Alamy Integrated Fruit Tree Growing
Alamy Integrated Fruit Tree Growing
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CHAPTER ONE
6. Donor Agency
Mob;+
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1.1 Background
The Project entitled “integrated fruit tree growing and agroforestration
project. The project being proposed aims to address Pupil’s livelihood
needs for income generation, fuel wood, timber, fruit, fodder and other
non-timber forest products while halting and reversing the trend of the
forest loss and related environmental degradation in Wakiso district
through promoting vegetable and fruit tree growing and agro-forestry
systems.
This is partly because of the current low productivity levels and relatively
high pre-and post-harvest losses due to pests and diseases and poor
produce handling. Production is constrained by the low soil fertility and
lacks access to improved high-yielding crop varieties, and essential inputs.
Furthermore, pupils have limited knowledge and skills in modern
technologies, appropriate farming practices, proper post-harvest handling
and quality control, and effective marketing skills. Other barriers include:
low technical and organizational capacities of farmers partly due to the
limited institutional government support and extension services for many
rural farmers and a lack of access to relevant information, credit/capital
and essential farm inputs and tools. The challenge is to support specific
changes that will lead to a greater role for forests and tree resources in
the livelihoods of the poor .This project will assist in addressing some of
these barriers.
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The long-term goal of the project is to contribute to the eradication of
poverty, food insecurity and fostering a lasting high quality of life for the
local people while safeguarding long-term environmental sustainability by
growing fruits and promoting agroforestry systems. Its mission is:
“planting fruit trees for healthier populations and better environment”.
The medium-term development goal of the project is to enhance the
ability of local people to increase and sustain agricultural production for
improved food security, nutrition and income generation while at the same
time safeguarding the environment by adopting sustainable agricultural
practices and appropriate technologies. This will be achieved through
fostering increased fruit and vegetable growing production for enhanced
food self-sufficiency and increased income generation for the school and
enhancing the ability to conserve and protect the environment. The
project will encourage and support the school to transform the school into
economically viable agro-businesses including: market-vegetable
gardening, and others. The project will also ensure sustainable agricultural
production and safeguard the environment thus pupils completing primary
seven will be job creators not seekers.
1.2 The specific objectives of the project are:
(i) To assist the 700 community members, particularly from poor and
disadvantaged families, to engage in fruit and tree growing and increase
vegetable crop production for improved food security and income
generation for the school thus enabling the school to meet the costs of
other educational needs such as money for tests, Lunch for both
community members and teachers, among others.
ii) To promote awareness among the local people of the value and
importance of planting trees for different purposes; how to raise and tend
tree seedlings and ways of integrating trees into farming systems through
the production and dissemination of public awareness materials.
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awareness and training workshops, information dissemination and
extension services.
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project seeks to transform subsistence farming into economically viable
agro-businesses.
Expected outcomes include increased fruit and vegetable production,
improved incomes, and better nutrition for over 700 community members.
This initiative will serve as a catalyst for broader community engagement
in sustainable agricultural activities, ultimately improving livelihoods and
fostering social networks in Kasanje Sub County.
1.4 Causes of the problem
The primary causes of the problem in Wakiso district include extensive
deforestation, which has resulted in significant loss of forest cover due to
activities like logging, agricultural expansion, and development projects.
This deforestation has led to severe land degradation, with soil erosion
and fertility loss turning previously fertile areas barren and drastically
reducing agricultural productivity. Consequently, this environmental
decline has pushed many locals deeper into poverty. The loss of
biodiversity, including medicinal plants and wildlife, has deprived the
community of vital resources for traditional medicine, hunting, and
ecological balance. The high dependency on remaining forests for firewood
and non-timber products has further exacerbated the pressure on these
dwindling resources.
1.5 Strategies
To address the environmental degradation and agricultural challenges in
Wakiso district, the Alamy Integrated Fruit Tree Growing and Agroforestry
Project will implement several strategies aimed at enhancing sustainable
agricultural practices and improving livelihoods. Firstly, the project will
promote the adoption of modern agricultural technologies among young
farmers. This includes providing access to improved high-yielding crop
varieties and essential inputs to boost productivity. Training sessions will
be conducted on sustainable farming practices such as soil and water
conservation, integrated fertility management, composting, crop rotation,
mulching, intercropping with cover crops, sylvopastoral systems, and
integrated pest management. These practices will help restore soil
fertility, reduce erosion, and increase agricultural yields.
