Strengthening Nutrition and Livelihoods Through Community Gardening

Between December 2024 and January 2025, Sung Foundation made significant progress under the RING – Sustainable Agriculture and Livelihood Improvement Program (SALIP), aimed at improving access to quality nutrition for women and children in Northern Ghana.

The project was implemented concurrently in two districts, Sagnarigu and Karaga, reaching a total of 40 communities. Across both districts, the focus remained on empowering women, especially those in Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), to take the lead in sustainable food production.

In Sagnarigu District, 20 communities benefited from two gardening approaches:

Irrigation Gardening
In two communities with reliable water sources, 60 beneficiaries (30 per community) were selected to cultivate one-acre plots that had been cleared, ploughed, and prepared for vegetable production. Crops included lettuce, okra, ayoyo, bra, cowpea leaves, and aleefu. Fencing of the plots was in progress.

Sack and Container Gardening
In 18 communities with limited water access, 540 beneficiaries were supported with five sacks, one container, and two types of seeds each. This method enabled home gardening with minimal water use while ensuring that nutritious vegetables could still be grown.

In Karaga District, a similar approach was taken across 20 communities, with the addition of Keyhole Gardening, a circular, raised-bed method that conserves moisture and supports year-round food production. This technique complemented the sack and container gardening strategy in communities with low water availability.

Across both districts, sensitization and hands-on demonstrations were conducted by the Department of Agriculture in partnership with Sung Foundation’s RFA II Resilience team. Farmers were trained in soil preparation, organic manure application, efficient watering, pest management, and garden maintenance.

These sessions not only transferred practical knowledge but also boosted confidence and strengthened community ownership. With each home garden established, families moved one step closer to improved nutrition and resilience.

Sung Foundation remains committed to supporting women and families with sustainable, community-based agricultural solutions that promote long-term well-being.

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