Ilambilole CVP Visit Report - Nov 5-2012

2008CVP Companion Village Project 1st Visit, Extension Network Year One November 05, 2012 Village Ilambilole Pastor Meshack Magova Companion Our Saviors, Hastings Attendees 17 Weather for the past month Dry Reporters Gabriel, Phil and Happy Purpose of the visit Extension Education; Fertilizers and Seed Introduction The demonstration meeting was conducted in the church. Phil delivered greetings from Our Saviors, Hastings and US advaisory comettee. Happy (an intern from Tumaini University) gave a presentation about agricultural entreprenaureship. She remainded them the importance of joining Saving and Credit Cooperative Societies. Review of the handout We went through the extension network handout about seeds and fertilizers. The training was divided into two parts; Fertilizers and seeds. The discussions were conducted in the church. Farmers had many questions and the discussion was very good. Comments/questions • Is pig manure suitable for corn and beans? Pig manure is one of the animal manure recommended for the crops. It is good type of manure because it adds N, P and K. It is good for corn and beans • What is the main difference between CAN and Urea? What is the best? CAN and Urea are both nitrogenous fertilizers, they add N to the soil. The difference between CAN and Urea is nitrogen content. Urea has high nitrogen content than CAN, however CAN has Calcium that is missing and Urea. All of this are good fertilizers for the second application. • Can I apply Urea at planting? Urea is nitrogenous fertilizer that is suitable for the second application. You should apply nitrogen when plants are at knee high or 60 days after planting. At this time, urea will work better. • Can I plant without fertilizers and then apply the mixing of DAP and Urea when plants are at knee high? DAP is good fertilizers when you apply as first application and urea should be applied as second application. This way fertilizer application will perform better and hence increase yields. • Is Minjingu phosphate good fertilizer? This is rock phosphate fertilizers, it is applied as first application. It is works in the soil that has high deficiency of phosphorus. However other fertilizers such as NPK nd DAP work better than minjingu phosphorus because these fertilizers have an addition of other nutrients ie. Nitrogen • What type of seed is better for this area? Your village gets low amount of rainfall. The rainfall duration is short. The type of corn seeds suitable for this area is Pioneer 3253, SITUKA, Tan54 etc. When you go to the shop ask for the corn seed varieties that takes less than 120 days to mature. • Why do ou tell us that we should not repeat hybrid seeds? These are type of seeds whose yield or disease resistant characters disappear as you repeat planting them. You are advised to use hybrid seeds only once • Can you train us on how to produce improved variety of seeds? We, the institute of Agriculture do not deal with seeds production. However we can advise you on how to prepaire good seeds from previous crop (of composite varieties). There are companies that involve farmers in production of hybrid seeds through contracts. However your area receives very low amount of rainfall, I don’t think it will be suitable for that. • There are many types of NPK fertilizers. Which number is suitable for corn roduction? The NPK suitable for corn is the one with numbers 23:10:5. The one with numbers 15:9:20 is suitable for beans and vegetables. • Can I use NPK 23:10:5 for both first and second application? Yes, that NPK has hig content of nitrogen. It can be used in first application and second application too. Conclusion We discussed with them on what topics they want to discuss in the coming extension meetings. They suggested livestock keeping and beekeeping. We told them that we will look for experts of the livestocks and beekeeping. In the next meeting, we will focus on those topics.

Pommern Parish - CVP Visit Report - Nov 21-2012

2012 Companion Village Project 3rd Visit, Year Three November 21, 2012 Village Pommern Parish Pastor Jane Chusi Companion Gethsemane Lutheran Attendees 04 Weather for the past month Dry Reporters Location Pongolan and Venance Alitude: 1887m above sea level 08005.720 S O35046.073E Introduction Upon arrival, we met only four members of the church waiting at the pastor’s house. The pastor was on journey to attend her family problems. Purpose of the visit • Delivering seeds and fertilizers • Demonstrating planting and fertilizer application Topics covered • Review of the handouts - 3rd Visit Instruction - Plant population and Fertilizer applications • Demonstrations: Planting and fertilizer applications; The attendees were given an opportunity to demonstrate on how to plant seeds and how to apply fertilizers which they did precisely. However, they were cautioned not to place seeds and fertilizers together. Seeds and fertilizers The following inputs were delivered:- Item Corn Beans Fertilizers for corn Fertilizers for beans Variety H 614 Uyole Njano NPK cereal NPK winner Amount 4bags 40 kg 2bags 2 bags Comments/Questions There were no questions or comments from the parishioners. Conclusion Pommern Parish is having the CVP for the third year, so they were able to show us that they can plant at correct spacing and fertilize the plants at the right amount taking precaution not to put the fertilizer and the seed together. We hope they will perform even better in the coming cropping season.

