For women farmers in Sierra Leone, practical agricultural training can help turn years of hard work into more reliable harvests and a steadier income.
By building on farmers’ existing experience, training and support can strengthen their ability to feed their families, earn money from what they grow, and keep their children in school.
Bread and Water for Africa® is working with our sub-Saharan African partners, including the Faith Healing Development Organization (FHDO) in Sierra Leone, to address that “stagnant productivity” by offering agricultural training for women and youth farmers, enabling them to significantly increase harvests on their small plots of land.
Through the program, not only do they gain knowledge and skills, but they are also equipped with the tools, seeds/seedlings and supplies such as fertilizer to feed their families, as well as generate income from the sale of surplus produce at local markets.
Among them this year was Ms. Fatmata Turay, a widow with three children living in the village of Yenkesa in the Bombali District in northern Sierra Leone.
“Her husband died of a heart attack two years ago in their village, leaving nothing behind for the poor widow to fall back on for the welfare of the children,” reported FHDO Project Manager Francis A.B. Rogers.
He explained that Fatmata had been involved in traditional farming over the years, but despite that experience she could still hardly feed her family – “not to talk about footing educational bills for the children.
“It has been difficult for her to carry out the farming work without support and adequate knowledge,” he added.
As for Fatmata herself, he said she described the training and support she received from Bread and Water for Africa® through the agricultural training program operated by FHDO as “very timely.
“She has been able to sell her wares and raise money not only to feed the children, but also to fund the school bills and get her children back to school.”
For women farmers like Fatmata, agricultural training can mean more than a better harvest—it can mean food on the table, children back in school, and a more secure livelihood.
By building on the knowledge and determination women already bring to their fields, practical training and support can help turn hard work into lasting opportunity.
Through FHDO and Bread and Water for Africa®, that opportunity is helping women in Sierra Leone provide for their families today while building a stronger foundation for tomorrow.
At Bread and Water for Africa®, we truly admire the dedicated men and women in remote villages who are transforming their lives through our impactful programs. Their hard work and determination inspire us every day!
