Sowing Seeds Abroad: Exploring the Lived Experiences of African Immigrant Farmers in the U.S

The purpose of this descriptive qualitative study was to explore the experiences of African immigrant farmers in the U.S. Data were collected from eight participants who have experienced the phenomenon using in-depth interviews and field observation. Findings revealed that Immigrant farming is anchored on cultural practices resulting from parental and environmental influence. As such, farming was in the blood of African immigrants and a lifestyle to be maintained. Nonetheless, African immigrants face challenges, including being out of the system, adjusting to weather changes, stigma, and financial constraints. Despite these challenges, African immigrants take the initiative, fueled by their self-efficacy and personal agency, to figure out solutions to their challenges using social media, social networks, and mentors. They engage in self-directed learning by reading books, using the internet, or even pursuing formal agricultural degrees to understand farming in a new environment. Most importantly, this study contributed to the literature by clarifying that although African immigrants have variegated motivations for farming, belongingness emerged as the greatest motivator. Key findings of this study supported the conceptual model with indigenous knowledge, social networks, and organizational support as mediating factors. The study provided recommendations for policy, research, and extension to broaden the agricultural space and welcome African immigrants as major players within the U.S. food systems. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]