Mgama - CVP Visit Report - Nov 26-2012

2011CVP Companion Village Project 3rd Visit, Year Two November 26, 2012 Village Mgama Pastor Edward Mgeyekwa Companion St. Paul Luthern Attendees 12 Weather for the past month Rainy Institute staff Gabriel and Pastor Mang’ulisa Purpose • Delivering seeds and fertilizers • Demonstrating planting and fertilizer application Introduction The plot has been moved to about 1 km from where it used to be last year. The land they farm last year was rented from one villager and this year it has been taken back by the owner. We drove to the plot and the demonstration took place there. Topics • Review of the handouts The handouts contain instructions were reviewed - 3rd Visit Instruction - Plant population and Fertilizer applications - Fertilizer needs template • Demonstrations Planting and fertilizer applications Demonstration on how to plant and apply fertilizers was conducted. • Seeds and fertilizers The following were delivered Corn Seeds Bean Seeds Fertilizers Variety Amount (kg) Variety Amount (kg) Type Amount (bags) H614 8 Uyole Njano 30kg NPK 4 Comments/questions: We had discussion about the new minjingu fertilizers. Pastor brought to us one bag of the new minjingu phosphate . The fertilizers has been improved by the addition of nitrogen and calcium. We told them we think the fertilizer is good for the first application. Conclusion We asked pastor to inform the parish members and other villegers about the new location of the plots. People should be able to visit them and learn new farming practices demonstrated there. The fertilizer for the second application will be delivered in the January visit.

Lusinga CVP Visit Report - Oct 11-2012

2011CVP Companion Village Project & PCT 3rd Visit, Year Two October 11, 2012 Village Lusinga Pastor/Leader Galosi Kwamba Sponsorship Pyrethrum Company of Tanzania (PCT) Attendees 6 Weather for the past month Dry Ag inst Gabriel and Rev. Kulwa Sadataeli Institute of agriculture in partnership with Pyrethrum Company of Tanzania has establish an agricultural extension program that teach farmers better agronomic practices. The program includes three crops; corn, beans and pyrethrum. In this village, three demonstration plots has been established from which farmers are learn farming techniques. Purpose • Delivering corn seeds and fertilizers • Demonstrating planting and fertilizer applications • Inspecting the pyrethrum nursery Topics • Review of the handouts - Corn planting Instruction - Plant population and Fertilizer applications - Fertilizer needs template • Demonstration activities o Pyrethrum In the meeting with Pastors/plot leaders from various CVP-PCT plots it was decided that each parish ill establish a pyrethrum nursery inorder t grow the seedling for the demo plot and to distribute to the parish members. We visited he plot today, It is located outside the village, in the slopes close to the water stream. We met two ladies water ring the plants. o Corn Later we return to the village and demonstration on how to plant corn and apply fertilizers was conducted. A group of farmers gathered outside the evangelist’s house and together we plant corn and beans and apply fertilizers. • Seeds and fertilizers The following were delivered Corn Seeds Bean Fertilizers Variety Amount (kg) Variety Amount (Kg) Type Amount (bags) TMV 8 Uy 96 40 NPK 6 Conclusion The lady who is a supervisor of the pyrethrum here said that the number of people growing pyrethrum has been increasing in the village. Last year 15 people grew pyrethrum however this year she has order of seedling from 60 people. We visited the pyrethrum demonstration plot. The plants were flowering.

