Hasifah, a single mother of seven, depended entirely on smallholder farming to support her family. Yet, despite her efforts, limited access to agricultural resources, low productivity and limited income kept her in a cycle of survival, where meeting basic needs was a constant challenge. In 2017, she joined the Kalububbu Village Cooperative, a group of 47 farmers supported through COSMA’s Agricultural Program. At the time, Hasifah had limited knowledge of improved farming practices and lacked the financial means to invest in her farm.
agriculture
Hasifah’s Journey to Building a Sustainable Livelihood
A Turning Point
Through COSMA, Hasifah accessed practical training in climate-smart agriculture and financial literacy, alongside a small loan of $260 to purchase fertilizers. With improved practices and timely input use, her coffee yields increased from 900 kg per acre to nearly double within one year, significantly boosting her income.
As her income grew, Hasifah reinvested in building a more secure future. Using part of the profits from her first harvest and an additional loan of $120, she purchased a dairy cow, creating a new and reliable source of income through milk sales. She also invested in a rainwater harvesting tank, reducing the time spent fetching water and improving resilience during dry seasons.
From Farmer to Leader
Today, Hasifah is not only a more productive and financially stable farmer, but also a respected leader within her Village Cooperative. She inspires fellow members, especially young women, demonstrating that transformation through agriculture is within reach. Her journey reflects more than individual success. It demonstrates how access to knowledge, finance, and collective systems can enable farmers to move beyond subsistence agricukture and build sustainable livelihoods.
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