As 2023 draws to a close, we're looking back on an extraordinary year marked by impactful strides forward. Amid global challenges such as food insecurity, climate change and economic disparities, our project participants exemplified boundless resilience, innovation and collective strength. Join us as we revisit these pivotal moments and celebrate our shared commitment toward a world free from poverty and hunger, rich in sustainability.
On fellow Heifer farmer Patrick Mutungi's land in Uganda's Kiboga District, 23-year-old Brighton Kabigumira earns a steady wage and gains valuable experience in dairy farming as part of Heifer's Accelerate Dairy Production and Productivity Project. As a workplace and training hub, this 50-acre property equips young farmers with improved animal management and dairy operations expertise to combat youth unemployment and increase regional dairy production.
Riya Sheikh, center, leads a training session with a women's self-help group in Rajshahi district, Bangladesh. Through Heifer's partner, WAVE Foundation, her work provides women with the skills to confidently assert their views, practice sustainable livestock management and navigate toward economic independence and leadership roles. Armed with fundamental tools and knowledge, these women reflect the core of Heifer's training initiatives.
Rebecka Enock Mwangurube, left, pours milk for her two young children. Rebecka and her husband, Evenule, see increased milk production by providing suitable nutrition, hygiene and breeding techniques to their cattle through Heifer’s Tanzania Milk Processing Project, turning a once scarce resource into a staple for essential nourishment and child development.
In the challenging landscape of western Senegal, Maty Tine attentively tends her onion field. Guided by Heifer’s Climate Services for Resilience and Productivity Project, Maty receives timely weather alerts through text and voice messages, which is crucial for adapting to the region’s unpredictable climate patterns. With this vital information, Maty and many others are better positioned to flourish in the face of environmental challenges and ensure sustainable agricultural productivity.
Florinda Araceli Tzib Maaz, center, and her colleagues in Guatemala's Green Business Belt Signature Program embody Heifer's dedication to investing in women in agricultural entrepreneurship. Through specialized training in agroforestry and business management, women learn how to cultivate diverse spices native to their land and operate cooperatives more efficiently, leading to higher profits and a future where women thrive in every field and market.
In Nigeria, many farmers like Rofiat Ibrahim, left, have moved from uncertain tomato sales to stable incomes this past year, thanks to Heifer's facilitation of direct ties with buyers such as Kaptain Foods Limited, right. Previously, reaching markets from the island where she lives was difficult, and purchases were often made solely on credit, leaving Rofiat without immediate payment. Now, fair and direct market access ensures timely compensation and strengthens her market position.
In the town of Emiliano Zapata, Yucatán, Magali Martín May looks after her chickens, showcasing the Kikibá Collective's commitment to ethical, cage-free egg production. As a member of this producer organization, her involvement is critical to maintaining high animal welfare standards. With Heifer's guidance in suitable livestock selection and sustainable animal management practices, Magali and fellow farmers enhance animal health and bolster farm productivity while elevating their economic well-being.
See how strategic alliances and steadfast programs uplifted 798,000 households across 19 countries amid global challenges this past year.
