Kitasengwa - Raquet Family Foundation - CVP Visit Report - May 20-2013

TUMAINI UNIVERSITY – IRINGA UNIVERSITY COLLEGE INSTITUTE OF AGRICULTURE Companion Village Project Visit Report 5th Visit 2nd year May 20, 2013. Village Kitasengwa/Kitelewasi pp Pastor Aloyce Mwagogo Companion Raquet Family Foundation Attendees 12 adults Weather Dry and cool Reporters Gabriel and Venance Introduction The CVP plot is located at Kitelewsi village which is a preaching point of Kitasengwa Parish. The village members are very attentive to the modern agriculture classes and when we arrived they were there waiting to begin the class. Purpose of the visit • To explain and demonstrate how to take yield measurement Topics 1. Went through the handouts o 5th Visit handout o Yield recording sheet 2. 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 tape, counting & recording the corn plants and ears and marking the lines by breaking the tassels of corn. 3. Crop storage We instructed the villagers on how to store the crops. The advantages of storing crops for long give a farmer a chance to sell that crop when the price is high enough and also ensure food security in the household 4. Marketing We reminded them that this is the time that they should start to explore various marketing options. It's important they seek market information so as to keep up to date with the crop prices Plots information The corn was at drying stage and looked quite well. It was properly spaced and the plot was kept clean. The bean plot is located at Kitasengwa; we could go there to see it but they told us the beans were doing well. Questions/Comments The parishioners’ comment on the NPK fertilizer and the variety of corn provided to them was good. We spent more time to explain about the pollen eating Scarabaidae family insects they showed us when we last visited. We told them the effect to the yield would be insignificant since so much pollen is produced and corn is open pollinated, therefore could get pollen from nearby plants. Conclusion They have done a great job and they are happy of it. They look forward to do more of it next season. They are keen to learn more of new farming methods.

Kitasengwa CVP Visit Report - Jan 11-2013

2011 CVP Companion Village Project 4th Visit Year Two January 11, 2013 Village Kitasengwa Pastor Aloyce Mwagogo Companion Raquet Family Foundation Attendees 14 Weather for the past month Rainy Ag Institute staff Location GPS read. Ibrahim and Venance 08012.815S 035020.458E 1753m asl Introduction Upon arrival at Kitelewasi which is a preaching point of Kitasengwa we met an audience of 14 people waiting to begin the meeting. Purpose of the visit • To deliver the second application fertilizer and insecticide for insect pest control on corn and beans 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 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 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. Two bags of NPK cereal and a bottle of thionex insecticide containing one litre was delivered. Corn and bean Plots discussion Corn was planted sometime before December 11, 2012 but did not germinate until after December 11 when it rained. We saw young corn plants growing well. The plants were well spaced and weeded. Beans were not planted yet, the parishioners said they would plant beans later in February. Questions/Comments from Audience The attendees asked a few questions about Minjingu Rock Phosphate (MRP) and 2nd application fertilizers: Question 1: Tell us about the quality MRP Answer: MRP is a good fertilizer but releases nutrients slowly and contains fewer amounts of nutrients as compared to the NPKs that we recommend. Question 2: If I did not apply any fertilizer at planting, can I double at 2nd application to compensate? Answer: Compensation won’t work because the plants have already past a growth stage at which they required the nutrients. Lastly, one farmer brought a sample of pollen eating insects on corn for identification and consultation for possible ways to control them. Consultations have been made and advise given back to the farmers in this village. Conclusion The villagers showed a great interest and eagerness to learn more about the modern farming methods that are taught by the Institute. The growing corn was in a good shape giving hope of good yield from the preaching point.

Kitasengwa CVP Visit Report - July 31-2012

20121 CVP Companion Village Project 6th Visit Year Two July 31st, 2012 Village Kitasengwa Pastor Aloyce Mwagogo Companion Raquet Family Foundation Attendees 09 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 yield of both was very little. Kitasengwa village just like Ifunda village have got a problem of soil. They have shallow subsoil which lacks the organic matter. The yield obtained was as presented in the table below: Crop Corn Beans Yield per ½ acres 2.3 bags (14tins) 1.3 tins(8 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: As mentioned above, the parish recorded little yield of both corn and beans. The shallow soil lacks natural fertility and does not support high productivity of crops. The parishioners had an idea of moving the plot far away from the church area to a place with better soil. They claimed of bush rabbits eating bean plants from the plot. The decision to move the plot away is expected to solve this problem as well. 5. Adoption A few people adopted some techniques and their plots performed better than before. We saw two corn plots which adopted the spacing on the way to the church. Comments/questions  The corn variety planted was commented as good. The bean variety “uyole njano” was noted as appropriate for consumption and is highly marketable. Conclusion We encouraged them to adopt the techniques taught. The Pastor and Parish members were optimistic of doing better after they move the plot to a better soil plot.

