Mr. Kenan Tagyemwa and Ms. Catherine Ayebazibwe, cousins from Rweshande village in Ntungamo district, were raised in families deeply rooted in agricultural traditions. Growing up, they were immersed in small-scale organic farming, cultivating crops for home consumption. This upbringing instilled in them a strong connection to the land and an appreciation for natural farming methods.
In 2019, seeking to expand their farming efforts and increase their income, they decided to transition to commercial farming. This shift led them to use synthetic agro-chemicals, hoping for quicker results and higher yields. Unfortunately, this decision had dire consequences. They experienced health issues, including respiratory problems and skin irritations, and noticed a decline in crop quality. The chemicals not only harmed their bodies but also degraded the soil’s texture and fertility, negatively impacting the surrounding environment.
In 2020, their lives took a positive turn when they were trained by their cousin, Ms. Peskin Nahabwe, a Multiplier under the KHEA project by PELUM Uganda. This training introduced them to the principles of agro-ecology and sustainable farming practices.
It rekindled their passion for organic farming and provided them with the knowledge and skills needed to transition back to healthier methods.
Now, Kenan and Catherine are empowered and grateful for the transformative skills they’ve gained. They have learned to produce organic fertilizers, such as manure tea and compost, which enhance soil fertility and promote robust plant growth.
These techniques have resulted in improved crop yields, allowing them to feed their families and contribute to their local economy.
In addition to improving their own farming practices, Kenan and Catherine have taken on leadership roles within their community. Kenan has successfully trained ten farmers, sharing his newfound knowledge and promoting sustainable practices. Catherine has trained eight farmers, empowering them to adopt organic methods and improve their yields. Their efforts are part of the KCOA project, which aims to foster a network of sustainable farmers in the region.
Together, they co-founded the Rweshande Organic Farmers Association, a grassroots initiative dedicated to educating local farmers about the benefits of organic farming.
The association serves as a platform for knowledge exchange, resource sharing, and community support, with the goal of enhancing sustainable agriculture practices throughout the area.
Success Stories:
Establishment of a Farmers’ Association: The Rweshande Organic Farmers Association empowers local farmers, promoting knowledge sharing and collaboration to improve organic farming practices across the region.
Training and Knowledge Acquisition: After overcoming initial skepticism, Kenan and Catherine gained essential skills in organic farming from PELUM Uganda, leading to a profound transformation in their agricultural practices.
Improved Farming Techniques: Their ability to create organic fertilizers has significantly improved soil health and crop yields, demonstrating the effectiveness of sustainable farming methods.
Community Impact: Through their training initiatives, Kenan and Catherine have positively influenced the farming practices of their neighbors, fostering a community committed to sustainability.
For more information visit; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j9kBXeafjoo&t=5s
Success story collection – done by Ezra Kalule – KHEA Project Officer – PELUM Uganda,
Edited, reviewed&uploaded by Magino Pamella-KHEA Communications Officer-PELUM Uganda and Biovision Africa Trust Kenya
Author: Pamella Magino
Ms. Magino Pamella joined Participatory Ecological Land Use Management (PELUM) Uganda on 1st October 2021 as a Communications Officer for the KCOA-KHEA Project. She comes with over 9 years’ experience as a Communications and Marketing professional in the area of Public Relations, Business Development and Marketing. Pamella offers her clients a visionary and holistic approach to developing communication strategies that are both effective and efficient. Pamella holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Communication majored in Public Relations and a Certified Member of the Public Relations Association Uganda a recognized umbrella body of all private and public Public Relations professionals, Communication Specialists, Brand Managers, Mass Communication & other related disciplines’ in Uganda. She previously worked with different organizations; The Nile Basin Initiative Secretariat Entebbe, Victoria University Kampala –Uganda, MK Publishers Limited, Monitor Publications Limited, School Times Newspaper, Prime Radio, Africa Youth Leadership Forum, League of Young Professionals Uganda, Volunteer Evolution Arica, Eliham Girl Child charity house.
