2009 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th visit Year One
January 26, 2010
Village Ruaha Mbuyuni
Pastor Elia Kango
Companion Holy Trinity, New Prague
Attendees 13
Weather for the past month Dry
Reporter Gabriel, Ibrahim, Roger and Alfred
Today we had the demonstration meeting at the preaching point of Ruaha Mbuyuni called Kwale. We met Pastor and few members there. Pastor told us that we should wait for other members who have gone to the demonstration plot to see if it has been rained where the plot is located because there has been raining in other part of the Ruaha Mbuyuni area. However when they come back they said it has not rained at the plot. The weather is kind of different here, when it rains, only a few places get the rain and other parts do not. Before the meeting we had a little discussion with the pastor about rain, irrigation and purpose of moving the meeting point to Kwale.
Purpose of the visit
• Bean planting and fertilizer application demonstrations
Topics
1. Greetings
Roger derived greetings from the Saint Paul Area Synod and the US Advisory Committee
1. Planting
Although the rain records shows that it has rained about 5 times (Ruaha Mbuyuni), members of this preaching point and the Pastor told us that it has not rained yet in Kwale where the plot is located. Therefore, the plot has been prepared but not yet planted corn.
2. Irrigation
The reason for locating this plot here (Kwale) was because the whole Ruaha Mbuyuni area do not get sufficient rainfall therefore these members thought about irrigation. In “Kwale” they have access to irrigation water from the nearby river. Pastor told us about the irrigation plans they have; they are going to use the hired irrigation pump to pump water from the river to the demonstration plot. Water will be pumped to the ditch which is about 100 long to the plot. They are going to plant there plot as soon as they start irrigate it.
3. Moving of meeting and demonstration site to Kwale.
Pastor told us that they have arranged this meeting and demonstrations to take place here. They plan to do the same in the future. The reason is; Pastor thinks the audience here is eager to learn more about farming of corn and beans than people of Ruaha Mbuyuni. He said in Ruaha Mbuyuni they mainly farm rice and onions hence to them corn and beans are less interested crops. However in Kwale the large population is Masai (about 90%) who are trying to learn farming as an alternative mode of production. By tradition Masai are livestock keepers and usually they are nomads (People who move with their livestock from one place to another). In recent years the nomad type of life has become impossible because of land scarcity. Many Masai are now trying to learn farming so that they can stop depending entirely on livestock keeping. Pastor hoped that teaching these people corn and beans farming, crops which they are more interested on will be a good and productive thing.
4. Rain Records
We checked the rain records, they have been recording as instructed, however rains records do not give a clear rainfall trends of this area “Kwale” because the rain gauge is at Ruaha Mbuyuni. They have received 8.5 mm or about 3.5 inches of rain since mid December.
5. Review of Handouts
o 4th visit handout was reviewed
6. Demonstrations
I. corn
This is kind of new audience for the reasons explained above. Therefore the corn planting demonstration was reviewed again. It was demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (60cm) and intra row spacing (20cm). It was demonstrated how to plant and apply fertilizer. After planting demonstration, It was demonstrated how to make second application of fertilizer in the corn. Two holes were made 5cm from the plant and fertilizer was put then covered. We told them to do this when the plants are knee high.
I. Beans
It was demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm) and intra row spacing (10cm). String was used to make trench and in the trench bean seeds were placed 10cm apart. Fertilizer (NPK) was placed 5cm from the seeds. Both seed and fertilizer were covered.
7. Fertilizers, bean seed and pesticides delivery
On January 15, Ibrahim and Roger went to Ruaha Mbuyuni, they were not able to hold the demonstrations but they delivered 2 bags of NPK and 2 bags of CAN. They also delivered bean seeds “Wanja” 40kg. Therefore today, we did not deliver anything.
Comments/questions from audience
It was a little bit hard to communicate with the audience because most of the people here especially women do not understand “Swahili” We had to use one Masai guy to interpret from “Swahili” to “Masai language” and vice verse.
They wanted to know who is going to get the crops from the demonstration plots.
We told them that since they are the ones who will be working in the plots, the crops will go to the church and the Pastor will supervise what they are going to do with them.
They asked since they cannot depend on rain here, and hence they have to irrigate their crops using a hired irrigation pump. Is there a possibility we can assist them with the irrigation pump fuel?
We told them the agreement with their companion congregation (Holy Trinity), they will assist them with fertilizers, seeds, pesticides and training only. We told them they should think of a way they can contribute to run the irrigation by themselves.
However we had a little discussion (Roger, Ibrahim and me) and we agreed to give them 50,000 Tsh from the Institute to buy fuel to start farming. We told them they will be responsible to buy fuel on their own later.
Conclusions/Recommendations
It was our first time to conduct demonstration here. Pastor and the Treasury of the Congregation had been demonstrating to them what we demonstrated in our previous visit. I was impressed with their ability to remember what they have been taught. As I was asking them few reviewing questions, they gave me good answers although it was not in straight “Swahili”! Roger insisted that, unless the demonstration plots work out here, we shall not keep on doing the demonstrations. They promised to work hard and follow the instructions.
NB:
• 1 bag of NPK is 50kg and 1 bag of CAN is 50kg
Friday, February 26, 2010
Mlafu - CVP Report Jan 25-2010
2009 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th Visit Year One
January 25, 2010
Village Mlafu
Pastor Daison Mpesa
Companion Our Saviour’s, Stillwater
Attendees 12, 10 male, 2 female
Weather for the past month Rainy
Reporters Gabriel, Alfred, Ibriham, Roger
Purpose of the visit
• Bean planting and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Bean seeds, fertilizers and Pesticides delivery
Topics
1. Greetings
Roger derived greetings from the Saint Paul Area Synod and the US Advisory Committee
2. Corn plot and rain records
Corn Seed variety planted H 628
Planting date November 23, 2009
Replanting date December 17, 2009
First weeding January 25, 2010
Pests/Diseases Nil
They rain records are well recorded and placed in the box file. They have received 258mm or about 10 inches of rain since early November.
3. Review of Handouts
o 4th visit handout was reviewed
4. Demonstrations
I. Beans
It was demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm) and intra row spacing (10cm). String was used to make trench and in the trench bean seeds were placed 10cm apart. Fertilizer was placed 5cm from the seeds. Both seeds and fertilizer were covered.
II. Corn
It was demonstrated how to make second application of fertilizer in the corn. Two holes were made 5cm from the plant and fertilizer was put then covered. We told them to do this when the plants are knee high.
III. Pesticides
It was demonstrated how mix the pesticide “Thionex” which is used to control crop damaging insects.
5. Fertilizers, bean seed and pesticides delivery
The congregation was given 2 bags of NPK for bean and 2 bags of CAN for corn. The bean seed variety delivered is “Uyole 98” (27 kg). We also gave them 1 bottle of Thionex pesticide.
Comments/questions from audience
They asked how far from the corn plant the fertilizer should be placed when doing second application?
We told them that fertilizer should be placed 5cm from the plant. Make two holes in both sides of the plant, put the fertilizer then cover it with soil (The information is also found in the 4th Visit handout which we gave them)
They have been using various varieties of been seeds (which they do not remember their names) and almost each of them has different planting time, from mid of February to March. What is the suitable time to plant the bean variety (Uyole 98) which we give them?
We asked them, why do they have different planting time, they said they have prolonged rainfall hence planting time differ depending on what time the beans mature. We told them the bean variety we gave them is suitable to their weather; however they should plant in February to avoid the prolonged rainfall.
They asked what time they should weed the bean plot.
We told them to do monthly weeding; however weeding should not be done at the time of germination because it might destroy primary leaves and also should not be done at the time of flowering because flowers will be knocked down by hoes and human movements. Moreover, we believe that the closely planting we teach them will reduce the weeding task.
They raised a concern that the closely planting in beans will lead into difficult weeding because their wide hoes will not be able to move freely.
We told them one advantage of closely planting is that the crop plants form a canopy which suppress the weeds. If they follow the spacing as we instruct them, they will have less weed problem. Moreover if they did observe the monthly weeding techniques, they will also have less weeding at this time.
Conclusions/Recommendations
We conducted the demonstration in their bean plot. We told them they should observe monthly weeding to reduce the weeding task later on. We asked them few questions as the review of what we have been teaching them. Only two said they have already started to adopt the techniques. They said since this is their first year, they are waiting to see the yields to see the benefits our techniques.
NB:
• 1 bag of NPK is 50kg and 1 bag of CAN is 50kg
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th Visit Year One
January 25, 2010
Village Mlafu
Pastor Daison Mpesa
Companion Our Saviour’s, Stillwater
Attendees 12, 10 male, 2 female
Weather for the past month Rainy
Reporters Gabriel, Alfred, Ibriham, Roger
Purpose of the visit
• Bean planting and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Bean seeds, fertilizers and Pesticides delivery
Topics
1. Greetings
Roger derived greetings from the Saint Paul Area Synod and the US Advisory Committee
2. Corn plot and rain records
Corn Seed variety planted H 628
Planting date November 23, 2009
Replanting date December 17, 2009
First weeding January 25, 2010
Pests/Diseases Nil
They rain records are well recorded and placed in the box file. They have received 258mm or about 10 inches of rain since early November.
3. Review of Handouts
o 4th visit handout was reviewed
4. Demonstrations
I. Beans
It was demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm) and intra row spacing (10cm). String was used to make trench and in the trench bean seeds were placed 10cm apart. Fertilizer was placed 5cm from the seeds. Both seeds and fertilizer were covered.
II. Corn
It was demonstrated how to make second application of fertilizer in the corn. Two holes were made 5cm from the plant and fertilizer was put then covered. We told them to do this when the plants are knee high.
III. Pesticides
It was demonstrated how mix the pesticide “Thionex” which is used to control crop damaging insects.
5. Fertilizers, bean seed and pesticides delivery
The congregation was given 2 bags of NPK for bean and 2 bags of CAN for corn. The bean seed variety delivered is “Uyole 98” (27 kg). We also gave them 1 bottle of Thionex pesticide.
Comments/questions from audience
They asked how far from the corn plant the fertilizer should be placed when doing second application?
We told them that fertilizer should be placed 5cm from the plant. Make two holes in both sides of the plant, put the fertilizer then cover it with soil (The information is also found in the 4th Visit handout which we gave them)
They have been using various varieties of been seeds (which they do not remember their names) and almost each of them has different planting time, from mid of February to March. What is the suitable time to plant the bean variety (Uyole 98) which we give them?
We asked them, why do they have different planting time, they said they have prolonged rainfall hence planting time differ depending on what time the beans mature. We told them the bean variety we gave them is suitable to their weather; however they should plant in February to avoid the prolonged rainfall.
They asked what time they should weed the bean plot.
We told them to do monthly weeding; however weeding should not be done at the time of germination because it might destroy primary leaves and also should not be done at the time of flowering because flowers will be knocked down by hoes and human movements. Moreover, we believe that the closely planting we teach them will reduce the weeding task.
They raised a concern that the closely planting in beans will lead into difficult weeding because their wide hoes will not be able to move freely.
We told them one advantage of closely planting is that the crop plants form a canopy which suppress the weeds. If they follow the spacing as we instruct them, they will have less weed problem. Moreover if they did observe the monthly weeding techniques, they will also have less weeding at this time.
Conclusions/Recommendations
We conducted the demonstration in their bean plot. We told them they should observe monthly weeding to reduce the weeding task later on. We asked them few questions as the review of what we have been teaching them. Only two said they have already started to adopt the techniques. They said since this is their first year, they are waiting to see the yields to see the benefits our techniques.
NB:
• 1 bag of NPK is 50kg and 1 bag of CAN is 50kg
Itungi - CVP Report Jan 25-2010
2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th Visit Year two
January 25th, 2010
Village Itungi
Pastor Damian Ngandango and Assistant pastor Meshack Magova
Companion Como Park Lutheran Church
Attendees 9
Weather for the past month Rainy
Reporters Ibrahim, Gabriel, Roger and Alfred
Purpose of the visit
• Planting bean and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Demonstration on second fertilizers application in corn
• Deliver fertilizer bags, Bean seeds, bottle spray, and insecticides
Topics
1. Greetings
Roger gave greetings from Como Park Lutheran Church, Saint Paul Area Synod and US Ag Advisory Committee
2. Went through the handouts
o 4th Visit handout
o Quiz handout
o Rain record sheets.
3. Demonstrations
We demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm). Using a string and a hand hoe we demonstrated how to make a trench for planting the bean seeds. One seed was placed after every 10 cm. It was demonstrated how to place one full bottle cap of fertilizer between 2 seeds i.e. Seed-seed-fertilizer-seed-seed-fertilizer etc.
4. Fertilizer and seed delivery
According to the analysis of the soil of this area, the type of fertilizer recommended was NPK (10-18-24) for bean seed planting. The congregation was given 2 NPK bags and 27 Kg of bean seeds, variety of bean seeds delivered is Uyole 98. We also delivered 2 bags (50 Kg) of CAN for second fertilizer application to corn field.
Comments
They planted corn on Nov 26th, 2009 and received first rain on Dec 15th, 2009. Also they replanted on Dec 23rd, 2009.
Four people out of 9 people attended have already practiced the techniques taught, on their own farm. They didn’t burn crop residues-hence helped to control soil erosion, planted corn in rows and followed spacing 60 cm by 20 cm as recommended. This has resulted an easy application of insecticides and good looking crops.
Plants looks good when planted followed the recommendations taught.
Questions from audience and answers
They said last year we recommended the spacing for beans 50 cm by 9 cm, is the change due to change of bean seed variety?
The answer is yes, but we also want to have a higher plant population for a better yield.
If they don’t have enough fertilizer as we recommend what they can do?
We suggested to them to use manure (compost) or to go for larger spacing that will give them maximum plant population per area that will match with the amount of fertilizers applied.
They asked that based on the fertilizer recommendation to apply 2 bags of fertilizer, why should they broadcast the remaining fertilizers?
We told them for demonstration plots the soil analysis recommends the amount required that is why we are telling them to make sure they apply the total amount.
Why shouldn’t they cultivate the field to reduce weeds?
We told them the way we are instructing them chip off weeds in a monthly bases starting from August (Dry season) because it helps to reduce weeds and give them more time and to save money that could be used for cultivating field and use it for buying fertilizer.
Conclusions/Recommendations
We emphasized the importance of following instruction because the success of the program depends upon them following what we instructed. They promised to follow all the instructions.
