Approximately 1.7 million refugees reside in Uganda, striving to overcome malnutrition through innovative farming techniques. Rugwira John Baptist, a refugee, successfully cultivates chili peppers after receiving agricultural training from Action Against Hunger, enhancing his financial capacity and improving his family’s well-being. The initiative also supports local communities, demonstrating the effectiveness of collaborative farming efforts in addressing food insecurity.
Uganda accommodates the largest refugee population in Africa, with approximately 1.7 million individuals, including those seeking asylum due to violence, climate change, and food insecurity. Rugwira John Baptist, a refugee from the Democratic Republic of Congo, arrived in Uganda in 2009 seeking safety. Residing in the Nakivale Refugee Settlement with his eleven children, Rugwira faced significant challenges, notably malnutrition and food insecurity exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which impacted his ability to provide for his family.
Upon receiving support from Action Against Hunger, Rugwira enrolled in a nutrition program that taught him about sustainable farming. He developed an interest in innovative agricultural techniques, particularly the Optimized Land Use Model (OLUM), designed to increase crop yields while combating climate change. Using these methods, Rugwira was able to efficiently manage a small piece of land and cultivate nutrient-rich crops.
Furthering his farming efforts, Rugwira joined a farming group called “Maisha ya Kimbizi,” which translates to “Refugee Life.” With assistance from Action Against Hunger, he acquired land for larger-scale farming initiatives, including the cultivation of chili peppers, which he had previously grown back home. Despite initial skepticism from peers, Rugwira successfully grew 220 pounds of chili, allowing him to improve his family’s financial situation significantly.
Chili farming has had a transformative impact on Rugwira’s life, enabling him to settle debts and ensure his children’s education. He expressed pride in his newfound financial stability, stating, “Chili is the enterprise that has earned me more money than any other.” Meanwhile, as Rugwira prospered, other farmers, including local community members, have also embraced high-value crops like chili, witnessing similar success in their harvests.
Action Against Hunger collaborates with Shares Uganda, an organization focused on agricultural commodity processing and export, which has reported remarkable improvements in chili quality. Christine Zion, a business agent, noted, “I procured over 830 pounds from my first visit,” highlighting the increased productivity among local farmers. The program not only benefits refugees but also supports host communities facing similar agricultural challenges.
In conclusion, Rugwira’s story exemplifies the positive impact of innovative farming techniques on the lives of refugees in Uganda. Through programs like those offered by Action Against Hunger, individuals can overcome significant obstacles, improve their financial stability, and contribute to their families’ future. The collaboration between refugees and host communities underlines the potential for shared success within agricultural endeavors, promoting sustainability and resilience in the face of adversity.
Original Source: www.actioncontrelafaim.org