Image Secondary School CVP Visit Report - Nov 21-2012

2011 CVP Companion Village Project 3rd Visit Year Three November 21, 2012 Village Image sec school Headmaster Andeck Ngogo Companion Augustana Lutheran Attendees 9 Weather Sunny Reporters Gabriel and Rev. Mang’ulisa Purpose • Delivering seeds and fertilizers • Demonstrating planting and fertilizer application Introduction The school is closed. Students have gone home for the end of the year holiday. We met small group of students who ave remained behind. The demonstration plots have been moved out of the school compound. It is located outside of the school fance in the school farm. The demonstration were held there. Topics • Review of the handouts The handouts contain instructions were reviewed - 3rd Visit Instruction - Plant population and Fertilizer applications - Fertilizer needs template • Demonstrations Planting and fertilizer applications Demonstration on how to plant and apply fertilizers was conducted. • Seeds and fertilizers The following were delivered Corn Seeds Bean Seeds Fertilizers Variety Amount (kg) Variety Amount (kg) Type Amount (bags) Pionner 3253 8 Wanja 30kg NPK 4 Comments/questions: • What is the difference between CAN and Urea These are the nitrogenous fertilizers. They are applied as the second application in corn. The main difference is Urea has high nitrogen content than CAN. However CAN has addition of the nutrient called Calcium that is not present in Urea. Both aregood fertilizers for the second application • We heard that using Urea destroy soil, is that true? Fertilizers are not dangerous nor are they harmful to the soil. Fertilizers such as urea, CAN, DAP, potash, or all the various blended/mixed fertilizers are beneficial to the soil and especially to the plants/crops that grow in these soils. So, fertilizer is not bad for you, the soil, and the crops. However, we want to apply these fertilizers in a cost-effective manner such that we are not applying too much of one nutrient and not enough of another nutrient. Conclusion We asked the teacher to make sure that the demonstration plots is properly managed. We asked him to supervise the students to plant at the right time and apply fertilizers as required.

Magubike CVP Visit Report - Oct 30-2012

2012CVP Companion Village Project 2nd Visit, Year One October 30, 2012 Village Magubike Coordinates S 07o45.126’ E 035o28.936’ Pastor Josia Nyadwike Companion Stinski Family Foundation Attendees 21 Weather for the past month Dry Ag Institute Staff Gabriel, Fred and Happy Introduction The demonstration meeting was conducted in the church. Fred delivered greetings from Stinski Family Foundation and US adversary comettee. Happy (an intern from Tumaini University) gave a presentation about the importance of agricultural entreprenaureship. Purposes • To measure the demonstration plot • Delivering seeds and fertilizers • Demonstrating planting and fertilizer application Topics • Review of the handouts The handouts contain instructions were reviewed - 2rd visit instruction - 3rd Visit Instruction - Plant population and Fertilizer applications - Fertilizer needs template • Demonstrations Planting and fertilizer applications Demonstration on how to plant and apply fertilizers was conducted. • Seeds and fertilizers The following were delivered Corn Seeds Bean Seeds Fertilizers Variety Amount (kg) Variety Amount (kg) Type Amount (bags) Pioneer 3253 8 wanja 30kg NPK 6 Comments/questions: • Can I use CAN or UREA in te first application? No, don’t use CAN or UREA in the first application. CAN and UREA are nitrogenous fertilizers. They are applied when plants are at knee high or after 60 days after planting. In the first application use NPK or DAP. • Why do we use fertilizers when we plant beans? Beans like other crops need fertilizers. Soil analysis have shown that most of the soil of Iringa region do luck enough nutrients to support crops growing. Fertilizers help to supply the required nutrients. • How many time should I apply CAN in my field? CAN is applied as side dressing in the corn field. Apply it once. However apply the required amount. • How many bean seeds should we plant? Plant only one bean seed per hole. We will show you on how to do this during the demonstration session Conclusion We measured the plot and told them to start prepair it for the coming season. We instructed them to leave the crop residues on the soil. The demonstration plots are located close to the church and the main road. This way many people will be able to see them.

