Ihemi - CVP Visit Report - Apr 30-2013

2008 CVP Companion Village Project, PCT and YARA 2nd Visit of Extension of Extension program April 30, 2013 Village Ihemi Pastors Anania Kadege Companion Christiania Lutheran, Lakeville Attendees 30 Weather for the past month Dry Reporters Gabriel and Microfinace staff (Peter, Itiweni and Magreth) On this visit, we were accompanied by Micro-finance institute staff. The meeting was organized with the aim of conducting two trainings; Agricultural training and Micro-finance (SACCOS) training. The trainings were conducted in the church. Purpose of the visit • Extension education: Plant diseases Topics • Review of the handout We went through the extension network handout about plant diseases • Discussion We discussed about plant diseases on both corn and beans. The discussion focused on the causes of plant diseases, disease symptoms and plant disease control. Common plant diseases found in Iringa region were addressed. Farmers were advised on how to control these diseases using resistant varieties, chemical control and agronomic practices Questions/Comments  What is the control of diseases whose symptoms are accompanied by drying and leaf spots? This might be a disease caused by fungus. When you observe it in your farm, you may go to the extension agent ask him the type of the disease and appropriate pesticides to use. If the disease is a fungal disease which in this case I will suspect more, buy and use fungicides that treat the disease.  Why do you advise us not to repeat improved seeds? Hybrid seeds cannot be repeated because if you do that their high yield and disease resistance characteristics gradually disappear. It is advised to use the new seeds for best performance  We have problems of potatoes rotting. What is the cause and what is the cure for that problem? Potatoes like other plants can be attacked by fungus. In most of the places in Iringa region fungus in potatoes is the big problem. You can control the fungus in potatoes by planting the disease resistant varieties. Another method to reduce the incidence of the disease is to practice crop rotation. If your farm has the history of the disease, you can use fungicides to control the disease  What is the cure for ear rotting? Ear rooting is a disease problem that is common in high altitude areas. Places that are at high elevations do tend to have a long duration of rainfall. Long duration of rainfall make the air humidly which is a favourable condition for ear rotting diseases. You can control the disease by planting resistant corn varieties Conclusion The meeting was good. Also farmers received micro-finance training for the staff of the institute of micro-finance of Tumaini University. Farmers were instructed on how to join the saving cooperatives, fill the contract forms and develop business plans.

Ihemi CVP Visit Report - Jan 9-2013

2008 CVP Companion Village Project 4th Visit Year Five January 09, 2013 Village Ihemi Pastor Anania Kadege Companion Christiania Lutheran, Lakeville and Yara Fertilizer company Attendees 19 Weather for the past month Rainy Ag Institute staff Location GPS read. Ibrahim and Venance 08001.039S 035029.634E 1832m asl Introduction The parishioners were having a meeting in the church when we arrived at Ihemi and it was raining heavily. There was a big audience of nineteen members. Purpose of the visit • To deliver the second application fertilizer and insecticide for insect pest control on the corn and beans plot Topics 1. Review of the handouts,  4th visit instructions • Discussion about germination, Replanting and Pest control • Weeding after planting • Monthly weeding after tasseling 2. Demonstration on second fertilizer application on corn We could not demonstrate because it was raining heavily outside but instead we discussed about planting and fertilization of beans on rows 30cm apart and 10cm between plants. Also there was a discussion on how to do second application of fertilizer in corn. The members were knowledgeable of what was spoken because they have been practicing the farming methods for the past four years now. 3. Insecticide Application. We instructed them on how to apply the insecticide on both corn and beans and the recommended rates to apply 4. Delivery. We delivered two bags of NPK cereal and one litre of thionex insecticide. Corn and bean Plots discussion We looked at the corn from far. It seemed doing well. We could not take any pictures. The parishioners said they would plant beans sometimes in February. Questions/Comments from Audience The attendees asked the following questions 1. What is the importance of covering fertilizers after application? Answer: Covering the fertilizer after application reduces the possible nutrient loss by evaporation or surface removal and hence improves its use by plants. 2. What is wrong with intercropping? Answer: Intercropping increases plant competition for resources and lowers yield of either crop. It is important to plant only one crop in order to maximize yield of whatever intended crop. 3. How can we solve the bean seed availability challenge? Answer: It’s high time you begin multiplying the seed from Uyole that we give you to plant in the plot so that you can use it in the next season. We are not guaranteed of getting the bean seed from Uyole forever. They had a comment on what they want to be taught in the coming extension visit. They want to be taught about ‘types of fertilizers and how they function’. Conclusion This parish has been doing well on the corn and bean plot. The Pyrethrum suffers from draught in summer. When asked how many adopted the modern farming techniques that we teach them, many raised their hands up.

