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RESILIENCY THROUGH WEALTH, A GRICULTURE, AND NUTRITION IN KARAMOJA (RWANU) FY 17 QUARTERLY REPORT: APRIL-JUNE 2017 AUGUST 25, 2017
RESILIENCY THROUGH WEALTH, AGRICULTURE, AND
NUTRITION IN KARAMOJA (RWANU) FY 17 QUARTERLY REPORT: APRIL-JUNE 2017
AUGUST 25, 2017
RESILIENCY THROUGH WEALTH,
AGRICULTURE, AND NUTRITION IN
KARAMOJA (RWANU)
FY 17 QUARTERLY REPORT: APRIL-JUNE 2017
AGREEMENT NUMBER: AID-FFP-A-12-00011
CHIEF OF PARTY: Henry Huka Duba
DISCLAIMER:
This report is made possible by the generous support of the American people through the
United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The contents are the
responsibility of ACDI/VOCA and do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United
States Government.
RWANU FY17 Q3 Report
August 25, 2017
CONTENTS
CONTENTS .................................................................................................................................................. I
ABBREVIATIONS ....................................................................................................................................... II
PROJECT ACTIVITIES AND RESULTS ................................................................................................... 1
SO 1: IMPROVED ACCESS TO FOOD FOR MEN AND WOMEN ....................................................... 1
Intermediate Result 1.1: Improved Smallholder Farm Management Practices Adopted by Men and Women ......... 1 Demonstration of GAP ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 1 Promotion of Horticulture ................................................................................................................................................................................... 3 Other Activities ....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 6 Challenges ................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 6 Lessons Learned .................................................................................................................................................................................................... 7
Intermediate Result 1.2: Improved Smallholder Livestock Management Practices Adopted by Men and Women . 7 Exit training for WLGs ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 7 Livestock radio programming ............................................................................................................................................................................ 7 Challenges ................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 7 Lessons Learned .................................................................................................................................................................................................... 8
Intermediate Result 1.3: Increased Linkages to Markets ......................................................................................................... 8 Training YLIA and WLIA Grantees in Business Management ................................................................................................................ 8 Branding KABA Stores ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 9 Honey Value Chain ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 10
Intermediate Result 1.4: Increased Access to Credit ............................................................................................................. 10
SO 2.0 STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE 2: REDUCED MALNUTRITION IN PREGNANT AND
LACTATING MOTHERS AND CHILDREN UNDER FIVE YEARS OF AGE ...................................... 11
Intermediate Result 2.1: Improved Health and Nutrition Practices at Household ......................................................... 11 Challenges ............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 15 Lessons learned ................................................................................................................................................................................................... 15
Intermediate Result 2.2: Improved Service Delivery for the Prevention and Treatment of Maternal and Child
Illnesses ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 15 Collaborate with the Ministry of Health to improve Health Centers and Outreach services in target areas ..................... 15 Implementation of Community Score Card (CSC) .................................................................................................................................. 16
CROSS-CUTTING .................................................................................................................................... 17
Gender ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 17 Gender training ................................................................................................................................................................................................... 17 YLIA and WLIA Performance Assessment .................................................................................................................................................. 17 Mainstreaming of gender into the FTGs ..................................................................................................................................................... 18
Conflict Mitigation ........................................................................................................................................................................... 18 Meetings with community action groups .................................................................................................................................................... 18 Monitoring CAGs ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 18
Disaster Risk Management/Natural Resource Management(NRM) .................................................................................... 18 Training in natural resource management and biodiversity management ...................................................................................... 18 Farmers’ groups assisted in developing response plans based on early warning information .................................................. 19
RWANU FY17 Q3 Report
August 25, 2017
ABBREVIATIONS
AFC Andre Food Consult
ASCA Accumulated Savings and Credit Association
CAG Community Action Groups
CAHW Community Animal Health Workers
CLTS Community-led Total Sanitation
CSC Community Score Card
Concern Concern Worldwide
CUAMM Doctors with Africa (Italian NGO)
DFAP Development Food Aid Program
DHT District Health Team
DNCC District Nutrition Coordination Committees
DRR Disaster Risk Reduction
FFD Farmer Field Day
FY Fiscal Year
GMP Growth Monitoring and Promotion
GOU Government of Uganda
HPs Health Promoters
IR Intermediate Result
IY Implementation Year
MCA Male Change Agent
MCG Mother Care Groups
MT Metric Ton
MUAC Mid Upper Arm Circumference NabuZARDI Nabuin Zonal Agricultural Research and Development Institute
NRM Natural Resource Management
RWANU Resiliency through Wealth, Agriculture, and Nutrition
SO Strategic Objective
TSO Technical Support Officer
VHT Village Health Team
VSLA Village Savings and Loan Association
WHH Welthungerhilfe
WLG Women’s Livestock Groups
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1
PROJECT ACTIVITIES AND RESULTS
This report covers the activities on the Resiliency through Wealth, Nutrition, and Agriculture
(RWANU) project in Karamoja from April to June 2017. This corresponds to the third quarter
of FY2017. While the project concentrated heavily on closeout during the quarter, the team also reinforced activities related to sustainability and our exit strategy. This included sharing
critical knowledge and lessons learned with communities and local partners in Karamoja.
The prevalence of dry spells continued to impact households as well as the agricultural sector.
Population and livestock movement in search of coping mechanisms increased, particularly
related to finding food and pasture. One major setback during the quarter was the emergence
of devastating pests such as army worms and maize stalk borers, which contributed to the
wide-ranging destruction of cereal crops. This resulted in a bad crop growth, which will have a
significant impact on the hunger levels among communities in Karamoja in the near future.
However, there were some rains in May, enabling RWANU beneficiaries to be very active in
agriculture. Others have been able to obtain casual labor work to support their families.
Main activities implemented under SO1 during the quarter included farmer field days (FFDs),
the monitoring of block farms, promoting the adoption of agricultural technologies, and the use
of postharvest equipment, and the capacity building of horticultural farmers. SO 2 focused on
reinforcing the social behavior change training among mother care groups (MCGs), joint
monitoring and support visits of RWANU and districts health teams to 36 health facilities, and
growth monitoring and promotion to identify children at risk of malnutrition and to educate
their mothers/caregivers on the importance of regularly weighing their children. Activities are
described below.