Ipogoro CVP Visit Report - Nov 8-2012

2008CVP Companion Village Project 1st Visit Extension Network & YARA November 08, 2012 Village Ipogoro Pastor Nixon Mwitula Companion Augustana Attendees 25 Weather for the past month Dry Reporters Gabriel, Phil and Happy Purpose of the visit Extension Education; Fertilizers and Seed Introduction The demonstration meeting was conducted in the church. Fred delivered greetings from Augustana and US adversary comettee. Happy (an intern from Tumaini University) gave a presentation about entreprenaureship. Review of the handout We went through the extension network handout about seeds and fertilizers Training The training was divided into two parts: Fertilizers and seeds. The discussions were conducted in the church. Farmers had many questions and the discussion was very good. Comments/questions • are fertilizers poisonous to plants? No, this is not true, fertilizers are not poisonous. Fertilizers are neither dangerous nor harmful to you when applied in the soil. Fertilizers are beneficial to the soil and plants. As food to the human body, fertilizers are “food” to the soil. Benefits of fertilizer far outweigh any potential negative impacts on soil. • When applying fertilizers at planting, do I have to mix NPK and DAP? No, you do not have to mix NPK and DAP. Both are fertilizers used for the first application. Mixing them increases cost and do not make any big difference • You have told us Manure are good but do not have as high nutrient content as industrial fertilizers. Is it possible to mix manure and something else to add more nutrient in them? It s not recommended to mix manure and other staff just to make them more powerful. We would suggest to complement manure and industrial fertilizers. Apply manure before planting then later on add industrial fertilizers ie. Nitrogenous fertilizers. • Can we have an opportunity to learn other crops rather than corn and beans? Yes, in the next extension meeting, we will discuss crops or other areas of interest which you will suggest today. We will come with experts of various subjects to train you. Demonstration This village is one of the village that will have demonstration plot sponsored by YARA fertilizers’ company. Th company has offered the fertilizers and the institute is offering corn and bean seeds. We demonstrated on how to plant and apply fertilizers. Seeds and fertilizers The following were delivered Corn Seeds Bean Seeds Fertilizers Variety Amount (kg) Variety Amount (kg) Type Amount (bags) Pionner 3253 8 Wanja 40kg NPK 6 Conclusion We had a good participation here. Most of the evangelists from various preaching points participated. The topics for the next demonstration meeting suggested were marketing, livestock keeping and crop pest and diseases.

Ifunda CVP Visit Report - Nov 19-2012

2012 Companion Village Project 3rd Visit, Year Three November 19, 2012 Village Ifunda Pastor Elay Abraham Mwinuka Companion House of Prayer Lutheran Attendees 04 Weather for the past month Dry and warm Reporters Location Gabriel , Happy, Rev. Mang’ulisa, Pongolan, and Venance Altitude:1681m above sea level 08002.711S 035028.013E Inroduction Ifunda Parish has been looking for a better site for the CVP, unfortunately has not yet secured any ideal site to date. The land around has a hard pan underneath the soil surface, therefore unsuitable for growing annual crops. Upon arrival, we met only four members of the church waiting to begin the demonstrations. Purpose of the visit • Delivering seeds and fertilizers • Demonstrating planting and fertilizer application Topics covered • Review of the handouts - 3rd Visit Instruction - Plant population and Fertilizer applications • Demonstrations Planting and fertilizer applications; It was demonstrated on how to plant seeds and how to apply fertilizers. It was insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together. Seeds and fertilizers The following seeds and fertilizers were delivered: Item Corn Beans Fertilizers for corn Fertilizers for beans Variety H 625 Uyole Njano NPK cereal NPK winner Amount 4bags 27 kg 2bags 2 bags In addition to the inputs listed above, they were given a half liter of thionex pesticide for insect pest’s control. Comments/Questions The parishioners were undecided about the CVP site whether to move it to a place with better soils or continue to work at the current site where soils are shallow and lack organic matter. Conclusion: They were advised to move the CVP to a preaching point called Muhimbi where the soils are thought to be better. We hope the shift will work for the betterment of the CVP.

Pommern Secondary School CVP Visit Report - Nov 21-2012

2012 Companion Village Project 3rd Visit, Year Two November 21, 2012 Village Pommern Secondary School Headmaster Haran Ngede Companion Faith Lutheran Church Attendees 14 Weather for the past month Dry Reporters Location Pongolan and Venance Alitude: 1839m above sea level 08005.986 S O35046.886 E Introduction The headmaster received us and after introductions he gathered a good number of students to participate and the teaching was done. Purpose of the visit • Delivering seeds and fertilizers • Demonstrating planting and fertilizer application Topics covered • Review of the handouts - 3rd Visit Instruction - Plant population and Fertilizer applications • Demonstrations: Planting and fertilizer applications; It was demonstrated on how to plant seeds and how to apply fertilizers. It was insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together. Deliveries The following items were delivered:- Item Corn Beans Fertilizers for corn Fertilizers for beans Variety H 614 Uyole Njano NPK cereal NPK winner Amount 4bags 40 kg 2bags 2 bags Comments or Questions Students asked some questions about fertilizers. One remarkable question was whether it was true that fertilizers were “poisonous”; the answer was that fertilizers were not poisonous but supply nutrients into the soil for the plants and finally consumed animals including human being. They were cautioned of the proper use of fertilizers including the application methods. Conclusion Students showed a great interest of learning the good farming practices which were taught and asked a good number of questions which were answered accordingly.

