Agriculture, including capability training and equipment

Dairy farming in Zimbabwe

In 2007 CMaD provided £6000 towards a project in Zimbabwe run by Africa Now, a UK based charity. The aim of the project was to support small-scale farmers to increase milk yields from their dairy herds, thus improving the nutrition available to households as well as providing an income generating opportunity. This income can then be used to buy food and medicines and pay for school fees, etc., thereby improving self-reliance and sustainability.

In the subsequent year 1400 farmers received training on health issues relating to their herds, animal husbandry and improved fodder production. This had led to an overall 8% increase in milk production. Africa Now has also been working to improve the composition of herds by introducing breeds with a higher milk yield as well as providing training in business skills to those smallholders involved in the project. A further component always included in Africa Now projects is training on HIV/AIDS awareness and gender issues.