Why SAT motivates farmers to diversify with poultry and fish farming

MOROGORO: In an effort to empower farmers and combat poverty, the Sustainable Agriculture Tanzania (SAT) organization has urged farmers, particularly those involved in vegetable farming, to diversify into poultry and fish farming. The idea is to boost their income and help them break free from the chains of poverty.

During a training session in Mvomero district in Morogoro Region yesterday, SAT’s Project Coordinator, Rashid Byangwam, introduced the integrated farming system to a group of 40 farmers from four different groups. These farmers were taught how to combine poultry farming, fish farming, and crop cultivation into a seamless and profitable system.

Mr Byangwam explained that in this system, chicken manure is used as fish feed, and the water used to raise the fish is then repurposed as organic fertilizer for crops. This not only saves money on feed and fertilizers but also enhances the overall productivity of the farm. “The integrated system allows farmers to make more money on less land,” Mr Byangwam said, with a broad grin, as he assured the farmers that they could now have the best of both worlds: eggs, fish, and veggies—all from the same plot of land.

The project, known as PrAEctiCe (Promoting Ecological Agriculture and Community-based Economy), is funded by the European Union and aims to promote ecological farming practices while improving environmental sustainability.

Mr Byangwam emphasized that the integrated system helps preserve the environment, aids in waste management, and reduces the risks posed by climate change, which has been affecting agricultural productivity globally.

“You can now grow your vegetables, raise chickens, and farm fish, all while keeping your environmental footprint minimal,” he said. “It’s like getting three-for-one when it comes to farming!”

The main goal, he continued, is to empower the farming community to improve their living standards while promoting sustainable agricultural practices. The integrated farming system is a win-win, as it reduces dependency on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, contributing to the health of the land and surrounding ecosystems.

On her part, SAT Director Janet Maro stressed the urgency of adopting these practices. “Tanzania is one of the countries most affected by climate change,” she pointed out, adding that: “Communities must shift to ecological farming to protect our environment and secure a sustainable future.”

She further said that ecological farming-farming without industrial chemicals—was affordable and simple for smallholder farmers to implement. “By shifting towards ecological farming, farmers not only protect their livelihoods but also safeguard the environment for future generations,” she said with a smile, clearly passionate about her mission.

Ms Janet also highlighted that this approach is not only about sustainability but also about economic empowerment. “It’s about ensuring that farmers have enough to live well and thrive. Combining poultry and fish farming with crop production will give you more avenues for income and increase your resilience against market shocks and climate change,” she urged.

As if echoing Ms Janet’s sentiments, Mr Byangwam encouraged the farmers to take full advantage of the opportunity before them. “This integrated system doesn’t just help you survive—it helps you thrive,” she said, adding that it could be particularly impactful for poverty-stricken areas. She also noted that, apart from improving food security, this approach would give farmers the chance to generate multiple income streams from the same piece of land.

Farmers who attended the training were enthusiastic about the idea. “This is great!” said one farmer, visibly excited. “I didn’t know that chicken manure could be used to feed fish! And the water from the fishponds as fertilizer? That’s amazing! I’m going to try this at home.”

Some even promised to become ambassadors for this integrated farming model, pledging to spread the word to fellow farmers who hadn’t yet had the chance to attend such training.

“I’ve learned so much today, and I can’t wait to go back and implement this on my farm,” said another farmer. “Not only will it help me earn more, but it will also protect our land and environment. Plus, my family will have fresh fish, eggs, and veggies all year round!”

Indeed, the new approach promises to increase productivity while also improving farmers’ quality of life, reducing waste, and protecting the environment. It’s like giving farming a green makeover. And who doesn’t love a good, eco-friendly makeover?

She thereafter, wrapped up the session by calling on more farmers and the community at large to take part in the shift towards ecological farming. “We all have a role to play,” she said. “This isn’t just about farmers—it’s about the entire community. By adopting these methods, we can create a sustainable future for ourselves, our children, and our planet.”

On his part, Mr Byangwam summed up the day’s lessons: “If we want to be truly successful, we must think outside the box. This integrated farming system is the future. It’s time to make farming a business that works for the environment and your pocket!”

The integrated farming system could be a game-changer for many Tanzanian farmers. With the combined efforts of community leaders, organizations like SAT, and the farmers themselves, Morogoro may very well become the model for sustainable farming practices across the country.