A Farmer’s Journey to Climate Resilience

For years, the story of Kakuru, a resident of Kajuma- Itwara  Zone in Kigoyera Sub-county, was one of struggle. Like many smallholder farmers, his livelihood depended on unpredictable weather. Droughts, pests, and diseases often destroyed his crops, leaving his family food insecure income strapped. His children showed signs of malnutrition, struggled to stay in school, and the family lived in a semi-permanent grass-thatched house.

The turning point came with support from the Joint Effort to Save the Environment (JESE) through the Restoration Itwara-Matiri Elephant Corridor programme funded by the Forests of the World. Kakuru was introduced to climate-smart agriculture and financial literacy through an integrated approach that included Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLA), agroforestry, intercropping, sustainable land management, and careful  irrigation support.

He learned to grow coffee alongside vanilla, cocoa, and shade trees such as Grevillea, while adopting mulching practices to improve soil fertility and moisture retention. With access to an irrigation pump, Kakuru achieved year-round production, even during dry spells.

Today, Kakuru’s farm is a thriving enterprise. He produces over 200,000 tree seedlings annually and earns approximately UGX 15 million per year. His children are back in school, his family enjoys nutritious meals, and he has built a permanent three-bedroom house. He has also opened a small retail shop in Kigoyera trading centre, further diversifying his income.

Kakuru now serves as a community champion and extension service provider, sharing knowledge and linking farmers to markets by purchasing cocoa and coffee beans from them for a profit. His journey demonstrates how targeted support can transform livelihoods and build community resilience.