Kitasengwa CVP Visit Report - May 1, 2012

2011CVP Companion Village Project 5th Visit, Year One May 01, 2012 Village Kitasengwa Pastor Aloyce Mwagogo Companion Raquet Family Foundation Attendees 10 Weather for the past month Dry Reporters Gabriel, Don and Karen Purpose of the visit • Demonstrating on how to take yield measurements Topics 1. Greetings Don delivered greetings on behalf of Raquet Family Foundation, 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 • The corn plot is close to Eucalyptus trees (though not too close). These trees have tendency of having extensive roots systems, high consumptions of water and I assume high consumption of nutrients. This seems to be the problem because the plants close to these trees were very thin with stunted growth. Generally all plants are not looking good, those which are far from the trees are looking better than those close to the trees, but not as good as they are supposed to be. After discussed with Prof. Michael Schmitt of the U of M, we suspected a allopathic situation where by (Eucalyptus) plant's root, or the exudates from decomposing leaves/bark, release chemicals in the soil that are toxic to other plants. We advise them to move the plot far from these types of trees. • The beans have not been affected much by the above situation. This is because Bean plot has been divided into two. ¼ acres is located close to the church and another ¼ acres is located distance from the church; in the valley. However that which has been located close to the church has been damaged by rabbits. Moreover there is nematodes problem that has killed some plants. The one located distant from the church is doing well. There are no rabbits’ damages. Questions/ comments from audience  Our soil is very hard especially when it has not been rained for long time. Beneath there is hard pan. Should we practice minimum tillage? In the places with hard pan beneath the soil, it is not advised to practice minimum tillage. Tillage has to be done to break the hard layer beneath the soil to allow plant roots to penetrate deeper. Conclusion We also conduct training through local radio in Iringa. We advised them to listen to our radio program for further farming instructions and advises. We advised them not to be discouraged with the situation they have experience this year. They promised to move the plot and provide the same management they provided to the plots this growing season.

Kitasengwa-Raquet Family Foundation; CVP Report Jan 7-2012

2011CVP
Companion Village Project
2nd Visit, Year Two
January 07, 2012

Village Kitasengwa
Pastor Aloyce Mwagogo
Companion Raquet Family Foundation
Attendees 6
Weather for the past month Rainy
Ag Institute staff Gabriel, Roger, Rev. Mang’ulisa and Venance

Purpose of the visit
• To deliver bean seeds, fertilizers and pesticides

Topics
1. Greetings
Roger delivered greetings from St. Paul Area Synod and Raquet Family Foundation. He also thanked them for coming to the demonstration meeting.
2. Review of the handouts,
 4th visit instructions
• Discussion about germination, Replanting and Pest
• Monthly weeding before planting
• Weeding after planting
• Monthly weeding after tasseling
3. Demonstration on second fertilizer application on corn
Demonstration on planting and fertilization of beans on rows 30cm apart and 10cm between plants
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 Beans Fertilizers for Corn Fertilizers for beans
Variety/Type CAN NPK
Amount 30 kg 2Bag 2 bags

Questions/Comments from Audience
 Can bean seeds be replanted?
Yes bean seeds can be replanted. They are not as hybrid corn seeds. However before replanting, seeds selections should be done. Always plant good seeds and clean (remove foreign matters before planting)
 How to do seed selection in corn?
First of it is recommended to replant corn seeds of the varieties which are not hybrid (Hybrid varieties’ characteristics do gradually disappear as you plants seeds from previous crop). Again, select good seed from the mid part of the cob.

Discussion and Conclusion
Corn was planted December 15, 2011. Now the plants look good. We told them that when the plants get at knee high they should apply fertilizers (CAN). Beans have not been planted yet, however they will be planted soon. We as we were driven out from the church Pastor showed us two farms of the villagers who have started adopting the farming techniques taught in the demonstration farms.

Kitasengwa-Raquet Family Foundation; CVP Report Nov 18-2011

2011CVP
Companion Village Project
3rd Visit, Year One
November 18, 2011

Village Kitasengwa
Pastor Aloyce Mwagogo
Companion Raquet Family Foundation
Attendees 34
Weather for the past month Dry
Inst staff Don, Rev. Mang’ulisa and Pongolani

Purpose
• Delivering seeds and fertilizers
• Demonstrating planting and fertilizer application

Topics
• Greetings
Before we began the demonstration, Don delivered greetings from St. Paul Area Synod, Raquet family foundation and US Institute of Ag advisory committee
• 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 and apply fertilizers was conducted. They participated in the demonstration as few of them were left to try and show others. They were told 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

Conclusion
planting preparations has begun here. The land has been prepared as instructed. The program requires minimum tillage and leaving crop residues in the fields. These practices were emphasized today.