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th Visit Year two
January 25th, 2010
Village Itungi
Pastor Damian Ngandango and Assistant pastor Meshack Magova
Companion Como Park Lutheran Church
Attendees 9
Weather for the past month Rainy
Reporters Ibrahim, Gabriel, Roger and Alfred
Purpose of the visit
• Planting bean and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Demonstration on second fertilizers application in corn
• Deliver fertilizer bags, Bean seeds, bottle spray, and insecticides
Topics
1. Greetings
Roger gave greetings from Como Park Lutheran Church, Saint Paul Area Synod and US Ag Advisory Committee
2. Went through the handouts
o 4th Visit handout
o Quiz handout
o Rain record sheets.
3. Demonstrations
We demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm). Using a string and a hand hoe we demonstrated how to make a trench for planting the bean seeds. One seed was placed after every 10 cm. It was demonstrated how to place one full bottle cap of fertilizer between 2 seeds i.e. Seed-seed-fertilizer-seed-seed-fertilizer etc.
4. Fertilizer and seed delivery
According to the analysis of the soil of this area, the type of fertilizer recommended was NPK (10-18-24) for bean seed planting. The congregation was given 2 NPK bags and 27 Kg of bean seeds, variety of bean seeds delivered is Uyole 98. We also delivered 2 bags (50 Kg) of CAN for second fertilizer application to corn field.
Comments
They planted corn on Nov 26th, 2009 and received first rain on Dec 15th, 2009. Also they replanted on Dec 23rd, 2009.
Four people out of 9 people attended have already practiced the techniques taught, on their own farm. They didn’t burn crop residues-hence helped to control soil erosion, planted corn in rows and followed spacing 60 cm by 20 cm as recommended. This has resulted an easy application of insecticides and good looking crops.
Plants looks good when planted followed the recommendations taught.
Questions from audience and answers
They said last year we recommended the spacing for beans 50 cm by 9 cm, is the change due to change of bean seed variety?
The answer is yes, but we also want to have a higher plant population for a better yield.
If they don’t have enough fertilizer as we recommend what they can do?
We suggested to them to use manure (compost) or to go for larger spacing that will give them maximum plant population per area that will match with the amount of fertilizers applied.
They asked that based on the fertilizer recommendation to apply 2 bags of fertilizer, why should they broadcast the remaining fertilizers?
We told them for demonstration plots the soil analysis recommends the amount required that is why we are telling them to make sure they apply the total amount.
Why shouldn’t they cultivate the field to reduce weeds?
We told them the way we are instructing them chip off weeds in a monthly bases starting from August (Dry season) because it helps to reduce weeds and give them more time and to save money that could be used for cultivating field and use it for buying fertilizer.
Conclusions/Recommendations
We emphasized the importance of following instruction because the success of the program depends upon them following what we instructed. They promised to follow all the instructions.
Tumaini U-Theology Stdnts- CVP Report Jan 23-2010
2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th Visit Year two
January 23rd, 2010
Village Tumaini University Students (Theology)
Companion Augustana
Attendees 4 Students and 3 people from nearby farms
Weather for the past month Rainy
Reporters Ibrahim, Gabriel and Roger
Purpose of the visit
• Planting bean and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Demonstration on second fertilizers application in corn
• Deliver fertilizer bags, Bean seeds, bottle spray, and insecticides
Topics
1. Greetings
Roger gave greetings and explained the importance of following the techniques we instructed.
2. Went through the handouts
o 4th Visit handout
o Quiz handout
3. Demonstrations
We demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm). Using a string and a hand hoe it was demonstrated how to make a trench for planting the bean seeds. One seed was placed after every 10 cm. It was demonstrated how to place one full bottle cap of fertilizer between 2 seeds i.e. Seed-seed-fertilizer-seed-seed-fertilizer etc.
4. Fertilizer and seed delivery
According to the analysis of the soil of this area, the type of fertilizer recommended was NPK (10-18-24) for bean seed planting. The congregation was given 2 NPK bags and 40 Kg of bean seeds, variety of bean seeds delivered is UYOLE 96. We also delivered 2 bags (50 Kg each) of CAN for second fertilizer application to corn field.
Comments
They came with sprayer (15 litres size) ready to spray their corn just after receiving the insecticides.
They hired oxen to cultivate the bean field, because it was hard to organize students to go chip off the weeds due to different semester timetable.
We had only 4 students, even though the expectation was over 15 students, this was due to one of the lecturers who decided to have a review class with them on Saturday the day we had schedule to meet them.
Questions from audience and answers
They asked about the bean spacing and why we changed from 50 cm by 9 cm.
The answer is yes, but we also want to have a higher plant population for a better yield.
If they don’t have enough fertilizer as we recommend what they can do?
We suggested to them to use manure (compost) or to go for large spacing that will give them maximum plant population per area.
Conclusions/Recommendations
We told them that this program is conducted in 20 villages/parishes and we are hoping to add ten more parishes 2011. We emphasized the importance of them following instructions because in the future after graduating from Tumaini University they will be posted in one of the parishes that have been trained or haven’t been trained. They will need to be good teachers to train people in their parishes. The success of the program depends upon them following what we instructed. They promised to follow all the instructions.
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th Visit Year two
January 23rd, 2010
Village Tumaini University Students (Theology)
Companion Augustana
Attendees 4 Students and 3 people from nearby farms
Weather for the past month Rainy
Reporters Ibrahim, Gabriel and Roger
Purpose of the visit
• Planting bean and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Demonstration on second fertilizers application in corn
• Deliver fertilizer bags, Bean seeds, bottle spray, and insecticides
Topics
1. Greetings
Roger gave greetings and explained the importance of following the techniques we instructed.
2. Went through the handouts
o 4th Visit handout
o Quiz handout
3. Demonstrations
We demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm). Using a string and a hand hoe it was demonstrated how to make a trench for planting the bean seeds. One seed was placed after every 10 cm. It was demonstrated how to place one full bottle cap of fertilizer between 2 seeds i.e. Seed-seed-fertilizer-seed-seed-fertilizer etc.
4. Fertilizer and seed delivery
According to the analysis of the soil of this area, the type of fertilizer recommended was NPK (10-18-24) for bean seed planting. The congregation was given 2 NPK bags and 40 Kg of bean seeds, variety of bean seeds delivered is UYOLE 96. We also delivered 2 bags (50 Kg each) of CAN for second fertilizer application to corn field.
Comments
They came with sprayer (15 litres size) ready to spray their corn just after receiving the insecticides.
They hired oxen to cultivate the bean field, because it was hard to organize students to go chip off the weeds due to different semester timetable.
We had only 4 students, even though the expectation was over 15 students, this was due to one of the lecturers who decided to have a review class with them on Saturday the day we had schedule to meet them.
Questions from audience and answers
They asked about the bean spacing and why we changed from 50 cm by 9 cm.
The answer is yes, but we also want to have a higher plant population for a better yield.
If they don’t have enough fertilizer as we recommend what they can do?
We suggested to them to use manure (compost) or to go for large spacing that will give them maximum plant population per area.
Conclusions/Recommendations
We told them that this program is conducted in 20 villages/parishes and we are hoping to add ten more parishes 2011. We emphasized the importance of them following instructions because in the future after graduating from Tumaini University they will be posted in one of the parishes that have been trained or haven’t been trained. They will need to be good teachers to train people in their parishes. The success of the program depends upon them following what we instructed. They promised to follow all the instructions.
Lulanzi - CVP Report Jan 21-2010
2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th Visit Year One
January 22, 2010
Village Lulanzi
Pastor Tuluwene Gavile
Companion Christ Lutheran, Lake Elmo
Attendees 10 (Including the Government leader- Village Chairman)
Weather for the past month Rainy
Reporters Ibrahim and Roger
There was a funeral going on in the village when we arrived there, one child of a church elder passed away, so knowing the importance of the training we offer, they organized some to attend the training and others to go to funeral. On our way back to Iringa we saw a lot of people coming from the funeral site.
Purpose of the visit
• Planting bean and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Demonstration on second fertilizers application in corn
• Deliver fertilizer bags, Bean seeds, bottle spray, and insecticides
Topics
1. Greetings
Roger gave greetings from Christ Lutheran Church, Saint Paul Area Synod and US Ag Advisory Committee
2. Went through the handouts
o 4th Visit handout
o Quiz handout
o Rain record sheets.
3. Demonstrations
We demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm). Using a string and a hand hoe it was demonstrated how to make a trench for planting the bean seeds. One seed was placed after every 10 cm. It was demonstrated how to place one full bottle cap of fertilizer between 2 seeds i.e. Seed-seed-fertilizer-seed-seed-fertilizer etc.
4. Fertilizer and seed delivery
According to the analysis of the soil of this area, the type of fertilizer recommended was NPK (10-18-24) for bean seed planting. The congregation was given 2 NPK bags and 30 Kg of bean seeds, variety of bean seeds delivered is URAFIKI. We also delivered 2 bags (50 Kg) of CAN for second fertilizer application to corn field.
Comments
They planted corn on November 23rd, 2009 and 16 people participated during planting. First weeding was done on January 11th, 2010.
Three people out of those attended the meeting have adopted the techniques taught. They have seen some benefits already such as planting corn without cultivating-saved money and control soil erosion because their farms are located in hills, un burnt crop residues smashed weeds growth.
Questions from audience and answers
They asked that the fertilizer recommendation we instructed seems to be very high, if they can’t afford what do we recommend to them?
We told them and shared one of the handout we gave them during our 3rd Visit that if they don’t have enough fertilizer they are supposed to change spacing based on the amount of fertilizer they are able to apply i.e. 60 cm by 30 cm or 40 cm. This will give the plant population that will match with amount of fertilizer applied.
What kind of insecticides are they supposed to spray their corn and beans field?
It is called THIONEX and is one of the best insecticides for both corn and beans. We showed them because that is what we delivered to them.
Why when they plant corn will some germinate and other not?
This might be caused due by the use of unclean or untreated seeds; we recommended that they buy treated seed/hybrid seeds.
Should they keep weeding every month even if no weeds?
If the field have no weeds they don’t need to weed every month but we reminded them when they say no weed it should be no weed and not because weeds are shorter.
They asked, what is the status of DIRA’s SACCOS (micro finance) program
DIRA is still working to see what has to be changed or added to make SACCOS work properly. We told them that few days ago met a visiting Professor of Software from US who is now teaching at Tumaini University-Iringa for Six months who will also work at DIRA for SACCOS.
They asked if the Institute of Ag will only teach about Corn and beans only.
We told we will only demonstrate corn and beans for them, but if they have any question regarding other crops they should not hesitate to ask, so they asked a lot of question about Potatoes.
Conclusions/Recommendations
We emphasized the importance of following instruction because the success of the program depends upon them following what we instructed. They promised to follow all the instructions.
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th Visit Year One
January 22, 2010
Village Lulanzi
Pastor Tuluwene Gavile
Companion Christ Lutheran, Lake Elmo
Attendees 10 (Including the Government leader- Village Chairman)
Weather for the past month Rainy
Reporters Ibrahim and Roger
There was a funeral going on in the village when we arrived there, one child of a church elder passed away, so knowing the importance of the training we offer, they organized some to attend the training and others to go to funeral. On our way back to Iringa we saw a lot of people coming from the funeral site.
Purpose of the visit
• Planting bean and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Demonstration on second fertilizers application in corn
• Deliver fertilizer bags, Bean seeds, bottle spray, and insecticides
Topics
1. Greetings
Roger gave greetings from Christ Lutheran Church, Saint Paul Area Synod and US Ag Advisory Committee
2. Went through the handouts
o 4th Visit handout
o Quiz handout
o Rain record sheets.
3. Demonstrations
We demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm). Using a string and a hand hoe it was demonstrated how to make a trench for planting the bean seeds. One seed was placed after every 10 cm. It was demonstrated how to place one full bottle cap of fertilizer between 2 seeds i.e. Seed-seed-fertilizer-seed-seed-fertilizer etc.
4. Fertilizer and seed delivery
According to the analysis of the soil of this area, the type of fertilizer recommended was NPK (10-18-24) for bean seed planting. The congregation was given 2 NPK bags and 30 Kg of bean seeds, variety of bean seeds delivered is URAFIKI. We also delivered 2 bags (50 Kg) of CAN for second fertilizer application to corn field.
Comments
They planted corn on November 23rd, 2009 and 16 people participated during planting. First weeding was done on January 11th, 2010.
Three people out of those attended the meeting have adopted the techniques taught. They have seen some benefits already such as planting corn without cultivating-saved money and control soil erosion because their farms are located in hills, un burnt crop residues smashed weeds growth.
Questions from audience and answers
They asked that the fertilizer recommendation we instructed seems to be very high, if they can’t afford what do we recommend to them?
We told them and shared one of the handout we gave them during our 3rd Visit that if they don’t have enough fertilizer they are supposed to change spacing based on the amount of fertilizer they are able to apply i.e. 60 cm by 30 cm or 40 cm. This will give the plant population that will match with amount of fertilizer applied.
What kind of insecticides are they supposed to spray their corn and beans field?
It is called THIONEX and is one of the best insecticides for both corn and beans. We showed them because that is what we delivered to them.
Why when they plant corn will some germinate and other not?
This might be caused due by the use of unclean or untreated seeds; we recommended that they buy treated seed/hybrid seeds.
Should they keep weeding every month even if no weeds?
If the field have no weeds they don’t need to weed every month but we reminded them when they say no weed it should be no weed and not because weeds are shorter.
They asked, what is the status of DIRA’s SACCOS (micro finance) program
DIRA is still working to see what has to be changed or added to make SACCOS work properly. We told them that few days ago met a visiting Professor of Software from US who is now teaching at Tumaini University-Iringa for Six months who will also work at DIRA for SACCOS.
They asked if the Institute of Ag will only teach about Corn and beans only.
We told we will only demonstrate corn and beans for them, but if they have any question regarding other crops they should not hesitate to ask, so they asked a lot of question about Potatoes.
Conclusions/Recommendations
We emphasized the importance of following instruction because the success of the program depends upon them following what we instructed. They promised to follow all the instructions.
Kilolo - CVP Report Jan 22-2010
2008 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th visit Year Two
January 22, 2010
Village Kilolo
Pastor Yona Kinganga
Companion King of Kings, Woodbury
Attendees 14
Weather for the past month Dry for a week now
Reporters Gabriel, Alfred
We met Pastor and other members of the congregation working in the corn plot. We went around looking at the plot then we started the meeting and demonstrations.