Ihemi - CVP Visit Report - Nov 6-2012

2008 CVP Companion Village Project, PCT and YARA 1st Extension Visit Year One November 6, 2012 Village Ihemi Coordinates S 08o01.089’ E 035o29.659’ Pastors Anania Kadege Companion Christiania Lutheran, Lakeville Attendees 14 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 Christiania Lutheran, Lakeville and US advaisory 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 • What is difference between Urea and CAN? 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 n Urea. All of this are fertilizers for the second application. • Some people mix CAN and Urea. Is that good practice? CAN and Urea are both nitrogenous fertilizers, they add N to the soil. Mixing is not bad practices however, since both are nitrogenous fertilizers, we recommend the use of one of this. Consider the price of the fertilizers when purchasing them. • We beliave that soil s destroyed by fertilizers, 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. • Crop residues cause attract rats in the farm? Sometimes crop residues can act as habitat for rodents and insects. There are pesticieds that can be used to control this. The benefits of leaving crop residues are far greater than the assumed benefits of burning them. • In my farm I put fertilizers as normal but I still get short plants and poor yields. What is wrong? The problem may be a type of seeds you use. You said you got the seeds from another region, the seeds might not be suitable to this place. Try to change the seeds this year and observe the performance. • I bought the hybrid seeds from the shop. I planted them for years now. The yields have been declining. What is wrong? For the hybrid varieties, it is advised not to repeat the seeds. These are type of varieties that their high yield or disease resistant characters disappear as you repeat planting them. You are advised o use hybrid seeds only only once Demonstration This village is one of the village that they 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. They participated in the demonstration as few of them were left to try and show others. Seeds and fertilizers The following were delivered Corn Seeds Fertilizers Variety Amount (kg) Type Amount (bags) H625 8 NPK 4 Conclusion We asked them them what they want to learn/dicuss in the next extension meeting. Most f them suggested plant pest and diseases and livestock keeping. We told them we will be back in January/February for another demonstation and extension meeting. Bean seeds will be delivered at the same time.

Ihemi CVP Visit Report July 31-2012

20121 CVP Companion Village Project 6th Visit Year Four July 31st, 2012 Village Ihemi Pastor Anania Kadege Companion Christiania Lutheran, Lakeville Attendees 21 Weather for the past month Dry Reporters Gabriel, Pongolan and Venance Purposes of the visit • To collect the yield measurement • To deliver grain storage chemical “Shumba” • End of season discussion and planning for the next farming season Topics 1. Review of the handouts • 6th Visit instruction handout • Yield recording sheet 2. Harvesting Both corn and beans have been harvested. The corn was not yet threshed. The beans were threshed Crop Corn Beans Yield per ½ acres Not yet threshed 2.6 bags (15.75 tins) 3. Storage: We instructed the parishioners on how to store grain for home usage and for selling at the time of high price. We instructed how to mix grain storage pesticides “shumba” and the appropriate volume of grain per bottle recommended. We left the pesticides to them to mix with their harvested grains. 4. Discussion about the farming season Corn variety H 614 is good for Ihemi. It yields higher than the local variety. Bean variety “uyole njano” also was noted as good. The parishioners followed the farming techniques in the demonstration plot well, the dry spell in January – March affected the crops especially the beans. The pyrethrum was not doing well because of the drought which hits the area. 5. Adoption A good number of parishioners said they were adopting the techniques. Three retired pastors attended the gathering and all said were practicing the techniques and they have noted that they increased the yields. Comments/questions  We told them to apply the techniques in their plots because they were in their fourth year of the program and they will continue to receive farming knowledge through the extension program.  We asked them about the experience they have on bee keeping. They showed interest and some are already keeping bees by local methods. They thought bee keeping would make a good project because the village has land blessed with a variety of flowers, natural ecology and adequate water. Conclusion We congratulated them for the good job they have done in the demonstration plot. We encouraged them to adopt the techniques taught. The Pastor and Parish members were happy with the performance of their corn plot.