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Secondly, the project will focus on capacity building for local farmers. This
involves organizing workshops and training programs to equip farmers
with knowledge and skills in modern farming techniques, proper post-
harvest handling, and quality control. Farmers will also receive training in
effective marketing strategies to enhance their ability to sell their produce
competitively in local markets. Establishing farmer producer groups will be
encouraged to foster collective marketing efforts and improve bargaining
power.
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improve productivity. Integrating educational programs into the project is
essential to empower farmers with the necessary skills and knowledge.
Climate change and environmental degradation
The region is vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, including
unpredictable weather patterns, prolonged droughts, and heavy rains that
can lead to further soil erosion and crop losses. Addressing climate
resilience through sustainable farming practices and environmental
conservation is vital to mitigate these effects and ensure long-term
agricultural productivity.
Health and nutrition
Poor health and nutrition are prevalent issues in the community,
exacerbated by low agricultural productivity and limited access to diverse
and nutritious foods. Improving agricultural output and promoting the
cultivation of a variety of fruit and vegetable crops can enhance food
security and nutrition, contributing to better overall health and well-being.
Economic constraints
Limited access to credit and financial services hampers farmers' ability to
invest in essential farm inputs, tools, and technologies. This economic
constraint restricts their capacity to improve productivity and transition to
more sustainable and profitable farming practices. Facilitating access to
credit and financial support is crucial for overcoming these economic
barriers.
Institutional support and governance
The local government's limited capacity to provide adequate extension
services, support, and resources to farmers is a significant barrier to
agricultural development. Strengthening institutional support and fostering
partnerships with government agencies and non-governmental
organizations can enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of the
project's initiatives.
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CHAPTER TWO
2.0 PROJECT COMPONENTS, ACTIVITIES and OUTPUTS
The project will involve the following substantive activities organized
under five main components, namely: community mobilization and local
awareness; agricultural production and marketing; young farmers’
capacity-building and training; environmental protection; and project
coordination and management.
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B. Component 2: Agricultural Production and Marketing
Activities under this component are concerned with the provision of
technical advice and services including facilitation of young farmers to
enable them improve their level and quality of vegetable and fruit
production, for food consumption and sale in the markets.
Outcome 2: Increased crop and livestock production resulting in improved
food security and income generation.
Activities:
2.1.5 Raise 20,000 tree seedlings (including fruit and woodlot trees) and
support the community to plant them.
Activities
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2.2.2 Assist young farmers to establish proper post-harvest storage
facilities and acquire appropriate facilities for transportation of perishable
products (e.g. fresh vegetables, fruits etc) to local markets.
Output 3.1 At least all pupils and teachers trained including increasing
their awareness and understanding on how to use fruit growing and tree
planting as a tool to strengthen food security, alleviate poverty, promote
sustainable livelihoods and ameliorate the living environment.
Activities:
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Under this component the project will address the natural resource
management needs including the environmental stress and risks
associated with fruit growing agriculture practices. Through a series of on
spot advice, field visits, workshop and sensitization training; undertake
“best bet” practices that are not only attractive to communities but also
fulfill priority benefit criteria such as in-situ conservation in bio diverse
school gardens of important native fruit, medicinal, forage plant species
identified by local community beneficiaries.
Outcome 4: Beneficiaries and community at large have access to
resources needed to improve the effectiveness and benefits and
environmental sustainability of their activities.
Activities:
4.1.1 Organize awareness sensitization seminar and extension training on
the need and advantages of tree growing and management of the
environment in relation to the project.
4.1.2 Provide support and advice on soil management practices.
E. Component 5: Project Management, Coordination and
Monitoring and Evaluation
This component will include technical supervision and coordination,
financial management, work plan, reporting functions, monitoring and
evaluation of the project.
Outcome 5.1: Effective oversight, monitoring of project activities, policy
guidance and lessons learned.