Purpose of the visit
• Bean planting and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Bean seeds, fertilizers and Pesticides delivery
Topics
1. Corn plot and Rain records
Corn Seed variety planted H 6303
Planting date November 27, 2009
Replanting date December 12, 2009
First weeding November 01, 2010
Pests/Diseases Nil
We checked the rain records in the box file. The records have been written down as instructed.
2. Review of Handouts
o Bean seeds and fertilizer delivered information was added in the Fertilizer need template in the box file of the congregation
o 4th visit handout was reviewed
3. Demonstrations
I. Beans
It was demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm) and intra row spacing (10cm). String was used to make trench and in the trench bean seeds were placed 10cm apart. Fertilizer was placed 5cm from the seeds. Both seeds and fertilizer were covered.
II. Corn
It was demonstrated how to make second application of fertilizer in the corn. Two holes were made 5cm from the plant and fertilizer was put then covered. We told them to do this when the plants are knee high.
III. Pesticides
It was demonstrated how mix the pesticide “Thionex” which is used to control crop damaging insects.
4. Fertilizers, bean seed and pesticides delivery
The congregation was given 2 bags of NPK for bean and 2 bags of CAN for corn. The bean seed variety delivered is known as “Urafiki” (30kg). We also gave them 1 bottle of Thionex pesticide.
Comments/questions from audience
They asked why they apply fertilizer when the plants reach at knee high instead of applying at the time of tasseling?
I told them that the fertilizer we apply when the plant is knee high is usually nitrogenous fertilizer which supplies nitrogen into the plant. We apply at this stage because at this stage the plant needs nitrogen to have healthy growth and high yield.
What is suitable time to put fertilizers in the soil, at the time of heavy rainfall or at the time when rain stops for a while?
I told them to apply fertilizers when the plants reach knee high as it has been instructed. They should not wait until the rain stops. Fertilizer applied at the time of normal rains works fine, however, heavy rainfall can sometimes cause leaching or soil erosion which can erode fertilizer.
Those who did not use fertilizer at the time of sawing seeds, at what time are they suppose to apply fertilizer (CAN)?
I told them they should apply fertilizer at the time when plant reaches knee high.
Conclusions/Recommendations
The Pastor of this congregation works really hard. The records have been kept very well, the instructions have been properly followed and the plots are well taken care of. According to his congregation members, he really works as an extension officer. He goes to other people farms and instructs them what to do. We visited the corn plots, the spacing has been correctly made and plants look nice. I believe we are going to have the best demonstration plots in this congregation. Pastor said not only members of the church but also people who are not members of that church have begun to adopt the techniques. Those who practice these techniques have realized that they can save money in tillage and increase yields. At the end of the meeting I asked them a few review questions.
NB:
• 1 bag of NPK is 50kg and 1 bag of CAN is 50kg
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th visit Year Two
January 22, 2010
Village Kilolo
Pastor Yona Kinganga
Companion King of Kings, Woodbury
Attendees 14
Weather for the past month Dry for a week now
Reporters Gabriel, Alfred
We met Pastor and other members of the congregation working in the corn plot. We went around looking at the plot then we started the meeting and demonstrations.
Purpose of the visit
• Bean planting and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Bean seeds, fertilizers and Pesticides delivery
Topics
1. Corn plot and Rain records
Corn Seed variety planted H 6303
Planting date November 27, 2009
Replanting date December 12, 2009
First weeding November 01, 2010
Pests/Diseases Nil
We checked the rain records in the box file. The records have been written down as instructed.
2. Review of Handouts
o Bean seeds and fertilizer delivered information was added in the Fertilizer need template in the box file of the congregation
o 4th visit handout was reviewed
3. Demonstrations
I. Beans
It was demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm) and intra row spacing (10cm). String was used to make trench and in the trench bean seeds were placed 10cm apart. Fertilizer was placed 5cm from the seeds. Both seeds and fertilizer were covered.
II. Corn
It was demonstrated how to make second application of fertilizer in the corn. Two holes were made 5cm from the plant and fertilizer was put then covered. We told them to do this when the plants are knee high.
III. Pesticides
It was demonstrated how mix the pesticide “Thionex” which is used to control crop damaging insects.
4. Fertilizers, bean seed and pesticides delivery
The congregation was given 2 bags of NPK for bean and 2 bags of CAN for corn. The bean seed variety delivered is known as “Urafiki” (30kg). We also gave them 1 bottle of Thionex pesticide.
Comments/questions from audience
They asked why they apply fertilizer when the plants reach at knee high instead of applying at the time of tasseling?
I told them that the fertilizer we apply when the plant is knee high is usually nitrogenous fertilizer which supplies nitrogen into the plant. We apply at this stage because at this stage the plant needs nitrogen to have healthy growth and high yield.
What is suitable time to put fertilizers in the soil, at the time of heavy rainfall or at the time when rain stops for a while?
I told them to apply fertilizers when the plants reach knee high as it has been instructed. They should not wait until the rain stops. Fertilizer applied at the time of normal rains works fine, however, heavy rainfall can sometimes cause leaching or soil erosion which can erode fertilizer.
Those who did not use fertilizer at the time of sawing seeds, at what time are they suppose to apply fertilizer (CAN)?
I told them they should apply fertilizer at the time when plant reaches knee high.
Conclusions/Recommendations
The Pastor of this congregation works really hard. The records have been kept very well, the instructions have been properly followed and the plots are well taken care of. According to his congregation members, he really works as an extension officer. He goes to other people farms and instructs them what to do. We visited the corn plots, the spacing has been correctly made and plants look nice. I believe we are going to have the best demonstration plots in this congregation. Pastor said not only members of the church but also people who are not members of that church have begun to adopt the techniques. Those who practice these techniques have realized that they can save money in tillage and increase yields. At the end of the meeting I asked them a few review questions.
NB:
• 1 bag of NPK is 50kg and 1 bag of CAN is 50kg
Bomalang'ombe Secondary School - CVP Report Jan 15-2010
2009 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4rd visit Year One
January 21, 2010
School Bomalang’ombe Secondary School
Headmaster Michael Mkinga
Companion Trinity Lutheran, Stillwater
Attendees Headmaster, Ass. Headmaster, Teacher on duty and About 100 students
Reporter Gabriel Malima
We met the Head master in his office. Students were taking tea break. After the break we started a meeting with about 100 students and three teachers.
Purpose of the visit
• Bean planting and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Bean seeds, fertilizer and pesticide delivery
Topics
1. Plot and rain records
We could not check these records because the teacher responsible for keeping the box file was not present. We told them we would like to see the file in every visit we are making; hence they should make sure they have it in our next visit.
2. Review of Handouts
o 4th visit handout was reviewed
3. Demonstrations
These demonstrations were carried out in the corn plot before the students and teachers.
I. Beans
It was demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm) and intra row spacing (10cm). String was used to make trench and in the trench bean seeds were placed 10cm apart. Fertilizer was placed 5cm from the seeds. Both seed and fertilizer were covered.
II. Corn
It was demonstrated how to do second application of fertilizer in the corn. Two holes were made 5cm from the plant and fertilizer was put then covered. We told them to do this when the plants are knee high.
III. Pesticides
We instructed them how to use Thionex for controlling plant damaging insects.
4. Fertilizers bean seeds and pesticides
We deliver 4 bags of NPK for bean plot and 3 bags of Urea for corn. The bean seed variety delivered is “Uyole 96” (60kg) . We left one bottle of Thionex pesticide and small sprayer.
Comments/questions from audience
Most of the corn seeds they planted did not germinate, what was the problem?
I told them successfully germination requires 3 things
1) Healthy seeds (which I am sure we delivered)
2) Moisture
3) Oxygen
I asked them what the weather was like at the time they planted, they said after planted the rain stopped for about two weeks. I told them insufficient moisture is likely to cause that problem. However according to the instructions we gave them in our last visit they were suppose to replant within one week after the beginning of germination. They said they did that but the germination was poor again!
In case of the failed germinated, should they use fertilizer again when replanting seeds?
No, since the fertilizer of the first application is still in the soil, they do not have to use fertilizer again.
Last year the beans matured too early and hence they were rotten due to continuous rainfall, how are they going to solve that problem this year?
I told they this year we are going to give them a bean seed variety which is suitable to their area. Moreover it has been purchased in a trusted source. We believe it will tolerate their weather.
How are they going to deal with the armyworms breakout? They said they have just heard that there have been armyworms outbreaks in nearby villages.
I told them that in case of an armyworms breakout or any other incidence of pests, the important thing is to control in early stage before there is severe damage. We are going to give them pesticide “Thionex”. They should spray to their plots.
At the time of the maturity, they sometimes face the problem of coldness/chilling and this can damage crops, is there any type of chemical they can spray to the plants to prevent damage?
I told them the only way to prevent damage to the crops is to plant varieties which are tolerant to that kind of weather. We have tried to deliver the corn seeds and bean seeds of the varieties which are tolerant to their weather.
Conclusions/Recommendations
I visited their corn plot, it does not look nice. In most parts of the farm seeds did not germinate. Those which germinated are now tall plants; they are nearly reaching knee high. I asked the teacher if they replanted as we instructed them, he said they did, but germination was poor for the second time. I saw the signs of the replanting in the places where there was no germination. Moreover I noticed in some part of the plot that the spacing was a little bit wider than what we instructed them. I told them this will significantly reduce the yields. I insisted the importance of following our instructions. I told them we now expect better job in the bean plot. Headmaster said he will supervise himself to insure that. I told the students that what we are doing is teaching them modern farming techniques because we believe they can carry the knowledge back to their homes. They should work hard and do things correctly without supervision.
NB:
• 1 bag of NPK is 50kg and 1 bag of Urea is 50kg
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4rd visit Year One
January 21, 2010
School Bomalang’ombe Secondary School
Headmaster Michael Mkinga
Companion Trinity Lutheran, Stillwater
Attendees Headmaster, Ass. Headmaster, Teacher on duty and About 100 students
Reporter Gabriel Malima
We met the Head master in his office. Students were taking tea break. After the break we started a meeting with about 100 students and three teachers.
Purpose of the visit
• Bean planting and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Bean seeds, fertilizer and pesticide delivery
Topics
1. Plot and rain records
We could not check these records because the teacher responsible for keeping the box file was not present. We told them we would like to see the file in every visit we are making; hence they should make sure they have it in our next visit.
2. Review of Handouts
o 4th visit handout was reviewed
3. Demonstrations
These demonstrations were carried out in the corn plot before the students and teachers.
I. Beans
It was demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm) and intra row spacing (10cm). String was used to make trench and in the trench bean seeds were placed 10cm apart. Fertilizer was placed 5cm from the seeds. Both seed and fertilizer were covered.
II. Corn
It was demonstrated how to do second application of fertilizer in the corn. Two holes were made 5cm from the plant and fertilizer was put then covered. We told them to do this when the plants are knee high.
III. Pesticides
We instructed them how to use Thionex for controlling plant damaging insects.
4. Fertilizers bean seeds and pesticides
We deliver 4 bags of NPK for bean plot and 3 bags of Urea for corn. The bean seed variety delivered is “Uyole 96” (60kg) . We left one bottle of Thionex pesticide and small sprayer.
Comments/questions from audience
Most of the corn seeds they planted did not germinate, what was the problem?
I told them successfully germination requires 3 things
1) Healthy seeds (which I am sure we delivered)
2) Moisture
3) Oxygen
I asked them what the weather was like at the time they planted, they said after planted the rain stopped for about two weeks. I told them insufficient moisture is likely to cause that problem. However according to the instructions we gave them in our last visit they were suppose to replant within one week after the beginning of germination. They said they did that but the germination was poor again!
In case of the failed germinated, should they use fertilizer again when replanting seeds?
No, since the fertilizer of the first application is still in the soil, they do not have to use fertilizer again.
Last year the beans matured too early and hence they were rotten due to continuous rainfall, how are they going to solve that problem this year?
I told they this year we are going to give them a bean seed variety which is suitable to their area. Moreover it has been purchased in a trusted source. We believe it will tolerate their weather.
How are they going to deal with the armyworms breakout? They said they have just heard that there have been armyworms outbreaks in nearby villages.
I told them that in case of an armyworms breakout or any other incidence of pests, the important thing is to control in early stage before there is severe damage. We are going to give them pesticide “Thionex”. They should spray to their plots.
At the time of the maturity, they sometimes face the problem of coldness/chilling and this can damage crops, is there any type of chemical they can spray to the plants to prevent damage?
I told them the only way to prevent damage to the crops is to plant varieties which are tolerant to that kind of weather. We have tried to deliver the corn seeds and bean seeds of the varieties which are tolerant to their weather.
Conclusions/Recommendations
I visited their corn plot, it does not look nice. In most parts of the farm seeds did not germinate. Those which germinated are now tall plants; they are nearly reaching knee high. I asked the teacher if they replanted as we instructed them, he said they did, but germination was poor for the second time. I saw the signs of the replanting in the places where there was no germination. Moreover I noticed in some part of the plot that the spacing was a little bit wider than what we instructed them. I told them this will significantly reduce the yields. I insisted the importance of following our instructions. I told them we now expect better job in the bean plot. Headmaster said he will supervise himself to insure that. I told the students that what we are doing is teaching them modern farming techniques because we believe they can carry the knowledge back to their homes. They should work hard and do things correctly without supervision.
NB:
• 1 bag of NPK is 50kg and 1 bag of Urea is 50kg
Kidabaga - CVP Report Jan 21-2010
2008 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th visit Year Two
January 21, 2010
Village Kidabaga
Pastor Joyce Ngandango
Companion Faith, Forest Lake
Attendees 12 (2 men, 10 Women)
Weather for the past month Rainy
Elevation 1931m
Reporter Gabriel, Roger
It was raining heavily as we arrived. We started a meeting with 4 people then the group kept on increasing slowly as the rain decreasing.
Purpose of the visit
• Bean planting and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Bean seeds, fertilizers and Pesticides delivery
Topics
1. Corn plot and Rain records
Corn Seed variety planted H 614
Planting date Kidabaga plot: November 25,2009
Ilamba plot: December 16, 2009
Replanting date Nil
First weeding January 06, 2010
Pests/Diseases Rodents
The rain records are well kept as instructed.
