The SFR2CC project successfully convened its first joint physical partner meeting from July 14-16, bringing together implementation teams in Fort Portal and culminating in an inspiring field visit to innovative farmer groups in Karangura subcounty, demonstrating the power of collaborative approaches to sustainable development.
The two-day engagement, held at Nyaika Hotel in Fort-Portal and the Karangura agro-ecology demo farm, marked a significant milestone for the project. JESE staff members joined other implementation partners in a dynamic blend of indoor sessions and field visits designed to enhance understanding of project goals, harmonize strategies, and clarify individual roles for more effective implementation.
On July 15th, project representatives conducted a field visit to the Kanyamura Youth United Farmers Beekeepers Group and the Kanyamura Twekambe Farmers Marketing Association in Karangura Sub County, witnessing firsthand the transformative impact of community-led initiatives. The beekeeper’s group, comprising 30 members—17 women and 13 men —has become a model for youth empowerment and environmental restoration in the region.
“This visit exemplifies the SFR2CC project’s commitment to supporting grassroots initiatives that align with our objectives of sustainable resource management and community resilience,” said Mr. BUSIINGEs, representing JESE, the project’s implementing partner. “The dedication of these farmer groups to climate adaptation and community development is truly commendable. ” He added.
The origins of the youth beekeepers group reflect a remarkable transformation within the community. As shared by Mr. Muhindo Kalyata, the group’s chairperson. It was established to redirect youth from counterproductive behaviors toward productive farming activities, eventually forming savings and credit cooperatives that strengthen their economic activities.
A distinctive feature of the group’s approach is its emphasis on gender equality, a core objective of the SFR2CC project. Through participatory methods, both men and women collaborate actively, symbolically represented in a mosaic illustrating equitable family roles in their community.
The group has also developed a comprehensive five-year plan (2023-2028) to rehabilitate the degraded Karangura highlands, addressing environmental damage caused by sand mining and deforestation. Their restoration activities include constructing erosion-control trenches in hilly areas and planting trees to protect against destructive winds.
Dr. Violet Kisakye, Associate Professor at Mountains of the Moon University, expressed appreciation for the group’s conservation efforts.
“We are committed to providing continued institutional support to further these important initiatives that align with our academic and research priorities,” she stated.
Mr. Alex Saturday, a lecturer at Kabale University, emphasized the importance of documentation and knowledge sharing.
“I encourage these groups to institutionalize record-keeping for future reference, optimize agricultural timing for sustainability, and serve as mentors to neighboring farmers to promote widespread adoption of successful practices,” He advised.
The partner meeting and field visit represent critical steps toward achieving the SFR2CC project’s objectives, including finalizing 2026 work plans, streamlining water resources curricula for potential exchanges between Mountains of the Moon University and Kabale University, and developing shared research concepts.
As the project moves forward, the strong foundation established during this gathering is expected to catalyze more cohesive and effective joint implementation efforts, ultimately contributing to sustainable development and environmental resilience in the region.
