Farming

Growing resilience

Practical farming skills for stronger communities

The VAD Foundation teaches students and community members sustainable farming through practical, community-based programs. The work responds to local needs while helping people build skills that support household wellbeing, stronger local food systems, and sustainable livelihoods.

Horticulture

School gardens grow fruits, vegetables, and sorghum to support school nutrition and give students hands-on experience in agriculture, environmental stewardship, and sustainable commerce. Community training also supports women farmers to cultivate and tend food crops, with a focus on building skills for greater self-sufficiency.

Aquaculture

Aquaculture is the farming of fish and aquatic plants. In response to community needs, the Foundation trains women, youth, and local farmers in fish farming and aquaponics. Demonstration ponds at schools and in communities give farmers practical experience in building, cultivating, and supplying fish farms. Fish farming can improve food security and nutrition while creating potential income opportunities.

Animal husbandry

Animal husbandry includes raising and caring for animals that provide meat, milk, eggs, and other essential products. The Foundation supports cattle keepers with training in sustainable livestock care, works with partners to connect farmers with veterinary and related services, and engages in research to help prevent disease. Poultry is also included as a practical animal-husbandry activity that can support household food supplies and livelihoods.

Beekeeping

Beekeeping offers an additional sustainable livelihood activity for local farmers. Training can help community members develop practical skills in caring for bees and producing honey, diversify household income, and support a resilient local economy.