2. Review of Handouts
o Bean seeds and fertilizer information was added in the Fertilizer need template in the box file of the congregation
o 4th visit handout was reviewed
3. Demonstrations
I. Beans
It was demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm) and intra row spacing (10cm). String was used to make trench and in the trench bean seeds were placed 10cm apart. Fertilizer was placed 5cm from the seeds. Both seeds and fertilizer were covered.
II. Corn
It was demonstrated how to make second application of fertilizer in the corn. Two holes were made 5cm from the plant and fertilizer was put then covered. We told them to do this when the plants are knee high.
III. Pesticides
It was demonstrated how mix the pesticide “Thionex” which is used to control crop damaging insects.
4. Fertilizers, bean seed and pesticides delivery
The congregation was given 2 bags of NPK for bean and 2 bags of CAN for corn. The bean seed variety delivered is “Urafiki” (30kg). We also gave them 1 bottle of Thionex pesticide.
Comments/questions from audience
They have rodents’ problem in their plots, it’s the farm is isolated from others and surrounded by bushes.
We told them they should try to clear the nearby bushes, also they should do monthly weeding as instructed. If the problem persists we will find pesticides to control the rodents
They heard that beans add nitrogen in the soil, why do we tell them to apply fertilizer?
I told them its true beans helps in nitrogen fixation however fertilizers are required to supply nitrogen and other nutrients which are needed by the bean plants to grow in earlier stage of the plants growth. Moreover we are applying fertilizers in the plots to build up the soil fertility of the particular land. The soil analysis indicates that some nutrients are missing; fertilizers put them back into the soil.
The Pastor asked us to go on Sunday for the demonstration meeting because in the Sunday services almost all members do attend.
We told her that according to the University rules we cannot work on Sundays. Moreover we have many demonstration plots, if we use the Sundays only we won’t be able to visit all of these plots.
Conclusions/Recommendations
Pastor asked us to hold the next demonstration to the site of the plot. We told her we shall plan our next demonstration to that place. I asked them few questions as the review of what we have been demonstrating to them up to now. I asked them how many have started to use these techniques in their farms, they said they have not started yet but they will do in their bean farms. I told them even the simple techniques like not burning the crop residues and minimum tillage will increase yields and save them money and time. We could not visit the plots, they are far from the church and it was raining. We shall pay a visit in our next meeting.
NB:
• 1 bag of NPK is 50kg and 1 bag of CAN is 50kg
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th visit Year Two
January 21, 2010
Village Kidabaga
Pastor Joyce Ngandango
Companion Faith, Forest Lake
Attendees 12 (2 men, 10 Women)
Weather for the past month Rainy
Elevation 1931m
Reporter Gabriel, Roger
It was raining heavily as we arrived. We started a meeting with 4 people then the group kept on increasing slowly as the rain decreasing.
Purpose of the visit
• Bean planting and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Bean seeds, fertilizers and Pesticides delivery
Topics
1. Corn plot and Rain records
Corn Seed variety planted H 614
Planting date Kidabaga plot: November 25,2009
Ilamba plot: December 16, 2009
Replanting date Nil
First weeding January 06, 2010
Pests/Diseases Rodents
The rain records are well kept as instructed.
2. Review of Handouts
o Bean seeds and fertilizer information was added in the Fertilizer need template in the box file of the congregation
o 4th visit handout was reviewed
3. Demonstrations
I. Beans
It was demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm) and intra row spacing (10cm). String was used to make trench and in the trench bean seeds were placed 10cm apart. Fertilizer was placed 5cm from the seeds. Both seeds and fertilizer were covered.
II. Corn
It was demonstrated how to make second application of fertilizer in the corn. Two holes were made 5cm from the plant and fertilizer was put then covered. We told them to do this when the plants are knee high.
III. Pesticides
It was demonstrated how mix the pesticide “Thionex” which is used to control crop damaging insects.
4. Fertilizers, bean seed and pesticides delivery
The congregation was given 2 bags of NPK for bean and 2 bags of CAN for corn. The bean seed variety delivered is “Urafiki” (30kg). We also gave them 1 bottle of Thionex pesticide.
Comments/questions from audience
They have rodents’ problem in their plots, it’s the farm is isolated from others and surrounded by bushes.
We told them they should try to clear the nearby bushes, also they should do monthly weeding as instructed. If the problem persists we will find pesticides to control the rodents
They heard that beans add nitrogen in the soil, why do we tell them to apply fertilizer?
I told them its true beans helps in nitrogen fixation however fertilizers are required to supply nitrogen and other nutrients which are needed by the bean plants to grow in earlier stage of the plants growth. Moreover we are applying fertilizers in the plots to build up the soil fertility of the particular land. The soil analysis indicates that some nutrients are missing; fertilizers put them back into the soil.
The Pastor asked us to go on Sunday for the demonstration meeting because in the Sunday services almost all members do attend.
We told her that according to the University rules we cannot work on Sundays. Moreover we have many demonstration plots, if we use the Sundays only we won’t be able to visit all of these plots.
Conclusions/Recommendations
Pastor asked us to hold the next demonstration to the site of the plot. We told her we shall plan our next demonstration to that place. I asked them few questions as the review of what we have been demonstrating to them up to now. I asked them how many have started to use these techniques in their farms, they said they have not started yet but they will do in their bean farms. I told them even the simple techniques like not burning the crop residues and minimum tillage will increase yields and save them money and time. We could not visit the plots, they are far from the church and it was raining. We shall pay a visit in our next meeting.
NB:
• 1 bag of NPK is 50kg and 1 bag of CAN is 50kg
Mwatasi
2008 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th visit Year Two
January 20, 2010
Village Mwatasi
Pastor Elias Kadinda
Companion Trinity, Stillwater
Attendees 18
Weather for the past month Rainy then Dry for couple of days
Reporters Gabriel, Alfred
Is this visit we were accompanied by the District Pastor of this area Rev. Inubi Sanga. He asked us to take him so that he may participate in the demonstration and learn more about the project.
Purpose of the visit
• Bean planting and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Bean seeds, fertilizers and Pesticides delivery
Topics
1. Corn plot and Rain records
Corn Seed variety planted H 614
Planting date November 18, 2009
Replanting date November 27, 2009
First weeding January 08, 2010
Pests/Diseases Rodents, Armyworms
We checked the rain records in the box file. The records have been written down as it was instructed
2. Review of Handouts
o Bean seeds and fertilizer information was added in the Fertilizer need template in the box file of the congregation
o 4th visit handout was reviewed
3. Demonstrations
I. Beans
It was demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm) and intra row spacing (10cm). String was used to make trench and in the trench bean seeds were placed 10cm apart. Fertilizer was placed 5cm from the seeds. Both seeds and fertilizer were covered.
II. Corn
It was demonstrated how to make second application of fertilizer in the corn. Two holes were made 5cm from the plant and fertilizer was put then covered. We told them to do this when the plants are knee high.
III. Pesticides
Pastor told us that they bought pesticides (Thionex) by their own and applied to the field to control the cutworm. We gave them a bottle of Thionex to add to what the already have.
4. Fertilizers, bean seed and pesticides delivery
The congregation was given 2 bags of NPK for bean and 2 bags of CAN for corn. The bean seed variety delivered is known as “Uyole 96” (30kg). We also gave them 1 bottle of Thionex pesticide.
Comments/questions from audience
Pastor told us there was a rodent problem at the time of replanting and most of the seeds planted at this time were eaten by the rodents.
We told them we would like that whenever there is disease or pests’ outbreak they inform us immediately. In case of rodent problem, if they would have told us we could help them to control the rodent. However rodents can be controlled by monthly weeding as we instructed in our first visit.
Pastor said he is thinking of moving the plot a little bit far from nearby the church and neighborhood next year because there are people in that neighborhood who keep hogs and the piglets sneak out of the pig house and destroy crops especially corn
We told him the reason we want the plots to be near by the church is that we want them to be easily accessible with all members when they attend Sunday services. We told him to do all he can to control the piglets problem by talking with the owners because we love to see that plot in it’s the same location next year.
The district Pastor insisted on the importance of practicing what they learn from the demonstration plots. He asked his members to use effectively what they learn and apply the techniques to their own farms because this will enable them to get high yields.
Conclusions/Recommendations
In the corn plot, the plants look nice. However the failure of replanted seeds to germinate was seen. I told them that this will significantly reduce yields to the plot. I insisted on the importance of following closely our instructions. At the end of the meeting we asked them few questions as a review of our demonstration. Four including Pastor said they have started to use the techniques on their farms. Pastor said he was not aware of most of the techniques before he moved here. However since he has started to use them, he has been able to save time in tillage and the plants look real nice.
NB:
• 1 bag of NPK is 50kg and 1 bag of CAN is 50kg
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th visit Year Two
January 20, 2010
Village Mwatasi
Pastor Elias Kadinda
Companion Trinity, Stillwater
Attendees 18
Weather for the past month Rainy then Dry for couple of days
Reporters Gabriel, Alfred
Is this visit we were accompanied by the District Pastor of this area Rev. Inubi Sanga. He asked us to take him so that he may participate in the demonstration and learn more about the project.
Purpose of the visit
• Bean planting and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Bean seeds, fertilizers and Pesticides delivery
Topics
1. Corn plot and Rain records
Corn Seed variety planted H 614
Planting date November 18, 2009
Replanting date November 27, 2009
First weeding January 08, 2010
Pests/Diseases Rodents, Armyworms
We checked the rain records in the box file. The records have been written down as it was instructed
2. Review of Handouts
o Bean seeds and fertilizer information was added in the Fertilizer need template in the box file of the congregation
o 4th visit handout was reviewed
3. Demonstrations
I. Beans
It was demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm) and intra row spacing (10cm). String was used to make trench and in the trench bean seeds were placed 10cm apart. Fertilizer was placed 5cm from the seeds. Both seeds and fertilizer were covered.
II. Corn
It was demonstrated how to make second application of fertilizer in the corn. Two holes were made 5cm from the plant and fertilizer was put then covered. We told them to do this when the plants are knee high.
III. Pesticides
Pastor told us that they bought pesticides (Thionex) by their own and applied to the field to control the cutworm. We gave them a bottle of Thionex to add to what the already have.
4. Fertilizers, bean seed and pesticides delivery
The congregation was given 2 bags of NPK for bean and 2 bags of CAN for corn. The bean seed variety delivered is known as “Uyole 96” (30kg). We also gave them 1 bottle of Thionex pesticide.
Comments/questions from audience
Pastor told us there was a rodent problem at the time of replanting and most of the seeds planted at this time were eaten by the rodents.
We told them we would like that whenever there is disease or pests’ outbreak they inform us immediately. In case of rodent problem, if they would have told us we could help them to control the rodent. However rodents can be controlled by monthly weeding as we instructed in our first visit.
Pastor said he is thinking of moving the plot a little bit far from nearby the church and neighborhood next year because there are people in that neighborhood who keep hogs and the piglets sneak out of the pig house and destroy crops especially corn
We told him the reason we want the plots to be near by the church is that we want them to be easily accessible with all members when they attend Sunday services. We told him to do all he can to control the piglets problem by talking with the owners because we love to see that plot in it’s the same location next year.
The district Pastor insisted on the importance of practicing what they learn from the demonstration plots. He asked his members to use effectively what they learn and apply the techniques to their own farms because this will enable them to get high yields.
Conclusions/Recommendations
In the corn plot, the plants look nice. However the failure of replanted seeds to germinate was seen. I told them that this will significantly reduce yields to the plot. I insisted on the importance of following closely our instructions. At the end of the meeting we asked them few questions as a review of our demonstration. Four including Pastor said they have started to use the techniques on their farms. Pastor said he was not aware of most of the techniques before he moved here. However since he has started to use them, he has been able to save time in tillage and the plants look real nice.
NB:
• 1 bag of NPK is 50kg and 1 bag of CAN is 50kg
Magulilwa - CVP Report Jan 20-2010
2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th Visit Year One
January 20, 2010
Village Magulilwa
Pastor Tulla Lukosi and Assistant Pastor Barton Wikedzi
Companion Amazing Grace
Attendees 7
Weather for the past month Rainy
Reporters Ibrahim and Roger
Purpose of the visit
• Planting bean and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Demonstration on second fertilizers application in corn
• Deliver fertilizer bags, Bean seeds, bottle spray, and insecticides
Topics
1. Greetings
Roger gave greetings from Amazing Grace, Saint Paul Area Synod and US Ag Advisory Committee
2. Went through the handouts
o 4th Visit handout
o Quiz handout
o Rain record sheets.
3. Demonstrations
We demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm). Using a string and a hand hoe it was demonstrated how to make a trench for planting the bean seeds. One seed was placed after every 10 cm. It was demonstrated how to place one full bottle cap of fertilizer between 2 seeds i.e. Seed-seed-fertilizer-seed-seed-fertilizer etc.
4. Fertilizer and seed delivery
According to the analysis of the soil of this area, the type of fertilizer recommended was NPK (10-18-24) for bean seed planting. The congregation was given 2 NPK bags and 30 Kg of bean seeds, variety of bean seeds delivered is URAFIKI. We also delivered 2 bags (50 Kg) of CAN for second fertilizer application to corn field.
Comments
They planted corn on December 17th, 2009 and some portion was planted on December 30th, 2009. We were able to see a significantly difference by looking corn in the field. So we explained the importance of planting at proper time.
After observing the bean seed we delivered, they were happy to see the seeds were in the good condition as compared to the local seeds they have been using.
Two people have already started practiced some of the techniques taught and have an experience of seeing benefits such as zero tillage saved the money used to hire oxen to cultivate, spacing and planting in rows makes it easy to weed and apply insecticides.
Questions from audience and answers
They asked when they should plant their beans seeds.
We recommend planting the end of January, so after this training they should arrange dates to come and plant their plot.
They asked the amount and type of fertilizers that is recommended for them.
We told them it is 4 bags of NPK and 4 bags of CAN (second fertilizer application at knee high) for a spacing of 60 cm by 20 cm and if they can only afford to buy lesser amounts of fertilizer they can plant with the spacing of 60 cm by 30 cm or 40 cm.
When should they apply insecticides to their crops?
Whenever, they see some damage in their field.
Amount of rainfall required from planting corn to harvest?
About 1500 mm, (Blanket recommended amount) but since we gave them rain gauge they should make sure they record properly so that we will see the specific amount for Magulilwa is required.
