Seeds of success

In 2006, in the midst of the devastating drought the people of Malambo were struggling to survive. The situation in the region became so critical that it prompted Oxfam's biggest-ever food crisis appeal for funds to support our response work.

As water holes dried up and animals died, Oxfam distributed maize, set up emergency water supplies, and provided veterinary support. The loss of their animals highlighted to the community how precarious livestock-rearing had become as their primary only means of income.

In September 2006, Oxfam distributed seeds to the most vulnerable villagers in Malambo. Now, one year on, the first-ever harvest is being celebrated. It’s an overwhelming success for the community, and one that marks a huge and positive change. In the past, during prolonged droughts, people had to rely on emergency food supplies in order to survive. Now, they are developing the skills to improve their crops and grow enough food to feed their families. This has given the community their independence. People are now looking at other ways of earning a living and are hopeful of a more secure future.

When heavy rains started in November 2006, they brought with them renewed hope, and the opportunity for the community to plant their seeds. There was also a sense of apprehension about whether the rains would continue, and if the seeds would grow. But after seven months, the crop now stands shoulder high on the cultivated plots of land – shambas – that dot the landscape. Thanks to the community’s determination to regain their independence, a bumper crop has been produced. The hundreds of ears of eaten maize stalks that litter the ground are testament to the food the people have grown themselves for the first time.

You may remember Nolmaai, whose baby, Tom, was born in 2005. She is enthusiastically developing skills that have enabled her to cultivate her first piece of land, and she is getting her whole family involved:

“Everyone wants a shamba now. Since we’ve seen that we can grow things, we’re all busy, planning. I’ve made a plan of what and when to grow, and Julius, my son, has already started to work the land.” Nolmaai, Malambo

It’s hard to believe that only last year, the people of Malambo were facing a crisis. Now, they are looking to the future; As well as more food to eat, the first harvest has brought them new skills, great optimism, and the ability to develop a secure livelihood for their families.

Latest from Malambo

February 09 update