TOAM (Tanzania Organic Agriculture Movement) a Country Implementing Partner under KHEA on the KCOA Project has significantly enhanced the capacity of smallholder farmers in Pemba by promoting organic farming practices and market development. One notable success story is the Uwamambo group in Micheweni District, located in the Northern Region of Pemba.
In 2022, the group, consisting of 15 members (11 women and 4 men), received training from KHEA Lead Multiplier Juma Khatib Shehame, under the guidance of Master Trainer Brigitha Didas from TOAM. The training focused on organic farming practices and technologies, including the use of available manure, compost making for soil health, and pest management. The group also received training on PGS certification from KHEA which later lead to the certification of the group.
The group farm, which spans 1.5 acres, now features a variety of crops including tomatoes, peppers, vegetables, passion fruits, and papayas. All the 15 farmers involved have successfully adopted organic practices and technologies, such as mulching to retain soil moisture and using Muokozi biopest to combat pests and diseases like powdery mildew, early blight, and aphids. These practices have led to a notable increase in crop productivity and reduced production costs.
To access the link to the Knowledge Product on making an organic pesticide
(Muokozi) from locally available materials: https://kcoa-africa.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Making-Muokozi-pesticide.pdf
One of the group members, Mrs. Aisha Abdallah, shared her positive experience with Muokozi biopest, highlighting its effectiveness in addressing issues such as the drying of tomato and pepper leaves. The group’s commitment to organic farming has been validated through their certification as a Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) group, which assures consumers of the health benefits of their products.
Despite these successes, the group faces challenges with accessing markets, which are often far from their location. This limits their profit potential, as they frequently sell their produce directly from the farm gate. Nevertheless, the group reported an income of 1,500,000 Tshs from tomato sales in the last season.
The progress made by the Uwamambo group underscores the impact of organic farming education and market support. As shown in the images, Mr. Juma Khatib is seen counting the income from selling three buckets of tomatoes worth 60,000 Tshs, while a consumer drives away after purchasing fresh produce from the farm.
Success story collection – done by Paul Chilewa – KHEA Monitoring and Evaluation Officer – TOAM-Tanzania Organic Agriculture Movement
Edited, reviewed & uploaded by Magino Pamella-KHEA Communications Officer-PELUM Uganda and Biovision Africa Trust Kenya
