Saturday, December 4, 2010

Ilambilole - Our Saviors, Hstgs.; CVP Visit Report for Nov. 17-2010

2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
3rd Visit 3rd Year
November, 17 2010

Village Ilambilole
Pastor Domicus Kimbavala
Companion Our Savior Lutheran Church
Attendees Male 19 Female 27
Weather Sunny
Reporters Nafeti,Gabriel, Itiweni.

Purpose of the visit
• Delivering seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating corn planting and fertilizer application
• Micro-finance institute information
Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
• 3rd Visit Instruction
• Plant population with 60 cm. rows and Fertilizer applications
• Fertilizer needs template

Demonstrations
o Planting and fertilizer applications
The demo plot is outside the church. We demonstrated on how to place seeds and how to apply fertilizers. We insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together. There should be at least 5cm apart.
o Seeds and fertilizers
We delivered 2 bags of NPK and corn seeds.

Crop Seeds Fertilizer
Varieties Amount Type Amount
Corn DK 8031 8kg (4 bags ) NPK 100kg (2 bags)













Questions and comments.
• Which is batter to use for planting between DAP and NPK?
NPK is encouraged to use during planting because it contain Potassium which is missing in DAP.
• With fertilizer seeds do not germinate.
Take into consideration seed placement and fertilizer application as we have said that fertilizer should be placed 5 cm from the seed which will keep the seed safe. Also the use of uncertified seed will result into seeds to fail to germinate.
• Can manure be used with commercial fertilizer?
You can use manure during planting and commercial fertilizer f or side dressing.
• Can hybrid seeds be used in any place like Morogoro?
Hybrid seeds can be used anywhere but the most important thing is the seeds should be the ones recommended for that area.
• We asked them how many of them have started to use our techniques in their farms.
More than 10 people said they have already started to use our methods of farming in their farms.

Conclusion
We encouraged them to start using the techniques and they can start with small plot and expanding the size of the plot with time.

Mkimbizi - Immanuel; CVP Visit Report for Nov. 10-2010

2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
3rd Visit 2nd Year
November, 10 2010

Village Mkimbizi
Pastor Martin Haule
Companion Immanuel Lutheran.St.Paul
Attendees Male 4 Female 3
Weather Sunny
Reporters Nafeti,Phil, Pongolani

Purpose of the visit
• Delivering seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating corn planting and fertilizer applications

Greetings
Before we began the demonstration, Phil delivered greetings from St. Paul Area Synod and US Institute of Ag advisory committee
Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
• 3rd Visit Instruction
• Plant population with 60 cm. rows and Fertilizer applications
• Fertilizer needs template

Demonstrations
o Planting and fertilizer applications
We demonstrated on how to place seeds and how to apply fertilizers. We insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together. There should be at least 5cm apart. The demonstration plot is at the preaching point Kihesa kilolo but they wanted us to demonstrate at Mkimbizi where by assistant pastor and the evangelist from the preaching point where the plot is located also attended the training.
o Seeds and fertilizers
We delivered 2 bags of NPK and corn seeds.

Crop Seeds Fertilizer
Varieties Amount Type Amount
Corn Pioneer 3253 8kg (4 bags ) NPK 100kg (2 bags)







• Questions and Comments;
• Why continuous use of UREA is not recommended?
Urea lower soil PH so continuous use will may lead to low yield
• Can we use two seeds per hole?
No we recommend one seed per hole so that plants can not compete for nutrients, moisture and sunshine.
• Corn variety last year only had one ear and had some diseases should we be using other varieties of corn.
This season we are going to use different corn variety from that of last year, last year was Pioneer 325 and this year Pioneer 3253.
• Can they use manual instead of commercial fertilizers?
The use of manure is highly encouraged especially for planting and use commercial fertilizers for side dressing or second application. Manure releases nutrients slowly while at some growth stage plants require more than what can be released from manure so at that point commercial fertilizers are to be applied.
• If we leave crop debris on ground termites would eat corn seedlings; what do we do?
Just spray insecticide to kill the termites
• People are saying that we can grow more on less land than before
• Pastor said people want to use our methods but they don’t have money to buy fertilizers.

Conclusion

• 2009 yield: 4.3 bags corn half an Acre
• Pastor not present, assistant pastor Martin Haule and 3 Evangelist attended and congregation was not well informed that there could be a meeting
• Shamba darasa located at preaching point but we did demonstration at Mkimbizi where they were able to find people.

Nduli-Christ the King; CVP Visit Report for Nov. 11 (or 9th?)-2010

2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
3rd Visit 3rd Year
November, 11 2010

Village Nduli
Pastor Laiton Myinga
Companion Christ the King
Attendees Male 4 Female 7
Weather Sunny
Reporters Nafeti,Phil, Itiweni, Pongolani

Purpose of the visit
• Delivering seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating corn planting and fertilizer applications
• Provide information on Micro-finance institute

Greetings
Before we began the demonstration, Phil delivered greetings from St. Paul Area Synod and US Institute of Ag advisory committee
Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
• 3rd Visit Instruction
• Plant population with 60 cm. rows and Fertilizer applications
• Fertilizer needs template

Demonstrations
o Planting and fertilizer applications
The demonstration plot is outside the church. We demonstrated on how to place seeds and how to apply fertilizers. We insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together. There should be at least 5cm apart.
o Seeds and fertilizers
We delivered 2 bags of NPK and corn seeds.

Crop Seeds Fertilizer
Varieties Amount Type Amount
Corn Pioneer 3253 8kg (4 bags ) NPK 100kg (2 bags)








Questions from the audience
• How to apply manure on our farms?
Manure can be applied in the field by spreading them on the surface of the soil.
• What kind of spacing to use with manure?
Use the same spacing as recommended for commercial fertilizers and take into consideration the amount of manure you have.
• We need seeds that are drought tolerant, are those we use in the demo plot right ones?
We plant seeds which we do think that they are suitable for that area. The seeds we use in our demo plot are the short duration ones.
• Comments on what have you learned:
-The yield is increasing
-You can get more crops from a smaller area
-Use of improved varieties will give better yield than local varieties
-Planting takes long time but we get higher yield
-They can see the importance of crop residue in adding organic matter to the soil.
• Other things we should be teaching.
Have oil extraction classes

Conclusion
• Pastor Laiton Myinga and the Treasurer were present
• Yields: 2009 corn 11 bags and 2010, corn 8bags and 5tins beans.

Magulilwa - Amazing Grace; CVP Visit Report for Nov 8-2010

2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
3rd Visit 2nd Year
November, 08 2010

Village Magulilwa
Pastor Lunyiliko Muhile
Companion Amazing Grace
Attendees Male 7 Female 6
Weather Sunny, Windy
Reporters Nafeti,Phil, Itiweni, Pongolani

Purpose of the visit
• Delivering seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating corn planting and fertilizer applications
• Provide information on Micro-finance institute


Greetings
Before we began the demonstration, Phil delivered greetings from St. Paul Area Synod and US Institute of Ag advisory committee
Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
• 3rd Visit Instruction
• Plant population with 60 cm. rows and Fertilizer applications
• Fertilizer needs template

Demonstrations
o Planting and fertilizer applications
The demonstration plot is outside the church where by people can see the progress of the plot by even attending Sunday service. We demonstrated on how to place seeds and how to apply fertilizers. We insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together. There should be at least 5cm apart.
o Seeds and fertilizers
We delivered 2 bags of NPK and corn seeds.

Crop Seeds Fertilizer
Varieties Amount Type Amount
Corn H628 8kg (4 bags ) NPK 100kg (2 bags)






Questions and comments
• Can replanting in a week do we need to reapply fertilizer?
No need of reapplying fertilizers
• Some times even if we apply fertilizer and get enough rain still seeds do not germinate.
The reason may range from use of non certified seeds, use of untreated seeds which are easily destroyed by pests.
• Some of us we are from different preaching points with Magulilwa parish, should we use the same soil recommendation as Magulilwa?
Yes you still can use the same soil recommendation by using the same corn varieties and bean varieties because the area around they have the same kind of vegetation soil color and weather.
• What have you learned new after the first year?
You can plant a small plot with new methods and get more than we did before from a larger plot. About five people said they will start to use the new techniques in their farms.

Conclusion
• Pastor Muhile not present. Assistant pastor was present
• Yield: They got six bags from half an acre.

Kilolo - King of Kings; CVP Visit Report for Oct. 29-2010

2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
3rd Visit 3rd year
October 29, 2010

Village Kilolo
Pastor Yona Kingaga
Companion King of Kings
Attendees Male 5 Female 5
Weather Sunny
Reporters Nafeti, Pongolani

Purpose of the visit
• Delivering seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating corn planting and fertilizer applications

Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
• 3rd Visit Instruction
• Plant population with 60 cm. rows and Fertilizer applications
• Fertilizer needs template

Demonstrations
o Planting and fertilizer applications
We demonstrated on how to place seeds and how to apply fertilizers. We insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together. There should be at least 5cm apart.
o Seeds and fertilizers
We delivered 2 bags of NPK and corn seeds.

Crop Seeds Fertilizer
Varieties Amount Type Amount
Corn H628 8kg (4 bags ) NPK 100kg (2 bags)

Questions from the audience

• In case a farmer have small piece of land which is used to grow corn and crop rotation is not possible what will be the effects?
You can do rotation of beans by planting beans in a smaller plot and then rotate with corn year after year.
• How should we know that the type of soil we have is not suitable to apply UREA;
Depends on soil PH of the particular area which determines on whether CAN or UREA to be used for side dressing.
• Concern on late fertilizer delivery in shops.
You can buy before the season starts and keep them to use at planting time.
• In case if a farmer cannot buy hybrid seeds can they still follow that Ag.Inst. Techniques?
Yes, they can still use the techniques which do not need cash money such as minimum tillage.

