Integration of chicken keeping for organic vegetable project, Kitomondo Village

Abstract

This study was conducted under Mshikamano Women Community Based Organization (MKIWAKI). The need assessment study conducted in September, 2005 showed that the CBO members and leaders were in need of diversifying their sources of income through integration of chicken keeping. The goal of the project in CED terms was to improve the standard of living of the Kitomondo community through participation in business creation. However, leaders and members of the organization had no knowledge and skills to initiate the project. The objectives of the project were; to facilitate the initiation of chicken micro-enterprise to 20 Kitomondo women, increase the productivity of amaranthus and train women on savings and credit scheme. The knowledge and skills were imparted through training and practice.

The methodology used in conducting community need assessment, monitoring and evaluation was face to face interview to 20 trainees, focus group discussion with 15 key informants, observation and review of relevant documents. Descriptive statistic was used as analytical tool. Results showed that about 97% of all planned activities have been accomplished. 20 trained women have been capacitated to establish chicken micro-enterprise and other small enterprise such as food vending, and 15 trainees have been registered with ward SACCOS. Income from chicken sales has increased from Tsh 7,025 to Tsh.59,950 per year, while vegetable productivity has increased from kilograms 4795 to kilograms 9485. The government should ensure women have access to loan with low interest in order to engage in chicken business for poverty alleviation. (Author abstract)