SLiAF project unlocks youth’s door to creativity and wealth
Okullo Geoffrey, a member of Bedigen farmer group in Okwang Sub-County, Otuke District, is a local farmer who, after dropping out of school at the primary level, struggled with farming due to a lack of knowledge. Despite his passion for agriculture, his harvests were often low, and he faced difficulties managing the fruit tree seedlings provided by the NAADS program.
Everything changed when Geoffrey joined the SLiAF project through a visit from FINASP staff. He participated in training sessions on Sustainable Agricultural Land Management, Advocacy, and Savings with a Purpose (SWAP), which gave him valuable skills in sustainable farming practices, tree planting, and resource management. This knowledge empowered him to create trenches to harvest and retain water for his orchard and integrate fodder species and composting into his routine.
As a result, Geoffrey’s farm began to thrive. He now earns at least 150,000 UGX weekly from selling fruits such as oranges, pawpaw, and bananas. His improved farming practices not only boosted his income but also made his farm a model for other local farmers.
Today, Geoffrey shares his expertise with fellow farmers, hosting them on his farm for training sessions, sometimes at a small fee. His commitment to sustainable farming has also led him to plant more wood trees, ensuring long-term environmental and financial benefits. Geoffrey’s success is a testament to how extension education and support can transform a farmer’s life.