Activities
5.1.1 Select a school/Community Project steering Committee to sanction
and oversee the implementation of the project
5.1.2 Undertake regular monitoring and evaluation of major activities
including midterm project review.
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5.1.3 Undertake evaluation study taking account of the experience, best
practices and lessons learned for project replicability and sourcing for
funding.
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The project will contribute to environmental conservation through
reforestation efforts and the promotion of agroforestry practices. Planting
fruit trees and other native species will restore forest cover, improve
biodiversity, and reduce soil erosion, leading to a healthier and more
sustainable environment.
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The establishment of farmer producer groups will foster collaboration
among farmers, enabling collective marketing of their produce. This
initiative will strengthen farmers' bargaining power, improve market
access, and increase their incomes.
Increased access to improved seeds and inputs
Farmers will have better access to improved high-yielding crop varieties,
quality seeds, and essential agricultural inputs such as fertilizers and
pesticides. This access will result in increased crop yields, better quality
produce, and reduced losses due to pests and diseases.
Enhanced skills and knowledge
Through training programs and workshops, farmers will acquire new skills
and knowledge in modern agricultural technologies, post-harvest handling,
quality control, and marketing strategies. These enhanced skills will
empower farmers to adopt efficient farming practices and improve their
overall productivity and profitability.
Improved environmental sustainability
Reforestation efforts and the integration of fruit tree growing with
traditional farming practices will contribute to environmental
sustainability. Planting native trees and adopting agroforestry will restore
forest cover, enhance biodiversity, and mitigate the effects of climate
change, fostering a resilient agricultural ecosystem.
Community empowerment and social cohesion
The project will empower community members, particularly youth and
women, by providing them with opportunities for economic growth and
leadership roles in agricultural activities.
This empowerment will strengthen social cohesion, promote community
resilience, and foster a sense of ownership and pride in local agricultural
initiatives.
Engagement with institutional support
Enhanced collaboration with local government agencies, NGOs, and
extension services will improve the delivery of agricultural support and
resources to farmers. This engagement will strengthen institutional
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capacity and governance, ensuring sustained support for agricultural
development initiatives in the region.
Increased awareness and advocacy
Community awareness about the importance of sustainable agriculture,
environmental conservation, and gender equality will increase through
advocacy and educational campaigns. This heightened awareness will
encourage broader community participation and support for ongoing
agricultural and environmental initiatives
Expected outputs
Establishment of demonstration plots
Setting up demonstration plots to showcase modern agricultural
techniques and sustainable farming practices, including soil conservation,
composting, and integrated pest management.
Distribution of improved seeds and inputs
Distribution of improved high-yielding crop varieties, quality seeds,
fertilizers, and pesticides to farmers in Kasanje Sub County to enhance
agricultural productivity.
Training workshops and capacity building
Conducting training workshops and capacity-building sessions on modern
agricultural technologies, post-harvest handling, quality control and
effective marketing strategies for local farmers
Formation of farmer producer groups
Facilitating the formation and strengthening of farmer producer groups to
promote collective marketing efforts and enhance farmers' bargaining
power in local markets.
Planting of fruit trees and agroforestry initiatives
Planting fruit trees and promoting agroforestry initiatives to restore forest
cover, enhance biodiversity, and integrate sustainable land use practices
with traditional farming methods.
Increased market access and income generation
Improving market access for farmers' produce through better post-harvest
handling, quality control, and competitive marketing strategies, resulting
in increased income generation
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Community awareness and advocacy campaigns
Conducting community awareness campaigns and advocacy initiatives on
sustainable agriculture, environmental conservation and gender equality
to foster broader community engagement and support
Collaboration with institutional support
Strengthening collaboration with local government agencies, NGOs, and
extension services to ensure effective delivery of agricultural support and
resources to farmers in the project area
CHAPTER THREE
Methodology
The methodology of the Alamy Integrated Fruit Tree Growing and
Agroforestry Project in Wakiso district, Uganda, is designed to address
pressing agricultural challenges while promoting sustainable practices and
community empowerment. This comprehensive approach integrates
modern agricultural technologies with traditional farming methods,
focusing on enhancing productivity, conserving natural resources, and
improving livelihoods. The methodology encompasses a series of strategic
steps aimed at understanding local needs, building capacity, fostering
collaboration, and ensuring long-term sustainability.
