The EWNRA Head office Monitoring team has successfully completed a three-day evaluation of the Integrated Actions for Building Resilient Communities project in Hambala Wamena District, West Guji Zone, Oromia which is funded by Menschen für Menschen Switzerland, (MfMCH). Despite limited human resources available in the year, the project achieved remarkable progress within its first year, driven by its focus on capacity building and innovative approaches.
Training on good agricultural practices (GAP), a novel intervention for the community, has significantly shifted attitudes among beneficiaries. Farmers are now utilizing improved seeds for crops like barley, broad bean, potato, Enset, and coffee, while adopting advanced techniques such as split fertilizer application, perennial crop spacing, and weed management. Observations from the field show promising results, with improved crop yields contributing to both food security and increased income potential.
Additionally, livelihood diversification initiatives are yielding positive outcomes. Smallholder farmers and youth have embraced oxen and small ruminant fattening businesses, generating profits and embarking on their second cycle of operations. Capacity-building efforts have also strengthened local institutions, as evidenced by the improved performance of two multi-purpose cooperatives and two SACCOs. Meanwhile, the water committee’s proactive efforts to secure developed water springs underline a strong commitment to sustainability.
Finally, the monitoring team discussed with the project office coordinator, expertise, supervisors on their observation and report on the progress of the annual plan and commended the project team’s performance and urged continued efforts to sustain momentum and achieve the project’s objectives. #SustainableDevelopment #CommunityEmpowerment #ResilientFutures