Kitasengwa-Raquet Family Foundation; CVP Report Oct 5-2011

2011CVP
Companion Village Project
2nd Visit, Year One
October 05, 2011

Village Kitasengwa
Pastor Aloyce Mwagogo
Companion Raquet Family Foundation
Attendees 11
Weather for the past month Dry
Reporters Gabriel, Rev. Mang’ulisa and Pongolani

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

Topics
1. Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
• 2nd Visit Instructions
• DIRA and Institute of Agriculture Village Plot Agreement
• Plot Management FAQs
2. Demonstrations
• Rain gauge
We told them we need to know the annual rainfall record of their area. We instructed them on how to record rain using a rain gauge. One set of rain gauge was handed to the them
• 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.
The parish members have started preparing of the plots as recommended. Bushes have been cleared and the weeds have been chopped down. They have formed a committee to take care of the demonstration plot and organize the training to other parish members.

Questions/ Comments from Audience
 At what time is appropriate to do second application of fertilizers?
It is recommended to do second application of fertilizers when the plants are at knee high.
 Should we use Sulphate of Ammonia (SA) for the second application?
SA is good nitrogenous fertilizers for the second application especially when the soil lacks nutrients called nitrogen and Sulphur. In this demonstration plot we will use CAN for the second application which is as good as SA.
 How many times should we apply fertilizers to the bean plot?
It is recommended to apply fertilizers only once in the bean plot. Since bean plants have ability add nutrients in the soil, one application will be enough.

Conclusions/Recommendations
The villagers seem to be very interest with the demonstration plot establishment in their area. We encouraged them to use this opportunity to learn better farming practices. We hope that this demonstration plot will help to improve their lives.

Kitasengwa-Raquet Family Foundation; CVP Report Mar 14-2011

2011 CVP
Companion Village Project
1st Visit, Year One
March 14, 2011


Village Kitasengwa
Pastor Aloyce Mwagogo
Companion Raquet Family Foundation
Attendees Male 6 Female 10
Elevation 1713m
Ag Institute Staff Roger, Gabriel, Nafeti and Rev. Mang’ulisa


Purpose of the visit
• Introducing the CV project to the congregation
• Taking the soil samples for soil analysis
• Delivering punching machine, box file and a hand hoe
Topics
1. Introduction
Rev. Lunodzo Mang’ulisa introduced the project by encouraging attendees to participate in the project. Roger delivered greetings from St.Paul Area Synod and from Raquet Family Foundation. He also talked about the farming practices which will be taught. He gave testimonies of the places which have benefited from the demonstration program.
2. Handouts
After an introduction, the handouts were distributed to all then together with the participants we went through them.
• CVP Plot record of events
• DIRA – Institute of agriculture agreement
• Chronological Plot Management of Crops Planted in Nov/Dec 2011
• CVP Instruction – 1st Visit
3. Background information of this village
This village has population of 3,800 people and 572 Families. They grow corn, beans, sunflower, onions, lettuce, cabbage and tomatoes. Some of them use improved varieties; Corn – H628 and H614. All of these crops are grown in small scale. Average yield for corn is 5 bags/acre and beans are 2 bags/acre which. They experience good weather expect this year when they had long dry period in the middle of the rainy season.
4. Soil sampling
After the meeting in the church we went outside. Together with the members of congregation we took soil samples from 4 points around the church. Two types of samples were taken, from 6 inches depth and 12 inches depth. The samples will be taken to the laboratory for soil analysis


Comments/questions from audience
 In previous years we tried to farm pyrethrum, but the company responsible did not buy therefore the pyrethrum stayed in the farm and we got huge loss!
We do not expect that situation to happen again. Now the company is owned by new investors who have experience of more than 80 years of pyrethrum business. The pyrethrum demand is higher and the price is good. You will enter into contract with the company, in case of failure to buy your crop the company’s guarantor will pay you.
 Where are we going to establish the demonstration plot in irrigated or non-irrigated plot?
We would like to see the plot in the area where many people farm. Since in your village many people farm in non-irrigated land, we recommend the plots to be in non-irrigated land.
 Why should we not establish the demonstration plot in irrigated land because of the reliability of water?
We want everybody to learn from the demo plots. Since many people here farm in non-irrigated land, it is good to have the plot in this land. However, there will be not be enough land along the water stream where you do irrigation, if all people decide to move there.
 Are you going to teach us about growing vegetables too?
We will be answering questions about vegetables, however the demonstration plots will consists of corn, beans and if possible pyrethrum.
 Is there going to be further agricultural training for the Pastors and evangelists’ (seminars, short courses etc.)?
We hope so, however currently we ask them to participate in every meeting and supervise the demo plot so that they can be more competent and teach others
 Will you training us about avocado growing?
Yes, we will be answering questions about avocado growing too.
Conclusions
We told them we will be back in August to measure the plots and giving further instructions. We told them to prepare the land for the demonstration plots. We want the land preparation to start earlier in August.