Communities in Gicumbi District have long battled the unpredictable challenges posed by climate change, including droughts, floods, and soil erosion.
These disruptions have made it difficult for local farmers to sustain their livelihoods, leading many to seek employment opportunities across the border in Uganda. However, thanks to a transformative training program, farmers are beginning to see a shift in their fortunes.
On February 13, 2025; 800 farmers and cooperative members celebrated a significant milestone as they graduated from the Green Gicumbi Project’s climate resilience training program.
The initiative, launched to help farmers navigate the effects of climate change, has not only focused on adapting farming practices, but also on building financial independence, cooperative management skills, and business planning.
For many of the participants, including Ayinkamiye Ernestine, the training has been an eye-opener. “Before, we didn’t have a structured way of managing our cooperative’s resources. Money came in and went out, but we weren’t keeping track,” she said. “Now, we have a clear system, and everyone understands their role in strengthening our cooperative.”
The Green Gicumbi Project places a strong emphasis on the intersection of financial literacy and climate resilience. For farmers like Ernestine, learning financial management has been just as important as mastering sustainable farming techniques.
Kagenza Jean Marie Vianney, the project coordinator, explained that financial skills empower farmers to prepare for unpredictable climate events.
“Saving is one of the best ways for people to protect themselves from the effects of climate change,” he said. “If a farmer loses crops or livestock due to a flood or drought, their savings—whether in money, food, or other resources—can help them get through the tough times.”
By cultivating a savings culture and promoting financial planning, farmers are better able to withstand setbacks, making them more resilient in the face of environmental shocks.
In addition, farmers are learning how to better manage their cooperative’s resources. This includes setting aside funds for future needs, such as investing in improved agricultural techniques or diversifying income sources, which are crucial for long-term sustainability. By developing financial strategies, farmers can ensure their cooperatives remain financially stable, even during difficult seasons.
The importance of financial preparedness extends to the entire community. Nzabonimpa Emmanuel, Mayor of Gicumbi District, highlighted how these financial skills are reducing labor migration.
“This project has created green jobs, providing stable employment with fair wages. As a result, many people no longer feel the need to migrate to Uganda in search of work,” he said.
Since its launch, the Green Gicumbi Project has trained more than 12,000 individuals, helping farmers integrate climate-friendly practices with sound financial strategies to secure their futures. For Ernestine and her fellow cooperative members, the lessons learned are already yielding positive results.
“Now, we’re not just working hard—we’re working smart,” Ernestine said. “With the skills we’ve gained, our cooperative is in a much stronger position to grow.”
As more farmers embrace these new strategies, Gicumbi District is proving that true climate resilience is not only about adapting to environmental changes but also ensuring financial stability for the future.
Through a combination of sustainable farming and sound financial management, Gicumbi is paving the way for a more resilient and prosperous tomorrow.
