Faith and Farming: A Historical Study of Anglican Missionaries and Food Security in Ekitiland (1894-2024)

Abstract

This paper investigates the role of Anglican missionaries in fostering food sustainability in Ekitiland from 1894 to 2024. It traces the historical evolution of missionary engagement in agriculture and rural development, highlighting their influence on indigenous farming practices, education, and social structures. The study employs historical and qualitative methods, drawing on archival materials, oral interviews, and existing literature. Framed within the sustainable livelihoods’ framework, the research reveals that Anglican missionaries played a pivotal role in introducing modern agricultural techniques, establishing farm settlements, promoting cooperative societies, and instilling ethical values that contributed to enhanced food security. The study concludes that the church’s historical and continuing influence in promoting sustainable agriculture in Ekitiland underscores the need to integrate faith-based models into contemporary rural development strategies.