In Kyengeire Village, Bujogoro Parish, Nyamarunda Subcounty, Kibaale District, the Katweyombeke Group is rewriting the story of rural livelihoods through climate-smart agriculture. With a total of 36 members (31 women and 5 men), the group has embraced mushroom growing as an innovative way to improve nutrition, boost household income, and reduce pressure on the nearby Bugoma-Kagombe landscape.

Through the FRECAR Project, KCSON supported the group with essential materials and technical guidance, including capacity-building sessions in governance and livelihoods. The group also received a Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA) toolkit, which enhanced their record keeping and strengthened their financial management systems, a change that members proudly say has made their operations more transparent and accountable.

Additionally, KCSON supported the group with five improved breeds of goats to diversify income and strengthen resilience

🍄 The First Harvest - A Taste of Success

This marks the group’s first mushroom harvest, yielding approximately 15 kilograms. With each subsequent harvest, they are now producing around 5 kilograms of oyster mushrooms per day. The success has not only provided nutritious food for members’ households but has also created new opportunities for income generation and community learning. Already, the members have reported a high demand for their oyster mushrooms, both within the community and from nearby trading centers, a clear sign that the venture is not only sustainable but also has strong market potential.

“We are proud of what we’ve achieved in such a short time. This project has opened our eyes to new possibilities. We now see mushroom growing as a business and a source of better nutrition for our families,” one group member shared.

💪 Beyond Farming - Building Skills and Futures

The group’s achievements go beyond production. The group and other CBOs have gained confidence, business skills, and exposure to new agricultural practices. Through KCSON’s empowerment, they now manage their own savings, make informed investment decisions, and plan for sustainability.

🚀 Looking Ahead

With renewed confidence and practical experience, the Katweyombeke Group plans to:

• Expand the mushroom shelter and production capacity
• Dry, package, and brand their oyster mushrooms for sale
• Explore new markets and develop value-added products from mushrooms
• Continue promoting nutrition and environmental conservation in their community

🌍 Lasting Impact

The Katweyombeke Group’s journey embodies the FRECAR Project’s goal of increasing carbon stocks through enhancing livelihoods. Through small, smart, and sustainable innovations, KCSON and local communities are demonstrating that environmental conservation and improved livelihoods can go hand in hand.