Mlowa CVP Visit Report - Nov 14-2012

2012 Companion Village Project 3rd Visit, Year Four November 14, 2012 Village Mlowa Parish Pastor Naboth Chaula Companion Christus Victor Lutheran Church Attendees 14 Weather for the past month Hot and Dry Reporters Fred, Pongolan, and Venance Introduction We met a good number of attendees waiting to receive inputs and learn more of the good farming practices in the church building. Unfortunately the village has been hit by drought for a couple of years in a row. We brought a little of rice seeds (10kg) for the parish to try. Purpose of the visit • Delivering seeds and fertilizers • Demonstrating planting and fertilizer application Topics covered • Review of the handouts - 3rd Visit Instruction - Plant population and Fertilizer applications • Demonstrations: Planting and fertilizer applications; The parishioners are in their fourth year of the CVP, therefore they were asked to explain how they can go about planting corn and beans. They were able to demonstrate the exercise of planting corn and beans and fertilizer application quite well. It was insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together to avoid Salt injury. Seeds and fertilizers The following seeds and fertilizers were delivered: Item Corn Beans Fertilizers for corn Fertilizers for beans Variety Pioneer Urafiki NPK cereal NPK winner Amount 4bags 40kg 4 bags 2 bags In addition to the above items, 10 kg of rice seeds were provided to the Parish for planting as a trial to measure its performance. They will plant rice in an area which is irrigated by ditch water available in the village. Comments/Questions Some questions were asked on rice: 1. They wanted to know the importance of incubating rice before planting; the answer provided was to enable quick and even germination before taking seeds to the seedbeds. 2. How long does incubation of rice take place; the answer was it takes 48 – 72 hrs. Conclusion They showed a great interest in learning the farming practices but the harsh weather is a major limiting factor for their farming. However, the Pastor here has just come in and the previous Pastor has been moved away, therefore we are pessimistic on the performance of the CVP for the coming season.

Kitowo - CVP Visit Report - Nov 20-2012

2012 Companion Village Project 3rd Visit, Year Three November 20, 2012 Village Kitowo Pastor Upendo Longo Companion First Evangelical Lutheran Church Attendees 08 Weather for the past month Dry and Hot Reporters Location Gabriel, Happy, Rev. Mang’ulisa and Venance 1797m above sea level 08002.813S 035044.911E Introduction Upon arrival, there were four men and women readily waiting to begin the teachings. When asked about records of the past events, they complained that the previous pastor left with all the CVP documents. The matter was forwarded to DIRA office for following the pastor so that he returns the documents. Purpose • Delivering seeds and fertilizers • Demonstrating planting and fertilizer application Topics • Review of the handouts - 3rd Visit Instruction - Plant population and Fertilizer applications • Demonstrations Planting and fertilizer applications: It was demonstrated on how to plant seeds and how to apply fertilizers. It was insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together. Seeds and fertilizers The following seeds and fertilizers were delivered: Item Corn Beans Fertilizers for corn Fertilizers for beans Variety H 614 Uyole Njano NPK cereal NPK winner Amount 4bags 30kg 4 bags 2 bags Comments/Questions The parishioners showed great interest to apply the taught methods in their individual plots. They were organizing to start up a SACCO which would assist them get loans and be able to purchase inputs for modern agriculture. Conclusion Experience shows that the success of the CVP depends largely on the commitment of the leaders especially the Pastor. The shift of the pastors may cause a positive or negative effect on the performance of the CVP; we pray that it turns out to be positive effect.

