From Farm Struggle to Dream Home: How a Farmer Group Empowered Chifundo Macheso
These projects, supported by funding from the European Union, aim to uplift and empower rural communities by enhancing agricultural practices and economic opportunities.
Mulanje, Malawi-Chifundo Macheso, a resident of Kambenje Village in Mulanje district, harbored a distant dream of owning a modern house, writes Meclina Chirwa.
This dream has now become a reality, all thanks to the transformative impact of the Tilimbike Farmer Field School.
The Farmer Field Schools, aimed at bolstering food security, increasing income, and fostering environmental conservation, have been a beacon of hope for Chifundo and many others in similar circumstances.
"Before I joined the group, my life was a struggle. Providing for my five children was a daunting task," shared Chifundo, reflecting on her life before the FFS.
"But after joining Tilimbike Farmer Field School, my life took a turn for the better."
The 30-member strong group not only facilitates savings but also provides members with the means to share loans, thereby boosting their businesses and economic prospects.
"I received K98,000 from shared savings in 2021, which allowed me to kickstart building my house," Chifundo revealed.
Encouraged by the benefits, she continued her participation and received K180,000 in 2022, which she utilized to complete the construction.
"With that amount, I managed to roof my house, and now it's almost complete. I feel empowered by the skills I gained from the Farmer Field School," she expressed, her face radiating with the tangible impact of the initiative.
"This year, I'm expecting to receive around K350,000 from the shared savings, totaling K3.2 million. It's a significant step forward in my life."
The lessons from the group not only empowered Chifundo economically but also led to an increase in her crop yields. "Let me show you the seven bags of beans, each weighing 90 kilograms, that I've harvested. I believe I'll make a good income once I sell them," she confidently shared.
The Farmer Field Schools' approach is an integral part of the Afikepo and Kulima projects, spearheaded by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in partnership with UNICEF.
These projects, supported by funding from the European Union, aim to uplift and empower rural communities by enhancing agricultural practices and economic opportunities.
Chifundo's story stands as a testament to the life-altering impacts of these initiatives, illustrating how a community-driven approach can bring tangible change to individuals' lives while fostering sustainable development.