In the heart of Eswatini, a small community is embracing the power of agroforestry to create a sustainable future. This transformation is driven by the collaborative efforts of PELUM Eswatini, Tenvelo, and the Ministry of Agriculture, who recently organized a workshop that has sparked significant change.
Workshop Highlights
The workshop, attended by over 60 enthusiastic participants, focused on the impacts of climate change and the importance of agroforestry practices to mitigate these effects. Through engaging discussions and hands-on training sessions, community members gained the knowledge and skills needed to establish their own agroforestry fields.
A Model for Sustainable Agriculture
One such field has already been established near Care Point in Stfobela, Siphocosini. Despite initial challenges like low participation and poor soil quality, the community’s commitment has been unwavering. With support from dedicated environmental groups and regular follow-up visits, the agroforestry field is now thriving, providing nutritious food and income for its custodians.
Youth Involvement
A key factor in the success of this initiative has been the active involvement of youths. These young farmers have embraced agroforestry as a means to ensure food security for their families. Through training and practical experience, they are leading the way in promoting sustainable agricultural practices in their community.
Ongoing Efforts and Future Plans
As the project continues to evolve, efforts are ongoing to address challenges such as soil fertility management and community engagement. By fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility among community members, PELUM Eswatini and its partners are paving the way for a more resilient and sustainable future.
In the coming months, the focus will shift to planting nitrogen-fixing plants during the rainy season, further enhancing the sustainability of the agroforestry fields.
This initiative not only highlights the potential of agroforestry in combating climate change but also showcases the power of community collaboration and youth involvement in driving sustainable development. The journey of this small community in Eswatini serves as an inspiring model for others to follow.