Conclusions/Recommendations
We emphasized the importance of following instruction because the success of the program depends upon them following what we instructed. They promised to follow all the instructions.
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th Visit Year One
January 20, 2010
Village Magulilwa
Pastor Tulla Lukosi and Assistant Pastor Barton Wikedzi
Companion Amazing Grace
Attendees 7
Weather for the past month Rainy
Reporters Ibrahim and Roger
Purpose of the visit
• Planting bean and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Demonstration on second fertilizers application in corn
• Deliver fertilizer bags, Bean seeds, bottle spray, and insecticides
Topics
1. Greetings
Roger gave greetings from Amazing Grace, Saint Paul Area Synod and US Ag Advisory Committee
2. Went through the handouts
o 4th Visit handout
o Quiz handout
o Rain record sheets.
3. Demonstrations
We demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm). Using a string and a hand hoe it was demonstrated how to make a trench for planting the bean seeds. One seed was placed after every 10 cm. It was demonstrated how to place one full bottle cap of fertilizer between 2 seeds i.e. Seed-seed-fertilizer-seed-seed-fertilizer etc.
4. Fertilizer and seed delivery
According to the analysis of the soil of this area, the type of fertilizer recommended was NPK (10-18-24) for bean seed planting. The congregation was given 2 NPK bags and 30 Kg of bean seeds, variety of bean seeds delivered is URAFIKI. We also delivered 2 bags (50 Kg) of CAN for second fertilizer application to corn field.
Comments
They planted corn on December 17th, 2009 and some portion was planted on December 30th, 2009. We were able to see a significantly difference by looking corn in the field. So we explained the importance of planting at proper time.
After observing the bean seed we delivered, they were happy to see the seeds were in the good condition as compared to the local seeds they have been using.
Two people have already started practiced some of the techniques taught and have an experience of seeing benefits such as zero tillage saved the money used to hire oxen to cultivate, spacing and planting in rows makes it easy to weed and apply insecticides.
Questions from audience and answers
They asked when they should plant their beans seeds.
We recommend planting the end of January, so after this training they should arrange dates to come and plant their plot.
They asked the amount and type of fertilizers that is recommended for them.
We told them it is 4 bags of NPK and 4 bags of CAN (second fertilizer application at knee high) for a spacing of 60 cm by 20 cm and if they can only afford to buy lesser amounts of fertilizer they can plant with the spacing of 60 cm by 30 cm or 40 cm.
When should they apply insecticides to their crops?
Whenever, they see some damage in their field.
Amount of rainfall required from planting corn to harvest?
About 1500 mm, (Blanket recommended amount) but since we gave them rain gauge they should make sure they record properly so that we will see the specific amount for Magulilwa is required.
Conclusions/Recommendations
We emphasized the importance of following instruction because the success of the program depends upon them following what we instructed. They promised to follow all the instructions.
Tungamalenga - CVP Report Jan 19-2010
2009 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th visit Year Two
January 19, 2010
Village Tungamalenga
Pastor Naftali Nga’amilo
Companion Shepherd of the Valley, Apple Valley
Attendees 10
Weather for the past month Dry for about a week
Reporters Gabriel, Alfred
Soon after we arrived Pastor took us to the paddy plot of the congregation where members were working (transplanting) which is about 1.5 km from the church. They told us that they have bought improved seeds of rice and they are transplanting in accordance with the spacing recommendations from their local extension officer who also happened to be there. We gathered under the nearby tree and the meeting started.
Purpose of the visit
• Bean planting and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Bean seeds, fertilizer and pesticides delivery
Topics
1. Corn plot and rain records
Corn Seed variety planted DK 8031
Planting date January 3-5, 2010
Replanting date Nil
Pests/Diseases Nil
The rain records could not be accessible because the demonstration took place in the field and the box file was in the office.
2. Review of Handouts
o 4th visit handout was reviewed
3. Demonstrations
All the demonstrations took place near by their paddy farm where the crowd was.
I. Beans
It was demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm) and intra row spacing (10cm). String was used to make trench and in the trench bean seeds were placed 10cm from each. Fertilizer was placed 5cm from the seeds. Both seed and fertilizer were covered.
II. Corn
It was demonstrated how to make second application of fertilizer in the corn. Two holes were made 5cm from the plant and fertilizer was put then covered. We told them to do this when the plants are at knee high.
III. Pesticides
We instructed them how to use pesticides called Thionex for controlling plant damaging insects.
4. Fertilizers bean seeds and pesticides
We deliver 2 bags of NPK for bean and 2 bags of CAN for corn. The bean seed variety delivered is known as “Wanja” (40kg). The variety is drought resistant. We left one bottle of Thionex pesticides.
Comments/questions from audience
They asked why the spacing of beans changed from 50cm by 9cm of last year to 30cm by 10 cm which we recommend this year
We told them the spacing has been changed because we aim to get more plants per area.
They asked us why are we not writing a book of agricultural techniques we are teaching them that they may use when the project ends in the 4th year
We told them the techniques are found on the handouts we give them during our every meeting. They must attend all the meetings during our visits to get the handouts and they must keep them so that they can use them on their own and in the 4th year.
Conclusions/Recommendations
I told them their companion congregation sponsors ½ acre of corn and ½ acre of beans and our demonstrations base on the corn and beans. They said they have ½ acre of paddy rice which they are going to support by themselves. I insisted that all the fertilizers delivered should be used in the corn and beans plot, they should not take some and use in their paddy farm. After our meeting we went with the Pastor to their corn plot. It looks nice and the plants are about to reach the knee height. After the meeting I asked them few reviewing questions of our demonstrations.
NB:
• 1 bag of NPK is 50kg and 1 bag of CAN is 50kg
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th visit Year Two
January 19, 2010
Village Tungamalenga
Pastor Naftali Nga’amilo
Companion Shepherd of the Valley, Apple Valley
Attendees 10
Weather for the past month Dry for about a week
Reporters Gabriel, Alfred
Soon after we arrived Pastor took us to the paddy plot of the congregation where members were working (transplanting) which is about 1.5 km from the church. They told us that they have bought improved seeds of rice and they are transplanting in accordance with the spacing recommendations from their local extension officer who also happened to be there. We gathered under the nearby tree and the meeting started.
Purpose of the visit
• Bean planting and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Bean seeds, fertilizer and pesticides delivery
Topics
1. Corn plot and rain records
Corn Seed variety planted DK 8031
Planting date January 3-5, 2010
Replanting date Nil
Pests/Diseases Nil
The rain records could not be accessible because the demonstration took place in the field and the box file was in the office.
2. Review of Handouts
o 4th visit handout was reviewed
3. Demonstrations
All the demonstrations took place near by their paddy farm where the crowd was.
I. Beans
It was demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm) and intra row spacing (10cm). String was used to make trench and in the trench bean seeds were placed 10cm from each. Fertilizer was placed 5cm from the seeds. Both seed and fertilizer were covered.
II. Corn
It was demonstrated how to make second application of fertilizer in the corn. Two holes were made 5cm from the plant and fertilizer was put then covered. We told them to do this when the plants are at knee high.
III. Pesticides
We instructed them how to use pesticides called Thionex for controlling plant damaging insects.
4. Fertilizers bean seeds and pesticides
We deliver 2 bags of NPK for bean and 2 bags of CAN for corn. The bean seed variety delivered is known as “Wanja” (40kg). The variety is drought resistant. We left one bottle of Thionex pesticides.
Comments/questions from audience
They asked why the spacing of beans changed from 50cm by 9cm of last year to 30cm by 10 cm which we recommend this year
We told them the spacing has been changed because we aim to get more plants per area.
They asked us why are we not writing a book of agricultural techniques we are teaching them that they may use when the project ends in the 4th year
We told them the techniques are found on the handouts we give them during our every meeting. They must attend all the meetings during our visits to get the handouts and they must keep them so that they can use them on their own and in the 4th year.
Conclusions/Recommendations
I told them their companion congregation sponsors ½ acre of corn and ½ acre of beans and our demonstrations base on the corn and beans. They said they have ½ acre of paddy rice which they are going to support by themselves. I insisted that all the fertilizers delivered should be used in the corn and beans plot, they should not take some and use in their paddy farm. After our meeting we went with the Pastor to their corn plot. It looks nice and the plants are about to reach the knee height. After the meeting I asked them few reviewing questions of our demonstrations.
NB:
• 1 bag of NPK is 50kg and 1 bag of CAN is 50kg
Mkimbizi - CVP Report Jan 18-2010
2009 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th visit Year One
January 18, 2010
Village Mkimbizi
Pastor Ambrosi Mwakikoti,
Martin Haulle, Assistant Pastor
Companion Immanuel Lutheran, Saint Paul
Attendees 12 (5 Men, 7 Women)
Weather for the past month Rainy for one month and dry for the past couple of days
Reporters Gabriel, Alfred
This is a parish which is within Iringa municipality. When we arrived there we met two pastors, one evangelist and one lady. We had to wait for a while because we were told members from their preaching point which is somehow out of the municipality are coming. Later on three ladies arrived. As we started the meeting the audience kept on increasing.
Purpose of the visit
• Bean planting and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Bean seeds, fertilizer and pesticides delivery
Topics
1. Corn plot and Rain Records
Corn Seed variety planted Pioneer
Planting date December 17, 18, 2009
Replanting date Nil
First weeding January 13, 15 and 18, 2010
Pests/Diseases Nil
We checked the rain records in the box file. They have been recording as we instructed however the rain gauge sheets were not yet in the box file. We told Pastors that they should put the sheets in the box file.
2. Review of Handouts
o Bean seeds and fertilizer delivered information was added in the Fertilizer need template in the box file of the congregation
o 4th visit handout was reviewed
3. Demonstrations
I. Beans
It was demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm) and intra row spacing (10cm). String was used to make trench and in the trench bean seeds were placed 10cm apart. Fertilizer was placed 5cm from the seeds. Both seed and fertilizer were covered.
II. Corn
It was demonstrated how to make second application of fertilizer in the corn. Two holes were made 5cm from the plant and fertilizer was put then covered. We told them to do this when the plants are knee high.
III. Pesticides
We instructed them how to use pesticide called Thionex for controlling plant damaging insects.
4. Fertilizers bean seeds and pesticides
The congregation was given 2 bags of NPK for bean and 2 bags of CAN for corn. The bean seed variety delivered is known as “Uyole 96” (40kg). The variety is suitable for low altitude areas. We left one bottle of Thionex pesticides in case of damaging insects’ outbreak.
Comments/questions from audience
They asked if the pesticide (Thionex) we gave them can be used in both corn and beans.
We told them Thionex can be used in both corn and beans.
Once they have harvested the beans, should they use some of the beans as seeds?
We told them it is important to buy seeds at the beginning of every farming season. Using the beans which they harvest as seeds will not give them good yields like the improved seeds which are sold in the shops and research centers.
One lady asked what she should do to produce improved seeds with the same quality like those sold in the shops and research centers.
It is very difficult to produce improve seeds with the same quality as those sold in the shops and research centers because that requires breeding knowledge and techniques. Moreover unless one is producing seeds as a business enterprise it is time consuming and more expensive than buying the seeds from the shops and research centers.
Conclusions/Recommendations
We told them they should weed their bean plot as soon as possible. We told them if they had been following our instructions about monthly weeding even if there no crops in the farm they would have easy weeding work now. In the meeting, I asked them a few questions as a review of our teaching. Many seemed to remember what we have been teaching them. I asked them how many have started to practice what they see in the demonstration plot, most of them said they have not but they will adapt them in beans. One lady said she has been farming beans, and this year she will take all the techniques we have taught today. Others said they will buy and use the seeds we have introduced. I told them that they should start to adopt even a few techniques. They said they will plant the seeds we have introduced. We went with few members and pastor to visit their corn plot in the preaching point. It looks nice.
NB:
• 1 bag of NPK is 50kg and 1 bag of CAN is 50kg
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th visit Year One
January 18, 2010
Village Mkimbizi
Pastor Ambrosi Mwakikoti,
Martin Haulle, Assistant Pastor
Companion Immanuel Lutheran, Saint Paul
Attendees 12 (5 Men, 7 Women)
Weather for the past month Rainy for one month and dry for the past couple of days
Reporters Gabriel, Alfred
This is a parish which is within Iringa municipality. When we arrived there we met two pastors, one evangelist and one lady. We had to wait for a while because we were told members from their preaching point which is somehow out of the municipality are coming. Later on three ladies arrived. As we started the meeting the audience kept on increasing.
Purpose of the visit
• Bean planting and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Bean seeds, fertilizer and pesticides delivery
Topics
1. Corn plot and Rain Records
Corn Seed variety planted Pioneer
Planting date December 17, 18, 2009
Replanting date Nil
First weeding January 13, 15 and 18, 2010
Pests/Diseases Nil
We checked the rain records in the box file. They have been recording as we instructed however the rain gauge sheets were not yet in the box file. We told Pastors that they should put the sheets in the box file.
2. Review of Handouts
o Bean seeds and fertilizer delivered information was added in the Fertilizer need template in the box file of the congregation
o 4th visit handout was reviewed
3. Demonstrations
I. Beans
It was demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm) and intra row spacing (10cm). String was used to make trench and in the trench bean seeds were placed 10cm apart. Fertilizer was placed 5cm from the seeds. Both seed and fertilizer were covered.
II. Corn
It was demonstrated how to make second application of fertilizer in the corn. Two holes were made 5cm from the plant and fertilizer was put then covered. We told them to do this when the plants are knee high.
III. Pesticides
We instructed them how to use pesticide called Thionex for controlling plant damaging insects.
4. Fertilizers bean seeds and pesticides
The congregation was given 2 bags of NPK for bean and 2 bags of CAN for corn. The bean seed variety delivered is known as “Uyole 96” (40kg). The variety is suitable for low altitude areas. We left one bottle of Thionex pesticides in case of damaging insects’ outbreak.
Comments/questions from audience
They asked if the pesticide (Thionex) we gave them can be used in both corn and beans.
We told them Thionex can be used in both corn and beans.
Once they have harvested the beans, should they use some of the beans as seeds?
We told them it is important to buy seeds at the beginning of every farming season. Using the beans which they harvest as seeds will not give them good yields like the improved seeds which are sold in the shops and research centers.
One lady asked what she should do to produce improved seeds with the same quality like those sold in the shops and research centers.
