Miss Fatuma, a committed Livelihoods Officer, has spent months journeying through Ngaremara, Garbatulla, and Chari, bridging the gap between sustainable agricultural practices and communities ready to embrace them. Her work has been critical to the success of our initiative, which, in partnership with CRS, identified and empowered 132 small-scale farmer groups with seeds, tools, and agricultural training.

“I’ve always been passionate about working with communities,” Fatuma shares. “But this project challenged me in ways I never imagined. The terrain, the long nights, and the sheer hard work of reaching each farmer group tested our resilience. Yet, each time I see a plot transformed, I’m reminded why we do this.”

In her journey, Fatuma connected with each farmer group, guiding them on the use of fast-maturing seeds, efficient tilling methods, and sustainable practices to maximize yields. Alongside her, Trainers of Trainers (T.O.Ts) such as Aisha from Ngaremara, Forrole from Garbatulla, and Guyp from Chari are vital voices in helping the project take root.

Aisha from Ngaremara shares how the project has shaped her understanding of agriculture and community empowerment. “Before this, I had never thought of farming as part of our lives,” Aisha admits. “Now, with the training and tools we received, I see how farming can sustain us. I’m teaching my group how to use the tools for kitchen gardening. They’re excited, and I am too.”

For Forrole from Garbatulla, the project has been about showing his community a path to independence. “I want my village to see farming as a solution, not just something for the market days,” he explains. “Miss Fatuma’s visits gave us the knowledge and support we needed, and now we’re sharing that with our neighbours, showing them how farming can really work for us.”

In Chari, Guyo echoes a similar sentiment but highlights the strength of solidarity the project has fostered. “Working together, we feel like we’re part of something bigger,” Guyp says. “Fatuma encouraged us to start with our neighbours. So, our group invites people from nearby villages to learn about planting and kitchen gardening. It’s small now, but this could transform our whole area.”

Reflecting on the T.O.Ts’ passion, Miss Fatuma feels the pride of someone witnessing change firsthand. “Their dedication is my motivation,” she says. “It’s not easy to help a community take on something entirely new. Yet, with each step forward, I see the seeds of a real shift. This isn’t just about farming—it’s about a future where these communities can sustain themselves and grow stronger together.”

Fatuma knows the project is far from complete, but she’s optimistic. “I’m looking forward to seeing these farmers become advocates for sustainable agriculture, sharing knowledge, and inspiring others. It’s not just about what’s planted in the fields; it’s about planting the idea that they can shape their own futures.”

This story isn’t just about transforming farmland. It’s about inspiring an entire community to imagine new possibilities—one seed, one lesson, one step at a time.

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