SO 1: IMPROVED ACCESS TO FOOD FOR MEN AND
WOMEN
INTERMEDIATE RESULT 1.1: IMPROVED SMALLHOLDER FARM MANAGEMENT
PRACTICES ADOPTED BY MEN AND WOMEN
RWANU implemented a series of activities aimed at capitalizing on and upscaling performance
related to improving agricultural productivity. In line with agro-ecological constraints and local
community reliance on the agricultural sector, RWANU increased the adoption of improved
agricultural practices through the following activities: (1) demonstration of good agricultural
practices (GAP) through FFDs, block farms, and postharvest handling (PHH) training; (2)
promotion of horticulture as a way to build resilience to drought and famine by promoting and
supporting irrigation systems and crop diversification; and (3) field activity monitoring and
sensitizing communities in improved agro-pastoralist practices using rural radios.
DEMONSTRATION OF GAP
FFDs: RWANU used FFD events to enhance the dissemination of technical knowledge and
stimulate the adoption of improved agricultural practices. These events also provided
opportunities for exchanges, networking, and self-learning among farmers. In the quarter, the
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2
project team conducted FFDs in the four districts of Amudat, Nakapiripirit, Napak, and
Moroto. RWANU beneficiaries and non-beneficiary farmers attended in large numbers. A total
of 675 beneficiary farmers (328 males and 347 females) and 168 non-beneficiary farmers (77
males and 91 females) participated in the events in Amudat (Karita) on May 23, 2017, the
Nakapiripirit Namalu sub-county on May 2017, and Napak in the Iriiri sub-county on May 2017.
Also, the Napak district hosted farmers from the Moroto–Nadunget sub-county due to the
large number of RWANU beneficiary farmers living in Napak. Discussions, exhibitions, and
exchanges focused on the annual theme (Promoting Private Partnerships and Technology
Transfers for Improved Food Security), which was based on the global theme of food security
and technology transfers for better production.
Demonstration plots set up and managed by host lead farmers offered an arena for visualizing
the effects of improved agricultural practices and triggered learning exchanges between
participants on topics related to cereals, legumes, and horticulture production. The participants
also showcased agricultural outputs and technologies, ranging from crop produce, livestock and
their products, simple irrigation technologies (i.e., impact sprinkler irrigation kits), and
improved agricultural inputs among other services promoted by the program.
Some group farmers presented educational messages associated with their respective farming
practices through songs and dramas. As a form of encouragement and motivation, RWANU
provided in-kind awards to the three best exhibitors and groups that gave presentations based
on ranking by independent technical district officials in collaboration with the RWANU
agronomic staff. The awards consisted of buckets, tarpaulins, and maize hand shellers. Some
outstanding female farmers also received special recognition for their efforts in gender equality
advocacy and their horticulture farming and apiary practices.
RWANU held the last FFDs from May 21-26, 2017, with an average participation of over 200.
These events provided the farmers, the sub-counties, and the district government a final
opportunity to reinforce the linkages and networks to sustain the positive outcomes of the
work and learning provided by RWANU. Both government and the private sector emphasized
the need to maintain these connections.
Block farms: RWANU has provided extension support to 131 farmer training groups (FTGs) of
which 33 are involved in cooperative block farming. Seventy-six lead farmers (37 males and 39
females) led other farmers through integrated refresher training on agronomy, farming as a
Photos 1 & 2: Stall inspection (left) and giving awards to best exhibitors
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business (FaaB), Accumulated Savings and Credit Associations (ASCAs), gender, conflict
mitigation, and disaster risk reduction (DRR). These training were organized and conducted at
the community level. The RWANU team led the training using on-farm learning-by-doing
approaches that reinforced the capacity of the participants for adopting good agronomic
practices and integrated pest and disease management. Each training included DRR; gender
equity and equality; and analysis, reporting, and data keeping. Indeed, RWANU utilized a
multidisciplinary approach throughout the quarter to continue to reinforce its exit strategy and
sustainability plan. In total, 719 farmers (228 males and 491 females) benefitted from reinforced
agricultural technical skills across four districts that included the sub-counties of Iriiri,
Lorengechora, Matany, Lokopo, Ngoleriet, Lopei, Lotome, Nadunget, Lorengedwat,
Kakomongole, Nabilatuk, Lolachat, Loregae, Namalu, Moruita, and Karita. The improved
farming practices that were taught to the groups included land preparation, planting, weed
control, and pest and disease management. During monitoring of the fields during the
agricultural season, the team observed a significant impact on crop physiology and soil
productivity as a result of the technical practices applied.
PHH training and demonstration of appropriate technologies: Limiting harvest losses and maximizing
returns are important motivators for farmers in southern Karamoja. According to the 2014
Karamoja Food Security Assessment conducted by the FAO, WFP, the Ministry of Agriculture,
Animal Industry, and Fisheries, and the Uganda Bureau of Statistics, there has been a
considerable decrease in yield (ranging from five to 20 percent) following the harvest. Causal
factors include a lack of technical knowledge or use of appropriate postharvest practices and
technologies. Therefore, to enhance PHH knowledge, RWANU continued reinforcing the
capacity of farmers and demonstrated appropriate technologies by equipping 11 lead farmers
with three cassava chippers and five rotary maize shellers. All 11 recipients, who had expressed
interest in acquiring these technologies, provided a 30% cost share as a way of sustainability and
forging ownership.
RWANU worked in partnership
with NabuZARDI and NaCRRI to
demonstrate the use of those
technologies. Twenty-three
farmers from the Kakamongole,
Lolachat, Ngoleriet Lorengchora,
Iriiri, Lokopo, and Matany sub-counties, five RWANU agronomic
field staff, and two agriculture
officers from the Nakapiripirit and
Napak districts benefitted from a
practical training on the
manipulation of cassava chippers
and processing cassava.
PROMOTION OF HORTICULTURE
Agriculture in the Karamoja area remains heavily dependent on rainfall. However, the water
supply has been insufficient for both food production and human consumption due to recurrent
Photo 3: Demonstration on use of cassava chippers used for value addition
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droughts. According to the 2016 Karamoja Food Security and Nutrition Assessment conducted
by UNICEF and WFP, only 17 percent of households use water at the recommended rate of 15
liters per person per day. This percentage is especially low in the Kotido, Kaabong, and Moroto
districts (less than 10 percent). To alleviate the problem of unreliable rainfall, RWANU
introduced the drip irrigation technique for horticulture production, thus freeing up more
water to be used for home consumption.