It is very difficult to produce improve seeds with the same quality as those sold in the shops and research centers because that requires breeding knowledge and techniques. Moreover unless one is producing seeds as a business enterprise it is time consuming and more expensive than buying the seeds from the shops and research centers.
Conclusions/Recommendations
We told them they should weed their bean plot as soon as possible. We told them if they had been following our instructions about monthly weeding even if there no crops in the farm they would have easy weeding work now. In the meeting, I asked them a few questions as a review of our teaching. Many seemed to remember what we have been teaching them. I asked them how many have started to practice what they see in the demonstration plot, most of them said they have not but they will adapt them in beans. One lady said she has been farming beans, and this year she will take all the techniques we have taught today. Others said they will buy and use the seeds we have introduced. I told them that they should start to adopt even a few techniques. They said they will plant the seeds we have introduced. We went with few members and pastor to visit their corn plot in the preaching point. It looks nice.
NB:
• 1 bag of NPK is 50kg and 1 bag of CAN is 50kg
Ihemi - CVP Report Jan 15-2010
2008 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th visit Year Two
January 15, 2010
Village Ihemi
Pastor Upendo Sanga
District Pastor Askali Mgeyekwa
Companion Christiania, Lakeville
Attendees 17
Weather for the past month Rainy
Reporter Gabriel Malima
Purpose of the visit
• Bean planting and fertilizer application demonstrations
• To deliver bean seeds, fertilizers and Pesticide
Topics
1. Corn plot and Rain records
Corn Seed variety planted H 628
Planting date November 18, 2009
Replanting date December 21, 2009
First weeding January 04, 2010
Pests/Diseases Nil
We checked the rain records in the box file. They have been recording as we instructed in our last visit
2. Review of Handouts
o Bean seeds and fertilizer delivered information was added in the Fertilizer need template in the box file of the congregation.
o 4th visit handout was reviewed
3. Demonstrations
I. Beans
It was demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm) and intra row spacing (10cm). String was used to make trench and in the trench bean seeds were placed 10cm apart. Fertilizer (NPK) was placed 5cm from the seeds. Both seed and fertilizer were covered.
II. Corn
We demonstrated how to make second application of fertilizer in the corn. Two holes were made 5cm from the plant and fertilizer was put then covered. We told them to do this when the plants are knee high.
III. Pesticide
We instructed them how to use Thionex for killing plant damaging insects.
4. Fertilizers, bean seed and pesticides delivery
The congregation was given 2 bags of NPK for bean and 2 bags of CAN for corn. The bean seed variety delivered is known as “Uyole 98” (27kg). We also gave them 1 bottle of Thionex pesticides.
Comments/questions from audience
They asked why sometimes bean leaves change color and become yellowish?
We told them that this may be the sign that the soil lacks a nutrient called Nitrogen. When that happens we usually recommend the application of nitrogenous fertilizers. However, if the yellow leaves occur in some of the plants and is not uniform, this may be a symptom of a plant disease, and control measures should be taken.
They said that last year they planted beans and later on the beans dried out. Within the shoots and roots of the plants they find small black insect. How are they going to solve that problem this year?
We told them that first; that problem will be solved by crop rotation since this year the plot of beans has been planted to corn and last year’s corn plot will be planted beans. Second; the bean variety we have this year should be resistant to that kind of pests. However we told them that if they see the same thing starting to occur in the bean plants they should give us a call. We will visit their plot and find means to control the pests before they spread and affect many plants.
They said they think the bean seed they planted last year was not good for their area because they did not harvest anything.
We told them that they did not harvest because of pests and diseases and insufficient rainfall. However we believe that the seed variety we have given this year will work just fine in their area. We have purchased good seed from Uyole Agricultural Research center. Moreover the crop rotation we have recommended and control of the pests and disease in the early stages will save the plants and they will have good harvest.
Conclusions/Recommendations
We insisted that it is very important to follow the instructions we give them. They should do as we direct them to get good yield in the plot and in their farms as well. In the meeting, I asked them a few questions as a review of our teachings. Some people seem to remember most of what we have been teaching them. We asked them how many have started to adopt the techniques; three of them said they have already adopt the techniques, although they did not use fertilizers because of been expensive, they have observe moisture retaining in their farms and increase in yields.
NB:
• 1 bag of NPK is 50kg and 1 bag of CAN is 50kg
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th visit Year Two
January 15, 2010
Village Ihemi
Pastor Upendo Sanga
District Pastor Askali Mgeyekwa
Companion Christiania, Lakeville
Attendees 17
Weather for the past month Rainy
Reporter Gabriel Malima
Purpose of the visit
• Bean planting and fertilizer application demonstrations
• To deliver bean seeds, fertilizers and Pesticide
Topics
1. Corn plot and Rain records
Corn Seed variety planted H 628
Planting date November 18, 2009
Replanting date December 21, 2009
First weeding January 04, 2010
Pests/Diseases Nil
We checked the rain records in the box file. They have been recording as we instructed in our last visit
2. Review of Handouts
o Bean seeds and fertilizer delivered information was added in the Fertilizer need template in the box file of the congregation.
o 4th visit handout was reviewed
3. Demonstrations
I. Beans
It was demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm) and intra row spacing (10cm). String was used to make trench and in the trench bean seeds were placed 10cm apart. Fertilizer (NPK) was placed 5cm from the seeds. Both seed and fertilizer were covered.
II. Corn
We demonstrated how to make second application of fertilizer in the corn. Two holes were made 5cm from the plant and fertilizer was put then covered. We told them to do this when the plants are knee high.
III. Pesticide
We instructed them how to use Thionex for killing plant damaging insects.
4. Fertilizers, bean seed and pesticides delivery
The congregation was given 2 bags of NPK for bean and 2 bags of CAN for corn. The bean seed variety delivered is known as “Uyole 98” (27kg). We also gave them 1 bottle of Thionex pesticides.
Comments/questions from audience
They asked why sometimes bean leaves change color and become yellowish?
We told them that this may be the sign that the soil lacks a nutrient called Nitrogen. When that happens we usually recommend the application of nitrogenous fertilizers. However, if the yellow leaves occur in some of the plants and is not uniform, this may be a symptom of a plant disease, and control measures should be taken.
They said that last year they planted beans and later on the beans dried out. Within the shoots and roots of the plants they find small black insect. How are they going to solve that problem this year?
We told them that first; that problem will be solved by crop rotation since this year the plot of beans has been planted to corn and last year’s corn plot will be planted beans. Second; the bean variety we have this year should be resistant to that kind of pests. However we told them that if they see the same thing starting to occur in the bean plants they should give us a call. We will visit their plot and find means to control the pests before they spread and affect many plants.
They said they think the bean seed they planted last year was not good for their area because they did not harvest anything.
We told them that they did not harvest because of pests and diseases and insufficient rainfall. However we believe that the seed variety we have given this year will work just fine in their area. We have purchased good seed from Uyole Agricultural Research center. Moreover the crop rotation we have recommended and control of the pests and disease in the early stages will save the plants and they will have good harvest.
Conclusions/Recommendations
We insisted that it is very important to follow the instructions we give them. They should do as we direct them to get good yield in the plot and in their farms as well. In the meeting, I asked them a few questions as a review of our teachings. Some people seem to remember most of what we have been teaching them. We asked them how many have started to adopt the techniques; three of them said they have already adopt the techniques, although they did not use fertilizers because of been expensive, they have observe moisture retaining in their farms and increase in yields.
NB:
• 1 bag of NPK is 50kg and 1 bag of CAN is 50kg
Nyanzwa - CVP Report Jan 15-2010
2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th Visit Year One
January 15, 2010
Village Nyanzwa
Pastor Luhwano Mwafute and District Pastor Gideon Mhenga
Companion Easter Lutheran
Attendees 11
Weather for the past month Raining
Reporters Ibrahim and Roger
Purpose of the visit
• Planting bean and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Demonstration on second fertilizers application in corn
• Deliver fertilizer bags, Bean seeds, bottle spray, and insecticides
Topics
1. Greetings
Roger gave greetings from Easter Lutheran, Saint Paul Area Synod and US Advisory Committee
2. Went through the handouts
o 4th Visit handout
o Quiz handout
o Rain record sheets.
3. Demonstrations
We demonstrated on how to measure inter row spacing (30cm). Using a string and a hand hoe, it was demonstrated on how to make a trench for planting the bean seeds. One seed was placed after every 10 cm. It was demonstrated how to place one full bottle cap of fertilizer between 2 seeds i.e. Seed-seed-fertilizer-seed-seed-fertilizer etc.
4. Fertilizer and seed delivery
According to the analysis of the soil of this area, the type of fertilizer recommended was NPK (10-18-24) for planting bean seed. The congregation was given 2 NPK bags and 40 Kg of bean seeds, variety of bean seeds delivered is WANJA-(drought resistance variety). We also delivered 2 bags of CAN for second fertilizer application to corn field. Corn was planted on December 30th, 2009.
Comments
In the group of 11 people who attended the meeting, five (5) people already started practicing the techniques we taught them from the moment we started the training in March, 2009. This is good to be happened and that is the reason why we have been insisting people to practice all the techniques.
We had a primary school representative (a teacher) who attended the meeting. When the school management heard from the pastor about our Ag seminars they were happy and decided to send a representative and hoped that next time a student can get involved or attend.
For those who already practiced the techniques they said it is beneficial because it is easy to weed the field and easy to harvest since it is planted in rows.
We were happy to see the rainfall data recorded from the rain gauge we gave them. They have received about 4 inches of rains since December.
Questions from audience and answers
Why is the important to do crop rotation?
It is important because it breaks the disease cycles and helps to effectively utilize the available nutrients located in the soil. It also helps to fix nitrogen when the rotation involves leguminous plants such as beans when rotated with corn.
Why not mixing several crops within the same field/plot?
To avoid unnecessary nutrient and moisture competition between plants,
Why broadcast the fertilizer when some remains after application?
It is important to broadcast the remaining fertilizers because the amount was recommended based on the soil analysis from the samples taken from the plot, so we want to make sure all the amount is applied in the field.
If they don’t have as much fertilizer as we recommend what they can do?
We suggested that they use manure (compost) or go for large spacing that will give them maximum plant population per area.
Conclusions/Recommendations
We emphasized the importance of following instruction because the success of the program depends upon following what we instructed and also encouraged them to practice the techniques taught. They promised to follow all the instructions and encourage others to practice.
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th Visit Year One
January 15, 2010
Village Nyanzwa
Pastor Luhwano Mwafute and District Pastor Gideon Mhenga
Companion Easter Lutheran
Attendees 11
Weather for the past month Raining
Reporters Ibrahim and Roger
Purpose of the visit
• Planting bean and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Demonstration on second fertilizers application in corn
• Deliver fertilizer bags, Bean seeds, bottle spray, and insecticides
Topics
1. Greetings
Roger gave greetings from Easter Lutheran, Saint Paul Area Synod and US Advisory Committee
2. Went through the handouts
o 4th Visit handout
o Quiz handout
o Rain record sheets.
3. Demonstrations
We demonstrated on how to measure inter row spacing (30cm). Using a string and a hand hoe, it was demonstrated on how to make a trench for planting the bean seeds. One seed was placed after every 10 cm. It was demonstrated how to place one full bottle cap of fertilizer between 2 seeds i.e. Seed-seed-fertilizer-seed-seed-fertilizer etc.
4. Fertilizer and seed delivery
According to the analysis of the soil of this area, the type of fertilizer recommended was NPK (10-18-24) for planting bean seed. The congregation was given 2 NPK bags and 40 Kg of bean seeds, variety of bean seeds delivered is WANJA-(drought resistance variety). We also delivered 2 bags of CAN for second fertilizer application to corn field. Corn was planted on December 30th, 2009.
Comments
In the group of 11 people who attended the meeting, five (5) people already started practicing the techniques we taught them from the moment we started the training in March, 2009. This is good to be happened and that is the reason why we have been insisting people to practice all the techniques.
We had a primary school representative (a teacher) who attended the meeting. When the school management heard from the pastor about our Ag seminars they were happy and decided to send a representative and hoped that next time a student can get involved or attend.
For those who already practiced the techniques they said it is beneficial because it is easy to weed the field and easy to harvest since it is planted in rows.
We were happy to see the rainfall data recorded from the rain gauge we gave them. They have received about 4 inches of rains since December.
Questions from audience and answers
Why is the important to do crop rotation?
It is important because it breaks the disease cycles and helps to effectively utilize the available nutrients located in the soil. It also helps to fix nitrogen when the rotation involves leguminous plants such as beans when rotated with corn.
Why not mixing several crops within the same field/plot?
To avoid unnecessary nutrient and moisture competition between plants,
Why broadcast the fertilizer when some remains after application?
It is important to broadcast the remaining fertilizers because the amount was recommended based on the soil analysis from the samples taken from the plot, so we want to make sure all the amount is applied in the field.
If they don’t have as much fertilizer as we recommend what they can do?
We suggested that they use manure (compost) or go for large spacing that will give them maximum plant population per area.
Conclusions/Recommendations
We emphasized the importance of following instruction because the success of the program depends upon following what we instructed and also encouraged them to practice the techniques taught. They promised to follow all the instructions and encourage others to practice.
Ilambilole - CVP Report Jan 14-2010
2008 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
2nd visit Year Two
January 14, 2010
Village Ilambilole
Pastor Doricus Kimbavala
Companion Our Saviors, Hastings
Attendees 13
Weather for the past month Rainy
Reporters Gabriel, Ibrahim, Roger and Alfred
Purpose of the visit
• Bean planting and fertilizer application demonstrations
• To deliver bean seeds, fertilizers and pesticides
Topics
1. Greetings
Roger derived greetings from Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Hastings, MN, the Saint Paul Area Synod and the US Advisory Committee
2. Corn plot and Rain records
Corn Seed variety planted DK 8031
Planting date December 19, 2009
Replanting date January 08, 2010
First weeding January 08, 2010
Pests/Diseases Small black insect eating the plant shoot
We checked the rain records in the box file. They have been recording in a separate paper and they have not put in the file yet. We told Pastor to write down what they have recorded in the rain gauge sheet we gave them in our last visit. They have received 177.5 mm or 6.99 inches of rain since the first rain on December 21.
3. Review of Handouts
o Bean seeds and fertilizer information was added in the Fertilizer need template in the box file of the congregation.
o 4th visit handout was reviewed
4. Demonstrations
I. Beans
It was demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm) and intra row spacing (10cm). String was used to make trench and in the trench bean seeds were placed 10cm apart. Fertilizer was placed 5cm from the seeds. Both seed and fertilizer were covered.
