A look at how training and some initial resources have sparked amazing transformations in Haiti and Ethiopia
Haiti 180
Two hundred farmers in Cachiman , Haiti
Three sites have been chosen for the
agricultural overhaul: two for tree nurseries to grow seedlings and fruit
trees, and one for a demonstration garden where farmers will work with
agricultural experts to learn the area’s best practices and how to select and
use high quality and resistant seeds.
The FH agronomists are encouraging farmers
to plant cassava, maize, peas, banana trees, plantains, and other crops which
do well in the Haitian climate.
Farmers are also being taught to keep
quality seeds from each harvest for future use, rather than eating or selling
the full harvest and having to buy new seeds next season. Higher yields will
mean that farmers can feed their families, store seed for the next year and even
sell some seeds (which fetch a better price than the food itself) to the local
market.
As part of the program, the 200 farmers
have also agreed to give some excess seed back to the program for use in the
demonstration garden and for start-up supplies for other local farmers joining
the program.
A Cuppa’ Success
About
10 years ago, Abdi Shafi and his family were resettled to a barren plot of land
in Ethiopia
and the following years were tough. Four years ago FH Ethiopia began working
with Abdi and other farmers on plant production, termite control and
composting. He received vegetable seeds at the trainings, and also received 50
coffee seedlings.
After year one, Abdi had 50 healthy coffee
plants. After two years, he’d harvested his first kilo of coffee seeds! By the
third year – last year – Abdi had produced 8 kilos of coffee and was able to enjoy
a cup of his own home brew. He has now trained 10 other farmers to make the
changes that led him to success!
Gift Guide Gardening: www.fhcanada.org/gifts
for these gifts and more!
