Changu says : 'It has been a seriously busy period for us.'
In this blog,
find out about the inspirational way that Chibombo People's Climate Action (CPCA) are addressing their current challenges;
what the Friends of CPCA have been doing, fundraising plans and what you can do to contribute.
A source of food
Zambia has been experiencing the worst drought since records began.
We felt sad as well as heartened when Changu wrote at the beginning of March;
‘We're currently facing a hard period of hunger as a nation and around our area, CPCA has become a source of food for many community members because of the improving food production. We have introduced a small program of 'food for work' where people have to do some works for them to get the food that they need like vegetables or mealie meal. As a coordinator, I always thank God that things fell in place at the right time through CPCA-UK in order for many to find solace in our project during the most trying times.’
We were relieved to hear in mid-April that at last it had rained - and they were plentiful rains, although acidic which is worrying.
5 complete training in sustainable organic agriculture
In February 5 young people undertook a short residential course in sustainable organic agriculture.
The photo shows two of the trainees putting their learning into practice; they are bokashi composting.
21 March - International Day of Forests
CPCA now has a seat at the local District committee tasked with environmental protection. The committee planned an event on the International Day of Forests which included awareness raising and tree planting. CPCA donated 1000 saplings for planting.
And 1000 trees to 20 schools
CPCA has also been planting 50 trees per school in 20 schools. This has generated about £60 of income from the Ministry of Education. Here the Headmaster at Malambanyama primary school led by example.
Meanwhile back at the base.....
CPCA have been extending their growing area. They can do this because they have more water from the recently constructed borehole. They are also utilising the knowledge and skills brought back by the young people who attended the training course and are getting magnificent results! They are seeing improved productivity of organic vegetable AND better income.
Great fundraising in the UK too!
Friend, Steve Roman led a fascinating Peace Walk in Manchester in March which raised £250. As well as Mancunians, it attracted people from Lancaster, Buxton and Stoke, and like so many of our fundraisers it inspired people to think of things they can do. So watch out for a guided walk in Buxton! One supporter plans to ask her friends for donations next time she leads a hike.
29th April - Bat walk
There are 2 places left for this evening adventure on the Mersey in Stockport. Find and identify bats hunting insects over the water using monitors in exchange for a donation to CPCA. If you’re interested please MESSAGE MARY DIRECTLY on 07843 434196.
Cake Sale 4th May - Carlton Club, Whalley Range, Manchester, M16 8BE
The wonderful Carlton Club Gardeners are doing their 4th CAKE SALE on Saturday 4th May. This has always been a great success. If you can, please bake cakes, buns, biccies or bread and bring them on the day 👍🏾, and /or come and buy on the day, and /or donate 🫢 - all types of contribution are wonderful! It starts at about 10 and will keep going until everything is sold - don't leave it too late!
Finally - watch this space for details of our annual get together which will be in Levenshulme in July.