No matter whether they are about biogas, the use of solar energy to dry food, dairy farming or the different methods of irrigation all our projects in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Sri Lanka have something in common: They are all built on the three cornerstones of network, coordination and education and training which, ideally, should help the target group to achieve and sustain a better income and quality of life.
As an example we can look at Boccadep in Kenya. Ovegrazing and unbalanced cultivation has resulted in an inferior quality of soil. The crop produced from these fields is insufficient and this invariably leads to poverty which in turn results in extreme social difficulties and crime. The ones to suffer the most from these circumstances are the women and, of course, the weakest in the human chain: The children.
When we succeed in breaking this vicious circle then we can turn this chain of events in a positive direction. Not only is there enough food but workplaces and social networks are created.
It is our aim to break this vicious circle with the help of agricultural projects specifically geared to help the population of that region. For example, in the olive grove project in Lalibela not only are young trees grown and protected but the project also includes finding out which young trees are the most suitable for that particular area. We also wish to show and teach the people how to use their own resources independently. This includes good functioning irrigation systems, appropriate use of sources of energy, a correct care for livestock and social structures which provide a pleasant working environment where each and everyone can profit from the experience and knowledge of the others. Read more
