New Knowledge and Collaboration Brings Delight
Madalena and her husband and children depend on farming for their livelihood, working hard to grow enough to eat and to sell to meet their daily needs. They plant maize and rice alongside other staples like cassava, bananas, sweet potatoes, tomatoes and various vegetables.
They have been farming for many years and Madalena is continuously seeking ways to improve and be a good example for other families in the community. She was thrilled when a new program was recently introduced in her community by local partner Fundasaun Sosial Naroman.
As the program began, she and other farmers formed demonstration plot groups of 18-25 members, committing to work and learn together. This newfound collaboration has been a great encouragement to Madalena, her family and her community.
“Since joining the program, I have felt a fundamental change. I am delighted because the knowledge I have gained is much better and more relevant compared to previous farming activities I participated in,” said Madalena. “The training we receive and activities we participate in truly help and boost our morale every day.”
As the program continues, Madalena and her neighbors will benefit from improved irrigation systems and will have the opportunity to participate in practical training related to raising chickens and goats, cultivating home gardens, nutrition and cooking, and sustainably producing, processing and storing maize.
“Through these activities, my family and I feel immensely happy. Our biggest aspiration is for the program to help the surrounding community fully understand its benefits, foster harmonious cooperation, and create prosperity in our neighborhood,” said Madalena.
Timor-Leste Oecusse
Led by Church World Service (CWS) and local partner Fundasaun Sosial Naroman (FUSONA)