By Francis Mbewe | Project Leader
In the rural village of Chikoma, Vubwi District, Benja had long struggled to make ends meet as a smallholder farmer. Like many of his neighbors, he relied on rain-fed agriculture to grow staple crops like maize, but the unpredictable climate and limited market access made it difficult to break the cycle of poverty.
That all changed when Benja received a package of high-quality maize seed and support from Kukula Solar, a local organization dedicated to empowering smallholder farmers through innovative agricultural solutions. The seed, specifically designed for winter maize production, was accompanied by training and guidance on best practices, irrigation management, and market access.
With the new seed and expertise, Benja invested in a small irrigation system powered by solar energy, courtesy of Kukula Solar's innovative financing model. He began cultivating a small plot of land during the dry season, and the results were nothing short of transformative.
The winter maize crop thrived under Benja's careful management, yielding a bountiful harvest that far exceeded his family's needs. For the first time, he had a surplus to sell at the local market, where demand for maize was high and prices were favorable.
As the months went by, Benja's farm became a hub of activity. He sold his maize to traders and wholesalers, generating a steady income that allowed him to invest in his farm, pay school fees for his children, and even start a small savings account.
But the impact didn't stop there. Benja's success inspired his neighbors to try their hand at winter maize production, and soon the entire community of Chikoma was benefiting from the newfound opportunities.
Today, Benja's farm is a model of smallholder success, showcasing the potential of winter maize production to drive economic growth and food security in Vubwi District.
His story serves as a testament to the power of innovation, hard work, and strategic support in transforming the lives of rural farmers and their communities.
By Francis Mbewe | Project Leader
By Francis Mbewe | Project Leader
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