Sowing Hope
Nutrition and Sustainability: An Agroforestry Project for Karamoja Schools.
In a region like Karamoja, Uganda, where access to food and resources is often limited, education and sustainability become essential tools for building a better future. Through the agroforestry project supported by the Costa Family Foundation in collaboration with the organization “Insieme si può…” (ISP), six schools in Moroto District have taken a significant step toward food self-sufficiency, environmental education, and community empowerment.
A Project That Makes a Difference
This ambitious initiative integrated gardens and agroforestry practices into schools, involving both students and local communities. The project had two main objectives:
- Improve nutrition for over 4,000 students by incorporating fresh, nutrient-rich vegetables into school meals.
- Promote environmental sustainability through tree planting and agricultural training.
Schools received seeds, farming tools, and seedlings, alongside upgrades to their rainwater harvesting systems, increasing water storage capacity by 69,400 liters—critical for watering gardens and sustaining green spaces.
Tangible Results
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Agricultural Production:
School gardens made it possible to integrate foods like kale, spinach, and tomatoes into meals, with an average consumption of 2–3 vegetable servings per student per week. For example, Nadunget Primary School harvested 500 kg of sweet potatoes and 125 kg of tomatoes. -
Environmental Education:
Each school planted fruit and timber trees, offering students hands-on knowledge about the value of sustainability and the importance of natural resources. -
Economic Empowerment:
Six farmer groups were established, generating income from the sale of fresh produce and saving over 10 million Ugandan shillings (UGX). These savings allowed families to cover essential expenses such as education and medical care.
Challenges Faced
The project encountered several obstacles. The region is prone to extreme weather events, including droughts and torrential rains, which affected some crops. However, with continuous support and timely interventions, communities replaced damaged plants and maintained their gardens. Irregular participation from some community members was addressed through training sessions and awareness campaigns to strengthen engagement.
Looking Ahead
The project engaged not only the schools but also 4,324 students and 173 farmers from surrounding communities, laying the groundwork for lasting change. By combining practical training, dedicated resources, and ongoing support, we have improved agricultural practices, nutritional awareness, and economic security in the region.
Despite the challenges, the results are clear: improved quality of life, increased food self-sufficiency, and a heightened focus on environmental sustainability. With the joint commitment of partners and communities, this project continues to serve as a development model for Karamoja, with the potential to be replicated in other areas.
A better future starts today. Thanks to the support of our donors and the collaboration of local communities, we continue to build a more equitable and sustainable future for the children and families of Karamoja.