Conclusion

Pastor Yona Kingaga said Corn variety which they planted in 2008 had good yield compared to variety they planted in 2009 and they suggested that we should plant this year the 2008 variety. We gave them the 2008 corn variety which is hybrid 628.

Ipogoro - Augustana Luth; CVP Report for Nov 11-2010

2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
3rd Visit 3rd Year
November, 11 2010

Village Ipogoro
Pastor NIckson Mwitula
Companion Augustana Luth.
Attendees Male 11 Female 7
Weather Sunny
Reporters Nafeti,Phil, Itiweni, Pongolani

Purpose of the visit
• Delivering seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating corn planting and fertilizer applications
• Provide information on micro finance Institute


Greetings
Before we began the demonstration, Phil delivered greetings from St. Paul Area Synod and US Institute of Ag advisory committee
Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
• 3rd Visit Instruction
• Plant population with 60 cm. rows and Fertilizer applications
• Fertilizer needs template

Demonstrations
o Planting and fertilizer applications
We demonstrated on how to place seeds and how to apply fertilizers. We insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together. There should be at least 5cm apart.
o Seeds and fertilizers
We delivered 2 bags of NPK and corn seeds.

Crop Seeds Fertilizer
Varieties Amount Type Amount
Corn Pioneer 3253 8kg (4 bags ) NPK 100kg (2 bags)






Questions from the audience

• If you use different corn variety from the one you planted last year is it necessary to use different fertilizer?
No need of using different fertilizer if at all you are using the right kind of fertilizer.
• Old people have trouble changing from the use of organic manure to commercial fertilizer. How do we convince them to change?
The best way to convince them is by doing a good job in our demo plot through that they can notice the difference and slowly they can start to adopt.
• We would like to use the techniques in our own farms but the problem is money to buy quality seed and fertilizer.
You can begin with proper spacing and leaving crop residues on the field will help to increase crop yield. Micro-finance Institute of Tumaini University is aiming at empowering people so that members of SACCOs will have money to buy Inputs.
• What have you learned?
− Learned how to use fertilizers
− Learned how to plant properly using high quality seeds
− Can harvest more grain from a small plot of land
− How to harvest and dry crops
− Learned how to retain soil moisture using crop debris
− Do frequent visits to shamba

Conclusion

Pastor Nickson has taught 20 others, plus an orphanage about our farming techniques.

Itungi-Como Park Luth.; CVP Report for Nov 1, 2010

2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
3rd Visit 3rd Year
November, 01, 2010

Village Itungi
Pastor Damian Ngandago
Companion Como park Lutheran
Attendees Male 13 Female 14
Weather Sunny,windy
Reporters Nafeti,Phil, Itiweni, Pongolani

Purpose of the visit
• Delivering seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating corn planting and fertilizer applications

Greetings
Before we began the demonstration, Phil delivered greetings from St. Paul Area Synod and US Institute of Ag advisory committee
Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
• 3rd Visit Instruction
• Plant population with 60 cm. rows and Fertilizer applications
• Fertilizer needs template

Demonstrations
o Planting and fertilizer applications
We demonstrated on how to place seeds and how to apply fertilizers. We insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together. There should be at least 5cm apart.
o Seeds and fertilizers
We delivered 2 bags of NPK and corn seeds.

Crop Seeds Fertilizer
Varieties Amount Type Amount
Corn H614 8kg (4 bags ) NPK 100kg (2 bags)

Questions from the audience

• You say that NPK is better than DAP what are the difference between the two?
NPK have Potassium which is not available in DAP
• Have problem to purchase different fertilizers we can’t buy when need them; can the Institute of Agriculture have a store where we can buy from?
At the moment we teach the best techniques to grow corn and beans and some other few food crops. We don’t sell seed and fertilizers but we can advise you where you can buy best seeds and fertilizer such as the TFA shop in Iringa.
• Are any of you using our techniques?
About six said yes
• What is preventing you from using our techniques?
They didn’t have money to buy inputs
• If you don’t have money for fertilizer are you using the methods of proper row spacing, etc?
Some of them have started using the methods we are teaching.
• This is in third year have you learned enough that you want to continue?
They would like to continue because they think that more people are anxious to learn from our demo plot. They are thinking of communicating with their partners so that they can consider finding the plot in the fourth year.

Conclusion

Pastor Damian Ngandago was present and we reminded them on the importance of time of planting, proper spacing and fertilizer placement, weeding for high yields.

Nyanzwa - Easter Lutheran; CVP Report for Nov 4-2010

2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
3rd Visit 2nd Year
November, 04 2010

Village Nyanzwa
Pastor Luhwano Mwafute
Companion Easter Lutheran
Attendees Male 7 Female 4
Weather Sunny, warm
Reporters Nafeti,Phil, Itiweni, Pongolani

Purpose of the visit
• Delivering seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating corn planting and fertilizer applications
• Delivered rain gauge
• Describe micro-finance Institute (Itiweni)

Greetings
Before we began the demonstration, Phil delivered greetings from St. Paul Area Synod and US Institute of Ag advisory committee
Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
• 3rd Visit Instruction
• Plant population with 60 cm. rows and Fertilizer applications
• Fertilizer needs template

Demonstrations
o Planting and fertilizer applications
We demonstrated on how to place seeds and how to apply fertilizers. We insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together. There should be at least 5cm apart.
o Seeds and fertilizers
We delivered 2 bags of NPK and corn seeds. Sorghum and cowpeas will be delivered at planting time.

Crop Seeds Fertilizer
Varieties Amount Type Amount
Corn Pioneer 3253 4kg (2 bags ) NPK 100kg (2 bags)








Questions and comments
• If two seeds are to be planted per hole what is the recommended spacing?
We don’t recommend two seeds per hole in order to avoid nutrients, moisture and space competition.
• When should they use DAP or CAN and which is better?
DAP is used for planting and CAN is used for side dressing
• When should we do side dress?
Do side dressing when plants are knee size high or after 60 days from planting.
• What have you learned?
Proper planting, Plant population, we are learning a lot at no cost


Conclusion
They had a water distribution meeting for irrigating their farms which reduced the attendance.

Lulanzi Lutheran - Christ Lutheran; CVP Report for Oct 29-2010

2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
3rd Visit 2nd Year
October, 29, 2010

Village Lulanzi
Pastor Tuluwene Gavile
Companion Christ Lutheran church
Attendees Male 17 Female 18
Weather Sunny
Reporters Nafeti, Pongolani

Purpose of the visit
• Delivering seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating corn planting and fertilizer applications

Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
• 3rd Visit Instruction
• Plant population with 60 cm. rows and Fertilizer applications
• Fertilizer needs template

Demonstrations
o Planting and fertilizer applications
We demonstrated on how to place seeds and how to apply fertilizers. We insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together. There should be at least 5cm apart.
o Seeds and fertilizers
We delivered 2 bags of NPK. Corn seeds will be delivered later (they are not yet available in the shops in Iringa town).

Crop Seeds Fertilizer
Varieties Amount Type Amount
Corn H6303 8kg (4 bags ) NPK 100kg (2 bags)

Questions from the audience

• Soil sampling should cover different areas such as low lands and high lands
During soil sampling we just sampled from the areas which are real representative of the village and where corn and beans are grown.
• As it is said that UREA has high N content compared to CAN why are we telling them to use CAN?
Soil PH is low (Acidic) if they will go on using UREA they will be increasing soil acidity.
• How can we get NPK while the available one is DAP?
NPK can be found in some stores in Iringa town.

Conclusion

Pastor Tuluwene Gavile was present and more than 30 students (Congregation) attended the session and they seemed to be eager to know how to apply and the right kind of fertilizers they can use for planting and side dressing.

Mlowa-Christus Victor; CVP Report for Nov. 5-2010

2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
3rd Visit 2nd Year
November, 05 2010

Village Mlowa
Pastor Lunogelo Mbwilo
Companion Chritus Victor, Apple Valley
Attendees Male 9 Female 9
Weather Sunny, hot
Reporters Nafeti,Phil, Pongolani

Purpose of the visit
• Delivering seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating corn planting and fertilizer applications

Greetings
Before we began the demonstration, Phil delivered greetings from St. Paul Area Synod and US Institute of Ag advisory committee
Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
• 3rd Visit Instruction
• Plant population with 60 cm. rows and Fertilizer applications
• Fertilizer needs template

Demonstrations
o Planting and fertilizer applications
We did our demonstration regarding fertilizer and corn planting behind the church building, the demo plot is about 1Km away from the church. We demonstrated on how to place seeds and how to apply fertilizers. We insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together. There should be at least 5cm apart.
o Seeds and fertilizers
We delivered 2 bags of NPK one bag and 2bag of corn seeds (Pioneer 3253) for planting quarter an acre. The remaining bag of fertilizer will be used for planting cowpeas.

Crop Seeds Fertilizer
Varieties Amount Type Amount
Corn Pioneer 3253 4kg (2 bags ) NPK 100kg (2 bags)

Questions from the audience
• We have problems with thorny bushes so how should we handle them?
They should cut them while are green and small so that they can avoid them to grow big and become strong.
• If they leave crop residue on field termites feed on corn residues, how to handle that?
Termites eating crop residues is not a problem they just enhance the decomposition of the residues but if they eat on plants after germinating insecticides should be sprayed.
• What is the appropriate time CAN application as side dressing?
Appropriate time for CAN application is after 60 days after planting or after plants are knee size tall.
• What new things have you learned from the Demo plot? ( Phil)
If we use proper spacing and follow the Ag. Institute recommendation yield is increasing and we are going to start using the techniques in our farms. We learned that you can just farm on small area and end with better yield than what we do harvest from our farms.
• What do we do with the income from our Demo plot?
We don’t take anything from demo plot and the income from the plot can be used in various ways depending on how the pastor and the congregation will agree on. But still you can decide to start a demo plot at another preaching point using seeds and fertilizers bought from that income.

