The acquisition and development of collections at the Southwest Food Museum involved the collaboration of numerous dedicated individuals, including local agricultural experts, cultural historians, and community leaders. Notable contributors included Dr. Amina Hassan, a prominent agronomist, and cultural advocate; and community organizers such as Mohamed Ali and Fatima Noor, who played vital roles in gathering and preserving local agricultural artifacts.

Through extensive research initiatives and community engagement, the museum’s collections were enriched with items that reflect the region’s diverse food heritage. The museum’s vault houses over 5,000 exhibits, encompassing a variety of collections, including: “Traditional Farming Tools”; “Indigenous Crops and Seeds”; “Culinary Utensils”; “Food Preservation Techniques”; “Cultural Artifacts Related to Food Practices”; and “Documentary Materials on Local Food Systems”.

The collections feature items that illustrate the historical continuity of agricultural practices in the Southwest State of Somalia, with a significant focus on materials from the 19th to 21st centuries. These artifacts not only showcase traditional food systems but also highlight the social and cultural significance of food within the community, serving as a critical resource for education and advocacy in promoting sustainable practices and food security.