SJS Organic Farm Director Fr. Alwyn D’Souza, accompanied by Mr. Augustine Hosea, recently visited Andimile Tende and Mpe’s Farm in the Rungwe Southern Highlands of Tanzania. Andimile Tende, who participated in a one-week Basic Ecological Organic Agriculture (EOA) training program at SJS Organic Farm in Mwanga, Kilimanjaro, in 2021, was part of the Kibowavi Project and the KCOA-KHEA Project.
Initially, Mpe was opposed to organic farming and discouraged her husband Andimile from adopting this new approach. However, after witnessing the impressive results firsthand, Mpe’s perspective changed, and she now supports organic agriculture wholeheartedly, alongside her husband and children.
Andimile Tende’s Composting Innovation: Andimile Tende has developed a unique method for composting using avocado waste, specifically the fruit stones. Previously discarded after avocado consumption, these stones are now a valuable resource. Tende collects these discarded stones and mixes them with forest mud, cow dung, and other organic materials to create nutrient-rich compost for his farm.
Utilizing Natural Resources: Tende diligently gathers various organic materials to enrich his farm’s soil, avoiding chemical fertilizers in favor of a zero-waste approach. This practice has resulted in a rich layer of humus and high levels of microorganisms in the soil, leading to higher, poison-free yields compared to conventional farming. His farm now thrives with a diverse range of crops and bountiful harvests.
Positive Impact on the Community: Tende’s success has inspired his community to adopt organic farming practices. Local residents now purchase his produce and use the beans as vegetables, rather than buying from conventional sources. This shift has provided an additional income stream for the community.
Sustainable Yield and Learning Initiatives: Tende anticipates that incorporating organic materials will continue to enhance his yields as soil quality improves. To share his knowledge and expertise, he plans to establish a demonstration plot and classroom on his farm. This will allow farmers from neighboring areas to learn about organic farming theory and observe practical implementation.
A Vision for the Future: Andimile Tende aims to transform his farm into a hub of organic farming knowledge, where others can explore the benefits of sustainable agriculture. He believes that with proper education and demonstration, more farmers will adopt organic practices, leading to a healthier and more sustainable farming ecosystem. The dialogue between the SJS Director and Andimile Tende highlights the transformative power of organic farming and its positive impact on both individual livelihoods and the broader community. As more farmers embrace these practices, Tanzania’s agriculture is poised for a significant shift towards a greener and more prosperous future.
SJS Organic Farm is a Centre of Excellence on the KCOA-KHEA Project
Success story collection – done by Paul Chilewa – KHEA Monitoring and Evaluation Officer – TOAM-Tanzania Organic Agriculture Movement, in collaboration with SJS Organic Farm
Edited, reviewed & uploaded by Magino Pamella-KHEA Communications Officer-PELUM Uganda and Biovision Africa Trust Kenya