Conclusion

• They asked for rain gauge they lost the one they had
• Pastor not present
• Demonstration plot 1KM from the church
• They have doubled yield of corn
• Mlowa is about one hour drive from Iringa town.

Ng'ang'ange - Roseville Lutheran; CVP Report for Oct 28-2010

2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
3rd Visit 2nd Year
October, 28, 2010

Village Ng’ang’ange
Pastor Simon Msula
Companion Roseville Lutheran church
Attendees Male 5 Female 6 ( Had a funeral)
Weather Sunny,beautiful,cool
Reporters Nafeti,Phil, Pongolani

Purpose of the visit
• Delivering seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating corn planting and fertilizer applications

Greetings
Before we began the demonstration, Phil delivered greetings from St. Paul Area Synod and US Institute of Ag advisory committee
Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
• 3rd Visit Instruction
• Plant population with 60 cm. rows and Fertilizer applications
• Fertilizer needs template

Demonstrations
o Planting and fertilizer applications
The demonstration plot is right at the church where people are able to see the progress of the plot which will accelerating technology uptake. We demonstrated on how to place seeds and how to apply fertilizers. We insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together. There should be at least 5cm apart.
o Seeds and fertilizers
We delivered 2 bags of NPK. Corn seeds will be delivered later (they are not yet available in the shops in Iringa town).

Crop Seeds Fertilizer
Varieties Amount Type Amount
Corn H6303 8kg (4bags ) NPK 100kg (2 bags)







Questions and comments


• Concern about ear rot last year, occurred after maturity and Pastor Msula suggested that we should establish variety trials for high altitude areas.
We are doing variety trial at Mgongo for low land areas of Iringa and in future we are going to consider about having variety trial at Lulanzi where seeds suitable for high land areas will be tested.

• Replanting after that did not germinate; do they need to dig another hole?
In case of enough rain make a hole or Use hoe handle to make a hole and place seed in a hole but no need of additional fertilizer.
• We have insect eating corn and bean roots;
Use crop rotation to break the life cycle of insects, use insecticide apply according to instructions
• In case if hard soil is it recommended to practice minimum tillage?
Yes it is recommended except in the case of hard pan you can plough to break the hard pan for one year and then go on with minimum tillage.

Conclusions:
This year we are going to use a different corn variety from the one we planted last year in order to avoid the problem of ear rot. The plot which last year was planted corn should be planted beans this season and that which beans were planted to be planted corn this season.

Bomalang'ombe Lutheran-Prince of Peace; CVP Report for Oct. 10-2010

2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
3rd Visit 2nd year
October 10, 2010

Village Bomalang’ombe parish
Pastor Upendo ndendya
Companion Price of peace Lutheran Church
Attendees Male 5 Female 7
Weather Cloudy, light rain
Reporters Nafeti,Phil, Pongolani

Purpose of the visit
• Delivering seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating corn planting and fertilizer applications

Greetings
Before we began the demonstration, Phil delivered greetings from St. Paul Area Synod and US Institute of Ag advisory committee
Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
• 3rd Visit Instruction
• Plant population with 60 cm. rows and Fertilizer applications
• Fertilizer needs template

Demonstrations
o Planting and fertilizer applications
We did our demonstration near the church where they planted corn last year but this year they decided to plant both beans and corn at the same site where beans were planted last season. We demonstrated on how to place seeds and how to apply fertilizers. We insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together.
o Seeds and fertilizers
We delivered 2 bags of NPK and corn seeds.

Crop Seeds Fertilizer
Varieties Amount Type Amount
Corn H6303 8kg (4bags ) NPK 100kg (2 bags)

Questions and comments

• There are two types of NPK do they contain different nutrients?
They both supply the same nutrients, Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium but they differ in the amount they contain.
• Fertilizers are not available in shops at planting time.
They have to buy and store them for the following season and also they have to talk with government leaders they can help to make things available at right time.
• Since this is their second year, is there anyone who is taking the technique back to their own farms?
Some of them have started following the techniques.
• Do they find the techniques easy compared to their normal ways?
They are easy and simple to use.
• Do you think with time more people will get involved?
Majority said they are thinking of starting using the techniques in their farms.


Conclusion

Pastor in charge was not there but pastor Upendo who teaches at Bomelang’ombe secondary school was there to assist him.

Kidugala(Njombe) - Emmanuel, Iowa; CVP Report for Oct 29-2010

2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
1st Visit, Year One
Oct 25-2010

Village Kidugala (Njombe)
Pastors Wallence Lupenza
Companion Emmanuel, Iowa
Attendees 31
Weather Dry
Reporters Gabriel,Phil and Nafeti

Purpose of the visit
• Measuring the demonstration plots
• Delivering rain gauge, seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating corn planting and fertilizer applications

We drove for almost 3 ½ hours to get to this congregation. Pastor sent an evangelist to come and meet us at Ilembula so as he may show us the road to here. We met the congregation members waiting for us.
Greetings
Before we began the demonstration, Phil delivered greetings from St. Paul Area Synod and US Institute of Ag advisory committee
Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
o Instructions’ handouts
o Plot Management FAQs
o Fertilizer needs template
Demonstrations
o Rain gauge
We told them we need to know the annual rainfall and rainfall pattern of their place. We instructed them how to record rain using a rain gauge. One set of rain gauge was handed to the pastor.
o Plots
After the meeting in the church we went outside to the area where the demonstration plot has planned to be. Together we measured the 1acre plot using miter tape. We measured two ½ acres plots, one for corn and another one for beans.

o Planting and fertilizer applications
We demonstrated on how to place seeds (Both corn and beans) and how to apply fertilizers. We insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together. There should be at least 5cm from each other.
o Soil
The soil analysis of this place showed that the soil pH is low. We told them that we will recommend fertilizers which do not lower further the soil pH. In the demonstration plot we will use NPK for the first application and CAN for the second application.
o Seeds and fertilizers
We delivered 2 bags of NPK and 4bags of seeds
Crop Seeds Fertilizer
Varieties Amount Type Amount
Corn H614 8kg NPK 100kg (2 bags)

Questions/comments from the audience
 How many times they should apply fertilizers in corn
We recommend 2 times applications, first application at the planting and second application of nitrogenous fertilizers when the plants are at knee high.
 They sometimes experience drying of their crops (corn & beans) that starts from the roots
Tthe disease probably is caused by the nematodes which eat plants’ roots. The disease can be controlled in two ways
I. Using pesticides (nematicides)
II. Crop rotation
III. Planting certified improved variety seeds
 They asked whether they should use cow manure together with industrial fertilizers or not?
We encouraged the use of animal manure too. Animal manure will add soil nutrients, soil organic matter and help the soil to retain moisture.
 How can someone can be able to identify identified fake or expired seeds and
It is difficult and sometimes impossible to identify fake seeds and fertilizers. They should be buying seeds and fertilizers from the authorized dealers. Always one should read expire dates on the bag before buying to avoid buying expired agricultural inputs.
 What is the appropriate way of applying fertilizers?
It is recommended to do side dressing and cover the fertilizers. Uncovered applied fertilizer loses N which is volatile. The fertilizers should be put at least 5 cm from the seed or the plant
 Since they live far from the town and sometimes they have to buy fertilizers earlier in advance and put in their houses, what is the appropriate method of store fertilizers
Fertilizers should be stored in the dry place, a place with no direct sunlight and within their original bags. The bags should not be open if the fertilizers are not going to be used soon.
 How to use pesticides?
Use them as per instructions. All pesticides come with the instructions either on the bottle or in the box. Make sure you have read the instructions before use. If the instructions are in English, seek interpretation help from the shopkeeper.
 How about applying fertilizers called SA for the second application?
Their soil is acidic already. We are not recommending SA because it has characteristic of lowering the soil pH

Conclusion
Congregation members were very happy with today’s demonstration. We told them we will be making visits to demonstrate and look at the plot. The next visit will be in January. We left late in the afternoon to Iringa.

Tungamalenga - Shepherd of the Valley; CVP Report for Nov. 5, 2010

2008 CVP
Companion Village Project
3rd Visit, Year Three
November 5, 2010

Village Tungamalenga
Pastor Naftali Nga’amilo, Paul Ole Masinga
Companion Shepherd of the Valley, Apple Valley
Attendees Male 17 Female 3
Weather for the past month Dry
Reporter Gabriel Malima

Purpose of the visit
• Delivering seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating corn planting and fertilizer application

Most of the attendees are the evangelists from different preaching points in of this Parish. They have been here before our arrival. The head Pastor Rev. Naftali Nga’amilo, is not around. Currently he is in US to visit their companion congregation, Shepherd of the Valley, Apple Valley. We were welcomed by the parish secretary and the other pastor Rev. Paul Ole Masinga. In this visit we were accompanied by a lady from micro-finance department, Itiweni Luhwagwa.

Greetings
Before we began the demonstration, Fred delivered greetings from St. Paul Area Synod and US Institute of Ag advisory committee
Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
• 3rd Visit Instruction
• Plant population with 60 cm. rows and Fertilizer applications
• Fertilizer needs template

Demonstrations
o Planting and fertilizer applications
Outside the church we demonstrated on how to place seeds and how to apply fertilizers. We insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together.
o Seeds and fertilizers
We delivered 2 bags of NPK and 4 bags of corn seeds

Crop Seeds Fertilizer
Varieties Amount Type Amount
Corn DK8031 8kg (4 bags) NPK 100kg (2 bags)

o Drought resistant crops
We had already discussed about the drought resistant crops (on September 9, 2010). In that discussion, they said it is difficult to farm sorghum and cowpeas in this. They have tried to farm sorghum and cowpeas before and it did not work out. There so many birds in the village which will eat the sorghum before harvest and the wild animals from the near bar national parks (Ruaha National Parks) eat the cowpeas during the night. There were willing to try cowpeas more than sorghum.
o Microfinance
A lady from micro-finance department, Itiweni Luhwagwa conducted training about agricultural loans. She told them that there is a plan to start agricultural loans program. She had a short discussion with them about the loans and cooperative.

