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| A FARMER GROUP RECEIVES THEIR NEW DAIRY COWS |
Last year, before distributing new dairy cows, FH trained 41 recipient farmer groups on how best to care for their “new family member”. Each caretaker was also provided with supplies to build a clean and safe cow stable.
We are proud to report that, in spite of facing significant challenges including a prolonged drought and an outbreak of East Coast Fever resulting in some animal deaths, the 89 farmer groups (total) in Marare and Nashisa overcame and continue to experience success.
On average, the farmers get 8-10 litres of milk per day, improving family nutrition and providing enough milk to sell for profit. Families are healthier and incomes are going up! Farmers also use the cow manure as organic fertilizer.
Betty Katooko, a dairy farmer in the area, shares, “Gone are the days when I used to fold my hands in lamentation of my poor state. I now know the secret of making money. I use my hands to make money through livestock keeping. From this cow, I plan to buy some land and build a small house. I will keep this cow like I care for my own body and children.”
And these farmers are intent on spreading the love - this year 72 calves were passed on from original cow recipients to the next families in line. Your gifts just keep multiplying!
And here’s something really exciting - in addition to milk and fertilizer, the cows are making electricity. A total of 24 biogas units in Marare and Nashisa are providing an environmentally friendly alternative to wood-burning cook stoves. Using biogas from cow manure saves trees, creates a smoke free environment in homes, generates cheaper lighting, and makes cooking easier and faster (and who doesn’t love that?).