Ihemi CVP Visit Report - Apr 24-2012

2008 CVP Companion Village Project 5th Visit Year Four April 24, 2012 Village Ihemi Pastor Anania Kadege Companion Christiania Lutheran, Lakeville Attendees 13 Weather for the past month Dry Reporters Gabriel, Don and Karen In this visit we were accompanied by Mr. Msonde Maigwa, a YARA Sales Agronomist. YARA is the fertilizers selling company in Tanzania. The company has made fertilizers formulation specific for Tanzania regions and is now trying to introduce to the market. Mr. Msonde was visiting the demonstration plots; he also spent few minutes talking with farmers in the meeting. Purpose of the visit • Demonstrating on how to take yield measurements Topics 1. Greetings Don delivered greetings on behalf of Christiania Lutheran, Lakeville, Saint Paul Area Synod and US Ag Advisory Committee 2. Review of the handouts o 5th Visit handout o Yield recording sheet 3. Demonstrations It was demonstrated on how to measure the 10 m row (in three different locations within the demonstration plot and neighbors farm), this was demonstrated by using a 10 m string. Farmers were instructed to count the number of corn plants and ears. Yield recording sheets were provided. Plots information • Corn is still in the field for further drying. There has been no major problem in this plot. Plants in some parts of the plot, plants were planted a little bit closer than instructed. However, generally, the plants look good; good yield is expected. • Beans plot will be harvested this week. The bean maggot problem has been controlled this year. The control might have been attributed by crop rotation instructed and early pesticides spraying. Questions/ comments from audience  Farmers asked about number of question from the YARA sales agronomist. They were anxious to know availability of the fertilizers and appropriate types of fertilizers to their areas We told them that the Institute of Ag and the YARA Company is looking for the way to partner in demonstrating fertilizer usage. Through that partnership information about fertilizer type, prices and usage will be passed to farmers.  Fertilizers that have remained in the last season, will it be suitable for the coming growing season Yes it will be suitable for application for the coming season. Just store it in cool environment, close the bag and keep away from moisture environment.  Is there any difference between liquid fertilizers and crystal fertilizers? In term of the how quickly the fertilizer is absorbed in the plants yes, liquid fertilizers is absorbed quicker than crystal fertilizers. However both do the same purpose; supplying nutrients to the plants Conclusion We told them that weeding should continue until the crops are harvested from the field because stopping now will allow weeds to grow; the weeds that will be consuming fertilizers applied in the farm.

Ihemi-Christiania Luth.CVP Report Jan 26-2012

2008 CVP
Companion Village Project and PCT
4th Visit, Year Four
January 26, 2012
Village Ihemi
Pastor Anania Kadege
Companion Christiania Lutheran, Lakeville
Attendees 8
Weather for the past month Rainy
Reporters Gabriel , Roger and Magnus Chaula (PCT)

Purpose of the visit
• To deliver bean seeds, fertilizers and pesticides
Topics
1. Review of the handouts,
 4th visit instructions
• Discussion about germination, Replanting , Pest, weeding after planting and monthly weeding after tasseling
2. Greetings
Roger delivered greetings from St. Paul Area Synod and Christiania Lutheran, Lakeville.
3. Demonstration on second fertilizer application on corn
There was demonstration on planting and fertilization of beans on rows 30cm apart and 10cm between plants. Also there was a demonstration on how do second applications of fertilizer in corn
4. Insecticide Application.
We instructed them on how to apply the insecticide on both corn and beans and the recommended rates to apply.
5. Delivery.
We delivered been seeds, fertilizers and insecticides
Item Fertilizers (Corn)
Variety/Type CAN
Amount 2Bag
Bean seeds, fertilizers and pesticides have already been delivered in November, 2011

Corn and Bean Plots Discussion
Corn were planted in December 10, 2012 and Beans in January 16, 2012. Corn looks good and beans are germinating. The replanting was done in some part of the plot which had germination failed. We told them soon they will have to apply fertilizers to the corn especially when plants reach at knee high.

Pyrethrum
Pyrethrum will be transplanted in February. Mangus Chaula spoke about Pyrethrum demonstration plot. He instructed them to prepare the land for transplanting the seedlings. The transplanting will be done the time there is enough moisture in the soil. The land has to be well tilled. The instruction for transplanting will be provided in the next visit.

