Phase 2
of our economic plan is now under way.
The farm is now operating
reasonably efficient so it is time to plan for greater financial
stability. The clinic has gained notoriety
with areas
outside of our initial project and these people pay in cash.
Again, we should note that we only charge for the drugs that are
dispensed and not for the service. However, because the amount is
rounded up, it does generate a small profit. Our solar system is used
for phone charging and with the popularity of mobile phones, we now
generate an average of 20,000/s per week. Unfortunately, the system is
used at full capacity and another panel is required if we are to expand
our computer training to local students. We can only use one laptop but
another panel will allow 4. Currently we have 2 laptops and have 2 more
on the way. We are applying for a donation of at least one more panel.
The second phase is a combination of long term
income and community industry. We are attempting to obtain 60 acres of
land from the government. If we cannot obtain the land, it will be
necessary to purchase it privately, raising the projected budget from
$22,000 to around $42,000. Initially, 20 acres will be planted with pine
trees. We have a tree nursery in place and can raise 16,000 seedlings. A
thinning out process will begin in 6-7 years and these will generate
income for the Centre. As the trees grow older, selective cuttings will
occur with new seedlings taking its place thus creating a constant
income.
Why trees and why pine? First, there is a shortage
of trees in Uganda and more trees are cut than are planted. The demand
for timber has been high. It is unlikely that there will ever be an over
supply of trees. Poor quality trees are used for firewood which is the
principal source for cooking. Secondly, several people plant eucalyptus
because of its quick growth/quick return. However, eucalyptus trees are
hard on the soils and produce less income in the long run. A fellow
Canadian who has his masters in forestry and years of experience in tree
planting is assisting with this project.
The balance of the land will be used for cashew
trees. These trees produce a highly desirable nut plus an apple which
can be used for several things such as apple juice and apple sauce. The trees begin to produce fruit in 3-4
years and a small industry can be started without the need for
electricity. These nuts can be processed locally and sold within the
borders of Uganda to begin and later, to export. When there is success in this venture, it will
encourage local farmers to also produce cashews. Currently, cashews are
imported and are extremely expensive.
For
more information regarding cashews, I’ve included pages from the
Department of Agriculture of South Africa