RWANU-implemented activities include (1) expanding small-scale irrigation through the
demonstration of sprinkler irrigation kits, (2) training for improved vegetable gardening, (3)
linking horticultural farmers to agro-input dealers to increase their access to agricultural inputs,
and (4) trainings on horticulture PHH, and (5) demonstrating the use of solar dryers.
Expanding small-scale irrigation: To demonstrate the impact of small-scale irrigation and train
farmers on associated farming practices, RWANU distributed 44 sprinkler irrigation kits to 41
farmers on a cost-share basis. Seventeen farmers (nine males and eight females) received these
kits at 50 percent co-funding (UGX 843,900), while the remaining recipients could afford only
30 percent co-funding due to the prolonged dry spell that resulted in famine conditions.
The project also distributed the kits to three primary schools in the Nakapiripirit, Moroto, and
Napak districts without a cost share requirement. RWANU selected and targeted the three
primary schools to
increase the agronomic
knowledge of
technicians and teachers
and increase the ability
of the next generation
to contribute to the
local economy. This
activity also helps
generate income for the
agricultural clubs at the
schools, which will
enable the schools to
acquire scholastic
materials and
supplement the diet of
the students, thus
leading to improved
nutrition and health.
RWANU conducted onsite practical training that benefitted 41 model farmers (23 males and 18
females) and three beneficiary primary schools, each of which had 31 registered club members.
The training covered the operation and maintenance of the irrigation system, as well as plot
lining, soil preparation, water conservation, crop protection, and harvesting without damaging
the pipes.
Vegetable gardening training: RWANU mobilized and trained 195 farmers (114 males and 81
females), comprising 82 model farmers (51 males and 31 females), 93 agricultural school club members (50 males and 43 females), eight local government agricultural officers (six males and
0
100,000
200,000
300,000
400,000
500,000
600,000
Am
ou
nt
ear
ne
d/c
on
sum
ed
(U
G S
hs)
Name of group/Model farmer
Income from sales and value of vegetables eaten (UGX)
Amount from sales Amount consumed
RWANU FY17 Q3 Report
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5
two females), and 12 RWANU project staff (seven males and five females). In line with our exit
strategy and sustainability plan, the training covered critical aspects related to improved
horticultural agronomic practices, PHH, integrated production and pest management (IPPM)
practices, record keeping, and management.
Linking horticultural farmers to agro-input dealers for increased access to seeds: In the third year of
the program, RWANU gradually reduced the handouts/direct assistance approach and
facilitated increased access to agricultural inputs. In line with this sustainable practice, RWANU
linked 57 horticulture farmers to local agro-input dealers so that they could access high-quality
seeds and other needed items for production. For this facilitation approach, RWANU only
provided information to the two groups without interfering in their commercial transactions.
The customers (farmers) followed the commercial rules established by the agro-input dealers as
well as bearing the cost of transportation for their transaction. A total of 41 model farmers in
the Namalu, Karita, Iriiri, and Moruita sub-counties and the three primary schools used this
system to purchase materials for their horticulture farming activities.
Training on horticulture PHH: Lack of knowledge and access to technologies for the storage,
conservation, and vegetable processing remain serious obstacles in the horticulture sector
playing a viable and sustainable livelihoods role. To address this, RWANU introduced solar
dryers and demonstrated their use. Through various projects implemented in the arid and semi-
arid regions in Africa, it has been shown that the use of low-cost solar drying technologies can
significantly improve product quality, thereby providing practical opportunities for developing
small-scale enterprises. Besides this added value, RWANU expects that the dryers will create
future employment for women, who can use the solar dryers to provide a service for others
both inside and outside their villages.
Demonstration of the use of
solar dryers: To demonstrate
the benefit of the low-cost
solar drying technology,
RWANU distributed four
solar dryers; one each to two
horticulture groups and two
horticulture model farmers in
the Karita, Namalu, and Iriiri
sub-counties. The RWANU
team trained the beneficiary
farmers on the operation and
maintenance of the solar
dryers and demonstrated their
capacity for processing fruits
and vegetables—from
eggplants, cabbage, and cowpeas to fruits such as mangoes and pawpaws—among other
horticultural products.
Photo 4: A RWANU team training horticulture model farmers on operation
and maintenance of a solar dryer at community level
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OTHER ACTIVITIES
Sector review meeting: The field extension workers, agronomist, livelihoods director, M&E
department, and technical support officers met to review the implementation strategy of this
quarter’s planned activities, as well as the project exit strategy. The discussion resulted in
refining the exit strategy implementation, identifying gaps, and allocating new or additional
specific tasks that needed to be accomplished before the end of the project. The revised exit
strategy approach emphasized facilitation and linkages between farmers and the community-
based private sector actors.
RWANU facilitated a four-day learning visit for 31 participants (four district officials, eight staff,
and 19 farmers) to two vegetable farms in the Kampala and Luwero districts. The visit focused
on technology used for vegetable production, including greenhouses, open-field irrigation, and
postharvest handling techniques. The participants learned how to optimize agricultural
production in a small scale irrigation using low-cost inputs and more accessible appropriate
technologies.
Participation in USAID field visits: RWANU participated in the monitoring visits conducted by the
USAID team to follow up with project implementation. On April 13, 2017, the field team also
participated in a visit with Matt Nims, acting director of DHCA/FFP, and Daniella Mutone-
Smith, Acting Division Director Policy, Partnerships, Program and Communication. Topics
discussed included the reduced violence in the Karamoja region, the improved participation of
the private sector, and the changes in the Government of Uganda (GOU) policy toward
pastoralism.
RADIO programming activities: The Rural Agriculture Development Information Operation
(RADIO) started airing programs on May 30, 2017 (in the morning and again in the evening).
The goal of this program is to use a faster and more cost-efficient means of communication to
facilitate access to market information and information on the availability of agricultural inputs
and best practices. RWANU worked with existing rural radio stations (e.g., Totore FM 90.0) to
facilitate direct interactions among agro-dealers, farmers, and pastoralists to discuss and
exchange information and knowledge about vet supply stores, commodity price information,
and educational messages. In the radio messages, RWANU promoted best practices and GAPs
at the beginning and end of the agricultural programming radio segments. The intended
participants included the general rural population of Southern Karamoja involved in agriculture
and pastoral livelihood activities. RADIO’s first program explained how the programs would
provide information on farming, livestock, and market prices. RADIO replayed the first program in local markets using a public broadcasting system on a truck. This ensured broader
reach beyond just those with access to a radio.