Questions/comments
 When is the appropriate time to apply fertilizers (second application)?
Do second application when plants are at knee high (refer the handout given), it is good to do it when the rain resume (the rain pattern of this area shows that rain normally stops for few weeks in the mid of rain season)
 They were wondering why they should put fertilizers at the knee high instead of putting them when they plants are about to form ears
We told them that the nitrogenous fertilizers applied in the second application are for plant growth not for big corn ear-forming. N helps plants to grow faster and reach maturity in good health.
 Why planting one seed per hole instead of two seeds as they used to do.
Planting two seeds will lead into plants competitions for nutrients, water and sunlight. If there is germination failure when one seed has been planted, replanting should be done within one week after the beginning of germination.

Plots
We drove to their plots which are in the irrigated land about 800m from the church. It is dry here and most of the farming is done in this land. They Parish secretary told us the land has been rented by the church for the demonstration plots. It is large enough for two plots, corn and beans. The bean plot was here last year; this year corn will be planted in this plot. Next to it beans will be planted. Rice plot will be in the same area it was last year.

Conclusion
We told them that we expect good report at the end of the farming season. We encourage them to follow the instructions for the better results of the plots.

Ruaha-Mbuyni - Holy Trinity, New Prague,MN; CVP Report for Nov. 4-2010

2009 CVP
Companion Village Project
3rd Visit Year Two
November 4, 2010
Village Ruaha Mbuyuni (Kwale)
Pastor Elia Kango
Companion Holy Trinity, New Prague
Attendees Male 12 Female 8
Weather for the past month Dry
Ag Institute Staff Gabriel, Fred and Pastor Mang’ulisa

Purpose of the visit
• Delivering seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating corn planting and fertilizer applications
We sat outside on the yard of the elder of this place. The meeting and the demonstration took place here. Most of the people attended this demonstrations are from the Masai tribe.

Greetings
Before we began the demonstration, Fred delivered greetings from St. Paul Area Synod and US Institute of Ag advisory committee
Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
• 3rd Visit Instruction
• Plant population with 60 cm. rows and Fertilizer applications
• Fertilizer needs template

Demonstrations
o Planting and fertilizer applications
We demonstrated on how to place seeds (Both corn and beans) and how to apply fertilizers. We insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together.

o Seeds and fertilizers
We delivered 2 bags of NPK and 4 bags of corn seeds
Crop Seeds Fertilizer
Varieties Amount Type Amount
Corn Pioneer 3253 8kg (4 bags) NPK 100kg (2 bags)

o Drought resistant crops
We told them we want to introduce the drought resistant crops other than corn and beans. The crops are sorghum and cowpeas. They said they did try to farm sorghum in their area and it did not work out. Their area has so many birds and farming sorghum seemed like attracting more. Birds eat sorghum more than they eat other crops. We agreed with them that they should try cowpeas only.
o Irrigation
Their area does not get enough rainfall. All of the farming here depends on irrigation. Last year they had just ¼ acre of corn and ½ acre of beans. The yield has not been good because they had issues with the water pump they were using. This year they will have ½ acre of corn and ½ acre of beans. Corn plot has been moved close to the new pump. The pump owner has allowed them to use it this year and next year. What they have to do is to buy Diesel to run the pump. They asked us to help them money to buy the diesel, we told them we shall discuss this and give them an answer later.
o Plots
We took a walk to see the plots. It is near by the water channel which gets pumped water from the pipe which is about 50m long. The pump itself is about 500m from the plot, close to the river. We walked to the pump to see it. It looks somehow old, but they told us it is working better than the previous pump they used last year.

Questions/comments
 There insects eating the corn leaves before they reach knee high. How should the control them?
The insects are probably army worms. There pesticides used to control them; one of them is called Thionex. We will bring a bottle of Thionex for the demonstration plot.
 The old elder of this place told us he is now using improved variety of corn. He showed us the one bag of seeds (PAN 61). He also told us he is using cow manure for to his farm
 We encouraged them to use cow manure in their farm to increase the soil fertility and soil moisture retention. They should not burn the crop residues because they also increase the soil fertility and soil moisture retention too. By practicing these techniques they will increase soil fertility and reduce the amount of irrigated water. They will be able to save money from buying diesel for irrigating pump. Moreover for high yield they should go to buy fertilizers and improved seeds for their farms
Conclusion
We encourage them to follow the instructions and do things in timely manner. We told them we will be back in January for bean planting and the fertilizer second application demonstrations.

Pommern-Gethsemane Luth., Maplewood; CVP Report for Oct 29-2010

2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
3rd Visit, Year One
October 29, 2010

Village Pommern
Pastor Jenro Kivamba
Companion GETHSEMANE LUTH. CHURCH
Attendees Male 11 Female 11
Weather for the past month Dry
Ag Institute Staff Gabriel and Phil

Purpose of the visit
• Delivering seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating corn planting and fertilizer applications

We met the district Pastor and the Parish Pastor of Pommern. We conducted the meeting in one of their office and then we walked to the plot for demonstrations.
Greetings
Before we began the demonstration, Fred delivered greetings from St. Paul Area Synod and US Institute of Ag advisory committee
Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
 3rd Visit Instruction
• Plant population with 60 cm. rows and Fertilizer applications
• Fertilizer needs template

Demonstrations
o Planting and fertilizer applications
We walked to their plot behind the Pastor’s house. We demonstrated on how to place seeds and how to apply fertilizers. We insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together. There should be at least 5cm apart.
o Seeds and fertilizers
We delivered 2 bags of NPK and 4 bags of corn seeds
Crop Seeds Fertilizer
Varieties Amount Type Amount
Corn H628 8kg (4bags) NPK 10-18-24 100kg (2 bags)

Questions/comments from the audience
 They said sometimes they mix Urea and can for the second application
We told them they should not mix because the amount of N we have recommended is based on usage of one type only of fertilizer between the two.
 How are they going to know the fertility of their soil?
We took the soil samples for soil analysis, we know the fertility of the soil and we give fertilizer recommendations according to the nutrients required.
 When is appropriate to do the second application? Why is it recommended to cover the fertilizers after apply?
Do the second application of fertilizers when the plants are at knee high and cover the fertilizers to prevent the loss of N (N is volatile)
 Why is it recommended to use other fertilizers together with Minjingu phosphates?
Minjingu phosphates have P only. Farmers who are using Minjingu Phosphates are advised to use other fertilizers too to supply P and K.

Conclusion
We left Pommern to Kitowo. We encouraged them to work hard and follow the instructions. The demonstration plot should be used as a learning tool to their society. We told them we will be back in January.

Mlafu-OurSaviors, Stillwtr., CVP Report for Nov 1-2010

2009 CVP
Companion Village Project
3rd Visit Year Two
November 1, 2010

Village Mlafu
Pastor Daison Mpesa
Companion Our Saviour’s, Still water
Attendees Male 4 Female 4
Weather Sunny and warm
Ag Institute Staff Gabriel, Fred and Pastor Mang’ulisa

Purpose of the visit
• Delivering seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating corn planting and fertilizer application

Greetings
Before we began the demonstration, Fred delivered greetings from St. Paul Area Synod and US Institute of Ag advisory committee
Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
• 3rd Visit Instruction
• Plant population with 60 cm. rows and Fertilizer applications
• Fertilizer needs template

Demonstrations
o Planting and fertilizer applications
We walked to their plot near by the church. We demonstrated on how to place seeds and how to apply fertilizers. We insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together. There should be at least 5cm apart.

Seeds and fertilizers
We delivered 2 bags of NPK and 4 bags of corn seeds

Crop Seeds Fertilizer
Varieties Amount Type Amount
Corn H6303 8kg (4 bags) NPK 100kg (2 bags)

Last season discussion
They said last season they had unexpected long dry period when plants where at knee high and rotting disease of corn ears. We told them that some of the practices we teach them increase the ability of the soil to retain moisture. Minimum tillage, leaving crop residues and close spacing will enable the soil to conserve moisture during the dry period.


Questions/comments from the audience
 They said the last year bean variety yield higher than the local variety. However, it does not have good market here
We told them that we have planned introduce a different bean variety this season.
 They wanted to know how many times they should apply fertilizers.
We told them that we recommend two applications of fertilizers. At planting and when the plants are at knee high.

Conclusion
We encouraged them to following the spacing we have instructed and replant one week after germination. We told them we expect more good results this year.

Mwatasi-Trinity,Stillwtr., CVP Report for Oct 28-2010

2008 CVP
Companion Village Project
3rd visit Year Three
October 28, 2010
Village Mwatasi
Pastor Elias Kadinde
Companion Trinity, Stillwater, MN
Attendees Male 4 Female 4
Weather for the past month Dry, sunny
Ag Institute staff Gabriel, Fred and Pastor Mang’ulisa

Purpose of the visit
• Delivering seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating corn planting and fertilizer application

Greetings
Before we began the demonstration, Fred delivered greetings from St. Paul Area Synod and US Institute of Ag advisory committee
Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
• 3rd Visit Instruction
• Plant population with 60 cm. rows and Fertilizer applications
• Fertilizer needs template

Demonstrations
o Planting and fertilizer applications
We walked to their plot which is on the slope of the mountain. We demonstrated on how to place seeds (Both corn and beans) and how to apply fertilizers. We insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together.

o Seeds and fertilizers
We delivered 2 bags of NPK and corn seeds H6303

Crop Seeds Fertilizer
Varieties Amount Type Amount
Corn H6303 8kg (4 bags) NPK 100kg (2 bags)

o Discussion about last season
They thank the institute of agriculture and their companion congregation (Trinity, Still water) for the program. They said some of them have been adopting the techniques. They requested the microfinance program start so that they can be able to get small loans. They said most of them are willing to change the way they farm to modern farming however they do not have enough capital to buy inputs (seeds, fertilizers and pesticides).



