Refugees in Uganda Combat Malnutrition Through Innovative Farming Techniques
Uganda, home to Africa’s largest refugee population, is witnessing refugees like Rugwira John Baptist improve their lives through innovative farming techniques. Enrolled in a nutrition program, Rugwira adapted to climate change by cultivating chilis, which has significantly increased his income and enabled his children to attend school. Collaborative efforts between Action Against Hunger and local organizations have enhanced agricultural practices, benefiting both refugees and host communities.
Uganda has become host to Africa’s largest refugee population, accommodating nearly 1.7 million individuals who have fled various crises, including conflict and climate emergencies. Rugwira John Baptist, a refugee from the Democratic Republic of Congo, arrived in Uganda in 2009 seeking safety. Living in the Nakivale Refugee Settlement with his eleven children, he faced significant challenges, particularly with food security exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic that made it difficult to meet his family’s needs.
Upon being enrolled in a nutrition program by Action Against Hunger, Rugwira learned about innovative farming techniques. With guidance on the Optimized Land Use Model (OLUM), he adapted to climate change and optimized his small plot for growing nutrient-rich crops. Rugwira enthusiastically joined a farming group named “Maisha ya Kimbizi,” embracing the opportunity to cultivate chilis, a crop he had experience with from his home country.
Rugwira’s farming journey led to transformative changes, lifting his family out of poverty. He has earned approximately $360 from his chili harvest and can now send all his children to school. He remarked on the financial benefits, noting, “Chili is the enterprise that has earned me more money than any other.” He appreciates the guaranteed market for his produce, contrasting it with his previous experience in Congo where finding a buyer was challenging.
The success of Rugwira’s group, and the similar ones across Uganda, highlights the effectiveness of Action Against Hunger’s initiatives. Collaborating with Shares Uganda, the quality of chilies has improved significantly, with business agent Christine Zion reporting considerable procurement quantities from local farmers. Additionally, host community members, such as widowed mother Vumillia Jane, have experienced similar success by switching to high-value crops like chili, further supporting their families’ schooling needs.
Action Against Hunger continues to provide essential support to refugees and local farmers, offering training in resilient agricultural practices that address food insecurity. Through these programs, communities are bolstered, ensuring families can thrive even in the face of adversity. The collective efforts are crucial in the fight against malnutrition and for enhancing food security in Uganda.
The plight of refugees in Uganda, particularly Rugwira John Baptist, illustrates the significant impact of innovative farming techniques in alleviating malnutrition and improving livelihoods. By implementing methods such as OLUM and transitioning to high-value crops like chili, refugees and local farmers alike are experiencing newfound success. These efforts, supported by organizations like Action Against Hunger and Shares Uganda, continue to foster resilience and enhance food security amidst ongoing challenges.
Original Source: www.actioncontrelafaim.org
