Visiting Beneficiaries – Report

From 24^th November, 2011 up to date

So far we have managed to visit 15 clubs which consist of 157 beneficiaries. We are now remaining with 3 groups of about 34 beneficiaries.

In the fields we visited, all the farmers did their land preparation in time and they planted in mid November, but only a few seeds survived. Some of the fields look good though mainly those close to the rivers. Though we had poor or no rains almost all the farmers have done weeding. In other fields, farmers had to plant thrice.

We advised farmers to plant again when the rains start. They were also told not to apply fertilizer now. If they apply now they will earn nothing. So  to avoid losing these fertilizers they have to wait but those who have their gardens near liver banks can do so while relying on irrigation.

They were also encouraged to continue to take care of their fields so that when rains come they can plant. Farmers also complained that they have just wasted their seeds.

In conclusion, we have Balaka has started to receive good rains and we hope farmers will make use of these rains.

Henry Goster

Project Coordinator