Questions
 Are the pyrethrum seedlings affected by pests and diseases?
No, there are no pests and diseases affecting pyrethrum crop in Iringa. Pyrethrum plant produces flowers that contain chemicals which kill insects. Probably that is the main reason the plant is not highly affected by pests and diseases like corn plant and bean plant.
 What is the use of pyrethrum
Pyrethrum is used to make pesticides that are used in agricultural activities and also in households to kill insects and other pests. It is one of the chemical that is environment friendly that is why it is highly demanded in the world.

Conclusion
We told them when they finish prepare the plot for pyrethrum they should communicate with PCT (Magnus Chaula) for transplanting instructions. PCT will provide seedlings for the demonstration plot. Pastor and other church leaders promised to get back to Magnus as soon as possible.

Ihemi-Christiania Luth., CVP Report for Nov 16, 2011

2008 CVP
CompanionVillage Project
3rd Visit Year four
November 16, 2011

Village Ihemi
Pastor Anania Kadege
Companion Christiania Lutheran, Lakeville
Attendees 12
Weather for the past month Dry
Staff Pongolani, Rev. Mang’ulisa and Magnus Chaula (PCT)

In this village it is intended to establish pyrethrum demonstration plot by the Pyrethrum Company of Tanzania (PCT), the pyrethrum farming training will be conducted together with corn and beans farming trainings. Therefore in this visit, Field officer from PCT together with Institute of Agriculture staffs conducted demonstrations.

Purpose
• Delivering seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating planting and fertilizer application
• Preparation for pyrethrum demonstration plot

Topics
• Review of the handouts
The handouts contain instructions were reviewed
- 3rd Visit Instruction
- Plant population and Fertilizer applications
- Fertilizer needs template
• Demonstrations
o Planting and fertilizer applications
Demonstration on how to plant corn and apply fertilizers was conducted. They participated in planting and fertilizer application in the demonstration plot. They were reminded not to place seeds and fertilizers together
• Seeds and fertilizers
The following were delivered
Corn Seeds Fertilizers
Variety Amount (kg) Type Amount (bags)
H6303 8 NPK 2
• Pyrethrum
Field officer from PCT conducted spoke about advantages of growing pyrethrum. He assured the villagers that there is reliable market of pyrethrum. PCT will get into contracts with farmers to buy from them with a good price. A farmer has to follow appropriate agronomic practices to get high quality flowers. He then instructed them about appropriate land preparation for growing pyrethrum. Thus villagers were instructed to prepare a plot for pyrethrum demonstration plot. Seedlings will be transplanted to this plot in the coming January.

Conclusion
Villagers were excited with the pyrethrum demonstration program. They promised to prepare land for the plot. However, they promised to take good care of the corn and beans demonstration plots too.

Ihemi-Christiania Luth., CVP Report for Aug 1, 2011

2008 CVP
CompanionVillage Project
6th Visit Year Three
August 1, 2011
Village Ihemi
Pastor AnaniaKadege
Companion Christiania Lutheran, Lakeville
Attendees 6
Weather for the past month Dry
Reporters Gabriel and Rev. Mang’ulisa
Purposes of the visit
• To collect the yield measurement
• To deliver grain storage chemical “Shumba”
• End of season discussion and planning for the next farming season
Topics
1. Review of the handouts
• 6th Visit instruction handout
• Yield recording sheet
2. Harvesting
Both corn and beans have been harvested. We met them threshing the corn with hand (hand beating). We tested the moisture content of the corn, it was 16%. We told them to dry more the corn (until moisture content gets below 12%) before they pack and store in the bags. This year the corn plot have done well, the management was good and the yield is high. Unfortunately bean plot was infested by bean maggots. Almost all plants dried at flowering stage.
Crop Corn Beans
Yield per ½ acres 12 bags 2.5 tins
3. Storage
We instructed them on how to store grain for home usage and for selling at the time of high price. We instructed how to mix grain storage pesticides “shumba” and the appropriate volume of grain per bottle recommended. We left the pesticides to them to mix with their harvested grains.
4. Discussion about the farming season
Corn variety is good. It yields higher than the local variety. Bean crop has been a failure due to a disease.
5. Adaptation
Most of them have been asome of the techniques. District Pastor showed us his yield which he got from his farm after using the techniques.

Comments/questions
 We instructed them to apply pesticides within 3-5 days when the bean plants emerge so that to kill the bean flies that lay eggs which later or turn into bean maggots and kill the plants. We will remind them at the time we bring bean seeds in this village.
 They said would like to try growing bean variety called “khaki”. The variety has a good market in this area. We told them that we will see if we can get the variety from the research institutes were we buy the bean seeds.

