Planting seeds of change at Tanzania’s Nyarugusu Refugee Camp

In the heart of Tanzania’s Kigoma Region, the Nyarugusu Refugee Camp is home to more than 137,000 refugees, mostly from the Democratic Republic of Congo and Burundi. Despite the challenges they face, hope has emerged through a sustainable harvest project, implemented by Church World Service (CWS) with support from PWRDF. This project has not only improved nutrition and food security but has empowered refugees to become change-makers in their own communities.

Asumani Ibocwa’s story is a true testament to the project’s impact. Since joining the project in 2022, he has received training in sustainable vegetable farming practices, including how to make compost, pest management, and seed production. Inspired by gender training, Ibocwa and his wife, Nadia Faida, have worked together to increase productivity, farming vegetables for both household consumption and sale. Their dedication has paid off, with harvests of 10-15 kg of leafy vegetables, and a plot set aside for growing vegetables. Ibocwa says the project has restored stability and brought newfound happiness to his family, which includes four children. They have also increased their monthly household income to USD$103 (150,000 Tanzanian Shillings).

In addition to increasing food security, the project is addressing the need for gender equality in Tanzania. Faida ensures the quality of the gathered seeds by processing them as well. Their family has found joy in their dedication to sustainable agriculture and the ability to be self reliant. Asumani and Nadia’s story is an inspiration for their community, showing the value of cooperation and support among each other.

The project’s success extends beyond the Ibocwa family. Five multi-purpose greenhouses were built, providing farmers a place to learn and share knowledge. Farmers like Ibocwa, have emerged as leaders who guide their peers and promote best practices. The project has also introduced perennial vegetables like chaya and moringa, which have become popular at the settlement camp.

In addition to vegetable production, the project has promoted tree planting, with 16,582 tree seedlings planted this year. The survival rate of these trees ranges from 60% to 80%, with some already benefiting the community. This initiative has not only improved the environment but also provided shade, fruit, and other essential resources.