Learning Networks
Sharing knowledge on the use and conservation of water for food production
One key activity of the Amanzi for Food programme is the development and support of Learning Networks. These aim to connect people and organisations, to make information on rainwater harvesting more accessible and to encourage the increased use of rainwater harvesting and conservation (RWH&C) activities for food production. Through networking, people get the opportunity to share their experience and the new knowledge they are developing. Rainwater harvesting practices are not widely known and the training of these practices is strengthened through Learning Networks with resources being made available to the network partners. These Learning Networks also support the establishment and use of demonstration activities and sites.
Links to the Training of Trainers Course(s)
The first Learning Networks are being established around the Training of Trainers courses, and many network members are also participating in the course in order to gain a Rhodes University qualification. It is hoped that the Learning Networks continue beyond the training course and provide support to their members in implementing RWH&C in the future.
The Eastern Cape and Mpumalanga learning networks are,respectively, the Imvotho Bubomi Learning Network and the Sinakekela Sibusiso Semanti Learning Network.
Learning Network News
Transitioning from using municipal water to rainwater harvesting for food production
Written by: Segomotso “Morakane” Lebogo Location: Pretoria I started my garden in 2016, shortly after returning from a trip to Thaba ’Nchu. During that trip, I was inspired and realised that I could use my own hands to grow food. When I came back home, I began planting seeds to raise seedlings, but because I didn’t always have enough time to water them, I decided to buy seedlings instead. I now purchase them from one of the local seedling companies around Pretoria. Once I saw my seedlings growing well, I made the decision to fully commit to growing my [...]
Reflecting on being recognised on #BOSSMondays (Building Opportunities & Shaping Success) initiative.
Education, training and learning cannot be limited to the confines of classrooms. Majority of the young population in Africa live, learn and work in informality. These young people are predominantly excluded from the formal learning, education and training systems. However, there is a strong need and desire for young people to access learning, education and training opportunities in order to improve their livelihood opportunities. How do we then cater for the learning needs of young people in an ever-changing world? Amongst the various initiatives is the YOMA which stands for Youth Market Place, Aka Youth Agency Marketplace. YOMA is [...]
Harvesting Water, Growing Futures: Rainwater Harvesting & Conservation in Our Community
Written by: Caleb Ojeabunlu Agaga Location: Ogun State / Lagos State Axis, Federal Republic of Nigeria In our community, water is more than just a resource – it’s a lifeline for farming, food security, and sustainable living. That’s why our focus on Rainwater Harvesting and Conservation has become central to the way we farm, grow food, and teach others to do the same. Over the past year, we’ve implemented several RWH&C practices, including contour trenching, rooftop rainwater collection, and mulching to retain soil moisture. These methods not only reduce our reliance on municipal water but also enable us to farm [...]
YOMA, a Platform Offering Learning, Training and Skills Development Opportunities for the African Youth
Education, training and learning cannot be limited to the confines of classrooms. Majority of the young population in Africa live, learn and work in informality. These young people are predominantly excluded from the formal learning, education and training systems. However, there is a strong need and desire for young people to access learning, education and training opportunities in order to improve their livelihood opportunities. How do we then cater for the learning needs of young people in an ever-changing world? Amongst the various initiatives is the YOMA which stands for Youth Market Place, Aka Youth Agency Marketplace. YOMA is [...]
Championing Community Engagement and Agricultural Extension through AFRISA: Insights from Dr. Tendo David
Training in Commercial earthen pond fish farming in Western Uganda. Group of community members trained in adding value to fish by making: Fish sausages, Fish Burgers, Fish Balls, Fish Fingers, Smoked Fish. At the heart of Makerere University’s College of Veterinary Medicine lies a transformative initiative: the Africa Institute for Strategic Animal Resource Services and Development (AFRISA). This semi-autonomous institute is committed to bridging the gap between academia and local communities by transforming academic knowledge into practical, real-world solutions aimed at improving livelihoods. With a mandate to bring the university’s expertise directly to [...]