A Transformed Mindset and a Brighter Future
Life has changed for two farmers, Salma and Goodluck, who participated in training on mindset transformation training and good agronomic practices at Convoy of Hope’s Nduruma program center through the Tanzania Arusha program.
Goodluck’s farm wasn’t very productive due to limited knowledge and lack of access to improved, certified seeds. This changed when he joined the program, and, in addition to new knowledge, he gained access to certified maize seeds and top-dressing fertilizer.
“My mindset has completely changed,” he said, “As a young man, I now cultivate maize and vegetables differently from how I used to before the training. I also work harder and no longer waste time on the streets with other youths.”
Before the program, his maize harvests were minimal, but after using improved seeds and fertilizer, timely planting and proper weeding, he harvested 14 bags of maize from one acre. He sold five bags for $25 each, using the income to meet basic household needs and to purchase seeds, fertilizer, and pesticides for his vegetable farm. He planted African eggplant on another acre from which he now harvests about 10 bags per week, earning $60. He has invested this income in improved dairy goats, chickens and home improvements.
Salma has seen similar progress. Previously, she struggled with poverty and had little knowledge of farming or livestock. The training equipped her with practical knowledge and skills as well as a positive attitude and a hopeful spirit. She received crossbreed chickens from Convoy of Hope and applied her learning. The chickens performed well, allowing her to sell four roosters and seven young chickens for a total of $86.30. She used the extra income to purchase food and invest in a dairy goat. The goat has since matured and given birth to three kids. In addition, it produces two liters of milk each day. Salma’s family drinks one liter for improved nutrition and the other is sold, fetching about $0.64. This income helps Salma cover other household food needs and covers school-related expenses for her children.
Salma’s long-term vision is to establish improved livestock farming—chickens, goats, and cattle—as a sustainable family enterprise that will secure a better future. She encourages other farmers to continuously learn new skills and put them into practice for their wellbeing, just as she has done.
Tanzania Arusha is led by Convoy of Hope