Our Focus

While all small-scale farmers have multiple challenges and constraints, women and young adults are more heavily impacted. Traditional customs may prevent them from fully participating in decisions affecting the family’s farming enterprises and yet they may be the ones that more fully understand and control the operation.

Women and youth do the daily management activities of small ruminants, chickens, and gardens along with the majority of household chores. They are often the gatekeepers for implementation of new methods yet are seldom included in critical decision-making. Without their participation, understanding and involvement in new methods, change seldom occurs. 

Trainings will explore alternative agriculture products, services, and marketing opportunities that do not directly compete with the traditional farming activities of men. Examples are small ruminant fattening, chick hatchery, compost, worm protein, mineral blocks, dairy products, mushrooms, branded dried meats or spice packs, and collecting, processing and packaging native, nutritious foods such as moringa tree products and amaranth.

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