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
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 [...]
EEASA 2024 Conference: Amanzi for Food Team’s Presentation on the Digital Field Support Tool
The Environmental Education Association of Southern Africa (EEASA) 2024 Conference brought together a vibrant mix of experts, educators, and practitioners, united by a common goal: to push forward the region's sustainable development agenda. This year’s theme centers around Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) as a vital component of the circular economy, focusing on how we can build a more resilient and sustainable future through education. The Amanzi for Food team represented all the Amanzi for Food learning network members and partners at the conference. The team introduced their innovative Digital Field Support Tool aimed at enhancing agricultural practices, particularly [...]
Sustainability: Our Journey into Permaculture Food Forests
Written by Bakhusele Mathupha It all began on a warm November day in 2021 when my partner and I decided to venture beyond conventional farming practices. We started by cultivating the traditional African trio: Mealies, Beans, and Pumpkin, a harmonious combination known as the “3 sisters”. This method, with beans providing nitrogen, maize offering a trellis, and pumpkin shading the soil, reduced water usage and input costs significantly. However, we soon realized the need for diversity in our plates and in our fields. We craved herbs, leafy greens, fruits, and fodder for our animals. Our yearly cycle of planting [...]
Rainwater harvesting in Willowvale, Eastern Cape.
At present, the world is facing an increasing need to teach about climate change due to many factors such as power generation, goods manufacturing, water wastage, deforestation and overconsumption, to mention but a few. For the following weeks, I will strictly deal with ways and methods I currently employ to save and conserve water through my farming practices and education. Groundwater is our primary water source, and with industrialisation and common usage by individual households, there is a huge threat to water availability. With so many technological devices and applications to try and save or [...]