Project Background
In the locality of Sancho, West Region, Cameroon; the community is faced with a degrading soil due to over use of chemical fertilizer in an effort improve yields. This project aims to:
- To Promote the use of eco-friendly, plant-based solutions (such as Tithonia diversifolia, Sesbania sesban, Gliricidia sepium, rabbit urine, fowl droppings, woodash, biochar, targetes erecta, and Vernonia amygdalina) to reduce chemical inputs in farming,therby preventing soil degedation and depletion
- Empowering the students of in Sancho by equipping them with skills in organic fertilizer and compost production.
- Increase the economic resilience of participants by introducing alternative, low cost, and sustainable farming inputs that can improve crop yields and reduce costs.
Project Execution
This workshop was designed to teach students practical skills in producing organic liquid fertilizers using locally available materials. The training emphasized the benefits of organic fertilizers in improving soil fertility, promoting sustainable agriculture, and supporting economic opportunities for the community.
- The session began with a word of prayer to the Giver Of Life and inspiration, the Father of all plants then an introduction to the concept of organic liquid fertilizers, highlighting their benefits over chemical fertilizers. Participants were guided step-by-step on how to prepare fertilizers using organic waste and plant materials.
- A live demonstration was conducted to show the process of mixing, fermenting, and storing the fertilizer.
- Participants were encouraged to ask questions, share ideas, and brainstorm how these fertilizers could be used in their school farms or sold for income.
- Materials and equipment for the demonstration were sourced locally, ensuring the process was accessible and replicable for participants.
- The session was interactive, combining theory with hands-on practice.
- Students were provided with handouts summarizing the steps and benefits of organic fertilizer production to reinforce their l earning.
- The activity concluded with a discussion on how participants could utilize the skill for personal and community benefit, fostering economic empowerment and development. Through this activity, students gained practical agricultural skills, contributing to economic empowerment, environmental sustainability, and community development.
Project Results
The activity directly reached over 15 members of the Science Club at Montessori English Secondary And High School(MESHS), comprising students aged betweenn 13–18 years from diverse socio economic backgrounds. The majority of participants were youths from farming families, making them highly receptive to agricultural innovations.
- Conducted a practical workshop on the production of organic liquid fertilizers, covering the entire process from material selection to application techniques.
- Distributed informational handouts summarizing the steps and benefits of organic fertilizer production.
- Successfully produced 250L of organic liquid fertilizer during the session, demonstrating its practicality and effectiveness.
- Participants acquired valuable skills in producing organic liquid fertilizers, which they can now use in their school and home farms.
- The training sparked interest in sustainable farming practices and created awareness about reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers.
- Students expressed confidence in utilizing the knowledge for personal use and income generation, fostering economic empowerment and self-reliance.
- By equipping these young individuals with practical skills, the initiative is contributing to long-term community development and environmental sustainability