Just eight weeks after sowing, the first harvest was ready: tomatoes, maize, peanuts, pumpkins, okra and beans. For the people of Chideza, this is a completely new experience – a harvest outside the usual season.
Previously, it was only possible to harvest once a year, usually in March. But even that was becoming increasingly uncertain due to climate change. Rainfall was irregular and harvests failed. With the new drip irrigation system, water is now available all year round – used sparingly and efficiently.
Today, families in Chideza can plant and harvest up to three times a year. They have enough food, and famines are a thing of the past. Surpluses are sold at the market. The income enables them to pay for school fees, doctor's visits and medical care.
The project strengthens health, education and independence in the village. To ensure long-term impact, the village community has set up a microfinance account. Everyone pays into it regularly. This allows repairs and new purchases to be financed independently.
For the people of Chideza, one thing is clear: this project has changed their lives for the better.