II. Corn
It was demonstrated how to make second application of fertilizer in the corn. Two holes were made 5cm from the plant and fertilizer was put then covered. We told them to do this when the plants are at knee high.
III. Pesticides
We instructed them how to use pesticide called Thionex for killing plant damaging insects.
5. Fertilizers, bean seeds and pesticides delivery
The congregation was given 2 bags of NPK for beans and 2 bags of CAN for corn. The bean seed variety delivered is known as “Wanja” (30kg). According to Uyole Agricultural research center where the variety was obtained, Wanja is drought resistant hence it is suitable for Ilambilole village.
Comments/questions from audience
They asked why the beans spacing has been changed. Last year they were told to plant in the spacing of 50cm to 9cm, this year we tell them to plant in the spacing of 30cm to 10cm
We told them the spacing has been changed because we aim to get more plants per area. This will enable them to get high yield in a small area.
One member asked that last year the spacing of corn was 60cm by 22cm why this year we tell them to use 60cm by 20cm?
We told him that last year we instructed them to use the spacing of 60cm by 22cm, however later on we changed to 60cm by 20cm. This was changed since last year (I think this member did not attend other meetings in last year).
They said that last year they were told to put crop residues in piles why this year they instructions do not state the same.
We told them that now we are not instructing them to collect the crop residues and put in lines because we believe this will reduce labor in the farm, however, this will not change anything in the yields their going to get.
Conclusions/Recommendations
We visited the nearby farm of one member of congregation who has decided to follow the techniques from the demonstration plot. The plants look nice. She told us she did not apply fertilizer at the planting time but she plans to apply nitrogenous fertilizer when plants reach knee high. At the end of the meeting Roger asked them few questions as the review of what they have been taught from the time the demonstration plot has been established up to this moment. He also asked them what advantages have they seen so far in their own farms. They said they have observed the increase of yields and save time and money to till the land.
NB:
• 1 bag of NPK is 50kg and 1 bag of CAN is 50kg
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
2nd visit Year Two
January 14, 2010
Village Ilambilole
Pastor Doricus Kimbavala
Companion Our Saviors, Hastings
Attendees 13
Weather for the past month Rainy
Reporters Gabriel, Ibrahim, Roger and Alfred
Purpose of the visit
• Bean planting and fertilizer application demonstrations
• To deliver bean seeds, fertilizers and pesticides
Topics
1. Greetings
Roger derived greetings from Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Hastings, MN, the Saint Paul Area Synod and the US Advisory Committee
2. Corn plot and Rain records
Corn Seed variety planted DK 8031
Planting date December 19, 2009
Replanting date January 08, 2010
First weeding January 08, 2010
Pests/Diseases Small black insect eating the plant shoot
We checked the rain records in the box file. They have been recording in a separate paper and they have not put in the file yet. We told Pastor to write down what they have recorded in the rain gauge sheet we gave them in our last visit. They have received 177.5 mm or 6.99 inches of rain since the first rain on December 21.
3. Review of Handouts
o Bean seeds and fertilizer information was added in the Fertilizer need template in the box file of the congregation.
o 4th visit handout was reviewed
4. Demonstrations
I. Beans
It was demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm) and intra row spacing (10cm). String was used to make trench and in the trench bean seeds were placed 10cm apart. Fertilizer was placed 5cm from the seeds. Both seed and fertilizer were covered.
II. Corn
It was demonstrated how to make second application of fertilizer in the corn. Two holes were made 5cm from the plant and fertilizer was put then covered. We told them to do this when the plants are at knee high.
III. Pesticides
We instructed them how to use pesticide called Thionex for killing plant damaging insects.
5. Fertilizers, bean seeds and pesticides delivery
The congregation was given 2 bags of NPK for beans and 2 bags of CAN for corn. The bean seed variety delivered is known as “Wanja” (30kg). According to Uyole Agricultural research center where the variety was obtained, Wanja is drought resistant hence it is suitable for Ilambilole village.
Comments/questions from audience
They asked why the beans spacing has been changed. Last year they were told to plant in the spacing of 50cm to 9cm, this year we tell them to plant in the spacing of 30cm to 10cm
We told them the spacing has been changed because we aim to get more plants per area. This will enable them to get high yield in a small area.
One member asked that last year the spacing of corn was 60cm by 22cm why this year we tell them to use 60cm by 20cm?
We told him that last year we instructed them to use the spacing of 60cm by 22cm, however later on we changed to 60cm by 20cm. This was changed since last year (I think this member did not attend other meetings in last year).
They said that last year they were told to put crop residues in piles why this year they instructions do not state the same.
We told them that now we are not instructing them to collect the crop residues and put in lines because we believe this will reduce labor in the farm, however, this will not change anything in the yields their going to get.
Conclusions/Recommendations
We visited the nearby farm of one member of congregation who has decided to follow the techniques from the demonstration plot. The plants look nice. She told us she did not apply fertilizer at the planting time but she plans to apply nitrogenous fertilizer when plants reach knee high. At the end of the meeting Roger asked them few questions as the review of what they have been taught from the time the demonstration plot has been established up to this moment. He also asked them what advantages have they seen so far in their own farms. They said they have observed the increase of yields and save time and money to till the land.
NB:
• 1 bag of NPK is 50kg and 1 bag of CAN is 50kg
Nduli-CVP Visit Jan 12-2010
2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th Visit Year two
January 12, 2010
Village Nduli
Pastor Laiton Muyinga
Companion Christ the King
Attendees 8
Weather for the past month Heavy Rain
Reporters Ibrahim, Gabriel, Roger and Alfred
Purpose of the visit
• Planting bean and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Demonstration on second fertilizers application in corn
• Deliver fertilizer bags, Bean seeds, bottle spray, and insecticides
Topics
1. Greetings
Roger gave greetings from Christ the King, Saint Paul Area Synod and US Ag Advisory Committee
2. Went through the handouts
o 4th Visit handout
o Quiz handout
o Rain record sheets.
3. Demonstrations
We demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm). Using a string and a hand hoe it was demonstrated how to make a trench for planting the bean seeds. One seed was placed after every 10 cm. It was demonstrated how to place one full bottle cap of fertilizer between 2 seeds i.e. Seed-seed-fertilizer-seed-seed-fertilizer etc.
4. Fertilizer and seed delivery
According to the analysis of the soil of this area, the type of fertilizer recommended was NPK (10-18-24) for bean seed planting. The congregation was given 2 NPK bags and 40 Kg of bean seeds, variety of bean seeds delivered is WANJA-(drought resistance variety). We also delivered 1 bag (50 Kg) of UREA for second fertilizer application to corn field.
Comments
The District Commissioner (Government leader) he visited Nduli in December, 2009 specifically to see a demonstration plot, he was impressed of what is happening and he said he will order the government Ag officers in his district to come and learn from Nduli.
When Roger and I visited Nduli several days before our special visits we found out corn were showing yellow strips on the leaves, that is the sign of Sulfur deficit so we brought the fertilizer that contain sulfur and we applied in a little plot within the demonstration plot to see what will happen.
After observing the bean seed we delivered, they were happy to see the seeds were in the good condition as compared to the local seeds they have been using.
Questions from audience and answers
They asked where they can get bean seeds for their own farm.
We gave them cell phone number of the seed dealer (Uyole Research Farm)
If they don’t have enough fertilizer as we recommend what they can do?
We suggested to them to use manure (compost) or to go for large spacing that will give them minimum plant population per area.
Conclusions/Recommendations
We emphasized the importance of following instruction because the success of the program depends upon them following what we instructed. They promised to follow all the instructions.
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th Visit Year two
January 12, 2010
Village Nduli
Pastor Laiton Muyinga
Companion Christ the King
Attendees 8
Weather for the past month Heavy Rain
Reporters Ibrahim, Gabriel, Roger and Alfred
Purpose of the visit
• Planting bean and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Demonstration on second fertilizers application in corn
• Deliver fertilizer bags, Bean seeds, bottle spray, and insecticides
Topics
1. Greetings
Roger gave greetings from Christ the King, Saint Paul Area Synod and US Ag Advisory Committee
2. Went through the handouts
o 4th Visit handout
o Quiz handout
o Rain record sheets.
3. Demonstrations
We demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm). Using a string and a hand hoe it was demonstrated how to make a trench for planting the bean seeds. One seed was placed after every 10 cm. It was demonstrated how to place one full bottle cap of fertilizer between 2 seeds i.e. Seed-seed-fertilizer-seed-seed-fertilizer etc.
4. Fertilizer and seed delivery
According to the analysis of the soil of this area, the type of fertilizer recommended was NPK (10-18-24) for bean seed planting. The congregation was given 2 NPK bags and 40 Kg of bean seeds, variety of bean seeds delivered is WANJA-(drought resistance variety). We also delivered 1 bag (50 Kg) of UREA for second fertilizer application to corn field.
Comments
The District Commissioner (Government leader) he visited Nduli in December, 2009 specifically to see a demonstration plot, he was impressed of what is happening and he said he will order the government Ag officers in his district to come and learn from Nduli.
When Roger and I visited Nduli several days before our special visits we found out corn were showing yellow strips on the leaves, that is the sign of Sulfur deficit so we brought the fertilizer that contain sulfur and we applied in a little plot within the demonstration plot to see what will happen.
After observing the bean seed we delivered, they were happy to see the seeds were in the good condition as compared to the local seeds they have been using.
Questions from audience and answers
They asked where they can get bean seeds for their own farm.
We gave them cell phone number of the seed dealer (Uyole Research Farm)
If they don’t have enough fertilizer as we recommend what they can do?
We suggested to them to use manure (compost) or to go for large spacing that will give them minimum plant population per area.
Conclusions/Recommendations
We emphasized the importance of following instruction because the success of the program depends upon them following what we instructed. They promised to follow all the instructions.
Mlowa-CVP Visit Jan 12-2010
2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th Visit Year One
January 12, 2010
Village Mlowa
Pastor Lunogelo Mbwilo
Companion Christus Victor
Attendees 11
Weather for the past month Heavy Rain
Reporters Ibrahim and Roger
Purpose of the visit
• Planting bean and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Demonstration on second fertilizers application in corn
• Deliver fertilizer bags, Bean seeds, bottle spray, and insecticides
Topics
1. Greetings
Roger gave greetings from Christus Victor, Saint Paul Area Synod and US Ag Advisory Committee
2. Went through the handouts
o 4th Visit handout
o Quiz handout
o Rain record sheets. They have received 214 mm or 8.4 inches of rain since early November.
3. Demonstrations
We demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm). Using a string and a hand hoe it was demonstrated how to make a trench for planting the bean seeds. One seed was placed after every 10 cm. It was demonstrated how to place one full bottle cap of fertilizer between 2 seeds i.e. Seed-seed-fertilizer-seed-seed-fertilizer etc.
4. Fertilizer and seed delivery
According to the analysis of the soil of this area, the type of fertilizer recommended was NPK (10-18-24) for bean seed planting. The congregation was given 2 NPK bags and 40 Kg of bean seeds, variety of bean seeds delivered is Uyole 96. Also 2 bags of CAN were given to them for second fertilizer application for corn.
Comments
They planted corn on December 29, 2009 and they received rainfall (24 mm) on the same day and when we visited the plot they have had very good germination. We were impressed by what the plot looks like as compared to all near by field.
It was recommended to plant their beans in March because they are expecting to use Irrigation and that is their best time to plant beans based on the weather patterns.
After observing the bean seed we delivered, they were happy to see the seeds were in good condition compared to the local seeds they have been using.
Eight of the nine people who attended the meeting have already started to practice some of the techniques taught.
One farmer planted corn in rows in his irrigated plot last year (NB: we started training in March, 2009) and managed to harvest. His children helped him to harvest both this time and in the past. Since he used to plant randomly he was supposed to re-harvest again in all areas which were harvested by his children and got 3 tins of shelled corn but this time his children harvested very well because he planted in rows.
Questions from audience and answers
They asked if the spacing of 30 cm by 10 cm will form the canopy to shade the ground
We explained to them that this variety will form a canopy since it is a bush type, there are some other varieties will not form canopy if planted at that spacing- like a climbing type.
In there past experience on planting beans they found out some beans will get infection just after germination and that might cause to a total plant death or poor growth. What are the causes?
We answered them that the disease is most likely caused by seed born diseases due to re use of selected seeds from last year’s crop. So we highly recommend that they buy new seeds and do crop rotation such as beans followed by corn.
Seed born diseases can they be treated?
This can be solved by using good/clean seeds and crop rotation as explained above.
They asked if spacing for beans is specific to a certain type or variety.
The Answer is yes, such as bush type Vs climbing type.
The pastor asked if after harvesting corn and beans in the demonstration plots can they sell and open an Agriculture account so that after 3 years when the project phase out they can support themselves?
The answer is absolutely yes, it is a good idea to start thinking about being independent.
Conclusions/Recommendations
We emphasized the importance of following instruction because the success of the program depends upon them following what we instructed. They promised to follow all the instructions.
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th Visit Year One
January 12, 2010
Village Mlowa
Pastor Lunogelo Mbwilo
Companion Christus Victor
Attendees 11
Weather for the past month Heavy Rain
Reporters Ibrahim and Roger
Purpose of the visit
• Planting bean and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Demonstration on second fertilizers application in corn
• Deliver fertilizer bags, Bean seeds, bottle spray, and insecticides
Topics
1. Greetings
Roger gave greetings from Christus Victor, Saint Paul Area Synod and US Ag Advisory Committee
2. Went through the handouts
o 4th Visit handout
o Quiz handout
o Rain record sheets. They have received 214 mm or 8.4 inches of rain since early November.
3. Demonstrations
We demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm). Using a string and a hand hoe it was demonstrated how to make a trench for planting the bean seeds. One seed was placed after every 10 cm. It was demonstrated how to place one full bottle cap of fertilizer between 2 seeds i.e. Seed-seed-fertilizer-seed-seed-fertilizer etc.
4. Fertilizer and seed delivery
According to the analysis of the soil of this area, the type of fertilizer recommended was NPK (10-18-24) for bean seed planting. The congregation was given 2 NPK bags and 40 Kg of bean seeds, variety of bean seeds delivered is Uyole 96. Also 2 bags of CAN were given to them for second fertilizer application for corn.
