Roots

In January 2023, the death of their father marked a significant turning point for Tata Kiki (Catherine Nzene) and her sister Jolie. With the passing of their last surviving parent, they inherited not just a piece of land, but a legacy—a farm that had been the cornerstone of their family's livelihood for generations. This farm is nestled within the rich, fertile forests of Moanko in Cameroon. It became their shared responsibility and, more importantly, their enduring connection to their roots and each other.

My journey to document the Nzene’s farm began as an exploration of ecological methods used by small-scale farmers and I discovered familial bonds and the resilience of a family united in the face of loss in addition to that. I discovered a story of regeneration and hope within the challenges in Agriculture.

Tata Kiki, Jolie and children, and granddaughter, Dina have embraced their new roles with unwavering determination. They are not merely maintaining their parents' legacy but are actively enhancing it, employing modern ecological practices with traditional farming techniques to ensure the farm's sustainability.

Central to their efforts is the cultivation of cocoa, a crop that has sustained them for decades. The family works tirelessly, from planting cocoa seedlings in the forest to harvesting and drying the beans, a process that connects them intimately with the land. In the face of climate change, they have initiated an innovative project: planting tree nurseries that will eventually be replanted in the forest, providing shade and improving the microclimate for the cocoa trees.

For the grandchildren, this summer is bittersweet. It is their first holiday on the farm without their grandparents. Yet, their presence on the farm signifies a continuation of the family tradition, a blend of memory and future aspirations. 

In my photographs, I aim to capture the essence of this family's journey—their struggles, their triumphs, and the quiet moments of connection that define their daily lives. 

Through this work, I hope to convey the profound impact of familial legacy and the importance of sustainable farming practices in the face of global challenges. The Nzene family farm is more than just a piece of land or farm home; it is a living, breathing proof to the power of heritage and the promise of a sustainable future.