CHALLENGES
• The persistence of bad weather resulted in intermittent dry spells and created delays in
field operations, including plowing and horticulture production across the project zone.
• Farmers’ dependency on free handouts from season to season has impacted their full
participation in the facilitation activities emphasized during RWANU’s exit.
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• Pest infestations, especially army worms and maize stalk borers, affected the growth of
cereal crops like maize and sorghum. This will likely result in low cereal yields in most
areas.
LESSONS LEARNED
• Conducting FFDs established an invaluable platform for the sharing of experiences and
lessons learned, as well as for increasing the adoption of improved technologies.
RWANU noticed a behavioral change among farmers who participated in the FFDs.
• Co-funding of agricultural inputs builds a strong sense of ownership among farmers as
opposed to the free-handouts approach, which reduces feelings of ownership.
INTERMEDIATE RESULT 1.2: IMPROVED SMALLHOLDER LIVESTOCK
MANAGEMENT PRACTICES ADOPTED BY MEN AND WOMEN
In line with its exit strategy, RWANU continued to enhance the application of improved
livestock management practices while emphasizing the capitalization of results and sustainability
building. Project activities mainly focused on (1) exit training for women’s livestock groups
(WLGs) and (2) livestock radio programming for increasing knowledge about livestock herd
health initiatives, improved animal feeding, and connecting stakeholders and actors in the
livestock sector.
EXIT TRAINING FOR WLGS
During the quarter, RWANU and sub-county technical staff conducted a strategic training
needs assessment for 211 WLGs in all sub-counties. This assessment identified key gaps that
RWANU then addressed during the refresher training. The major topics emphasized in a
participatory way included group management and dynamics, conflict management, appropriate
practices of goat husbandry, and business skills including savings and credit.
L IVESTOCK RADIO PROGRAMMING
With a strategic focus on promoting the private agri-business sector in the project area,
RWANU channeled all the livestock radio programming through the Karamoja Agri-Business
Association (KABA), which was previously established by the project. This resulted in
promoting the benefits of seeking services through this association, especially for the
smallholder farmers.
KABA’s members are owners of agro-input enterprises who make critical farming and
veterinary resources, such as seeds, equipment, small tools, and chemicals, directly accessible at
the community level. Through this facilitation, RWANU contributed to the livestock special
topic discussions on Totore Radio, which is part of Uganda Broadcasting Corporation. The
topics included livestock herd health measures, breeding, nutrition, public health issues, access
to animal health services, and poultry. RWANU’s agricultural technicians worked closely with
community members (focus groups) as well as private and public veterinary service providers
to compile and prepare the most critical topics.
CHALLENGES
• We have continued to note increased migration of livestock to distant areas in search of
pasture and water, making it difficult to follow up with these farmers. RWANU has
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discussed this situation with the involved communities to understand the reasons for
migration better and to collect information on origins and destinations.
• Some beneficiaries are still hesitant to provide information about the performance of their goat enterprises. RWANU has continued efforts to build confidence and highlight
ownership while explaining the need and purpose for data collection for the project
reporting system.
LESSONS LEARNED
A more comprehensive livestock program that starts at project inception would have more
impact in the context of Karamoja, as it would allow more time for sustainability building and
for developing and implementing a stronger exit strategy.
INTERMEDIATE RESULT 1.3: INCREASED LINKAGES TO MARKETS
RWANU has continued to enhance links to markets through capitalizing and upscaling
achievements and working with the Youth Livelihood Innovation Awards (YLIA), the Women’s
Livelihood Innovation Awards (WLIA), KABA, and honey value chain producers. The following
are the main implemented activities:
TRAINING YLIA AND WLIA GRANTEES IN BUSINESS MANAGEMENT
After having assessed business performance regarding sales, market expansion, and profit
margins as reported by the women and youth groups (grantees), RWANU supported the group
leaders with business development skills as they prepared for the post-RWANU phase. Sixty-
two participants (34 young males and 28 young females) attended a structured business training
with the following objectives:
• Reinforce the capacity of grantees to develop business management skills for the efficient and effective running of enterprises for future growth and sustainability
• Improve leadership and management skills to enable better decision-making processes
• Create a marketing process among businesses that can lead to increased sales and
profitability
• Help the grantees acquire additional skills, such as key record-keeping and management
practices to generate accurate financial statements
• Prepare the groups to continue operating properly in a post-RWANU context and to
improve the viability of their businesses
RWANU conducted this critical training using a multifaceted approach that combined
theoretical and practical training on the following topics:
• Business idea generation and enterprise selection
• Ranking of business ideas based on profitability and room for growth
• Selecting the best enterprises
• Turning business ideas into concepts
• Resource mobilization to start and grow a business
• Locating business units to balance member participation and market challenges
• Developing market plans and systems
• Organizing the human resources to run a business
• Capital structure formulation
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• Cash flows analysis
• Challenges and mitigation measures
• Record keeping and record management
• Growth plans and sustainability
Key achievements as a result of this training include the following:
• All groups were registered with the government as community-based organizations,
ensuring that the local government will supervise them and create the possibility of future support through the Youth and Women Funds projects.
• All groups have elected leadership to enable a clear decision-making process and easier
reporting.
• All groups have chosen to pursue enterprises whose products and services are in high
demand in the local markets, such livestock, foodstuffs, salon services, and motorcycle
spare parts.
RWANU linked RADIO to KABA following the procurement of Totore FM radio services and
hired a media consultant to support KABA in promoting agribusiness initiatives, and market
facilitation approaches. The consultant worked with RADIO, KABA, and the RWANU team to
produce information scripts broadcasted in May and June after approval by USAID/Uganda.
RWANU included various agribusiness topics broadcasted by KABA members in conjunction
with the project staff and government officials to disseminate marketing information to the
many listeners in Karamoja, as envisioned in RWANU. The ultimate purpose is to eradicate
poverty through increased agricultural production by applying the best modern agricultural
practices.
