Farm Project - Katete, Zambia. 2001

Our work continues in Katete on the community agricultural project. We have received a report which shows that over 75% of the100 individual families we supported have gained self sufficiency in food for this year. We believe this is an excellent start. Last season's heavy rains hindered the crop growth resulting in some families harvest falling short of their expectations.

With slightly more normal weather conditions we expect much nearer to 100% of the families will be able to support themselves next year. We would like to help the individual families with their seed for this year and we need about £3,500 ($5,500) to be able to do this. If you can help please contact us.

The community land has had its fair share of delays. The land was cleared and everything prepared for the fence erection, and also the installation of the electricity supply. Unfortunately the electricity company decided to double its original estimate resulting in some rather protracted negotiations! The result was that no pump or irrigation equipment could be used and so the winter crop could not be sown. This problem has now been overcome, and we heard that the supply was connected on August 3rd and the necessary equipment and seeds were being bought in readiness for the next two crops.

We are very pleased with the way the work is progressing in this community project and are thrilled that we have been able to help so many people by providing seed which enables them to look after and sustain themselves hopefully in the long term. Our thanks to Holley Blake, The Rose Foundation and Igal Ahouvi, who made the project happen.