Over a year ago the members of Ottawa’s Sunrise Rotary began working on a global grant by partnering with the Rotary Club of Kabarole, Uganda. The grant is now fully funded at $120,424.76 and creating life changing opportunities for the farmers in the area of Kahunge and Rukunyu, Uganda.
The focus of the grant is community economic development. The grant objectives are to enhance agricultural productivity, reduce post-harvest losses, improve food quality and safety through proper storage, and strengthen farmer skills in agribusiness, financial literacy and cooperative marketing. Over 500 members of farmer families in the Kamwenge District will benefit. A certified agronomist will train 120 farmers in best agricultural practices. By providing this instruction and the necessary supplies the farmers will achieve productive work and a sustainable livelihood for life. Not only are supplies furnished but equipment will also be purchased to support the communities. Money from this grant will allow for the purchase of 240 plastic storage silos, 240 drying tarps, improved seed and fertilizer for two growing seasons. A dump truck, a motorcycle, and 2 three-wheel utility vehicles, plus the fuel and maintenance for one year will also be supplied. This Global Grant was made possible through the generous dedication of the members of the Rotary Club of Ottawa Sunrise, Rotary District 6420, Rotary Club of Kabarole, Uganda, Rotary District 9213 in Uganda and by partnering with the Transforming Ugandan Farmers (TUF) a non-profit and Innovations for Transforming Initiative a non-profit in Uganda.