Uganda – Every day is a struggle for James Kawesi as he works hard to make ends meet and provide for his family. James is 51 years old and has lived all his life in Nyakabungo, a village in the Kitagwenda District of Uganda. He is the father of a large family, a coffee farmer by trade and a member of a local savings group. He speaks about the initiatives of Join For Water and its partner JESE that are making the future look brighter.
James’ main source of income is coffee. His whole family works in his coffee plantation. But often, this does not bring in enough.
- “My biggest challenges are poor yields and low sales; April and May are particularly tough. It’s hard, but we continue to work together as a family on our plot of land.”
James Kawesi is concerned because he has seen first-hand how poverty and a lack of healthcare can take a heavy toll.
- “I lost both my parents due to a lack of medical help; I was about five years old at the time. Now, when my children are ill, I’m particularly worried that we won’t have enough money to take them to the only health facility far away.”
Going to school is also uncertain, as there isn’t always enough money to pay school fees.
Hope for change
Through training sessions in soil and conservation measures and other livelihood activities, James met Join For Water and its partner organisation JESE.
- “I looked at this as an opportunity to improve our living standards. And our voices were heard and we were allowed to give our opinion. Join For Water and JESE take this into account. They also consult with the authorities and other organisations involved.”
James’s daily life is gradually changing. He now applies modern farming practices, such as soil and water management. This translates into better yields and more sources of income.
- “My income has increased because I now have more than one income-generating activity. I have also started with a few beehives and I mentor one of the beekeeping groups.”
