by side, relying on nature for sustenance. As they foraged for food one day, they found themselves facing scarcity, prompting them to seek a solution for ensuring a consistent food supply.

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In their wisdom, the elephant proposed the cultivation of maize and traditional Indigenous vegetables like “siwot” and “popek” to sustain them through the seasons. They each tended to their own plots of land. Seasons passed, the elephant's crops flourished abundantly, nourished by the rich organic matter of the forest floor. However, the hare's attempts at cultivation met with disappointment as his plants struggled to thrive.

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Observing his friend's success, the hare approached the elephant with a mixture of admiration and curiosity, seeking guidance on his own farming endeavours. The elephant generously shared his knowledge, advising the hare to enrich his soil with organic manure, explaining its role in fostering healthy plant growth and ensuring bountiful harvests.

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Inspired by the elephant's wisdom, the hare diligently applied organic manure to his land, nurturing his crops with care and attention. In time, their efforts bore fruit, and come harvest season, both the elephant and the hare were rewarded with an abundant yield of maize and traditional vegetables.

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With bellies full and grateful hearts, the elephant and the hare celebrated their successful harvest, knowing that their partnership and commitment to growing Indigenous crops had secured their food security for seasons to come. As they shared their ideas with their fellow forest dwellers, they embodied the principles of harmony with nature and the wisdom of Indigenous Peoples’ food systems.