As the name suggests, Key Farmer Trainers (KFTs) are key to our microcredit, fuel saving stoves and school development projects. Without them, those projects would not function.
They are young farmers from different parts of Mubende District whom we selected for a year-long training course in sustainable organic agriculture at RuCiD (Rural Community in Development) Organic Agricultural College in Mityana, Uganda.
They were chosen not only for their interest in farming but also for their motivation and ability to serve their communities and help others.
How Key Farmers are Trained
RUCID is a leading and innovative teaching institution which focuses on healthy and sustainable food production by small-scale farmers.
During the specially-designed training course the KFTs acquire a good understanding of organic agriculture, including:
- Soil fertility
- Water management
- Intercropping
- Bio-fertilisers
- Organic pesticides
- Crop and animal production
- Farm management, processing and marketing
- Home made Fuel saving stove construction
The course combines intensive residential training at RUCID College with practical assignments at their home farms. These assignments form part of their final assessment, but they also serve as a model for other local farmers. At the end of their training the KFTs are awarded Certificates from both RUCID College and the National Directorate for Industrial Training.
In addition to their agricultural training, KFTs learn about the saving, lending and bookkeeping methods used under the Microcredit Scheme.
In return for receiving free education, the KFTs commit to disseminating the knowledge they have acquired in their communities for a minimum of four years.
They do this by working as trainers and advisors to farmer groups and schools. That role is of vital importance, as it gives many farmers, garden teachers and parents access to a wealth of agricultural knowledge.
Key Farmers In the Community
KFTs also monitor the proper functioning of the microcredit scheme in the farmer groups, and are instrumental in promoting and constructing fuel saving stoves in private homes and schools.
It is no wonder that KFTs become highly valued leaders in their communities. The current Learning4Life Mubende Coordinator and his team of active KFTs are fine examples of that.
The philosophy behind Key Farmer Training is not a hand-out, but a hand-up.
Whilst the KFTs receive a valuable education for free, what they put back into their communities multiplies that investment exponentially.
The Key Farmer Training Programme meets the following UN Sustainable Development Goals:
