A story of transformation and defying the odds
As the head of the household and sole breadwinner for her large family, Felekech spent many years struggling to put food on the table for her children. For at least three months every year, they only ate one meal per day.
When we first met Felekech in 2015, the painful hunger of the recent drought was fresh in her mind. Her traditional farming methods could not withstand Ethiopia’s harsh, dry weather—climate-smart, low-input, and sustainable farming technologies were needed.
Instead of leaving Felekech to struggle alone, Tearfund Canada and Terpeza Development Association introduced her to conservation agriculture. Felekech, a leader and trailblazer, was one of the first sixty farmers in the whole province to be trained.
When we visited Felekesh in 2018 during her third year of the program, her transformation was even more evident:
“I am no longer a poor widow – I am an expert that teaches men. So far this year, over 100 farmers and neighbours have come to learn from me – a woman! I have the best farm yield in the whole community. I have two daughters in university, and I can pay all of their fees from the surplus crops that I sell. I never worry about the amount of food we have…”
Through conservation agriculture, Felekech is defying societal norms and helping her community members help themselves. She is a trailblazer, and only one of the many farmers whose lives have changed forever.
Christine’s farm was failing, and her children’s future seemed uncertain. But with the help of conservation agriculture and community support, she turned her land around, yielding 70-80% more than before and securing a brighter future for her family! She is now able to realize her dream and send her children to school.
Jemima, a born leader from Dodoma, Tanzania, overcame societal limitations and is now empowering women through financial autonomy and sustainable farming practices, thanks to Tearfund’s training programs.
The solution to poverty is spiritual as much as it is physical. Instead of offering handouts, you will be partnering with local churches to permanently lift families out of poverty. Will you join us?
Tearfund Canada
340 Ferrier Street
Suite 202
Markham, ON
L3R 2Z5
t: 1-800-567-8190
e: connect@tearfund.ca
Charity Number: 108222191 RR 0001
Takes place on Zoom, on the third Thursday of each month at 8:00 pm (EST)
