In the heart of Merti, the vibrant greens of a successful harvest stretch across the fields, a testament to the community’s resilience and openness to new agricultural practices. This year’s abundant yield of beans and sweet potatoes has not only filled the granaries but has also brought hope and inspiration to a people determined to embrace sustainable farming. For Merti’s farmers, this harvest marks a turning point—one that reflects their hard work, adaptability, and the guidance provided by the Caritas Livelihood Team.

The transformation began with the community’s willingness to step into the unfamiliar. Led by Fatuma, a dedicated member of the Caritas team, the farmers learned practical strategies for improving soil health, conserving water, and optimising crop yields. Working closely with her colleague, Mr. Salat from Garbatulla, Fatuma encouraged the farmers to diversify their crops and test new techniques. Together, they provided the foundation that would lead to one of the most successful harvests the community had ever seen.

The path was not without challenges. Merti’s farmers, many of whom have depended on traditional farming practices, were cautious but curious. As Mr. Salat explains, “Convincing the community to try new methods was the biggest hurdle, but once they saw the benefits in action, their excitement was infectious. Fatuma and I worked together, meeting each farmer, discussing their questions, and adjusting the training to fit their needs.”

From early morning gatherings to dusk-lit discussions, the community came together in a spirit of collective learning, gradually realising the potential that lay within their land. One farmer, Miriam, recalls the initial hesitation and the sense of wonder that followed: “We’d never thought of planting in this way. But after seeing how the fields grew and grew, we knew we were onto something big.”

This year’s bumper harvest has brought both prosperity and pride to Merti. Families who once struggled with inconsistent yields now celebrate a season of plenty, with baskets of beans and bundles of sweet potatoes marking a remarkable shift in their fortunes. For the community, the success goes beyond the fields—it represents a new way forward and a deeper belief in their own capabilities.

As images of the bountiful fields began circulating, Mr. Ramadhan, the Livelihood Team’s oversight, felt immense pride in the community’s accomplishment. “When I saw those pictures, I realised just how impactful this journey has been,” he shares. “The Merti farmers didn’t just grow crops; they grew their confidence, their skills, and their vision for what’s possible. This is their achievement, and it deserves to be celebrated.”

Eager to honour this success, Mr. Ramadhan mobilised the communications team to document Merti’s story—a story that speaks to the power of collaboration, education, and community spirit. “Our goal,” Ramadhan explains, “is to inspire other communities by showcasing Merti’s journey. It’s about sharing their example and motivating others to join in on this path toward a sustainable future.”

For the people of Merti, this year’s harvest signifies much more than a successful season. It is a source of pride that unites them as they look toward a future enriched by sustainable practices. With the community now at the forefront of agricultural change, their fields stand as a beacon of hope, embodying the power of determination, the importance of knowledge, and the value of working together towards a shared dream.