Questions/comments from the audience
 What should we do to get more crops as we tried last year and the yield were not as good as expected
Last year you had rotting disease. Moreover spacing was wider than what is recommended in the corn field and replanting was not done. This year you should follow all the instructions properly. We are trying to get the seeds of the corn variety which is resistant to the rotting disease
 Pastor said that they had problems with planting and spacing in the demonstration plot last year because there were many volunteers working in the farms and some did not follow the instructions. This year the church will chose small group of people to work in the farm. The rest will be observers.

Conclusion
They asked us to visits even members’ farms next time to we come here. We told them that will depend with our schedule. We asked them to follow the instructions so that they may have good yield in their plots.

Lundanatwe-Augustana Luth., CVP Report for Nov. 10-2010

2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
3rd Visit Year One
November 10, 2010
Village Lundamatwe
Evangelist Prisca Ramadhani
Companion Augustana, St. Paul
Attendees Male 6 Female 3
Weather Sunny, warm
Ag Institute staff Gabriel , Fred and Pastor Mang’ulisa

In this visit we were accompanied by the Itiweni Luhwago, who is the lady from Microfinance department of Tumaini University. She is teaching agricultural loans program to the congregations. We picked the Pastor of Ipogoro Parish at the Parish and on our way we picked the Secretary of the Parish.

Purpose of the visit
• Delivering seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating corn planting and fertilizer application

Greetings
Before we began the demonstration, Fred delivered greetings from St. Paul Area Synod and US Institute of Ag advisory committee
Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
• 3rd Visit Instruction
• Plant population with 60 cm. rows and Fertilizer applications
• Fertilizer needs template

Demonstrations
o Planting and fertilizer applications
We went outside the church and started the demonstrations. We demonstrated on how to place seeds and how to apply fertilizers. We insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together. There should be at least 5cm apart.
o Seeds and fertilizers
We delivered 2 bags of NPK and 4 bags of seeds Pioneer
Crop Seeds Fertilizer
Varieties Amount Type Amount
Corn Pioneer3253 8kg (4 bags) NPK 10-18-24 100kg (2 bags)





Questions/Comments
 If what is available is just NPK, can we recommend it for both 1st and 2nd applications
Yes, NPK can be used for both 1st and 2nd application. However the NPK which can be used this way should have the ratio of 20:10:10. The NPK with ratio 10:18:24 should be used for the first application only
 Fred told them that it is important to use improved variety seeds and fertilizers. However if there is no enough moisture, all of the things we are teaching them will not be possible. Therefore some of the techniques we teach are crucial in enabling the soil to conserve moisture. Techniques like minimum tillage, leaving crop residues on top of the soil and closely planting spacing conserve soil moisture. These practices should be observed for the high yields in the farms

Conclusion
We encourage them to do well in their first year. They should do things in the timely manner and observe the practices taught.

Kitowo-1st Ev. Luth., Rush Cty, MN-CVP Report for Oct.29-2010

2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report Year One
3rd Visit
October 29, 2010
Village Kitowo
Pastor Hezron Kiswaga
Companion First Evangelical Lutheran Church, Rush City
Attendees Male 4 Female 8
Weather warm, Dry
Reporters Gabriel and Phil

Purpose of the visit
• Delivering seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating corn planting and fertilizer applications

We arrived in Kitowo afternoon coming from Pommern. We met Parish members waiting for us. We conducted the meeting in the church and then we drove to the plot.
Greetings
Before we began the demonstration, Phil delivered greetings from St. Paul Area Synod and US Institute of Ag advisory committee
Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
• 3rd Visit Instruction
• Plant population with 60 cm. rows and Fertilizer applications
• Fertilizer needs template

Demonstrations
o Planting and fertilizer applications
We drove to the plot at the center of the village. We demonstrated on how to place seeds and how to apply fertilizers. We insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together. There should be at least 5cm apart.
o Seeds and fertilizers
We delivered 2 bags of NPK and 4 bags of corn seeds
Crop Seeds Fertilizer
Varieties Amount Type Amount
Corn H628 8kg (2 bags ) NPK 100kg (2 bags)

Questions from the audience
 Are we going to use the two bags of fertilizers for beans too?
No, the two bags brought have to be used to the corn plot only (instructed in the handout). In December we will come back with another 2 NPK bags for bean plot and 2 CAN bags for the second applications in corn plot
 We are having “leaf eating insects” when plants are in early stages?
We will bring insecticides called Thionex for the demonstration plot. It is an effective insecticide; you should use the same kind in your farms too.
 We have never use NPK for corn. We have been using it in Peas only, why do you recommend us to use in corn?
NPK fertilizers can be used in most of the crops. The recommendations based on the soil analysis we have conducted. The NPK supplies Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium and your soil needs all of this nutrients
 We heard that fertilizers destroy soils, is that true?
No, that is not true. Fertilizers do not destroy soil. What will destroy your soil fertility is the wrong usage of fertilizers. If you apply more than what is recommended or if you apply the wrong king of fertilizers, you are destroying the fertility of your soil.

Conclusion
We left Kitowo in the evening. We told them to follow all the instructions especially the spacing and fertilizer application. We will be back in January for more instructions.

Kiponzelo-Gustavus Adolphus, CVP Report for Nov 11-2010

2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
3rd Visit, Year One
November 11, 2010
Village KIPONZELO
Pastor JEZBELI NDENDYA
Companion Gustavus Adolphus Luth. Church
Attendees Male 6 Female 4
Weather for the past month Dry
Ag institute staff Gabriel, Fred and Pastor Lunodzo

Purpose of the visit
• Delivering seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating corn planting and fertilizer applications

Greetings
Before we began the demonstration, Fred delivered greetings from St. Paul Area Synod and US Institute of Ag advisory committee
Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
• 3rd Visit Instruction
• Plant population with 60 cm. rows and Fertilizer applications
• Fertilizer needs template

Demonstrations
o Planting and fertilizer applications
We demonstrated on how to place seeds and how to apply fertilizers. We insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together. There should be at least 5cm apart.
o Seeds and fertilizers
We delivered 2 bags of NPK and 4 bags of corn seeds (H628)
Crop Seeds Fertilizer
Varieties Amount Type Amount
Corn H628 8kg (4 bags) NPK 100kg (2 bags)

Questions/comments from the audience
 They said they have been buying improved seeds, unfortunately last year they bought “fake” seeds from the shops
We told them that they should be buying seeds from certified seed dealers (shops) in Iringa.
 They were wondering why the NPK have different numbers written on the bags
We told them that there different kind of NPK fertilizers. These NPK fertilizers has different application time and rates in accordance with the content of the nutrients in them.


Conclusion
We encourage them to work hard and follow the instructions. The demonstration plot should be used as a learning tool to their society. We told them we will be back in January for further demonstrations.

Isimani-Holy Trinity, Newington, New Hampshire-CVP Report Nov 16-2010

2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
3rd Visit, Year One
November 16, 2010

Village ISIMANI
Pastor Naboth Chaula
Companion Holy Trinity, New Hampshire
Attendees Male 9 Female 9
Weather for the past month Dry
Ag institute staff Gabriel, Nafeti and Pastor Mang’ulisa

We were accompanied by the Micro finance department personnel Itiweni Mhagwa. She had a discussion with the Parish members about establishing the SACCOS (micro finance co-operative society) in this area

Purpose of the visit
• Delivering seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating corn planting and fertilizer application

Greetings
Before we began the demonstration, Fred delivered greetings from St. Paul Area Synod and US Institute of Ag advisory committee

Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
• 3rd Visit Instruction
• Plant population with 60 cm. rows and Fertilizer applications
• Fertilizer needs template

Demonstrations
o Planting and fertilizer applications
We demonstrated on how to place seeds and how to apply fertilizers. We insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together. There should be at least 5cm apart. We also demonstrated on how to plant sorghum.
o Seeds and fertilizers
We delivered 2 bags of NPK and 2 bags of corn seeds.

Crop Seeds Fertilizer
Varieties Amount Type Amount
Corn Pioneer 3253 2 bags NPK 100kg (2 bags)
Sorghum Not yet delivered






Drought resistant crops
We discussed with them the drought resistant crops we are planning to introduce in this area. The crops are sorghum and cowpeas. They asked us to consider sunflower and groundnuts too.

Questions/comments from the audience
 What are the spacing for sorghum
We recommend the same spacing like that of corn, 60cm×20cm. However it is important to do thinning in sorghum.
 They were wondering if they should wait until the rain season to plant or not
We told them they can wait until the rain season starts, however they should plant at the beginning of the rain season. It is important to use all the rain we get in the whole season.
 How about the use of cow manure in the farm?
Yes, cow manure is useful in the farm. They add organic matter and nutrients; moreover they increase the capacity of the soil to retain moisture

Conclusion
We reminded them to follow the instructions and do a good job in the plot. We told them that the plot has to be used as a learning tool. By working together with them we hope to increase the yield of their area.