Kilolo - CVP Visit Report Nov 8-2012

2012 Companion Village Project Extension Program, 5th Year 1st Visit November 08, 2012 Village Kilolo Parish Pastor/Evangelist Yona Kinganga Companion King of Kings Lutheran Church Attendees 04 Weather for the past month Dry Reporters Fred, Pongolan, and Venance Upon arrival, we met only 04 members of the church waiting to begin the discussion; many were gone to their personal fields. We made introductions; Fred conveyed greetings from King of Kings Lutheran Church and the Advisory Committee in US to the people of Kilolo. He gave a brief explanation on the evolution of extension education and its purpose. After the introductions, we invited the attendees to participate in the discussion on the fertilizers and seed topics which they were all familiar of. Purpose of the visit • To introduce extension program and share ideas about the topics to be taught. • To deliver fertilizers provided by Yara Fertilizer Company and corn seeds provided by the CVP Topics covered • To explain fertilizer details and answer FAQ’s about fertilizers • To explain seed details and answer FAQ’s about seeds The details about fertilizers and seeds were covered through discussion involving them/participatory method whereby reporter’s role was to lead, provoke them by asking questions and let participants explain and ask questions too. Some important issues covered on fertilizers included:  types of fertilizers locally available, when to apply them, pros and cons of each type  clarification on the myth that “fertilizers are poisonous” to the soil and hence to the consumers of fertilized crops  fertilizer application frequencies and its side effects  simple ways of detecting nutrient deficiencies in the field without necessarily taking the soil to the lab for analysis  effect of excessive fertilization in the field  differences between CAN and Urea fertilizers in terms of its functions  How best can one integrate the use of manures and industrial fertilizers  Other methods besides fertilization that can be used to improve soil fertility in Iringa region Some important issues covered on seeds included:  Good quality seed is the foundation for the yield expected  Hybrid seeds productivity decrease with number of replanting  The importance of using the best quality seed in order to maximize the expected crop yields The attendees showed a great interest on the discussion and posed some questions/issues of concern. Finally they suggested the topics they would like to be taught in the next extension lesson. The following questions/ views were asked or given by the attendees:- Attendees thought natural fertilizers or manures favor crops better than industrial fertilizer; we thought organic matter present in manures build soil structure for the betterment of crop growth, but in terms of nutrients generally manures have low content of nutrients as compared to the same quantity of industrial fertilizers. The soil mounds made by ants are usually rich in fertility, attendees wanted to know the cause of that. We thought the ants collect vegetation for consumption and when they die leave organic matter in the soil raising its fertility in the process. The attendees wanted to know if Industrial fertilizers can remain in the soil for more than one cropping season. We thought depending on the type of fertilizer, most of P containing fertilizers remains in the soil longer because of the slow nutrient release process but N containing fertilizers such as CAN or Urea will dissolve and release nutrients rapidly, therefore cannot remain soil for more than one cropping season. The members expressed their wish to have H6302 corn seed which was available in the 1980s and 90s and now are no longer in the market. They commented the variety to be of high quality and resistant to ear rot as opposed to the current H6303 which is prone to ear rot. Unfortunately the H6302 is no longer produced in Tanzania and it seems H6303 took its place. So, no way we can get back H6302. Their suggestion for topics to be taught in the next extension class included:- 1. Disease symptoms and how to control diseases on the following crops: maize, beans, and vegetable crops. 2. Livestock diseases and how to control them; livestock list includes - pigs, chickens, goats, cattle, Rabbits Deliveries After the discussion we delivered 2 bags of NPK cereal fertilizer, 2 bags of NPK winner fertilizer and 4 bags of corn seed Conclusion The extension program being conducted for the first time was perceived as positive and educative to the farmers. It seemed interesting and farmers were eager to learn more and more from the discussion. They thanked the King of Kings Lutheran Church for being kind to continue supporting them for extension network.

Mwatasi-CVP Visit Report Nov 7-2012

2012 Companion Village Project Extension Program, 5th Year 1st Visit November 07, 2012 Village Mwatasi Pastor/Evangelist Elias Kadinda Companion Trinity Lutheran Church Attendees 09 Weather for the past month Dry Reporters Fred, Pongolan, and Venance We went to Mwatasi to conduct an extension class accompanied by Fred from Minnesota. Upon arrival, we met 09 members of the church waiting to begin the discussion. We made introductions; Fred conveyed greetings from Trinity Lutheran Church and the Advisory Committee in US to the people of Mwatasi. He gave a brief explanation on the evolution of extension education and its purpose. After the introductions, we invited the attendees to actively participate in the discussion on the fertilizers and seed topics which they were all familiar to. It was very interesting to hear them contribute ideas of their understanding about the topics. Purpose of the visit • To introduce extension program and share ideas about the topics to be taught. Topics covered • To explain fertilizer details and answer FAQ’s about fertilizers • To explain seed details and answer FAQ’s about seeds The details about fertilizers and seeds were covered through discussion involving them/participatory method whereby my role was to lead, provoke them by asking questions and let participants explain and ask questions too. Some important issues covered on fertilizers included:  types of fertilizers locally available, when to apply them, pros and cons of each type  clarification on the myth that “fertilizers are poisonous” to the soil and hence to the consumers of fertilized crops  fertilizer application frequencies and its side effects  simple ways of detecting nutrient deficiencies in the field without necessarily taking the soil to the lab for analysis  effect of excessive fertilization in the field  differences between CAN and Urea fertilizers in terms of functions  How best can one integrate the use of manures and industrial fertilizers?  Other methods besides fertilization that can be used to improve soil fertility in Iringa region Some important issues covered on seeds included:  Good quality seed as the foundation for high expected yield  Hybrid seeds productivity decrease in successive years  The importance of using high quality seed in order to maximize expected crop yield The attendees showed a great interest on the discussion and posed some questions/issues of concern. They suggested for livestock husbandry to be taught in the next extension network. Conclusion The extension program being conducted for the first time was perceived as interesting and educative to the farmers. The members were thankful to the supporting congregations for having a vision to continue providing them with the useful knowledge.

