In the heart of Uganda, two districts Isingiro and Bududa have been selected by NUDIPU to embark on a transformative five-year project aimed at empowering individuals with disabilities and their caretakers with support from the Norwegian Association of the Disabled (NAD).
Last quarter, we facilitated inception meetings with local government leaders to lay the groundwork for collaboration, ensuring that everyone understands their roles and responsibilities in this impactful initiative.
Our journey took us to Bushika sub-county in Bududa, a region known for its challenging topography and vulnerability to landslides.
Here, we conducted thorough assessments to select 100 persons with disabilities and 30 caretakers who will be central to our efforts. In this landslide-prone area, mitigating environmental risks has become a priority.
We introduced participants to sustainable practices such as slope stabilization through tree planting, soil and water conservation techniques, kitchen gardening, and low-slope farming.
Additionally, community members were educated on household climate resilience planning and the establishment of early warning systems using methods like community radios and traditional drum signaling to alert residents of impending natural hazards.
One farmer opened their home to us, sharing invaluable insights on effective zero-grazing techniques for goats. This hands-on learning experience reinforced our commitment to sustainable farming practices that can thrive even in the face of environmental adversity.
Traveling southwest to Isingiro District, a cattle corridor grappling with the challenges of drought, we shifted our focus to equipping individuals with practical, sustainable solutions.
In Kashumba sub-county, the training aimed to alleviate the climate-induced challenges faced by our selected participants. Workshops covered a range of topics including rainwater harvesting, soil and water conservation methods, rabbitry, mixed small-scale poultry farming, zero-grazing piggery, and rearing small livestock such as goats and sheep. Moreover, we highlighted the importance of cultivating drought-resistant fruit trees like jackfruit and bananas while promoting the use of bio-slurry and manure for fertilization. Participants also engaged in household planning for climate resilience, ensuring that they are better prepared for the unpredictable weather patterns that often lead to water shortages, overgrazing, and deforestation.
As a tangible outcome of the training, we distributed tree seedlings to the most active participants, encouraging them to take immediate action in their own backyards. These seedlings are not merely plants; they symbolize hope and resilience in the face of climate challenges.