Image Sec School-Augustana Luth-CVP Report for Nov 8-2010

2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
3rd Visit, Year One
November 8, 2010
School Image Secondary
Headmaster Pastor Andendekisye Ngogo
Companion AUGUSTANA LUTH. CHURCH
Attendees 3 Teachers and about 50 students
Dry Dry, warm
Reporters Gabriel, Fred and Pastor Mang’ulisa,

Purpose of the visit
• Delivering seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating corn planting and fertilizer applications

Form I – IV students are doing examination. We hold the demonstration meeting with form V and VI.
Greetings
Before we began the demonstration, Fred delivered greetings from St. Paul Area Synod and US Institute of Ag advisory committee
Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
• 3rd Visit Instruction
• Plant population with 60 cm. rows and Fertilizer applications
• Fertilizer needs template

Demonstrations
o Planting and fertilizer applications
We went outside the class and took a walk to their demonstration plot. We demonstrated on how to place seeds and how to apply fertilizers. We insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together. There should be at least 5cm apart.
o Seeds and fertilizers
We delivered 2 bags of NPK and 4 bags of seeds H628
Crop Seeds Fertilizer
Varieties Amount Type Amount
Corn H628 8kg (4 bags) NPK 100kg (2 bags)

Questions/Comments
 They wanted to know the proper way of put fertilizers (2nd application)
Make 2 holes near by the plant, at least 5cm away, put one cup of fertilizer in each and cover them. Fertilizers should be covered to prevent loss of N.
 How many times fertilizers should be applied to the farm?
We recommend two applications of fertilizers. The first application is done at planting at the second when plants are at knee high
 Why do we discourage intercropping?
We recommend planting one crop at a time because we do not want plants to compete for nutrients, moisture and sunlight.
 What is the appropriate size for one acre area?
We told them, one acreage area is the one with 4032m2

Conclusion
We encouraged them to do well in their first year. They should do things in the timely manner and observe the practices taught.

Ihemi-Christiania Luth., CVP Report for Nov 18-2010

2008 CVP
Companion Village Project
3rd Visit, Year Three
November 18, 2010
Village Ihemi
Pastor Mgeyekwa/ Upendo Sanga
Companion Christiania, Lakeville
Attendees 15
Weather for the past month Dry
Ag Institute Staff Gabriel , Nafeti and Pastor Mang’ulisa

Purpose of the visit
• Delivering seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating corn planting and fertilizer applications

Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
• 3rd Visit Instruction
• Plant population with 60cm rows and Fertilizer applications
• Fertilizer needs template

Demonstrations
o Planting and fertilizer applications
We walked to their plot close to the church. We demonstrated on how to place seeds and how to apply fertilizers. We insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together.
o Seeds and fertilizers
We delivered 2 bags of NPK and 4 bags of H628 Corn seeds

Crop Seeds Fertilizer
Varieties Amount Type Amount
Corn H628 8Kg (4 bags) NPK 100kg (2 bags)

Questions/comments
 They told us they are having problem to get the right seeds for their farms because some of the villagers bought seeds last year and unfortunately the seeds were “fake”!
We told them to buy seeds from the certified dealers (shops). Moreover they should report to their village authority and to the extension officers whenever they experience poor performance of the seeds
 Is it appropriate to use cow manure for planting
Cow manure is good because it supplies P and K. Moreover manure increases moisture retaining capacity of the soil and soil OM. However, for higher yield, industrial fertilizers are better than cow manure because they have high content of nutrients.
 When to put second applications of fertilizers?
We recommend the second application to be done 60 days after planting or when plants are at knee high (ref. the instructions handout)
 They asked if they should plant beans only after corn for crop rotations or they can plant other crops
We told them that they can use other leguminous plants (eg. cowpeas) for crop rotation because all leguminous plants add nitrogen in the soil when grown following grain crops

Conclusion
We encouraged them to do better and have good yield in their plot because it is their third year and we believe they have learning a lot in the past two years.

Ifunda - House of Prayer -- CVP Visit Nov 3-2010

2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
3rd visit, Year One
November 3, 2010

Village Ifunda
Pastors Jenock Mwilafi
Companion House of Prayer, Oakdale
Attendees Male 7 Female 5
Weather Dry
Ah Institute Staff Gabriel, Fred and Pastor Lunodzo

Purpose of the visit
• Delivering seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating corn planting and fertilizer application
Greetings
Before we began the demonstration, Fred delivered greetings from St. Paul Area Synod and US Institute of Ag advisory committee
Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
• 3rd Visit Instruction
• Plant population with 60 cm. rows and Fertilizer applications
• Fertilizer needs template

Demonstrations
o Planting and fertilizer applications
Outside the church we demonstrated on how to place seeds (Both corn and beans) and how to apply fertilizers. We insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together.
o Seeds and fertilizers
We delivered 2 bags of NPK and 4 bags of corn seeds

Crop Seeds Fertilizer
Varieties Amount Type Amount
Corn H628 8kg (4 bags) NPK 100kg (2 bags)

Questions/comments from the audience
 How many time should they apply fertilizers
We recommend two applications of fertilizers; at the planting and when the plants are at knee high.
 When to do second application to the corn?
Do second application when plants are at knee high, it is good to do it when the rain resume (Rain normally stops for few weeks in the mid of rain season here)
 They wanted to know whether fertilizers have chemicals that affects human health or not?
Fertilizers do contain plants nutrients. They have been approved by the government because they do not affect human health.
 They said they know that local varieties are more resistant to diseases and are not easily damaged when harvested. Why do we encourage them to use improved varieties?
It is true local varieties have some very good characteristics which sometimes the improved varieties do not have. However the improved varieties have more good characteristics (high yield, high nutrients content etc.) than the local varieties.
 What types of improved corn seeds are suitable to this area
We told them the H625 and H628 will suit their weather.
Plot
We drove to their plot which is on the slope close to the water stream, in the farming area of the town. The plot is good and it has been well cleaned.

Conclusion
We encouraged them to follow the instructions and take good care of the plot. Good results they get from the plots will help them to decide whether they should adopt the techniques or not. They should use the plot as the learning tool.

Bomalang'ombe Sec.School CVP Visit Oct 27, 2010 - Trinity, Stillwater

2008 CVP
Companion Village Project
3rd Visit, Year Three
October 27, 2010
School Bomalang’ombe Secondary School
Headmaster Michael Mkinga
Companion Trinity Lutheran, Still water
Attendees Headmaster, Ag Teacher and about 44 students
Ag Institute Staff Gabriel, Fred and Pastor Mang’ulisa

Purpose of the visit
• Delivering seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating corn planting and fertilizer applications

When we arrive here we met 6 members of the Trinity, Still water (USA) who are here working on the Laboratory, classrooms and school hall projects. Tom Thiets introduce us to the rest of the group. We had a short talk with them then we went to the school hall for the demonstrations.
Greetings
Before we began the demonstration, Fred delivered greetings from St. Paul Area Synod and US Institute of Ag advisory committee
Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
• 3rd Visit Instruction
• Plant population with 60 cm. rows and Fertilizer applications
• Fertilizer needs template
Demonstrations
o Planting and fertilizer applications
We took a walk down to the plot. We demonstrated on how to place seeds (Both corn and beans) and how to apply fertilizers. We insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together.

Seeds and fertilizers
We delivered 2 bags of NPK and 4 bags of seeds (H6303)
Crop Seeds Fertilizer
Varieties Amount Type Amount
Corn H6303 8kg (4 bags) NPK 100kg (2 bags)

Questions/comments from the students
 Why we do not recommend cow manure for the second application?
• Manure decompose slowly to release nutrients
• Do not have as much nitrogen as industrial fertilizers
 Is NPK suitable for other crops other than corn?
Yes, NPK can be applied in almost all crops according to the nutrients’ requirement of the particular crop. We will use NPK while planting beans too.
 Why is it recommended to use Minjingu phosphate with other fertilizers in the first application?
A Minjingu phosphate has high content of Phosphorus only. Other fertilizers are required to supply Nitrogen and Potassium which are not available in Minjingu phosphates. In the demonstration plot we will not use Minjingu phosphates; we will use NPK for the 1st application.
 Why do we discourage intercropping?
Intercropping is discouraged because we do not want plant competition. When we plant more than one crop in the field, plants compete for nutrients, moisture and sunlight.
 Some of the farms in these areas have been facing nematodes problem where by the nematodes destroy the plant roots and cause plants to die. How can they solve this problem?
• Use nematicides available in the shops
• Practice crop rotation to cut off the generation cycle of the pests
• Use certified improved seed varieties
 How to determine nutrients availability in the soil?
Nutrients availability in the soil is determined by conducting soil analysis. We took soil samples from this area and we have already conducted the soil analysis. Moreover, by looking at the conditions of the plants (leaf color) one can determine the nutrients availability in the soil
 We have just conducted soil analysis in one part of the village, how about other areas? How are they going to know the nutrients availability in those areas?
We picked one area to take the soil samples. We believe that that area represents the soil type of the whole village.
 In this area, they farm potatoes. How are they going to control the fungi disease in potatoes?
• Practice crop rotation
• Use fungicides to control the disease
 The headmaster asked us, how the farmers can avoid risks and uncertainty
• Use certified seeds (with reliable germination percent)
• Plant on time
• Practice crop rotations to get rid of the pests and diseases
However farmers can buy insurances to help when the condition become unfavorable for crops (this service is not yet practiced in Tanzania.

Conclusion
We encourage students to follow all the instructions as we give them. We told them we are expecting a better job this farming season.

Monday, November 8, 2010

Kivalamo - CVP Report Oct 4-2010

2008 CVP-Companion Village Project
Visit Report Year Three-October 4, 2010
Village Kivalamo
Pastor Exaud Mkeng’e
Companion Elim, Scandia
Attendees 16
Weather for the past month Sunny
Reporters Gabriel, Don, Nafeti and Pastor Lunodzo

Purpose of the visit
• Delivering seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating corn planting and fertilizer applications

We went direct to the plot. Down the steep hill, that is where the plot is. We meet the parish members working in the plot. They told us that they have new plots this year because the plot they have been using for two years have been taken over by the owner. We had to measure the plot, sketch it and ask them to make sure they are not going to move this plot any more.
o Greetings:
Don delivered greetings from St. Paul Area Synod and US Institute of Ag advisory committee
o Plot:
Together with them we measured the plot to get ½ acre plot for corn. We asked them to go and do the same in the bean plot. Since this is not their first time to measure their plots. We are quite sure they can measure it correctly.
o Rain record:
We reminded them that by now they should be taking rain records. We discuss with them about their weather and the appropriate time of planting for their area.
o Seeds
Since this area is difficult to be reached in the mid of rain season, we delivered the beans seeds and fertilizers for the planting corn and beans. The corn seeds were given to their Pastor whom we came to Iringa town with.

