Refugees in Uganda Overcome Malnutrition with Innovative Farming Techniques

Rugwira John Baptist, a refugee from the Democratic Republic of Congo, has found success in Uganda through innovative farming techniques supported by Action Against Hunger. By learning to farm chili and utilizing the Optimized Land Use Model, he has improved his family’s nutrition and financial stability. This initiative has also assisted other refugees and local farmers, enhancing food security within their communities.

Uganda hosts Africa’s largest refugee population, encompassing nearly 1.7 million individuals who have fled from conflict, food insecurity, and climate-related challenges. Among them is Rugwira John Baptist, who has been living in the Nakivale Refugee Settlement since fleeing the Democratic Republic of Congo in 2009. Upon arriving in Uganda, Rugwira faced significant obstacles as the influx of refugees strained the nation’s health system and heightened food insecurity, leading to widespread malnutrition.

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated Rugwira’s challenges as country-wide restrictions hindered his family’s ability to meet their basic needs. However, upon receiving assistance from Action Against Hunger, Rugwira and his family were enrolled in a nutrition program. He expressed, “I kept following what they taught me about nutrition, and eventually, I developed an interest in innovative farming.”

Through training provided by Action Against Hunger, Rugwira acquired knowledge on the Optimized Land Use Model (OLUM), which allowed him to enhance his crop yields sustainably. This method facilitates climate adaptation and promotes the cultivation of nutrient-rich crops on small plots. Following the training, Rugwira became involved in a farming group called “Maisha ya Kimbizi” or “Refugee Life” and began working on a substantial block of land.

Focusing on chili farming, Rugwira received guidance from agronomists to cultivate this high-value crop, which he had previously grown in the Democratic Republic of Congo on a smaller scale. The decision to plant chili paid off significantly as Rugwira was able to repay his debts, thus enabling his children to attend school. He stated, “Chili is the enterprise that has earned me more money than any other.”

Action Against Hunger further collaborates with Shares Uganda, an organization dedicated to processing and exporting agricultural commodities. Christine Zion, a business agent for Shares Uganda, reported, “I procured over 830 pounds from my first visit with the farmers, and more than 550 pounds on my subsequent visit.” The organization aims to enhance the quality of chili produced.

Not only refugees but also local residents, like Vumillia Jane, have benefited from growing chili. Vumillia, a widowed mother of four, adapted her farming practices due to the reduced land availability caused by the influx of refugees. She remarked, “Switching to high-value crops like chili was the best option. Even with just a quarter of an acre, I earn enough to put my children through school comfortably.”

In conclusion, Rugwira John Baptist’s story exemplifies the transformative impact of innovative farming techniques among refugees in Uganda. Through the support of Action Against Hunger, Rugwira and others have adapted to new agricultural practices, notably chili farming, resulting in improved food security and economic stability. These efforts not only uplift individual families but also enhance the resilience of both refugee and local communities in Uganda.

Original Source: www.actioncontrelafaim.org