Itungi - CVP Visit Report Nov 6-2012

2012 Companion Village Project Extension Program, 5th Year 1st Visit November 06, 2012 Village Itungi Parish Pastor/Evangelist Medson Chengula Companion Como Park Lutheran Church Attendees 09 Weather for the past month Dry Reporters Fred, Pongolan, and Venance We drove to Itungi to conduct an extension class accompanied by Fred from Minnesota. Upon arrival, we met 09 members of the church waiting to begin the discussion. We made introductions; Fred conveyed greetings from Como Park Lutheran Church and the Advisory Committee in US to the people of Itungi. He gave a brief explanation on the evolution of extension education and its purpose. After the introductions, we invited the attendees to actively participate in the discussion on the fertilizers and seed topics which they were all familiar of. It was very interesting to hear them contribute ideas of their understanding about the topics. Purpose of the visit • To introduce extension program and share ideas about the topics to be taught. Topics covered • To explain fertilizer details and answer FAQ’s about fertilizers • To explain seed details and answer FAQ’s about seeds The details about fertilizers and seeds were covered through discussion involving them/participatory method whereby my role was to lead, provoke them by asking questions and let participants explain and ask questions too. Some important issues covered on fertilizers included:  types of fertilizers locally available, when to apply them, pros and cons of each type  clarification on the myth that “fertilizers are poisonous” to the soil and hence to the consumers of fertilized crops  fertilizer application frequencies and its side effects  simple ways of detecting nutrient deficiencies in the field without necessarily taking the soil to the lab for analysis  effect of excessive fertilization in the field  differences between CAN and Urea fertilizers in terms of functions  How best can one integrate the use of manures and industrial fertilizers?  Other methods besides fertilization that can be used to improve soil fertility in Iringa region Some important issues covered on seeds included:  Good quality seed as the foundation for high expected yield  Hybrid seeds productivity decrease in successive years  The importance of using high quality seed in order to maximize expected crop yield The attendees showed a great interest on the discussion and posed some questions/issues of concern. Finally they suggested the topics they would like to be taught in the next extension lesson. The suggested topics were: 1. Pesticides and their uses 2. Disease symptoms and how to control diseases on the following crops: maize, beans, and vegetable crops. 3. Livestock diseases and how to control them; livestock list includes - pigs, chickens, goats, cattle, Rabbits 4. Bee keeping Conclusion The extension program being conducted for the first time was perceived as positive and educative to the farmers. It seemed interesting and farmers wanted to know more and more of the taught topics. They thanked Como Park Lutheran Church for overseeing the importance of continued education on Agriculture.