Comments
They planted corn on December 29, 2009 and they received rainfall (24 mm) on the same day and when we visited the plot they have had very good germination. We were impressed by what the plot looks like as compared to all near by field.
It was recommended to plant their beans in March because they are expecting to use Irrigation and that is their best time to plant beans based on the weather patterns.
After observing the bean seed we delivered, they were happy to see the seeds were in good condition compared to the local seeds they have been using.
Eight of the nine people who attended the meeting have already started to practice some of the techniques taught.
One farmer planted corn in rows in his irrigated plot last year (NB: we started training in March, 2009) and managed to harvest. His children helped him to harvest both this time and in the past. Since he used to plant randomly he was supposed to re-harvest again in all areas which were harvested by his children and got 3 tins of shelled corn but this time his children harvested very well because he planted in rows.
Questions from audience and answers
They asked if the spacing of 30 cm by 10 cm will form the canopy to shade the ground
We explained to them that this variety will form a canopy since it is a bush type, there are some other varieties will not form canopy if planted at that spacing- like a climbing type.
In there past experience on planting beans they found out some beans will get infection just after germination and that might cause to a total plant death or poor growth. What are the causes?
We answered them that the disease is most likely caused by seed born diseases due to re use of selected seeds from last year’s crop. So we highly recommend that they buy new seeds and do crop rotation such as beans followed by corn.
Seed born diseases can they be treated?
This can be solved by using good/clean seeds and crop rotation as explained above.
They asked if spacing for beans is specific to a certain type or variety.
The Answer is yes, such as bush type Vs climbing type.
The pastor asked if after harvesting corn and beans in the demonstration plots can they sell and open an Agriculture account so that after 3 years when the project phase out they can support themselves?
The answer is absolutely yes, it is a good idea to start thinking about being independent.
Conclusions/Recommendations
We emphasized the importance of following instruction because the success of the program depends upon them following what we instructed. They promised to follow all the instructions.
Ipogoro CVP Report Jan 11-2010
2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th Visit Year two
January 11, 2010
Village Ipogoro
Pastor Nixon Mwitula
Companion Augustana
Attendees 17 (9 males and 8 females)
Weather for the past month Raining
Reporters Ibrahim, Gabriel, Roger and Alfred
Purpose of the visit
• Planting bean and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Demonstration of second fertilizers application in corn
• Deliver fertilizer, Bean seeds, bottle sprayer, and insecticide
Topics
1. Greetings
Roger gave greetings from Augustana, Saint Paul Area Synod and US Ag Advisory Committee
2. Went through the handouts
o 4th Visit handout
o Quiz handout
o Rain record sheets.
3. Demonstrations
We demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm). Using a string and a hand hoe we demonstrated how to make a trench for planting the bean seeds. One seed was placed every 10 cm. Using a bottle cap for measuring fertilizer, we demonstrated how to place one full bottle cap between 2 seeds i.e. Seed-seed-fertilizer-seed-seed-fertilizer etc.
4. Fertilizer and seed delivery
According to the analysis of the soil in this area, the type of fertilizer recommended was NPK (10-18-24) for bean seed planting. The congregation was given 2 NPK bags and 40 Kg of bean seeds, the variety of bean seeds delivered is WANJA-(drought resistance variety).
Comments
Ipogoro is an urban congregation so many people work in the city; the pastor, and evangelists need to be teachers to others. On Sunday January 10th, 2010, one day before we went there, just after the Sunday service all people who attended went to the plot and the pastor was teaching them the agronomic practices we have been addressing. This is good to be happening and that is the reason why we have been insisting pastor and evangelists attend all meetings.
On Jan 11th, 2010 during our meeting. Rev Nixon Mwitula was able to explain to other fellows who attended by saying if you don’t have fertilizer you need practice other agronomic such as proper timing, use proper spacing, don’t burn crop residues etc , this will help you to harvest more yield than if you couldn’t follow those agronomic practices.
Iringa Municipality banned people from growing tall crops such as corn in the city. When the municipal officer saw the demonstration plot planted with corn they asked why they planted corn while it was announced not to plant. The Pastor answered that it is a demonstration plot; they went to the demonstration plot site and were impressed with what was happening especially when they also saw that it was documented in the box file. They promised to send some of their officers to visit Ipogoro to learn.
One church member farms about 50 acres and would like to start using our methods to his farm, such as not to burn crop residue etc.
We advised them instead of paying a tractor/ oxen to cultivate their field they should go for minimum tillage and use that money to buy fertilizer.
Questions from audience and answers
How can they get inputs for their own farm?
They can get from stores in town, and in case of the bean seeds we gave cell phone number of the seed dealer (Uyole Research Farm)
Somebody is grazing cow on his field because he leaves in town he can’t protect
If he knows a person around his farm that has cows, he should find a way to have some agreement to let him feed the crop residues and bring several carts of manure into the field.
For those who already intercropped their farm, what can they do now and what kind of fertilizer should they apply?
NPK will be the best fertilizer and they were reminded for the next year they are supposed to plant one kind of crop per area
In the past they have been using insecticides but still there were some crop damage
Reasons; Use of wrong insecticides, wrong amount and if there were heavy rain just after application of insecticides. One lady agreed that she was mixing insecticides in 15 liters instead of 18 liters of water.
If they don’t have enough fertilizer as we recommend what they can do?
We suggested to them to use manure (compost) or to go for larger spacing that will give them maximum plant population per area.
Conclusions/Recommendations
We emphasized the importance of following instruction because the success of the program depends upon them following what we instructed. They promised to follow all the instructions.
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th Visit Year two
January 11, 2010
Village Ipogoro
Pastor Nixon Mwitula
Companion Augustana
Attendees 17 (9 males and 8 females)
Weather for the past month Raining
Reporters Ibrahim, Gabriel, Roger and Alfred
Purpose of the visit
• Planting bean and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Demonstration of second fertilizers application in corn
• Deliver fertilizer, Bean seeds, bottle sprayer, and insecticide
Topics
1. Greetings
Roger gave greetings from Augustana, Saint Paul Area Synod and US Ag Advisory Committee
2. Went through the handouts
o 4th Visit handout
o Quiz handout
o Rain record sheets.
3. Demonstrations
We demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm). Using a string and a hand hoe we demonstrated how to make a trench for planting the bean seeds. One seed was placed every 10 cm. Using a bottle cap for measuring fertilizer, we demonstrated how to place one full bottle cap between 2 seeds i.e. Seed-seed-fertilizer-seed-seed-fertilizer etc.
4. Fertilizer and seed delivery
According to the analysis of the soil in this area, the type of fertilizer recommended was NPK (10-18-24) for bean seed planting. The congregation was given 2 NPK bags and 40 Kg of bean seeds, the variety of bean seeds delivered is WANJA-(drought resistance variety).
Comments
Ipogoro is an urban congregation so many people work in the city; the pastor, and evangelists need to be teachers to others. On Sunday January 10th, 2010, one day before we went there, just after the Sunday service all people who attended went to the plot and the pastor was teaching them the agronomic practices we have been addressing. This is good to be happening and that is the reason why we have been insisting pastor and evangelists attend all meetings.
On Jan 11th, 2010 during our meeting. Rev Nixon Mwitula was able to explain to other fellows who attended by saying if you don’t have fertilizer you need practice other agronomic such as proper timing, use proper spacing, don’t burn crop residues etc , this will help you to harvest more yield than if you couldn’t follow those agronomic practices.
Iringa Municipality banned people from growing tall crops such as corn in the city. When the municipal officer saw the demonstration plot planted with corn they asked why they planted corn while it was announced not to plant. The Pastor answered that it is a demonstration plot; they went to the demonstration plot site and were impressed with what was happening especially when they also saw that it was documented in the box file. They promised to send some of their officers to visit Ipogoro to learn.
One church member farms about 50 acres and would like to start using our methods to his farm, such as not to burn crop residue etc.
We advised them instead of paying a tractor/ oxen to cultivate their field they should go for minimum tillage and use that money to buy fertilizer.
Questions from audience and answers
How can they get inputs for their own farm?
They can get from stores in town, and in case of the bean seeds we gave cell phone number of the seed dealer (Uyole Research Farm)
Somebody is grazing cow on his field because he leaves in town he can’t protect
If he knows a person around his farm that has cows, he should find a way to have some agreement to let him feed the crop residues and bring several carts of manure into the field.
For those who already intercropped their farm, what can they do now and what kind of fertilizer should they apply?
NPK will be the best fertilizer and they were reminded for the next year they are supposed to plant one kind of crop per area
In the past they have been using insecticides but still there were some crop damage
Reasons; Use of wrong insecticides, wrong amount and if there were heavy rain just after application of insecticides. One lady agreed that she was mixing insecticides in 15 liters instead of 18 liters of water.
If they don’t have enough fertilizer as we recommend what they can do?
We suggested to them to use manure (compost) or to go for larger spacing that will give them maximum plant population per area.
Conclusions/Recommendations
We emphasized the importance of following instruction because the success of the program depends upon them following what we instructed. They promised to follow all the instructions.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Bomalang'ombe Parish 4th Visit- Year One
2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th Visit Year One
January 21, 2010
Village Bomalang’ombe Lutheran
Pastor Lutango Tewele and Theofilo Nkwama-Intern student from Tumaini University
Companion Prince of Peace, Roseville
Attendees 17
Weather for the past month Rainy
Reporters Ibrahim and Roger
Purpose of the visit
• Planting bean and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Demonstration on second fertilizers application in corn
• Deliver fertilizer bags, Bean seeds, bottle spray, and insecticides
Topics
1. Greetings
Roger gave greetings from Prince of Peace, Saint Paul Area Synod and US Ag Advisory Committee
2. Went through the handouts
o 4th Visit handout
o Quiz handout
o Rain record sheets.
3. Demonstrations
We demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm). Using a string and a hand hoe it was demonstrated how to make a trench for planting the bean seeds. One seed was placed after every 10 cm. It was demonstrated how to place one full bottle cap of fertilizer between 2 seeds i.e. Seed-seed-fertilizer-seed-seed-fertilizer etc.
4. Fertilizer and seed delivery
According to the analysis of the soil of this area, the type of fertilizer recommended was NPK (10-18-24) for bean seed planting. The congregation was given 2 bags (50 Kg each) of NPK and 30 Kg of bean seeds, variety of bean seeds delivered is URAFIKI. We also delivered 2 bags (50 Kg each) of CAN for second fertilizer application to corn field.
Comments
They planted corn on November 16th, 19th and 30th, 2009.We were able to see a significantly difference by looking corn in the field. So we explained the importance of planting at a proper time. After planting they received rain on December 15th, 2009.
The church elders, talked about how they doubted these improved techniques we were trying to teach them. But, now that the corn is up they see that what they thought was impossible is possible.
One individual said that he didn’t believe the things we told them would work, but now he believes. Especially minimum tillage and clipping the weeds just below the surface. He says his corn looks real good and wants to know if the same techniques will work for beans too.
Nobody has practicing the techniques taught, they want to wait to see how it will work out in the demonstration plots.
Questions from audience and answers
When should they apply second fertilizer?
Second application is supposed to be done at knee high.
Should they apply fertilizer after weeding or that is not necessary?
We told them they should weed and then apply fertilizer, so they are supposed to weed before corn reach knee high.
Is the NPK only recommended for planting?
The answer is yes for the time being because the recommendation was based on the soil samples taken from here (Bomalang’ombe).
Should they reduce the amount of fertilizer when the plant looks deep green?
The answer is no, sometimes we don’t apply fertilizer only to make plant look green or tall, some kind of fertilizer are helping the plants to fill grains.
Conclusions/Recommendations
We emphasized the importance of following instruction because the success of the program depends upon them following what we instructed. They promised to follow all the instructions.
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th Visit Year One
January 21, 2010
Village Bomalang’ombe Lutheran
Pastor Lutango Tewele and Theofilo Nkwama-Intern student from Tumaini University
Companion Prince of Peace, Roseville
Attendees 17
Weather for the past month Rainy
Reporters Ibrahim and Roger
Purpose of the visit
• Planting bean and fertilizer application demonstrations
• Demonstration on second fertilizers application in corn
• Deliver fertilizer bags, Bean seeds, bottle spray, and insecticides
Topics
1. Greetings
Roger gave greetings from Prince of Peace, Saint Paul Area Synod and US Ag Advisory Committee
2. Went through the handouts
o 4th Visit handout
o Quiz handout
o Rain record sheets.
3. Demonstrations
We demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm). Using a string and a hand hoe it was demonstrated how to make a trench for planting the bean seeds. One seed was placed after every 10 cm. It was demonstrated how to place one full bottle cap of fertilizer between 2 seeds i.e. Seed-seed-fertilizer-seed-seed-fertilizer etc.
4. Fertilizer and seed delivery
According to the analysis of the soil of this area, the type of fertilizer recommended was NPK (10-18-24) for bean seed planting. The congregation was given 2 bags (50 Kg each) of NPK and 30 Kg of bean seeds, variety of bean seeds delivered is URAFIKI. We also delivered 2 bags (50 Kg each) of CAN for second fertilizer application to corn field.
Comments
They planted corn on November 16th, 19th and 30th, 2009.We were able to see a significantly difference by looking corn in the field. So we explained the importance of planting at a proper time. After planting they received rain on December 15th, 2009.
The church elders, talked about how they doubted these improved techniques we were trying to teach them. But, now that the corn is up they see that what they thought was impossible is possible.
One individual said that he didn’t believe the things we told them would work, but now he believes. Especially minimum tillage and clipping the weeds just below the surface. He says his corn looks real good and wants to know if the same techniques will work for beans too.
Nobody has practicing the techniques taught, they want to wait to see how it will work out in the demonstration plots.
Questions from audience and answers
When should they apply second fertilizer?
Second application is supposed to be done at knee high.
Should they apply fertilizer after weeding or that is not necessary?
We told them they should weed and then apply fertilizer, so they are supposed to weed before corn reach knee high.
Is the NPK only recommended for planting?
The answer is yes for the time being because the recommendation was based on the soil samples taken from here (Bomalang’ombe).
Should they reduce the amount of fertilizer when the plant looks deep green?
The answer is no, sometimes we don’t apply fertilizer only to make plant look green or tall, some kind of fertilizer are helping the plants to fill grains.
Conclusions/Recommendations
We emphasized the importance of following instruction because the success of the program depends upon them following what we instructed. They promised to follow all the instructions.
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