Driven by Determination
Sarah, a single mother and a farmer, lives in a last-mile village in Kyenjojo. With low farm yields and traditional farming methods, Sarah would struggle to provide for her children. Additionally, gender-based societal barriers made it difficult to access affordable credit to invest in agriculture or small business. Eager to build a better life for her children, Sarah participated in various training sessions when her village partnered with RTV in early 2024.
With support from the Government of Canada through Global Affairs Canada (GAC), RTV rolled out the “From Last Mile Into Possibilities (FLIP)” in Sarah’s village. This project prioritized women and youth-headed households to ensure communities can access water, health, and food security. Additionally, participants received training and support on diverse income-generating activities and financial inclusion initiatives introduced as part of the program. Sarah and other community members participated in an In-depth training program on pre- and post-harvest management.
They learned about preparing organic compost manure, received better quality seeds and tools, and got first-hand knowledge of various modern farming techniques. “We would hardly grow any vegetables. But during the training, I learned how important they are for my children’s health. With the new seeds I received, I expanded my garden to provide my children with good nutrition,” Sarah shares, “I learned new techniques such as planting in lines, early weeding, and applying liquid manure every two weeks,” she adds. She also learned climate-resilient techniques that helped reduce water used for her vegetable garden. Sarah collected small, used plastic bottles filled with water and hung them over the soil next to the plants to reduce water usage by preventing rapid percolation and evaporation.
After learning about good hygiene and sanitation practices, she installed a tippy tap and a covered latrine to prevent diseases and improve her family’s overall health. She now ensures that everyone, including her, wash their hands before meals and after using the latrine. After discussion sessions on financial literacy and cooperatives, Sarah’s community formed a Village Savings and Loans Association (VSLA), which she promptly joined. The VSLA not only helped Sarah save a small amount each week and access low-interest loans to invest in her farms but also fostered a sense of community and camaraderie. “Working together with other women in the community, I learned how to handle and address conflicts as a group. Also, I sell my surplus tomato produce during our Sunday meetings to earn extra income,” she says, reflecting on the bond she shares with her fellow VSLA members.
With access to good-quality inputs, affordable credit, and knowledge to improve her agricultural yields, Sarah is hopeful and confident about the future. “Now, I have the skills and resources to build a better future for my family. My goal is to have sufficient savings for my children and ensure they complete their education,” she says proudly.
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