Neema’s household income was barely enough to cover basic needs about 50,000 Tanzanian shillings (~$21) per month from sporadic farming. Her small 0.3-acre garden produced less than 100 kg of mixed crops annually, insufficient to feed her family of five. Her youngest daughter suffered repeated illnesses, often due to a lack of dietary diversity.
"Some days, we had only ugali [maize porridge] to eat. My youngest kept falling sick, and I felt helpless watching her grow weak."
Neema faced many hurdles. Without land ownership rights or access to quality agricultural inputs, improving productivity seemed impossible. Seasonal droughts reduced her yields by over 30%, and cultural norms often limited her ability to access farming support or credit.
"I knew I wanted to do better for my children, but I had no resources, and sometimes the community didn’t believe women should lead in farming."
Everything shifted when Neema joined HERVeg.05’s MsetoKilimo program. She received 7 varieties of vegetable seeds and 7 vaccinated SASO chickens, alongside intensive training on organic farming methods and nutrition. Joining a women’s cooperative gave her both knowledge and support.
"The training opened my eyes to new ways of farming. The chickens and seeds gave me a fresh start. For the first time, I felt hopeful."
Within eight months, Neema’s garden flourished, producing 150 kg of vegetables and 110 eggs every month. Her income from selling surplus produce rose to 120,000 Tanzanian shillings (~$50) monthly. Most importantly, her daughter’s health improved, with clinic visits for nutrition-related illnesses dropping by 40%.
"My daughter is stronger now. I can see the difference food makes. The eggs and vegetables fill our plates and our lives with new energy."
Today, Neema’s income has more than doubled, and her family enjoys a balanced, nutritious diet daily. Empowered by her success, she has helped organize over 30 women in her village into farming groups, increasing food security and women’s empowerment in her community.
"I am no longer just farming for survival I am farming to thrive. Together, we are changing lives, one garden at a time."
