Less than 6 weeks ago, in mid-October a wild fire engulfed CPCA’s woodlot, leaving only a quarter of the 18,000 saplings they had planted. They immediately bought seeds and replanted over half of what they had lost. So far, germination is 75% and you can see the amazing growth of the newly planted seeds in these photos.
in addition to the replanted Flamboyant, Jacaranda, Moringa and Leuchaenia saplings (in the photos above - from left to right) they planted Guava, Lime, Lemon, Monkey Bread, Moringa, Glyceadia, Acasia and Granadilla
And the Jatropha saplings (see left) which survived the fire are also doing well .
During the first week of December, they will start transplanting most of the saplings
FARMING
Changu reports that ‘Our garden is well and we are continuing with it.’
Current crops - Harvested red peppers and impwa plants (a popular type of Aubergine in Zambia)
She added that as fertilizer prices keep skyrocketing, they will not planting maize this year and will focus on soya and aduki beans, peanuts and sorghum.
LOAN SCHEME IS ENABLING FOUR BUSINESSES TO GROW
In July we raised £900 for a loan scheme to improve the income potential of CPCA members. CPCA loaned the money to 10 women working in groups to run 3 business ventures.
Despite challenges, the businesses are all running and making some income for members. In addition the loans have all been paid back enabling a second tranche of 10 members to benefit from the scheme.
As a result t of the loans being paid back, a fourth group of 10 more members have received loans. They are joining forces to create a business rearing chickens in order to sell eggs.
So there are now 4 business ventures in the area as a result of the loans. One initially sold beans and kapenta (a fish) and is now selling rice as well. A second where the owners of a family grocery stores, sell ice pops and popcorn. The group plan to plant their own popcorn for next year’s business. The other businesses rear chickens, one for eggs and the other for chickens to eat.
CONGRATULATIONS!
Once again we congratulate the CPCA members for what they are achieving despite huge setbacks. And supporters here for making sure they are not held back through lack of funds. If you haven't already, please do have a look at the new blog focussing on fundraising We will look forward to seeing you at the Polish 7 course dinner in January or why not take advantage of low cost, energy conservation advice for a donation! https://chibomboclimate.wixsite.com/website-1/post/great-ways-to-give-have-fun-and-keep-warm-this-winter.
The advisory group are in discussion with Changu and members about CPCA's priorities for next year and what they may need from us and we will share these soon. In the meantime, we hope you can keep healthy, warm and safe in these challenging times,
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