July 12, 2024 – Back in March, we were thrilled to announce the expansion of our mandate in Uganda with a new initiative based in the Adjumani district. Following successful programs in the Acholi Sub-Region, Karamoja Sub-Region, and the Kiryandongo district, the program is predominantly focused on helping marginalized and underprivileged women in the Nyumanzi and Ayilo 1 refugee settlements.
In April, we successfully ran a program for 60 Youth Peacemakers (including 44 women) from the settlements and neighboring host communities focused on Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) and Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) which took place at Delight Farm (U) Ltd.
Over three intensive days at Delight Ltd’s training institute in Nwoya District, the 60 Youth Peacemakers delved into the cutting-edge practices of Climate Smart Agriculture and Disaster Risk Reduction. Delight Farm is renowned for its innovative approaches, boasting extensive fruit farms, livestock, and integrated biosystems. Here, the Youth Peacemakers immersed themselves in hands-on workshops and training sessions.
Participants gained expertise in a wide array of topics including Nursery Establishment, Agronomic Practices, Post Harvest Management, Soil and Water Conservation, Agroforestry, Crop Diversification, and Tree Orchard Establishment. They also actively contributed to environmental conservation efforts by planting diverse tree species as riparian buffers and for biodiversity restoration on degraded lands.
Additionally, the training program covered advanced techniques such as biochar production for soil nutrient enrichment and livestock management. Beyond technical skills, participants explored the interconnectedness of agriculture and environmental stewardship, and received training in herbal and medicinal plant preparation, financial literacy, as well as soft skills conducive to mindset transformation, and lifestyle change.
This was a unique opportunity for participants to learn transferable, transformative skills for their communities. It also provided hope for the future: “Thanks to the invaluable training I received as a Youth Peacemaker in Climate-Smart Agriculture, with a specific focus on establishing Mango Fruit Orchards, I’ve gained more than just skills – I’ve found hope. In Ayilo, despite the challenges of land acquisition, this knowledge empowers me not only to sustain myself but also to uplift my community, to whom I dedicate my time. I am grateful for this opportunity and eager to pay it forward!” exclaimed Moriku Janety, a member of Amanzora FG in the Ayilo refugee settlement.
This holistic approach not only equipped the Youth Peacemakers with practical skills but also empowered them to become agents of sustainable agricultural practices and resilient communities in their respective regions.
Our programs in the Adjumani district reaffirm our commitment to empowering vulnerable populations and promoting sustainable development. Our efforts are poised to make a meaningful impact amidst Uganda’s complex challenges. In the long term, we are aiming not only to foster resilience but also to empower communities towards a more sustainable and prosperous future by providing them with the skills to become changemakers themselves. Together, we strive to build pathways to prosperity and well-being for all.
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