Like many farmers in rural Uganda, Monday Justus bought his potato seeds at the market. He worked hard planting those seeds, but struggled with low yields. He simply did not know how to improve his harvests and increase his income and so he struggled to meet his family’s basic needs.

Then Monday had the opportunity to participate in conservation agriculture training in his community, facilitated by World Renew’s local partner Pentecostal Assemblies of God. He joined a farming group focused on learning new agricultural practices that would not only help them grow stronger crops but also how to protect and restore their soil. They learned about practices like using mulch and cover crops.

What a difference these environmentally-friendly farming practices made! By applying conservation agriculture methods – and using improved Irish potato seeds – these farmers were able to harvest a total of 2,600 kilograms. This was a huge increase from their prior yields. They were able to sell 14 of their 19 bags at the local market for a good profit and the rest they kept for their families’ consumption.

And so a new cycle of success began for Monday and his fellow farmers. He enjoys being the chairperson of the farmers group and has new hope for his neighbours, family, and entire community. He says, “I give many thanks to World Renew and its partner because our prayers have been answered and all our problems concerning Irish potato growing are being solved.”

By Barbara Kayanja

• East Africa is often threatened by indigenous and international terrorism; pray for peace in the region and the safety of World Renew staff and our partners.
• Pray for health for the people of East Africa as they face the looming threat of the Marburg virus.
• Pray for God’s abundance and provision of funds that allow for the expanding of programs in East Africa, and his wisdom as World Renew considers how we can serve in South Sudan, Rwanda, Burundi, and Congo.