The KABA/RADIO program continued throughout the entire third quarter. The broadcasts
covered the following topics:
• Introduction of KABA members to the public
• Technical support for the agronomy and livestock sector by district production staff
• Updates about the market prices of different commodities
• The prevention of outbreaks with specific consideration of the armyworm invasion
• The location of KABA agro-input shops in the region, products offered in various input
shops, and other services that can be accessed by farmers from the stores
• Technical advice from district officials on agronomy and livestock best practices and
how farmers can increase their productivity
• Information sharing from the agro-input dealers, bulk center committees, and agro vet
service providers about the items at their stores/shops and related prices and about the
need to increase production using improved seeds and farm equipment
• Market goers expressing their inner feelings about the performance of improved seeds
compared with local seeds
BRANDING KABA STORES
RWANU completed branding the KABA stores, with all buildings painted green with the KABA logo. This has made the KABA input dealers and bulking groups more visible compared to
similar businesses in the region. With this branding, the farmers can know where to go for agro
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inputs, farm equipment, seeds, and vegetables. A total of 18 stores benefitted from the branding
throughout the entire southern Karamoja region.
HONEY VALUE CHAIN
RWANU trained 100 (19 females and 81 males) apiary association members from
Toyarkagogongu (Moroto), Nama (Napak), Pian (Phone1), and Kaemha (Karita) on constitution
development. This resulted in forming four constitutions and beginning the registration process
at the sub-county level.
During the training, farmers from different groups interacted well and agreed that they needed
to contribute a certain amount of money to consolidate their businesses under the newly-
formed constitutions. They also planned to rent or build their premises to scale up their rural
microenterprises. Following the training, RWANU supported the honey association during the
constitution development process, as well as their registration with the respective sub-counties.
MARKET SYSTEMS MODELS ASSESSMENT RWANU started a study on the effect of their market system interventions during the week of
May 8th, 2017. The aim of the study, conducted by three local consultants, was to assess how
RWANU’s market system interventions have improved resilience to recurring shocks (climate
change, markets, etc.) and food security (including nutrition) among beneficiaries and the
market systems in which they operate. The consultants visited ASCAs groups in Napak and
Moroto to collect information related to their performance and linkage to a business system.
RWANU shared the findings among its partners.
INTERMEDIATE RESULT 1.4: INCREASED ACCESS TO CREDIT
In April, RWANU conducted and completed most quarterly activities related to increased
access to credit. These activities comprised training for members of ASCAs and the facilitation
of their linkage to formal financial institutions in southern Karamoja. This will allow them to be
sustainability after RWANU closes. RWANU supported the formed Savings and Credit
Cooperatives (SACCOs) in strengthening their records systems and operations and the
mentorship of Community-based Saving Facilitators (CSFs) to continue support ASCAs in their
entries and meetings and ASCAs’ data collection for quarterly reporting. This section discusses
the specific activities conducted, lessons learned from the interaction with ASCAs, challenges
encountered, and possible recommendations for improving the sustainability of both SACCOs
and ASCAs in the post-RWANU era.
CAPACITY BUILDING OF ASCA MEMBERS
The team organized various training that aimed to facilitate the linkages of formal financial
institutions (SACCOs, banks, and microfinance) to ASCAs operating in the sub-counties of
Lorengechora, Iriiri, and Matany in Napak district, and Kakomongole, Nabilatuk, and Loregae in
the Nakapiripirit district. Through these training sessions, RWANU increased participants’
knowledge of the prerequisite conditions for access to credit. A total of 84 beneficiaries (51
females and 33 males) benefitted from the training in the Napak district, and 105 (24 males and
81 females) attended in the Nakapiripirit district.
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SUPPORTED AND PROMOTED SACCO OPERATIONS
RWANU staff strengthened the planning capacity of SACCO members by holding meetings
with the board members of the Loregae and Linygon SACCOs. RWANU and the SACCOs
jointly agreed on the meeting agenda and prepared a report to be presented to their
management bodies. The team also supported the SACCO board members in mobilizations at
the parish level using the SACCO task force. The two SACCOs of Linygon and Loregae
Farmers were supported as they held a General Assembly attended by 81 participants and the
district authorities, most especially the District Commercial Officers (DCOs), who are
mandated by law in Uganda. RWANU also conducted monitoring visits to the Kopopwa
farmers’ SACCOs to assess their progress in record-keeping.
MONITORING OF CSFS IN THEIR SUPPORT FOR ASCA MEMBERS
CSFs visited the ASCA members in their respective sub-counties to assess their operations and
progress. RWANU noted the following monitoring coverage: three CSFs visited ASCAs in
Nadunget, two visited Lotome, one went to Ngoleriet, two went to Iriiri, one visited Matany, and one covered Lopeei. In general, this reflects an intense coverage of CSFs who actively
helped ASCA members in the communities to record their transactions.
MENTORING ASCAS ON SUSTAINABILITY PLANS (ENTREPRENEURSHIP CAPACITY-BUILDING)
As RWANU is exiting from Karamoja, ASCA groups need to possess robust sustainability plans
for their operations. RWANU’s Business Team mentored ASCA groups to develop their
sustainability plans following a participatory approach that engaged the maximum number of
members. The team conducted this activity by drawing ASCA groups from different parishes to
a central location for a one-day training on entrepreneurship skills as an approach to
sustainability, with a focus on both saving groups and individual RWANU beneficiaries. We held
the training in the six sub-counties of Lorengechora, Iriiri, and Matany in Napak and
Kakomongole, Namalu and Lolachat, in the Nakapiripirit district. In total, RWANU trained 226
ASCA members (142 women and 84 men). This training brought on board farmer training
groups, mother care groups, and drama groups.
SO 2.0 STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE 2: REDUCED MALNUTRITION
IN PREGNANT AND LACTATING MOTHERS AND
CHILDREN UNDER FIVE YEARS OF AGE
INTERMEDIATE RESULT 2.1: IMPROVED HEALTH AND NUTRITION PRACTICES
AT HOUSEHOLD
IMPLEMENTATION OF SOCIAL BEHAVIOR CHANGES
RWANU conducted refresher training for 346 mother care groups (MCGs) comprising of
3,499 Lead Mothers using three training modules focused on family planning; child health,
especially stressing diarrhea and the importance of feeding sick children; and health users’
rights. In line with its exit strategy, RWANU reinforced messages about the construction of
latrines, the construction of Tippy Taps for hand washing, and the development of keyhole
gardens. The following table summarizes the covered topics for each group.
