Kinesi Village

Primary Water

Organic Gardening and Trees

Alternative Health

Malaria Control

Sustainable Technology

Microfinance

Education

FGM Prevention

AIDS Orphans Support

Organic gardening is a method of growing food without the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Instead, mulch and organic compost is used to enhance soil fertility and natural botanical substances like neem are used to discourage pests. Fruits and vegetables grown organically are high in enzymes, vitamins and minerals, making them both more delicious and more nutritious than conventionally grown produce. By eliminating the damaging effects of synthetic and chemical inputs, the local environment also benefits from growing food organically.

Currently, GRA is funding organic gardening projects in both Musoma and Kinesi Village. Both courses are lead by Jackson N'garaga, a local expert and talented, caring teacher with over 10 years experience in organic agriculture.

In Musoma, guardians of AIDS orphans participating in the GRA funded Lea Mtoto (Care of the Child) program have received training in organic methods and many have established gardens at their homes. Those lacking sufficient space have come together, with the help of Jackson and Lea Mtoto social worker Christopher Gamba, to create an extensive and productive community garden on about two acres of land near Lake Victoria.

In Kinesi, a village of 5,000 residents on the shore of Lake Victoria one hour by boat from Musoma, Jackson is conducting the first ever organic gardening program for about 75 adults and over 100 8th grade students. The local government has donated 2 plots of land for use by the students who are enthusiastically creating productive gardens to grow food for the entire student body. The year-long program is funded by the New England Biolabs Foundation and includes an art component for all participating students.

Tree planting campaign
Trees are a wonder of nature and an abundant source of many resources essential to the path of sustainable development. In addition to food, fuel and medicine, they provide shelter and shade for humans and animals, enrich the soil, increase precipitation, prevent soil erosion and enhance the natural beauty of any environment - among many other blessings.

Inspired by Wangari Maathai, recipient of the 2004 Nobel Peace Prize and the founder of the Green Belt Movement, GRA is committed to helping grassroots organizations in Kinesi Village and the surrounding Lake Victoria region plant thousands of trees over the next several years. These trees will be used to create natural fencing, desalinate the soil and provide medicinal and nutritional supplementation for the people participating in the tree planting initiative.

Permaculture
In October, 2007, we will host a Permaculture Design Certificate course for area residents and students from around the world interested in exploring the potential of permaculture for sustainable development in a rural, East African environment.

Women harvesting potatoes

School children preparing plot for new organic garden

Tree nursery