Conclusion
We congratulated them for the good job they have done in the demonstration. We encouraged them to adapt the techniques taught. Pastor and Parish members are very happy with the performance of the corn demonstration plot this year.

Ihemi-Christiania Luth., CVP Report for May 24, 2011

2008 CVP
Companion Village Project
5th Visit Year Three
May 24, 2011
Village Ihemi
Pastor Anania Kadege
Companion Christiania Lutheran, Lakeville
Attendees 17
Weather for the past month Dry
Reporters Gabriel, Don and Karen

Purpose of the visit
• Explain and demonstrate how to take yield measurement
Topics
1. Greetings
Don and Karen delivered greetings from Christiania Lutheran-Lakeville, St. Paul, Saint Paul Area Synod and US Ag Advisory Committee. He spoke about the importance of getting the right yield measurements and explained why they are highly needed.
2. Went through the handouts
o 5th Visit handout
o Yield recording sheet
o Rain record sheets to know the amount of rain received during this season
3. Demonstrations
We demonstrated how to measure the 10 m row (in three different locations within the demonstration plot) for the yield determination, this was demonstrated by using a miter tape, we used spray paint to mark the demarcations within which the measurements should be taken.

Plots information
Corn plot looks good; the ears are big and well filled. Spacing is okay. They are matured but not yet dried. The crop looks better than that of last year.
Bean plot has already been harvested.

Comments
 They are grateful for the extension of the program from three years to four years.
 When asked if they use the techniques taught, most of the said yes, though they do not use all of the. Input such as fertilizers and seeds are expensive hence major obstacle

Conclusions
We encouraged them to keep the good work. We told them next year we would like to see many of them taking these practices to their farms. We will be back on July or August to take the yield data.

Ihemi-Christiania CVP Visit Report January 20, 2011

2008 CVP
Companion Village Project
4th Visit, Year Three
January 20, 2011

Village Ihemi
Pastor Anania Kadege
Companion CHRISTIANIA, LAKEVILLE
Attendees Male 5, Female 6 (1st time attendee: None)
Weather for the past month Dry for the last three weeks
Ag Institute Staff Gabriel and Pastor Mang’ulisa

Before we conducted a meeting here, we went to another Parish called Kiponzelo to deliver bean seeds and fertilizers. When we arrived in Ihemi, we found parish members already in the church ready for the demonstration.

Purpose of the visit
• Bean planting demonstration
• Fertilizer applications demonstration
• Bean seeds and fertilizers delivery

Topics
1. Going through handout with attendees
 4th Visit handout
2. Demonstrations
We demonstrated how to plant beans in the appropriate spacing and how to make fertilizer application to the beans. We also demonstrated how to make the second application of fertilizer to the corn.
3. Delivery
Type/Variety Amount
Bean seeds Uyole 98 27kg
Fertilizers NPK 2 bags
CAN 2 bags
Pesticides Thionex ½ Litre

4. Plots
Corn
The plants look very good, the spacing has been followed properly and the weeding has been done. One spot of the plot has yellowish corn; we told them that that might be the nitrogen deficiency symptom because of either soil erosion or removal of the top soil by human activities i.e. making bricks. However the second fertilizer application will add the nitrogen in that area too.
Bean
Bean plot will be planted next week


5. Discussion
Attendees who are using/ adopting the techniques this season are 4 out of the 9 attending today. When asked what was there experience so far compare with the way they use to farm before they said,
The minimum tillage has enabled them to save money from hiring a tractor or oxen to plough their farms
Minimum tillage has increase the water retention in their farms as their plants are not drying faster as they used to be when the rain stops
Some of them have been farming in the slopes and they have seen reduction of soil erosion as they practice the close spacing and minimum tillage
They have also experience the increase of yields in their farm


Comments/Questions
 They asked us what type of pesticides is good in controlling the leaf eating insects
We told them that the good pesticides depend on the type of the pests in the field. We recommend thionex because we have been using it in other plots and it has shown good results. However using pesticides for long time can lead those pests to forming immunity and hence they become resistant. We encourage crop rotation as another way to deal with pests and diseases.
 One member said that he has been using leaves of certain type of trees to control pests in his farm by grinding them and mix with water
We told him that we are interested to know that type of tree so he can teach others about that method. We encourage the use of locally available materials in controlling pests and disease.
 They asked if we can start a demonstration plot for cash crops
We told them that currently we are dealing with the food crops to improve food output and fight against hunger. Later on we might deal with cash crops as well.

