A New chapter for Associations in Machanga
President of Kupedja Ulombo association testing irrigation system
The installation of the irrigation system in the Bea Pea community was carried out under the agroforestry project funded by Caritas Bolzano. This initiative aims to promote climate-resilient agroforestry systems and strengthen climate-smart agricultural practices across four associations in the district of Machanga. The project has brought significant positive changes to the members of the Kupedja Ulombo Association and the wider local population. Helena Carlica Nyunho, president of the association, highlighted some of the benefits: “It improves agricultural production and the living conditions of the families involved.”
The associations are supported with tools and knowledge that enable more efficient and climate-smart agricultural production. This support includes training sessions, experience exchanges, improved seeds, animal traction ploughs, and the installation of an irrigation system – the first of its kind in the region and, for a time, the only one. Its introduction brought significant visibility to the intervention by Caritas Bolzano and ESMABAMA. The initiative has also been recognised by the District Government, with the Administrator of Machanga Natália Fernando Chivambo stating: “The support from ESMABAMA and its partner Caritas Bolzano through the Agroforestry Project has had a remarkable impact on local development. The improvement in production among the supported associations is clearly visible, especially due to the introduction of the irrigation system, which served as a model for other similar initiatives in the district”.
Before the implementation of the irrigation system, farmers relied exclusively on manual methods, such as using buckets and watering cans, to irrigate their crops. This process is common in rural communities. “It was not only physically exhausting, but it also limited the cultivable area and productivity of the fields. With the arrival of the irrigation system, this reality changed significantly,” Helena stated.
Productivity and Land Use Increased
Vegetable field of the Kupedja Ulombo Association
The support from Caritas Bolzano, through the provision of the irrigation system and plows, significantly improved fieldwork and optimized soil preparation. This led to increased productivity while reducing the physical effort required from farmers. As a result, the association is now able to cultivate 7 hectares, a substantial expansion from the previous 2 hectares they could manage.
The president of the association emphasizes that, thanks to the new production capacity, many farmers no longer depend solely on seasonal work in other people’s fields to earn an income. With a more abundant and consistent harvest, families can meet their daily needs. For Helena, the irrigation system represents a renewed opportunity for community development: “Agricultural income allows farmers to purchase essential items such as household goods, clothing, and school materials for our children.” Some families have even managed to invest in home improvements (such as reinforcing structures, upgrading wall cladding, or acquiring tables, chairs, cooking pots, and other necessities) and in some cases, expanding their homes. These developments reflect not only increased financial stability but also the tangible and positive impact of Caritas Bolzano’s support.
The Economic Impact
Members of the Kupedja Ulombo Association with their children
Local associations not only have older people as farmers they also have young people who, lacking educational opportunities, see agriculture as an alternative source of livelihood. Some of them use the income from selling agricultural products to invest in small individual businesses aiming to use future profits to invest in their education.
The community’s economic sustainability has also been strengthened with the introduction of the irrigation system. Previously, during times of scarcity, families struggled to ensure adequate food and cover school expenses for their children. Today, the sale of agricultural surpluses enables them to buy school uniforms, materials, and improve their overall quality of life. The impact is evident not only in food and education but also in the dignity and well-being of the beneficiary families.
Members of the Chiambara Association with the agribusiness technician from ESMABAMA
The associations are also receiving support in marketing their products and in the development of business plans, ensuring that their agricultural activities are not only productive but also economically sustainable.
The main buyers of the association’s products include residents from the district as well as people from other regions such as Govuro and Vilanculos (Inhambane Province). Part of the production is purchased by local schools for the school meal program, ensuring a stable market for the produce and contributing to the nutrition of children in the region.
The implementation of the irrigation system marked a significant step forward for Machanga. Access to water for irrigation has opened new opportunities for livelihood, education, and improved quality of life. This is the proof of how proper support can positively transform rural communities, promoting food security and sustainable development.