Crop Seeds Fertilizer
Varieties Amount Type Amount
Corn H614
DKC 4kg
4kg NPK 100kg (2 bags)
Beans Urafiki 40kg NPK 100kg (2 bags)

In this area, they had serious corn rotting disease when they grow the corn variety H628. We told them to try the two varieties H614 and the new release variety DKC which are long maturity varieties, they yield high and they are a little bit resistant to the rotting disease.


Conclusion
We insisted the importance of maintain the same land for the demonstration plot. We like to have the same land for the demonstration plot for three years because of being able to demonstrate how to build soil fertility in the farm by applying fertilizers and leaving crop residues.

Kiponzelo - CVP Report Oct 11-2010

2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report Year One
2nd Visit
October 11, 2010

Village KIPONZELO
Pastor JEZBELI NDENDYA
Companion Gustavus Adolphus Luth. Church
Attendees 13
Weather for the past month Dry
Reporters Gabriel and Rev. Lunodzo

Purpose of the visit
• Measuring demonstration plots
• Delivering rain gauge
Topics
1. Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
o 2nd Visit Instructions
o DIRA and Institute of Agriculture Village Plot Agreement
o Plot Management FAQs
2. Demonstrations
o Rain gauge
We told them we need to know the annual rainfall of their place. We instructed them on how to record rain using a rain gauge. One set of rain gauge was handed to the pastor.
o Plots
We went outside of the church and together we measured the 1acre plot using miter tape. We measured two ½ acres plots, one for corn and another one for beans.

Comments
 They asked if they can use a fertilizer called SA since they did not hear us mentioning it.
We told them that SA has the characteristic of increasing soil acidity. According to the soil analysis their soil is acidic. We would not recommend SA for this kind of soil.
 They wanted to know how many application they are suppose to do in corn and beans
We told that we recommend two applications of fertilizers for corn; at the planting and when the crops reach at knee high. For beans we recommend one application, at the planting.

Conclusions/Recommendations
We had to finish early here because we were supposed to go to another Parish in the same day. We told them that we shall come back in November for the planting and fertilizer demonstrations.

Ifuwa - CVP Report Oct 6-2010

2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report Year One
2nd Visit
October 6, 2010

Village Ifuwa
Pastor Gervas Nziku
Companion Lord of Life, Maple Grove
Attendees 17
Weather Dry
Reporters Gabriel, Nafeti, Don and Rev. Lunodzo

Purpose of the visit
• Measuring the demonstration plots
• Delivering rain gauge, seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating corn planting and fertilizer applications

This is another long distant parish we have in the program. Since we are not sure with the condition of the road during the rainy season, we carry with us seeds and fertilizers to deliver (We normally do this in the 3rd visit). Since the church is still under constructions, we had to conduct the demonstration in other place. Thanks to the Headmistress of the nearby the Primary school who invited us to conduct a demonstration meeting in the school.
Greetings
Before we began the demonstration, Don delivered greetings from St. Paul Area Synod and US Institute of Ag advisory committee
Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
o 2nd Visit Instructions
o DIRA and Institute of Agriculture Village Plot Agreement
o Plot Management FAQs
Demonstrations
o Rain gauge
We told them we need to know the annual rainfall of their place. We instructed them how to record rain using a rain gauge. One set of rain gauge was handed to the pastor.
o Plots
The land the parish planned to use for the demonstration plot have been taken back by the owner. The other parish’s land is far away from the village. The Parish requested the land from the nearby primary school and the Headmistress accepted the request. We insisted that the school should be aware that this land will be used for three years. We went with them to this land and together we measured the 1acre plot using miter tape. We measured two ½ acres plots, one for corn and another one for beans.
o Planting and fertilizer applications
We demonstrated on how to place seeds (Both corn and beans) and how to apply fertilizers. We insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together. There should be at least 5cm from each other.
o Seeds and fertilizers
We delivered 2 bags of NPK for corn and 2 bags of NPK for beans. Moreover we delivered corn and bean seeds

Crop Seeds Fertilizer
Varieties Amount Type Amount
Corn H614 8kg NPK 100kg (2 bags)
Beans Uyole 96 30kg NPK 100kg (2 bags)


Comments
 They asked us we have told them not to burn the crop residues after harvesting, how are they going to control the termites?
We told them that there is a pesticide to control the termites. We will introduce the pesticides before the starting of the rainy season.
 They asked us why they should put fertilizers at the knee high, why not at the teaseling stage.
We told them that, the type of fertilizers applied is nitrogenous fertilizers which help plants to grow. We apply at this time because we want plants to grow and have good health.

Conclusion
We finished demonstration and remind them to follow all the instructions in the demonstration plot. While we were demonstrating, we were suddenly surrounded by a crowd of primary school students. It seems like they enjoy learning farming techniques.

Ipalamwa Secondary School - CVP Report Oct 5-2010

2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report Year One
2nd Visit
October 5, 2010

School Ipalamwa Secondary School
Headmaster Obeni Sawike
Companion Raquet Family Foundation, Mound
Attendees 4 teachers and about 50 students
Weather Cloudy and Dry
Reporters Gabriel, Nafeti, Don and Rev. Lunodzo

Purpose of the visit
• Measuring the demonstration plots
• Delivering rain gauge, seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating corn planting and fertilizer applications

This school is in the Ipalamwa village. The village is far away from Iringa town. Due to nature of the landscape (mountainous) and rough road which is not good during the rainy season, we had to make this visit before November. We carried fertilizers and bean seeds to deliver. The headmistress is new here. Last time we came to this school, we met another headmaster. We met Form Four Students doing their national examinations. We had the demonstrations with the few students from other classes.

Greetings
In the beginning of our demonstrations, Don delivered greetings from St. Paul Area Synod and US Institute of Ag advisory committee
Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
o 2nd Visit Instructions
o DIRA and Institute of Agriculture Village Plot Agreement
o Plot Management FAQs
Demonstrations
o Rain gauge
We told them we need to know the annual rainfall of their area. They were instructed how to record rain using a rain gauge. One set of rain gauge was handed to the Ag teacher.
o Plots
We went with them outside and together we measured the 1acre plot using miter tape. We measured two ½ acres plots, one for corn and another one for beans.
o Planting and fertilizer applications
We told them the importance of having high plant populations and applying fertilizers. It was demonstrated how to plant seeds (Both corn and beans) and how to apply fertilizers.



o Seeds and fertilizers
We delivered 2 bags of NPK for corn and 2 bags of NPK for beans. We are planning to test two types of seed varieties here, PAN 691 and H6303. We managed to buy and deliver PAN 691. We told them the H6303 will be shipped to them once bought.

Crop Seeds Fertilizer
Varieties Amount Type Amount
Corn PAN 691
H6303 8kg4kg
Not yet delivered NPK 100kg (2 bags)
Beans Urafiki 40kg NPK 100kg (2 bags)

Comments
One of the member of the staff said he knows the local pesticides from the woods which is used to control the corn stalk bores. He asked us if we can take and research it.
We told him we are actually not doing the pesticides research right now therefore it will be difficult for us to work on that. However we will be happy to know it.
 They were wondering how are they going to control weeds with minimum tillage
We told them that with minimum tillage, one has to start to prepare the farm before the rain season starts. Monthly weeding helps to control weeds during the growing season.
 They asked us why we insist the usage of industrial fertilizers while they know these fertilizers destroy soil.
We told them that it is not true that the usage of fertilizers destroy soil, what destroys soil fertility is the bad usage of the fertilizers. If one uses the wrong kind of fertilizers or wrong amount of fertilizers he/she destroys the soil fertility. We took soil samples from their areas for the soil analysis. The soil analysis results and recommendations help to determine type and the amount of fertilizers that is suitable to their areas.

Conclusion/Recommendation
We told them that if the road will not be bad during the rainy season, we can make other visits in November and December. We will ship the corn seeds via bus once they are available in the local shops in Iringa town.

Ifunda - CVP Report Oct 11-2010

2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report Year One
2nd Visit
October 11, 2010

Village Ifunda
Pastors Jenock Mwilafi
Companion House of Prayer, Oakdale
Attendees 18
Weather Dry
Reporters Gabriel and Rev. Lunodzo

We arrive in this Parish late in the afternoon from Kiponzelo. People have been gathering in the church and waiting for us. We started with a short meeting and we did demonstration outside the church.

Purpose of the visit
• Measuring the demonstration plots
• Delivering rain gauge
Topics
1. Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
o 2nd Visit Instructions
o DIRA and Institute of Agriculture Village Plot Agreement
o Plot Management FAQs
2. Demonstrations
o Rain gauge
We told them we need to know the annual rainfall of their place. We instructed them on how to record rain using a rain gauge. One set of rain gauge was handed to the pastor.
o Plots
They could not get enough land around their church. They got a land in the farming area about 1km from the church. They said the plot is nearby the road. We could not get there because it was late. We instructed the Pastor to supervise the plot measuring task. We instructed them on how to measure the 1 acre plot using miter tape (instead of pacing). We told them to measure two ½ acres plots, one for corn and another one for beans

Questions/Comments from audience
 They were wondering if the minimum tillage will work since in some of the land they farm has somehow clay soil
We told them minimum tillage will work because we have tried in other villages with the same type of soil and they have got high yields.
 Why they should do second application of fertilizers while they do the first with NPK?
NPK applied at the planting time has higher ration of P and K than N. The nitrogenous fertilizers applied at the knee high (second application) supplied N which is highly needed by the plants for growth at this plant stage.
 Is it okay to apply a fertilizer called SA (Sulphate of Ammonia) instead of?
Their soil pH is very low. We would not recommend fertilizers with suphur component because they have a tendency of lower soil pH. SA will not be suitable to this area.
 They are facing termites’ problem in their farms, by leaving the crop residues are they not going to worsen the problem?
Their soils need addition of Organic matter. Crop residues are one of the best ways to add organic matter in their farms. Terminates can be controlled using pesticides.
 How should they control the fungal disease in corn which occurs almost every farming season?
I. Crop rotation
II. Plant at the appropriate time
III. Use improved seeds

Conclusions/Recommendations
We insisted that it is important for them to go and measure the plot accurately. We are planning to visit their plot next time. We reminded them about the advantages of doing weeding now as the preparation of the coming planting season.