Conclusion

We left Ihemi and drove back to Iringa. We did not meet the Pastor as he was in Iringa Town for other responsibilities. The meeting was organized and supervised by the Parish Secretary. We told them that we will be back in May for the yield data collection instructions.

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.

Ihemi July 15, 2010

2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
6th Visit Year Two
July 15, 2010


Village Ihemi
Pastor Upendo Sanga
Companion Christiania, Lakeville
Attendees 19
Weather for the past month Dry
Reporters Ibrahim

Purposes of the visit
• To collect the yield measurement
• To deliver grain storage chemical “Shumba”
• To do the end of season discussion and planning for the next farming season
Topics
1. Review of the handouts
• 6th Visit instruction handout
• Yield recording sheet
2. Yield records
(i) Harvesting
Crop Amounts in bags/plot(1/2 Acre) Remarks
Corn

Beans 12 tins and 8lites (1.7 bags)


(ii) Record in 10 m rows for Beans

Location Amount in litres Number of plants
1st 10 meters 1 130
2nd 10 meters 0.75 102
3rd 10 meters 0.5 85

NB: They forgotten to record yield in 10 meters, we really insisted them it is very important for them to record what we have instructed.

3. Storage
We instruct them how to store grain for home usage and marketing at the time of high price. We instructed how to mix grain storage chemicals “shumba” and the appropriate amount recommended per bottle. We left the pesticides to them to mix with their harvested grains.

4. Discussion about their growing season.

We discussed about problems occurred through their growing season, such as how the seeds given to them behave, in terms of germination, diseases, amount of rainfall received, current corn and beans price with reference to future price after harvesting season.
• Prices
The current corn price is 28,000/= per bag and price goes up to 49,000/= TShs per bag (2 months later), for beans is 60,000/= per bag and goes up to 140,000/= per bag.
• Corn
Corn is already harvested however not yet shelled. I reminded them that we will need the yield record as soon as possible.
• Beans
The beans were affected by fungal disease; even though they really like the seeds and wanted to know where they can buy it for their own farms. The yield is not good due to the drought that occurred, but still they said that variety yielded more than what they normally get from their farms.

Comments/questions
 They asked where they can buy certified bean seeds.
We told them, bean seeds are available in the research farms such as Uyole and Dabaga seed farm. A good thing for these research farms they can ship via public buses at a reasonable price.
 They asked do research farms produce different varieties or not?
We told them they do, with an example we were able to buy several varieties that were distributed to all CVP sites.
 They said the program has been helpful to many congregation members. People are adopting the techniques and ten people who attended this meeting today have already practiced techniques taught.

Conclusion
We thanked all people who have been attending and doing a work in the plots. We insisted them to keep good records.

Ihemi - CVP Report May 11-2010

2010 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
5th Visit Year One
May 10, 2010


Village Bomalang’ombe Lutheran
Pastor Lutango Tewele and Ass. Pastor Reuben Ndendya
Companion Prince of Peace, Roseville
Attendees 19
Weather for the past month Rainy
Reporters Ibrahim , Gabriel and Lunodzo

Purpose of the visit
• Explain and demonstrate how to take yield measurement.
• Deliver two containers (20 liters and 1 liter size) and a 10 m string.
Topics
1. Greetings
Pastor Lunodzo gave greetings on behalf of the DIRA, Prince of Peace, Saint Paul Area Synod and US Ag Advisory Committee for volunteering to provide fund and to implement of Ag program training
2. Went through the handouts
o 5th Visit handout
o Yield recording sheet
o Rain record sheets to know the amount of rain received during this season
3. Demonstrations
We demonstrated how to measure the 10 m row (in three different locations within the demonstration plot) for the yield determination, this was demonstrated by using a 10 m string, how to measure, count the number of plants for both beans and corn (they should also count number of ears for corn). After shelling they are supposed to measure the amount of grain by using a one liter container that was given to them by the institute of Ag.
These measurements are done to both corn and beans.

Plots information
Beans plot looks better, even though they are at flowering stage. They have long rain season so hopefully beans will make it to harvesting stage. They are interested with bean variety introduced to them. Beans are still in the field, not yet harvested.

Corn looks better as well, matured and dry but needs to dry more before harvesting done.