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Table 1. SBC Training Topics
Module
Number
of MCGs
trained
Number of
Lead Mothers
Trained
Topics covered
Module 5: Family
planning
346 3,499 Modern and safe family planning methods
Child spacing
Module 6: Child
Health
346 3,499 Causes and prevention of diarrhea
Preparation of oral rehydration salts (ORS)
Preparation of nutritious porridge using locally
available food
Module 7: Health
Users’ Rights
346 3,499 Services available at health facilities
Rights and responsibilities of health service users
How to report potential complaints
RWANU noted positive results on knowledge and behavior changes realized from the use of
these modules to build the MCGs’ capacity. For example, a pre- and post-module evaluation
conducted with 364 randomly selected beneficiaries revealed positive effects on knowledge and
practices among caregivers and pregnant women concerning the lives of children less than five
years of age. We also noted improvements in child health and, more significantly, on
immunizations, as depicted in the graph below. Testimonies and feedback received from caregivers revealed their conviction of the direct correlation between immunizing a child and
protection from disability, the restoration of the child’s health, the facilitation of growth and
development, and protection from diseases.
COMMUNITY SENSITIZING THROUGH DRAMA GROUP
Using health educators
(HEs) at the sub-county
level, RWANU forged its
exit strategy for providing
additional training to male
change agents (MCAs) and
the sensitization of
community leaders on
Social and Behavior Change
Communication (SBCC)
messages, mostly covering
public health. During the
reporting period, RWANU
also retrained all 16 drama groups, comprising 313 members (19 men and 294 women) to
produce dramatic skits related to HIV/AIDS (targeting MCA) and health users’ rights (targeting
MCGs). RWANU facilitated 146 drama shows on HIV/AIDS, family planning, health users’
rights, and wastewater management at markets and health facilities, reaching a total of 15,024
people (1,908 men and 13,116 women) with educational messages channeled through these
performances. The audiences reported that the dramas were educational and effective in
changing their attitudes towards modern family planning and coping with HIV/AIDS (i.e., people
living with the virus).
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Training and engagement of MCAs: RWANU continued efforts to engage men in health and
nutrition activities. All 158 MCAs were trained on topics such as nutrition and agriculture
integration, child health, and HIV/AIDS (delivered in conjunction with their wives).
RWANU’s assessment of the training impact reveals the following:
Table 2. MCA Household Activity Follow-up Findings
District Total
MCAs
Men
reached
Modern
family
planning
Keyhole
gardens
Latrines
in use
Tippy
taps
Utensil
drying
racks
Bath
shelters
Nakapiripirit 67 1622 332 412 643 444 822 822
Amudat 12 221 21 42 52 44 70 39
Moroto 13 192 192 40 31 62 74 47
Napak 66 2387 749 320 640 432 725 669
Total 158 4,422 1,294 814 1,366 982 1,691 1,577
Awarding certificates of completion to Lead Mothers
and MCAs: In May 2017, RWANU started awarding
certificates of completion of RWANU SBCC
curriculum training on infant and young feeding;
maternal health and nutrition linking agriculture to
nutrition; water, sanitation, and hygiene; family
planning; child health; and health users’ rights. By
June 2017, all 3,499 Lead Mothers, 158 MCAs, and
303 drama group members in the four districts had
received their awards from local government
officials in their districts and sub-counties.
REGISTRATION OF MCGS AND MCAS
From April to June 2017, RWANU ran an MCG and MCA group registration process. A total
of 294 MCGs (out of 346) and all 16 MCA groups completed registration at the sub-county and
district levels. The registration serves the double purpose of formalizing the groups within the
local government system for sustainability and positioning them to take advantage of the local
authorities’ livelihood grants.
Table 3: Registration of MCGs and MCA Groups in Four Districts
District Total
MCGs # of MCGs Registered
Total MCA
Groups # of MCA groups registered
Nakapiripirit 149 141 07 06
Amudat 22 22 01 01
Moroto 31 31 01 01
Napak 144 100 07 07
Total 346 294 16 15
Photo 5: Certificate award ceremony in Iriiri sub-
county, Napak district
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IMPROVED WATER, SANITATION , AND HYGIENE (WASH)
Open defecation-free (ODF) verification and declaration: On May 3-4, 2017, two villages in the
Karita sub-county of Amudat District, and one village in the Nabilatuk sub-county of the
Nakapiripirit district were declared ODF. This brought the total to seven villages declared ODF
in both districts since November 2015. RWANU used the community total-led sanitation plus
approach, which provides technical knowledge and construction tools to address the issue. This
approach has proved the most suitable for Karamoja, where resources are limited and technical
knowledge is inadequate. During the declaration ceremony, RWANU also handed over two
hand pump kits to the Karita and Nabilatuk sub-counties to facilitate borehole repair. Also,
RWANU trained six hand pump mechanics, two from each of the three sub-counties with ODF
villages. This will improve coverage of water, sanitation, and hygiene in the region that has
continued to experience high incidence rates of water, hygiene, and sanitation-related diseases
and reduce the risk of exposure to the burden of these diseases. RWANU has worked closely
with the Ministry of Water, local government district administrations, and Ministry of Health
(health assistants) to accomplish ODF status to ensure the process is transparent and inclusive for sustainability. The District Chairpersons (Amudat and Nakapiripirit, respectively) and
Technical Support Unit 3 from the Ministry of Water and Environment presided over the
declaration ceremony. School-Led Total Sanitation (SLTS): RWANU continued to support school health
clubs at six primary schools by participating in the project’s School-Led Total Sanitation (SLTS)
activities. Through this intervention, RWANU
trained school children and their teachers on
critical matters relating to sanitation. The
objective was to support children to become
change agents of hygiene practices in their homes,
thereby improving sanitation and enhancing the
sustainability of this approach.
Photo 6. Kobeyon SHC members performing during World Water Day celebrations in Nakapiripirit
Training of Hand Pump Mechanics: To enhance sustainability further, RWANU, together with the
Nakapiripirit District Hand Pump Technician, conducted a three-day training for six sub-county
hand pump mechanics. Following the training, the six mechanics registered at the sub-county
level and established connections with the Water User Committees as potential service
providers, in case more water sources need rehabilitation in the post-RWANU era.
Imparting technology to youth: RWANU trained 42 youth on the molding of building blocks for
constructing pit latrines. RWANU selected these youth from across all four districts. This
activity resulted in all trained youths engaging in in the construction of 31 pit latrines and 59
huts using sunbaked blocks. Using resources fully provided by individuals and communities, the
selected youths completed the construction of the WASH infrastructure in April 2017.
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CHALLENGES
• MCG/MCA illiteracy levels are an obstacle to engaging members in the drafting of
documents and keeping proper records.
