My name is Julius Balemesa, a subsistence farmer in Kasongoire parish, Kyabijwenge village and I practice a mixed farming system where I grow both crops and trees on the same piece of land. This system has helped me improve my farm while also taking care of the environment.
I have worked with The Environmental Conservation Trust of Uganda (ECOTRUST) for about four to five years. I first met them when they introduced me to tree planting as a way of improving farming and restoring the land. Since then, they have supported me in different ways that have changed my life and my farming journey.
One of the main ways ECOTRUST supported me was through the provision of free seedlings under the ECOTRUST- Total Energies partnership project. I received 1,000 tree seedlings, which I planted on my farm alongside my crops. The trees are now growing well and have become an important part of my daily farming system.
ECOTRUST also trained me on how to plant and care for the trees. During the training, I learned proper spacing techniques and how to manage trees alongside crops. Although the trainings continuously happened, I attended once which gave me important knowledge that I still use today. The team also visits periodically to monitor the progress of the trees and offer guidance whenever needed.
My main reason for planting trees is to improve the environment and respond to the effects of climate change. I wanted to do something that would help my land stay fertile and support future generations. At the same time, I also saw the benefit of trees as a source of income. When they grow big, I can sell them as timber or use them as firewood, which will help me pay school fees and meet other family needs.
The trees I planted include mahogany, which is known for its strong and valuable timber. I am happy to see them growing well among my crops.
Through this journey with ECOTRUST, I have learned that farming is not only about growing food, but also about protecting nature. The combination of crops and trees has given me hope for a better future for my family and my community.
