The COSHUDO SMILE project.

Empowering Communities, through The SMILE Project in Kyangwali, Uganda

In the heart of Kyangwali sub-county, Kikuube district, Western Uganda, families face daily challenges in securing food, generating income, and building resilience against the changing climate. COSHUDO Foundation-Uganda is tackling these challenges head-on with the SMILE project – Sustainable Micro Initiatives for Livelihood Enhancement.

The Challenge: A Cycle of Vulnerability;

Many households in Kyangwali rely on subsistence farming, which is highly vulnerable to erratic weather patterns. Limited access to markets, coupled with low agricultural productivity, often leads to food insecurity and chronic poverty. Furthermore, a lack of access to financial services makes it difficult for families to invest in their livelihoods or cope with unexpected shocks. This creates a cycle of vulnerability that COSHUDO Foundation is determined to break.

Our Solution: SMILE – A Holistic Approach;

The SMILE project takes a holistic approach to community empowerment, focusing on three interconnected initiatives:

1. Poultry Farming: We provide families with dual-purpose chickens, carefully selected for their resilience and egg-laying capacity. These chickens not only provide a valuable source of protein and income through egg sales but also contribute to soil fertility through their manure. We train beneficiaries on sustainable chicken rearing practices, including low-cost coop construction using local materials, disease prevention, and effective feeding strategies.
   
2. Backyard Gardening: SMILE project promotes the establishment of diverse backyard gardens, cultivating nutrient-rich vegetables and fruits. We teach beneficiaries techniques for maximizing yields in small spaces, emphasizing organic practices like composting and natural pest control. These gardens enhance household nutrition, improve dietary diversity, and provide an additional source of income through the sale of surplus produce. We also focus on water conservation techniques, such as home local irrigation, to ensure gardens thrive even during dry spells.
   
3. Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs): To ensure long-term sustainability, SMILE facilitates the formation of VSLAs. These groups provide a platform for community beneficiary members to save money together, access small loans for income-generating activities, boost their poultry units and add more vegetable varieties and build financial literacy. The VSLAs empower individuals to take control of their finances, invest in their farms and businesses, and build a stronger safety net for the future.
   

• The SMILE is designed for long-term impact. We prioritize local ownership and community participation in all project activities. Our comprehensive training programs empower beneficiaries with the skills and knowledge they need to sustain their poultry farms, gardens, and VSLAs long after the project's initial phase. We are also exploring market linkages to help beneficiaries access wider markets for their produce and eggs, ensuring the economic viability of their enterprises.

We believe that together, we can empower communities and build a brighter future for the people of Kyangwali. Your support can make a real difference