AGRICULTURE
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“Agriculture, the backbone of the nation's economy has received it's share of attention in our government's planning. Intensive efforts are being made to improve farming techniques.” H.I.M
We are happy to report positive new developments within the agriculture department, chief being the move to establish a new project in the Maragua area of central Kenya. A benefactor has granted the organization a three acre piece of land and volunteers are already on the ground working there. The intention is to use this as a demonstration farm for the organic farming ideas we have been espousing, as well as a living place for the volunteers away from the city. We are collaborating with various individuals, organizations and government agencies which teach organic farming. Keep yourself updated through the blogspot and let us know what ideas and contributions you have to share on this.
Meanwhile, the farming project at Kitui, in the eastern part of Kenya, is going from strength to strength. The efforts of the Shiriki Organization volunteers are tangible and the farm is a focal point for organic agriculture education with the local community. In an area more known for famines and food insecurity, the farm has provided a beacon of hope and elicited positive feedback from both the government and the people of Kenya, especially after having been featured on National television (see video on the gallery tab).
The rains around Kitui are not dependable and the irrigation equipment to help us keep optimum production is still a challenge. We have witnessed a rise in the number of wells dug within the community and a willingness amongst more people to try out basic irrigation. Most gratifying are the number of youth who are moving from the urban areas back to the farms as a result of these efforts. Other youth within the rural area are embracing farming and doing away with urban aspirations.
We anticipate more growth, especially in the areas of preservation and exchange of non-GMO seeds, farmers cooperatives and agriculture based rural industries.
The Haile Selassie I Foundation volunteers in new South Sudan are doing well. We have registered a good presence in Juba, the main capital and a good working relationship with the government there. The agriculture endeavors have been established in the area, and though we have not been there long, our experience, willingness and divine guidance has made all the difference. It is our wish to extend interactions with more farmers in Africa and worldwide too.
We are happy to report positive new developments within the agriculture department, chief being the move to establish a new project in the Maragua area of central Kenya. A benefactor has granted the organization a three acre piece of land and volunteers are already on the ground working there. The intention is to use this as a demonstration farm for the organic farming ideas we have been espousing, as well as a living place for the volunteers away from the city. We are collaborating with various individuals, organizations and government agencies which teach organic farming. Keep yourself updated through the blogspot and let us know what ideas and contributions you have to share on this.
Meanwhile, the farming project at Kitui, in the eastern part of Kenya, is going from strength to strength. The efforts of the Shiriki Organization volunteers are tangible and the farm is a focal point for organic agriculture education with the local community. In an area more known for famines and food insecurity, the farm has provided a beacon of hope and elicited positive feedback from both the government and the people of Kenya, especially after having been featured on National television (see video on the gallery tab).
The rains around Kitui are not dependable and the irrigation equipment to help us keep optimum production is still a challenge. We have witnessed a rise in the number of wells dug within the community and a willingness amongst more people to try out basic irrigation. Most gratifying are the number of youth who are moving from the urban areas back to the farms as a result of these efforts. Other youth within the rural area are embracing farming and doing away with urban aspirations.
We anticipate more growth, especially in the areas of preservation and exchange of non-GMO seeds, farmers cooperatives and agriculture based rural industries.
The Haile Selassie I Foundation volunteers in new South Sudan are doing well. We have registered a good presence in Juba, the main capital and a good working relationship with the government there. The agriculture endeavors have been established in the area, and though we have not been there long, our experience, willingness and divine guidance has made all the difference. It is our wish to extend interactions with more farmers in Africa and worldwide too.