LESSONS LEARNED
• The MCG and MCA approach can drive demand for improved sanitation in Karamoja
• CLTS-plus is a low-cost intervention that is appropriate for South Karamoja; however, it
requires a significant time investment to secure positive results.
• The SLTS strategy for South Karamoja should be designed to include children not
enrolled in school, as there is a large number of children who do not attend school.
• The scaling-up of the use of sunbaked blocks can address the problem of using
unsustainable construction materials and promote environmental protection. The
technology is simple, inexpensive, and encourages men to become involved in
construction. Furthermore, it has been shown to be used readily by participants.
• The reactivation of the District Hand Pump Mechanic associations to manage the spare
parts supply chain and monitor members’ activities would sustain the organization
better and ensure the functionality of the hand pump mechanics that RWANU trained.
INTERMEDIATE RESULT 2.2: IMPROVED SERVICE DELIVERY FOR THE
PREVENTION AND TREATMENT OF MATERNAL AND CHILD ILLNESSES
COLLABORATE WITH THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH TO IMPROVE HEALTH CENTERS AND
OUTREACH SERVICES IN TARGET AREAS
RWANU continued to support 93 outreach centers operating under 18 government health
facilities. However, during this quarter, the focus was more on sustainability and further
preparing for the project exit. Outreach services emphasized prenatal and postnatal care
services, health education, drama shows, immunizations, Mid Upper Arm Circumference
(MUAC) screening, vitamin A supplementation, and deworming. The RWANU team also
emphasized growth monitoring and promotion (GMP) during outreach efforts. Through GMP,
the team identified children at risk of malnutrition earlier and educated caregivers/mothers on
the importance of regularly weighing their children. During this period, RWANU reinforced
GMP at 84 designated outreach posts via health workers with the support of Village Health
Teams (VHTs) who often work with them to conduct MUAC screenings. The health team
Photo 7: Lucia Nakoru’s hut before
introduction of sunbaked block
echnology in Loboloin village.
Photo 8: Lucia’s hut after the
introduction of sunbaked block
technology in Loboloin village.
Photo 9. Lucia’s new pit latrine,
constructed using sunbaked blocks.
.
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mentored the VHTs and enhanced their skills in taking weight measurements and plotting
graphs on growth charts using MUAC. To ensure sustainability, RWANU trained two GMP
focal persons (health workers) per health facility who will continue to make sure that GMP
remains an integral part of the routine, essential health services provided at all health facilities.
IMPLEMENTATION OF COMMUNITY SCORE CARD (CSC)
The project conducted a series of activities aimed at strengthening the application, adoption,
and sustainability of the CSC. These activities included: refresher training of trainers (TOT), re-
application of CSC at health facilities, CSC impact assessment surveys, and the dissemination of
CSC assessment survey findings:
Refresher Training on the Community Score Card: As part of the exit and sustainability plan, the
project conducted one refresher training session for health unit in-charges and health unit
management committee chairpersons (HUMCs) and another for community monitors. The
purpose of these sessions was to prepare them to better serve as trainers. The goal was to
help them spearhead the implementation of the CSC and review the CSC action plans at all health facilities posts. Training topics included: patients’ rights and responsibilities, feedback
mechanisms, Uganda’s health care system, community dialogue, advocacy, the community score
card process, and practice.
Re-Application of the Community Score Card at Health Facilities: RWANU further facilitated the re-
application of the CSC at 31 health facilities through meetings to ensure the process is re-
applicable and useful, even in the future, to improve services. Sub-county chiefs, parish chiefs,
local council chairpersons, HUMC chairpersons, health workers, and more than 2000
community members attended these meetings.
CSC Impact Assessment Survey: The project completed the CSC impact assessment in April 2017. The CSC is a participatory appraisal approach engaging community members and health
workers to identify and address gaps identified within health service provision. Key findings
from the assessment show that:
• 85% of health care users were satisfied with the services they receive from health
facilities.
• 41% of health care users have identified positive changes at the facilities since the
application of the scorecard.
• 55% of health workers have also reported that work conditions are improving.
The CSC is increasingly becoming a popular tool for initiating dialogues between the consumers
of health services and the providers of care. Through its application, services are improving, and
both sides are expressing appreciation for efforts being made to improve the delivery of care.
CSC Survey Findings Dissemination: Following the CSC assessment and completion of the
technical report, RWANU conducted three sessions to disseminate the findings to the wider
audience. One of the sessions took place in Moroto, the second in the Napak district, and the
third in Nakapiripirit. In total, 124 participants attended the meetings, with 20 in Moroto (14
men and six women), 46 in Napak (33 men and 13 women), and 58 in Nakapiripirit (41 men
and 17 women). There were widespread acknowledgment and appreciation of RWANU’s
efforts to support the health facilities over the life of the project, which contributed to positive
changes at the health facilities. District officials, sub-county chiefs, and health unit in-charges
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were in full agreement that the implementation of the CSC will definitely be sustained in the
post-RWANU era, given the quantifiable benefits that have been accrued at the health facilities
since its inception in 2014.
Joint Monitoring and Support Visits with District Health Teams to Health Facilities: RWANU and the
district health teams conducted five joint support supervision visits to 36 health facilities. This
was also a joint monitoring visit involving senior managers, including district health officers
(DHOs), assistant DHOs (for maternal, child health and nutrition), district nutrition officers,
the expanded program on immunization (EPI) and cold chain focal persons. Other participants
included the health sub-district in-charge, health inspectors, biostatisticians, environmental
health officers, and other NGO implementing partners, including Doctors with Africa
(CUAMM) and Andre Food Consult (AFC). The main findings are summarized below:
• All visited health facilities were found to be operational at the time of the visits, with services being provided to the patients in attendance.
• Staffing increased at the majority of the health facilities visited (although the optimal
staffing level at most health facilities has not yet been reached).
• Staff correctly followed/interpreted the integrated management of acute malnutrition
(IMAM) guidelines and treatment protocols in the identification, treatment, and
management of malnutrition.
• Gaps were minimized in the availability of medical equipment at all health facilities,
especially after the recent distribution of medical equipment by implementing partners
including RWANU, CUAMM, and UNICEF.
• Improved clinical documentation, particularly the regular updating of nutrition, child
health, and prenatal registers.
Despite the impressive improvements noted above, some gaps persist, including;
• Understaffing,
• Deficit in the available stock of medicines, and
• Poor clinical documentation, particularly of outpatient registers and vaccine control
books.