Needs assessment and baseline survey
Conduct a comprehensive needs assessment and baseline survey to
understand current farming practices, challenges, and opportunities in
Kasanje Sub County, including Bulumbu, Bussi, and Jjungo parishes. This
will inform project planning and intervention strategies.
Stakeholder engagement and community mobilization
Engage with local communities, farmer groups, government agencies,
NGOs, and other stakeholders to build partnerships, garner support, and
ensure active participation in project activities. Mobilize community
members for training sessions, workshops, and demonstration activities.
Capacity building and training
Organize training workshops and capacity-building sessions on modern
agricultural techniques, sustainable farming practices (e.g., soil
conservation, integrated pest management), and post-harvest handling.
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Provide training in entrepreneurship, business skills, and marketing
strategies to enhance farmers' economic opportunities.
Establishment of demonstration plots
Set up demonstration plots to showcase and promote the adoption of
improved agricultural practices, including the use of high-yielding crop
varieties, organic farming methods, and agroforestry techniques.
Demonstrate effective soil and water conservation measures.
Distribution of inputs and resources
Distribute improved seeds, quality fertilizers, pesticides, and essential
agricultural inputs to farmers to enhance crop yields and productivity.
Facilitate access to tools and equipment necessary for efficient farming
practices.
Agroforestry and reforestation initiatives
Implement agroforestry initiatives by planting fruit trees and integrating
them with existing agricultural lands. Promote reforestation efforts to
restore forest cover, enhance biodiversity, and mitigate climate change
impacts.
Monitoring and evaluation
Establish a robust monitoring and evaluation framework to track progress,
assess impact, and ensure accountability. Regularly monitor agricultural
productivity, income generation, environmental sustainability indicators,
and community participation.
Knowledge sharing and sustainability planning
Facilitate knowledge sharing among farmers through peer learning
networks, exchange visits, and farmer field schools. Develop sustainability
plans to ensure continued support for project outcomes beyond the project
duration, including advocacy for policy support and institutional capacity
building.
Community awareness and advocacy
Conduct community awareness campaigns on sustainable agriculture,
environmental conservation, gender equality, and nutrition. Advocate for
policy changes and institutional support to create an enabling
environment for sustainable agricultural development.
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Documentation and reporting
Document project activities, lessons learned, and best practices. Prepare
regular progress reports and disseminate findings to stakeholders,
partners, and the wider community to promote transparency and learning.
CHAPTER FOUR
BUDGET
The project will cost a total of Uganda Shillings 164,132,650/=
($65653.06) over a period of 24 months. A detailed budget is presented
in Annex I.
ANNEX I: WORK PLAN
The project will be implemented for a period of 24 months (August 1st
2024 – August 31st 2026). Major undertakings will include the following:
i. Mobilisation and Identify Beneficiaries to participate in the project
(August 1st 2024)
ii. Establishment of operational office and a Community Project
Committee to oversee and sanction the project
iii. Carry out major sensitisation and training including
sensitisation seminar for Local council leaders; and an orientation
workshop for beneficiaries and Preparation and dissemination of at
least 5,000 awareness materials.
iv. Organise beneficiaries into 3 groups and further train them in group
dynamics
v. Purchase and distribute high value seeds and planting materials as
well as basic farming equipment
vi. Field extension advice and support to establish gardens including a
demonstration plot for outreach purposes
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vii. Identifying and training of 5 local volunteers/facilitators and place
them on the job training
viii. Training of beneficiaries in post harvest handling, marketing practices
as well as best crop growing practices
ix. Identify potential markets for farmers produce
x. Midterm project reviews (August 1st 2024 – August 31st 2026)
xi. Organise beneficiaries into a Community association
xii. Final project evaluation (August 1st 2024–August 31st 2026) and
producing final report.
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Risks
The most substantial risk to the project goal and purpose is that the
capacity at the community level is insufficient to adequately manage the
project tasks. This risk will be addressed through substantial investment
of project resources in capacity building and strengthening and volunteer
training. Another moderate risk relates to severe drought or floods in the
project area that may prevent gains in output and income. Measures that
will be undertaken are the promotion of sustainable land management
practices that specifically address adaptation to climate variability, and
land use planning that analyzes zones of vulnerability and develops local
strategies for adaptation to these risks.