Ipalamwa Parish - CVP Report Oct 5-2010

2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report Year One
2nd Visit
October 5, 2010

Village Ipalamwa Lutheran
Pastor Ajenista A. Maliga
Companion Mount Calvary, Eagan
Attendees 15
Weather Cloudy and dry
Reporters Gabriel, Nafeti, Don and Rev. Lunodzo

Purpose of the visit
• Measuring the demonstration plots
• Delivering rain gauge, seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating corn planting and fertilizer applications

After we finish the demonstration at the Secondary school, we started demonstration here. Due to uncertainty of the condition road to this parish, we carry with us seeds and fertilizers to deliver (We normally do this in the 3rd visit). We met Pastors and members of the congregation in the church. We met other people from other churches who were not Lutherans. There were one Pastor and one church leader from Pentecost church.
Greetings
Before we began the demonstration, Don delivered greetings from St. Paul Area Synod and US Institute of Ag advisory committee

Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
o 2nd Visit Instructions
o DIRA and Institute of Agriculture Village Plot Agreement
o Plot Management FAQs
Demonstrations
o Rain gauge
We told them we need to know the annual rainfall and rainfall pattern of their area. We instructed them how to record rain using a rain gauge. One set of rain gauge was handed to the pastor.
o Plots
We went with them outside and together we measure the 1acre plot using miter tape instead pacing. We measure two ½ acres plots, one for corn and another one for beans.
o Planting and fertilizer applications
We demonstrate on how to place seeds (Both corn and beans) and how to apply fertilizers. We insisted that they should not place together seeds and fertilizers. There should be at least 5cm from each other.
o Seeds and fertilizers
We delivered 2 bags of NPK for corn and 2 bags of NPK for beans. We are planning to introduce corn variety H6303. We could not buy these seeds from the local shops; however we are planning to ship them once they become available in Iringa town.


Crop Seeds Fertilizer
Varieties Amount Type Amount
Corn Not yet delivered NPK 100kg (2 bags)
Beans Uyole 96 30kg NPK 100kg (2 bags)


Comments
 They wanted to know if there is big difference between the old farms and the new farm in terms of soil fertility
We told them that in terms of the organic matter and other nutrients availability, yes there is a difference however the fertilizers recommendations are applicable in both new and old farms because this difference will not make big difference in nutrients availability. Moreover soil fertility has to be built in both old and new farms.
 They asked since they get few bags of fertilizers from the government in the subsidizing program, what should d they do once they get the different kind of what we recommend to them
We told them that there is nothing we can do about the fertilizers they get from the government. However using the fertilizers they get is better than not using at all.

Conclusion
We finished demonstration nearly evening. Along the road we saw the signs of road constructions. Hopeful the road will improve and can be passable during the rainy season. We told them we will be communicating with them to know the situation of the road so that we can plan our visits.

Pommern - CVP Report Oct 13-2010

2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report Year One
2st Visit
October 13, 2010

Village Pommern
Pastor Jenro Kivamba
Companion GETHSEMANE LUTH. CHURCH
Attendees 14
Weather for the past month Dry
Reporters Gabriel and Pastor Lunodzo

Purpose of the visit
• Measuring the demonstration plots
• Delivering rain gauge

Topics
1. Review of the handouts
o 2nd Visit Instructions DIRA
o DIRA and Institute of Agriculture Village Plot Agreement
o Plot Management FAQs
2. Demonstrations
o Rain gauge
We instructed them on how to record rain using a rain gauge. One set of rain gauge was handed to the pastor.
o Plots
We instructed them on how to measure the 1acre plot using miter tape (instead of pacing). Together with them we measured two ½ acres plots, one for corn and another one for beans. They have a nice flat land which is big enough to make two ½ acre plots for both and beans.

Questions/Comments
 What types of fertilizers we would recommend in their area?
Since their soil pH is low we would recommend the types of fertilizers which will not lower further their soil pH, NPK and CAN will be suitable in their area. Fertilizers with Sulphur and Urea components will not be suitable to this acidic soil.
 In one part of the village, they have rats’ infestation and they damage germinating seeds, how should they control the rats?
There are pesticides special for rat controlling in the fields. They are obtained in most of the agricultural stores selling inputs. However when the problem is severe and spread quickly, government will have to send its agents to spray pesticides in the particular area.



Conclusion
We had to leave to Kitowo. We encourage them to start the preparation of the coming farming season. We gave the Pastor one rain gauge. Going to Kitowo, we take with us the District Pastor of this area.

Lundamatwe - CVP Report Oct 12-2010

2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report Year One
2st Visit
October 12, 2010

Village Lundamatwe
Evangelist Prisca Ramadhani
Companion Augustana, St. Paul
Attendees 11
Weather Dry
Reporters Gabriel and Rev. Lunodzo

We met people have already gathered here and waiting for us. We were coming from Image Secondary School and it is about 1 ½ hour driving from there. This is the preaching place of the Ipogoro Parish. It is under an evangelist. Both the Ipogoro Pastor and the evangelist of Lundamatwe were here.

Purpose of the visit
• Measuring the demonstration plots
• Delivering rain gauge

Topics
1. Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
o 2nd Visit Instructions
o DIRA and Institute of Agriculture Village Plot Agreement
o Plot Management FAQs
2. Demonstrations
o Rain gauge
We instructed them how to record rain using a rain gauge. One set of rain gauge was handed to the evangelist.
o Plots
We went outside of the church and together we measured the 1acre plot using miter tape. We measure two ½ acres plot. This plot will be used for corn. We could not get enough land around the church for another ½ acre for beans. We told them to look for more land for bean plot and they should measure it as we have measured this corn plot.

Comments
 The Pastor of Ipogoro Parish expressed his thanks to the institute and to the People of Augustana for the training and support of this plot at this preaching point. He encouraged the people here to make sure they take good care of the plot and learn from it.

Conclusion
It was approaching evening. We left, leaving behind the rain gauge and the task to them to get more land for the bean demonstration plot. We took Pastor of Ipogoro Parish and another church leader to drop them at Ipogoro.

Kitowo - CVP Report Oct 13-2010

2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report Year One
2st Visit
October 13, 2010

Village Kitowo
Pastor Hezron Kiswaga
Companion First Evangelical Lutheran Church, Rush City
Attendees 17
Weather Dry
Reporters Gabriel and Pastor Lunodzo

We arrived in the afternoon. We were with the District Pastor of this area. We met the parish members already in the church.

Purpose of the visit
• Measuring the demonstration plots
• Delivering rain gauge

Topics
1. Review of the handouts
o 2nd Visit Instructions
o DIRA and Institute of Agriculture Village Plot Agreement
o Plot Management FAQs
2. Demonstrations
o Rain gauge
We instructed them on how to record rain using a rain gauge. One set of rain gauge was handed to the pastor, they were asked to start record in the coming rainy season.
o Plots
We instructed them on how to measure the 1acre plot using miter tape instead pacing. We did not have enough time to measure their plot. We asked Pastor and the District Pastor to supervise the measuring process. We asked them to measure two ½ acres, one for corn and another one for beans.

Questions/Comments
 The District Pastor asked all of the members of this Parish to fully participate in the program. The demonstration plot should be used as the learning tool.
 They asked if there is special way to lay the crop residues in the farm
We told them that the crop residues can be laid in the farm in any way which a farmer finds suitable for him/her. It is better to spread them all over the farms that they should act as mulching. The important thing is they should not be burnt because they are required to add organic matter of the soil and reduce soil erosion



Conclusion
This is the area of people with knowledge about modern farming. Some of the agronomic practices we teach have been practiced here for a while. We hope they will participate in the demonstration plot and adopt new techniques quickly. Late in the afternoon we started a journey back to Iringa.

Isimani - CVP Report Sept 30-2010

2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report Year One
2nd Visit
September 30, 2010
Village ISIMANI
Pastor Naboth Chaula
Companion Holy Trinity, New Hampshire
Attendees 18
Weather for the past month Dry
Reporters Gabriel, Don, Nafeti and Pastor Lunodzo

Purpose of the visit
• Introducing the drought resistant crops (Shorghum&Cowpeas)
• Measuring the demonstration plots
• Delivering rain gauge

Topics
1. Greetings
Don delivered greetings from St. Paul Area Synod and US Ag Institute Advisory Committee
2. Review of the handouts
o 2nd Visit Instructions
o DIRA and Institute of Agriculture Village Plot Agreement
o Plot Management FAQs
3. Drought resistant crops
Since their area is getting drier and drier, they need to starting growing drought resistant crops. They said they have started growing sunflower and groundnuts. We told them that we are going to demonstrate sorghum and cowpeas. Cowpeas crop was received better than sorghum. However they were willing to try both.
4. Demonstrations
o Rain gauge
They were instructed how to record rain using a rain gauge. One set of rain gauge was handed to the pastor.
o Plots
They have a flat land about 80m from the church. They were instructed how to measure the 1 acre plot using miter tape. Together with them we measured two ½ acres plots, one for corn and another one for beans.


Comments
 They asked us how do we come up with fertilizers’ recommendations of their area
We told them that the soil analysis of the soil samples we took from their areas determine type of fertilizers we recommend.
 They discussed about the livestock eating crop residues- Problem. They agreed that they will speak with village leaders to try to resolve the issue.

Conclusions/Recommendations
We told them that we will go back in November to deliver seeds and fertilizers. We instructed them to start preparations of the plot as soon as possible.