Nduli-CVP Visit Report Nov 5-2012

2012 Companion Village Project Extension Program, 5th Year 1st Visit November 05, 2012 Village Nduli Parish Pastor/Evangelist Laiton Muyinga Companion Christ the King Lutheran Church Attendees 16 Weather for the past month Dry Reporters Fred, Pongolan, and Venance We went to Nduli to do the first extension class with many questions in mind about the acceptance of the program which was very different from the previous program which included input package. Probably there wasn’t much difference to the Nduli Parish because fertilizers are provided by Yara Fertilizer Company. Upon our arrival, we were overwhelmed by the big number of attendees; there were 16 members of the village (12 women and 4 men) anxiously waiting to attend the meeting. In the meeting, they asked questions, shared experience and gave opinions on fertilizers and seed topics covered. Purpose of the visit • To introduce extension program and share ideas about the topics to be taught. • Deliver fertilizers provided by Yara Fertilizer Company and corn seeds from the CVP program for the demonstration plot Topics covered • To explain fertilizer details and answer FAQ’s about fertilizers • To explain seed details and answer FAQ’s about seeds After introductions, Fred briefly explained the evolution and purpose of extension education in the US about 100 years ago and its translation to our parishes today. Then the details about fertilizers and seeds were covered through discussion involving them/participatory method whereby my role was to lead, provoke them by asking questions and let participants explain and ask questions too. Some important issues covered on fertilizers included:  types of fertilizers locally available, when to apply them and pros and cons of each type  clarification on the myth that “fertilizers are poisonous” to the soil and hence to the consumers of fertilized crops  fertilizer application frequencies and its side effects  simple ways of detecting nutrient deficiencies in the field without necessarily taking the soil to the lab for analysis  effect of excessive fertilization in the field  differences between CAN and Urea fertilizers in terms of functions  How best can one integrate the use of manures and industrial fertilizers?  Other methods besides fertilization that can be used to improve soil fertility in Iringa region Some important issues covered on seeds included:  Good quality seed as the foundation for higher expected yields  Hybrid seeds productivity decrease in successive generations  The importance of selecting high quality seed in order to achieve maximum yield The attendees showed a great interest on the discussion and posed some questions/issues of concern. Below are some concerns raised in the meeting:- Termite problem; they mentioned termite as a growing problem in some parts of the village especially when a farmer attempts to leave crop residues on the field. Crop rotation could be part of the solution; however, it is limited in villages with small land such as Nduli where crop rotation is not possible. Pastor Laiton was planning to make a termite control trial by putting the anti-termite available at TFA in 1.5ft deep holes after every 6m apart as an attempt to control termites. We are looking forward to learn from his trial. Minjigu Rock Phosphate (MRP); members wanted to know the working efficiency of MRP. We provided a brief explanation about the slow working of MRP to release the required plant nutrients and thus the delay in showing impact after its application. Crop residues blown by wind; they expressed a concern about strong winds removing some crop residues which are left on the field after crop harvest. We advised establishing windbreaks where possible, though it seems not possible at the demo plot just outside the church at Nduli but can be done in other places.

IgumbiloCVP Visit Report Oct 30-2012

2012 Companion Village Project 2nd and 3rd Visit, Year One October 30, 2012 Village Igumbilo Pastor/Evangelist Nixon Mwitulla/ Shukuru Msigwa Companion Augustana Lutheran Church Attendees 06 Weather for the past month Dry Reporters Pongolan, Phil and Venance Igumbilo is a Preaching Point of Ipogoro Parish having the CVP for the first year. We went there accompanied by Pastor Nixon Mwitulla from Ipogoro Parish. A few members of the church (06) attended the gathering. According to the Evangelist, many members of the village are busy making bricks at the river valley this time of the year, thus affecting the attendance at the CVP meeting. Upon our arrival, we met only three members of the church around the church, we decided to walk to the field to measure the demo plot. We took some time to take the measurements of the plot which was challenging because of the irregularity of the plot. We came up with half-acre for corn and only a quarter of an acre for beans. We advised the members of the church to look for another quarter of an acre to complete the half acre required for beans. Coming back to the church for the teaching, three other church members joined us. Purposes of the visit • To measure the demonstration plot • To demonstrate on planting of corn and beans • To deliver corn seeds, bean seeds and fertilizers Topics covered 1. Review of the handouts • 2nd and 3rd Visit Instructions • Plant population with 60 cm. rows and Fertilizer applications • Fertilizer needs template 2. Demonstration Planting and fertilizer application We measured the plot then demonstrated on how to plant and how to apply fertilizers. We insisted that they should not place seeds and fertilizers together. There should be at least 5cm apart. The spacing is 60×20cm for corn and 30×10cm for beans. Fertilizers should be applied to both corn and beans. 3. Rain gauge We promised to send them a rain gauge and asked Pastor Nixon to teach them on how to read and record the amount of rainfall as soon as the rain starts. 4. Delivery We delivered corn seeds, bean seeds and fertilizers of the type and amount as indicated in the table below: Item Corn Beans Fertilizers for corn Fertilizers for beans Variety Pioneer NPK cereal NPK winner Amount 4bags 2 bags 2 bags Conclusion This village is having a CVP for the first time; the success of the CVP will depend mainly on the attention of the village leadership to encourage people to attend the plot and the teaching provided by the Institute of Agriculture. We believe the success experienced at Ipogoro through Pastor Nixon will be translated to this preaching point. We also hope the members of the church will look for a quarter of an acre to accomplish the half acre for beans. Some questions were asked about farming problems and manure and were answered accordingly. On the way back to Ipogoro, we had conversations about the right planting dates for beans. Pastor Nixon shared with us his experience on the trials he has been doing on attempt to determine the right planting dates for beans.