By Khelef Nassor:
In a significant stride towards sustainable agriculture, Community Forests Pemba-CFP recently distributed essential water materials to agroforestry farmers in four shehias of Uzi, N'gambwa, Unguja Ukuu, and Bungi.
This generous initiative, part of the ZanzAdapt project funded by Global Affairs Canada, aims to address the persistent water scarcity challenge faced by many Agroforestry farmers in the target areas of the project implementation.
The distribution ceremony conducted at Uzi shehia, graced by the presence of the Regional Commissioner of South Unguja, Hon. Ayoub Mohammed Mahmoud, marked a pivotal moment for the local farming community.
The event also saw participation from the Principal Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Ali Khamis Juma, who expressed the ministry's commitment to collaborating with CFP in fostering sustainable agricultural practices.
The distributed water materials, including solar system, water tanks, water pumps, submersible water pumps, and others, will empower farmers to irrigate their crops efficiently, even during periods of drought.
This will not only enhance agricultural productivity but also contribute to food security and economic growth in the region.
CFP`s Executive Director Mr Mbarouk Mussa Omar said that, The ZanzAdapt Project, led by Community Forests Pemba, in collaboration with CFI, Tamwa-Zanzibar, and Afica CSID aims to assist small-scale farmers, particularly women, in combating poverty and climate change.
A study conducted in February 2024 by Community Forests Pemba and Community Forests International-CFI, revealed a significant need for water among Agro forestry farmers in the project's designated areas.
Only 11.6% of farmers use irrigation techniques, with the majority relying on rainfall.He stated that “To address the water challenge to our farmers, CFP through ZanzAdapt project decided to distribute these water storage and irrigation equipment to our project beneficiaries”He added that ""By providing these essential water materials, we are empowering our farmers to overcome the challenges posed by water scarcity and improve their livelihoods."
The Regional Commissioner, Hon. Ayoub Mohammed Mahmoud, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the government's support for such initiatives. "Water is a precious resource, and its judicious use is crucial for agricultural development. We commend CFP for their efforts in addressing this critical issue and empowering our farming communities."
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| Guest of Honor Ayoub Mohammed Mahmoud, CFP`s Director Mr. Mbarouk Mussa Omar and Other ZanzAdapt beneficiaries |
The Principal Secretary from the Ministry of Agriculture Mr. Ali Khamis Juma, also expressed their enthusiasm for the collaboration with CFP. "We are committed to working closely with organizations like CFP to promote sustainable agriculture and ensure food security for our nation.
This initiative is a step in the right direction, and we look forward to further partnerships in the future."The beneficiaries of this generous gesture were overjoyed to receive the water materials.
One farmer, Eshe Abdallah, expressed her gratitude, stating, "Water scarcity has been a major challenge for us. These water materials will be a game-changer.
We can now irrigate our crops and ensure a stable income for our families, and fight against climate change."Another farmer, Rahma Kiboga, shared his excitement, saying, "With these water materials, we can now cultivate many crops, improving our livelihoods and contributing to the economic growth of our community."
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| ZanzAdapt beneficiaries attentively listening the speech of guest of honor during the distribution of water materials to agroforestry farmers in Unguja Ukuu |
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