How to avert the risks
Climate Variability
Implement climate-smart agriculture techniques such as water
management practices, drought-resistant crop varieties, and
diversification of crops. Establish early warning systems for weather
changes to enable timely adjustments in farming practices.
Market Fluctuations
Provide training in market analysis and price forecasting to farmers.
Encourage diversification of market channels and facilitate the formation
of farmer producer groups to enhance bargaining power and market
access. Foster partnerships with stable markets and buyers.
Limited access to inputs and resources
Establish reliable supply chains for seeds, fertilizers, and agricultural
equipment. Facilitate access to credit and financial services for farmers to
invest in necessary inputs. Strengthen partnerships with suppliers and
government agencies to ensure timely delivery and availability of
resources.
Technical and knowledge gaps
Conduct comprehensive and tailored training programs on modern
agricultural practices, pest management, and post-harvest handling.
Provide ongoing mentorship and peer learning opportunities among
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farmers. Establish demonstration plots to showcase successful
implementation of new technologies.
Gender and social dynamics
Incorporate gender-sensitive approaches into project design and
implementation. Ensure equitable access to resources, training, and
decision-making opportunities for women. Conduct awareness campaigns
on gender equality and social inclusion to promote community support
and participation.
Community engagement and participation
Foster strong community partnerships through continuous
communication, consultation, and participatory approaches in project
planning and implementation. Empower local leaders and stakeholders to
take ownership of project activities and outcomes.
Environmental and natural resource management
Promote sustainable land use practices such as agroforestry, soil
conservation measures, and integrated pest management. Monitor
environmental impacts regularly and adapt practices to minimize
ecological risks. Engage community members in environmental
stewardship and conservation efforts.
Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E)
The progress of the Alamy Integrated Fruit Tree Growing and Agro forestry
Project will be closely monitored through periodic assessments based on
the project outputs and indicators. The project coordinator will prepare
semi-annual progress reports for submission to the Steering Committee,
donors, and relevant government authorities. These reports will detail
activities undertaken, achievements made, constraints encountered, and
lessons learned. Additionally, an annual financial and management audit
report will be conducted as part of the project’s standard internal
processes. A participatory monitoring and reporting system will be
employed to evaluate the project's progress and impact. Project
beneficiaries will be invited to provide feedback to the project
management team regarding the positive aspects and any shortcomings
of the project implementation. Informal interviews will be conducted to
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gather anecdotes from beneficiaries about their experiences in fruit
growing and agro forestry practices, as well as perceived benefits such as
lifestyle changes, improved quality of life, school incomes, and
enhancements in nutrition and food security. Based on the progress
reports and feedback from the beneficiaries, necessary adjustments to the
project will be identified and recommended to the Project Steering
Committee for consideration. The final evaluation of the project will be
carried out by an independent consultant during the last two months of
the project. Information on the project's progress will be disseminated
through a semi-annual newsletter produced by the community
association. Additionally, a video documentary will be created to highlight
the implementation process, results, impact on the community, and
overall lessons learned, serving both reporting and outreach purposes.
Project Sustainability
The sustainability of the project rests upon several key factors. Firstly, the
project design places major emphasis on capacity building and process
strengthening. Overall, the objective is to ensure that at the end of the
implementation period, all major project stakeholders including
beneficiaries and local council administrations have all increased their
capacity to support fruit tree growing and planting of trees including agro
forestry practices. This objective renders the success of the process
aspect of the project of almost as great importance as the immediate
project development objective of poverty reduction. Secondly, the project
design does include a project implementation strategy, for example: The
project management will encourage and facilitate the beneficiaries of the
project to form groups and constitute themselves into a Community
Association, which provides opportunities to further manage the project
after its official closure. Beneficiaries will be encouraged to participate in
selecting what kind of fruit, vegetables and trees they would like to grow
to ensure sustainability.
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and strengthen their ability to focus beyond immediate subsistence
needs.
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learned will provide valuable insights for scaling and replicating similar
initiatives in other regions.
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