Overall, the observed improvement represents a significant progress compared to RWANU’s
baseline situation.
CROSS-CUTTING
GENDER
GENDER TRAINING
The gender officer conducted gender training for YLIA and WLIA groups in Napak. A total of
31 (22 men and nine women) representatives from 16 groups benefitted from the training that
covered topics such as rights and empowerment, leadership, conflict management, and the role
of women and youth in business.
YLIA AND WLIA PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT
The gender officer conducted the assessment of YLIA and WLIA activity performance in
Amudat, Napak, and Nakapiripirit. The purpose of this assessment was to determine the impact
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of the grants. This exercise covered a total of 24 YLIA and WLIA groups. The key finding was
that the grants improved the livelihood status of most group members. Some of the members
have diversified their businesses by borrowing from the VSLAs and engaged in selling goat meat,
chickens, and eggs on market days. The findings also showed that the women-led groups are
performing better than those led by men.
MAINSTREAMING OF GENDER INTO THE FTGS
The gender officer, together with the field extension workers, integrated gender into the 13
FTGs. These groups comprised 181 members, of which 42 are men, and 139 are women. The
gender officer also integrated gender into the ASCA during the entrepreneurship training in
Napak and Nakapiripirit. A total of 226 members (84 men and 142 women) attended the ASCA
training.
CONFLICT MITIGATION
MEETINGS WITH COMMUNITY ACTION GROUPS
The conflict mitigation officer continued to work with Community Action Groups (CAGs) to strengthen community-based structures for mitigating conflicts. RWANU also facilitated their
linkages with the Council of Elders and the formal government’s local peace and security
systems. This was done by conducting meetings at the community level, bringing together CAG
members, the Council of Elders, and local councils of neighboring villages. These meetings were
instrumental, in that they demonstrated how the three structures of the CAGs, Council of
Elders, and local councils can work together to resolve, mitigate, or manage community
conflicts. A total of 13 CAGs from the sub-counties of Lotome, Lorengechora, Lokopo,
Loregae, and Karita met jointly with the Council of Elders and local council members.
MONITORING CAGS
The conflict mitigation officer also monitored the performance of the CAGs. The purpose of
this monitoring was to ascertain whether the CAGs met at least once per quarter. The
monitoring results showed that about 28 groups met during the quarter. This is an impressive
result, compared to previous quarters and is attributed to the joint meetings with the Council
of Elders and local council.
Table 4: CAGs that Met at Least Once per Quarter
DISASTER RISK MANAGEMENT/NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT(NRM)
TRAINING IN NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT AND BIODIVERSITY MANAGEMENT
In an effort to promote community-based (NRM) interventions, the Technical Support Officers
(TSOs), field extension workers, HPs, and HEs (previously trained), with the technical guidance
District # of CAGs
Moroto 2
Napak 15
Amudat 3
Nakapiripirit 8
Total 28
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of the DRR/NRM officer, successfully integrated information/messages on natural resource
management and biodiversity conservation best practices during the training of their respective
farmer groups. These farmers were trained centrally or on-onsite on key topics such as soil and
water conservation best practices (the construction of ridges, drainage and divergent channels,
soil bunds, micro water catchments, animal crushes, shelters and holes for domestic waste
disposal, etc.); energy saving technologies; Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration (FMNR)
methodologies; and integrated pest management practices, such as intercropping, thinning,
timely weeding, and controlled bush burnings.
Table 4. Participants
District Sub-county Target group Participants
Men Women Total
Napak Lopeei Lokodumo FTG 6 10 16
Lopeei youth poultry group 3 4 7
Lotome Nakale FMNR 2 23 25
Lorengechora Nawalangor FTG 3 17 20
Tobok-alokwap 2 15 17
Nakaps Kakomongole Akwiyam FMNR 14 11 25
Moroto Nadunget St Lawrence apiary group 11 11
Amudat Karita Anyintang CAG 6 6
Sub total 127
Note: During the SO1 training alone, the number of farmers who benefitted from the
DRR/NRM messages disseminated during the different pieces of training by FEWs in 3rd
quarter were as follows (Ref. data base)
Amudat 128
Nakapiripirit 286
Napak 200
Sub total 614
GRAND TOTAL 741
FARMERS’ GROUPS ASSISTED IN DEVELOPING RESPONSE PLANS BASED ON EARLY WARNING
INFORMATION
RWANU guided members of ten groups, including action and farmers’ training groups, to
formulate suitable actions against the anticipated negative outcomes of the forecasted climatic
conditions, as per the early warning information disseminated. They identified sets of activities
that will help community members or stakeholders to address capacity building and which
should be implemented before climate-related hazards hit. They are tailored to the hazard that
is most likely to hit a particular community.
According to the seasonal rainfall outlook for March to May 20171, the North Eastern Region,
which constitutes the districts of Katakwi, Moroto, Kotido, Nakapiripirit, Abim, Napak,
Amudat, Amuria, and Kaabong, and which has since December 2016 been experiencing dry
conditions reaching drought levels in several areas, was anticipated to receive irregular light
rains followed by a prolonged dry spell and then steady rains. The peak is expected around
1March to May 2017 Seasonal Rainfall Outlook for Uganda. Uganda National Meteorological Authority
RWANU FY17 Q3 Report
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early to mid-May, with a moderate relaxation in mid-June 2017. Overall, a high chance for
below normal rainfall was anticipated for this region.
Proposed response plans to early warning information included the following:
• The construction of ridges, drainage, and divergent channels to control soil lost through
runoff
• Tree planting (both exotic and indigenous tree species) for environmental protection
• Planting of drought-tolerant crop varieties, such as cassava, millet, sorghum
• Timely land preparation and planting with the aid of animal traction
• Promotion of irrigation farming where there are available water sources
• Encourage water harvesting and reuse for domestic and livestock production
• Promotion of short-maturing crops, such as field peas
• Provide information on agricultural and farm inputs (light tractors, ox-plows, improved seeds and fertilizers and irrigation kits)
• Teamwork to ensure timely land preparation through communal land opening using
rudimental hand hoes
• Explore the possibility of government support through the available programs
• Massive community campaign/sensitization against environmental degradation, including
meetings with the Council of Elders
• Introduce improved and quality livestock breeds and establish livestock treatment
centers
• Conduct regular disease, pest/parasite prevention, and control programs
• Production of fodder (hay and foliage)