Comments
 They appreciate the fact that we gave them training in each stage of plant growth.
 He delayed planting his crops this year, but he learned a better lesson for the next year. He will make sure he plants at a proper time and follow all the instructions we are giving them.

Questions from audience and answers

 They wanted to know about the black bugs found on the corn field when the corn just starts to dry.
We told them mostly this kind of bugs normally attack stored corn, and this is due to poor storage. To control this kind of problem we insisted on proper storage of corn. This will be taught on our 6th Visit next time.

 How can they select seeds from the current crops in order to use in the following season?
We highly recommend to buy new seeds rather than re using the same seeds (from previous crop)
They identified the yellowish strips problem in their corn fields (not in a demonstration plot). What is cause of this kind of problem?
We told them mainly this kind of problem is cause by the Sulfur deficiency and can be solved by the use of SA (Sulfate of Ammonia)
 Why sometimes when you plant seeds using fertilizers will cause seeds damage?
Method of application is a major source of damage, so we are recommending them to apply 5 cm away from the planted seed.


Conclusions/Recommendations
We congratulated them for good job they have been doing, however we reminded them they still have two more years to learn. Effective use of the training will give them opportunity to learn a lot of things.

Ihemi - CVP Report Jan 15-2010

2008 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
4th visit Year Two
January 15, 2010

Village Ihemi
Pastor Upendo Sanga
District Pastor Askali Mgeyekwa
Companion Christiania, Lakeville
Attendees 17
Weather for the past month Rainy
Reporter Gabriel Malima


Purpose of the visit
• Bean planting and fertilizer application demonstrations
• To deliver bean seeds, fertilizers and Pesticide
Topics
1. Corn plot and Rain records
Corn Seed variety planted H 628
Planting date November 18, 2009
Replanting date December 21, 2009
First weeding January 04, 2010
Pests/Diseases Nil
We checked the rain records in the box file. They have been recording as we instructed in our last visit
2. Review of Handouts
o Bean seeds and fertilizer delivered information was added in the Fertilizer need template in the box file of the congregation.
o 4th visit handout was reviewed
3. Demonstrations
I. Beans
It was demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (30cm) and intra row spacing (10cm). String was used to make trench and in the trench bean seeds were placed 10cm apart. Fertilizer (NPK) was placed 5cm from the seeds. Both seed and fertilizer were covered.
II. Corn
We demonstrated how to make second application of fertilizer in the corn. Two holes were made 5cm from the plant and fertilizer was put then covered. We told them to do this when the plants are knee high.
III. Pesticide
We instructed them how to use Thionex for killing plant damaging insects.

4. Fertilizers, bean seed and pesticides delivery
The congregation was given 2 bags of NPK for bean and 2 bags of CAN for corn. The bean seed variety delivered is known as “Uyole 98” (27kg). We also gave them 1 bottle of Thionex pesticides.

Comments/questions from audience
 They asked why sometimes bean leaves change color and become yellowish?
We told them that this may be the sign that the soil lacks a nutrient called Nitrogen. When that happens we usually recommend the application of nitrogenous fertilizers. However, if the yellow leaves occur in some of the plants and is not uniform, this may be a symptom of a plant disease, and control measures should be taken.
 They said that last year they planted beans and later on the beans dried out. Within the shoots and roots of the plants they find small black insect. How are they going to solve that problem this year?
We told them that first; that problem will be solved by crop rotation since this year the plot of beans has been planted to corn and last year’s corn plot will be planted beans. Second; the bean variety we have this year should be resistant to that kind of pests. However we told them that if they see the same thing starting to occur in the bean plants they should give us a call. We will visit their plot and find means to control the pests before they spread and affect many plants.
 They said they think the bean seed they planted last year was not good for their area because they did not harvest anything.
We told them that they did not harvest because of pests and diseases and insufficient rainfall. However we believe that the seed variety we have given this year will work just fine in their area. We have purchased good seed from Uyole Agricultural Research center. Moreover the crop rotation we have recommended and control of the pests and disease in the early stages will save the plants and they will have good harvest.

Conclusions/Recommendations
We insisted that it is very important to follow the instructions we give them. They should do as we direct them to get good yield in the plot and in their farms as well. In the meeting, I asked them a few questions as a review of our teachings. Some people seem to remember most of what we have been teaching them. We asked them how many have started to adopt the techniques; three of them said they have already adopt the techniques, although they did not use fertilizers because of been expensive, they have observe moisture retaining in their farms and increase in yields.

NB:
• 1 bag of NPK is 50kg and 1 bag of CAN is 50kg

Ihemi CVP Visits of Oct 19 and Nov 12, 2009

2008 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
1st visit Year Two
October 19, 2009


Village Ihemi
Pastor Askari Mgeyekwa/ Upendo Sanga
Companion Christiania, Lakeville
Attendees 7
Weather for the past month Sunny and Dry
Reporters Gabriel, Ibrahim, Don& Karin and Alfred


There is a small tarn out this morning. We were told there is village meeting about water going on at the same time we scheduled our meeting. The meeting started with greetings from SAS delivered by Don. They gave as a report of what they harvested last year, 6 bags and 2 tins from their ½ acre of corn. They got nothing from ½ of beans because of drought.
Purpose of the visit
• Planting and fertilizer application demonstrations
Topics
1. Review of Handouts
o Plant population handout was reviewed
o Fertilizer application handout was reviewed
2. Demonstrations
It was demonstrated how to measure inter row spacing (60cm) and intra row spacing (20cm). Using a string and a hand hoe, we demonstrated how to plant and apply fertilizer.
3. Rain gauge
We forgot to bring the rain gauge, however we told them we will drop it soon before the rain start. We told them the advantages of knowing the rain trends and how to take the rain measurements using the rain gauge that will be derived to them soon
Comments/questions from audience
• They asked what seed variety they are going to use this year
We told them they will use H628 because it suites their environment.
• There was a guy from another village attending the meeting, he asked if he has to use the same seed variety which is used in Ihemi
We told him that since his village is not far from ihemi, it must have nearly the same weather condition therefore H 628 will be a good choice too.
• Other attendees said they lived in the next congregation from Ihemi and they asked when the project will reach their congregation
We told them the Institute tries to reach as many congregations as possible. Whenever a partner congregation agrees to sponsor a demonstration plot in a particular area the Institute is ready to establish it.
• They asked us to be visiting their farms when we come for the demonstrations in their congregation
We told them we will try to reach the farms which are near by the church. Since we have many congregations to visit at a time, it will not be easy to reach every member’s farm, however when we have enough time we will visit some of them.

Conclusions/Recommendations
We told them we will deliver seed and fertilizer soon. We might give to the pastor or put in the bus. We will do that before the rains begin. They thank the institute for the project and promise to do well in their plot this season. The district pastor told his members the importance of following procedures and documenting events.


NOVEMBER 12, 2009
2008 CVP
Companion Village Project
Visit Report
1st visit Year Two
November 12th, 2009



Village Ihemi
Pastor Askali Mgeyekwa
Companion Christian Lakeville Lutheran Church
Attendees
Weather for the past month
Reporters
11
Sunny and dry
Ibrahim Wikedzi and Fred Bergsrud

We started the demonstration because we already discussed with them and go through handouts on October 19th, 2009 when Don and Karen were here (Tanzania)-they are Christian Lakeville church members.
Purpose of the visit
• Demonstrations on planting and fertilizer application
• To deliver fertilizer and seeds.
• Deliver a rain gauge

Topics
1. Greetings
Fred gave greetings from Saint Paul Area Synod, Christian Lakeville Lutheran Church and US Advisory Committee.
2. Rain gauge
We discussed about the use of rain gauge, and instructed them to use when a rain starts and then record the amount of rain obtained. We explained the advantages of taking rain measurements, where to place the rain gauge and how and when to take the readings.
3. Demonstrations
It is there second year training, we did refresh training on how to use twine during seed planting and the way to place fertilizer 5 cm on each side of seed. We reminded them to remember to do a crop rotation, so they are supposed to plant corn in the plot they planted beans last year and plant corn in the corn plot.





4. Fertilizer and seed delivery
According to the soil analysis of the soil of this area, types of fertilizer recommended are NPK (10-18-24).The congregation was given NPK 2 bags and 4 bags of seeds. They were told to apply this fertilizer at the time of planting.

Comments/questions from audience
They really appreciate the idea of using strings during corn planting.

Conclusions/Recommendations
We highly recommend them to follow all agronomic practices we are teaching and they will be successful in the crop production, we referred to other CVP’s like Kilolo which harvested 11 bags and 3 tins of shelled corn from half acre plot. They harvested 6 bags of shelled corn from half acre plot.