|
HSHC has facilitated numerous research projects which contribute to a better understanding of the project area, its people and the challenges they face.
Highlights include:
- Kieni East Water Harvesting Project
- Ethno-botanical survey
- HIV / Aids research
- Value Chain Analysis of oil products
Kieni East water harvesting and management program
2005-2008
The aim of the project is to develop horticulture and marketing systems of small holder farmers. The main project components include conducting a feasibility study, water harvesting, development of on-farm irrigation systems, organising farmers in viable marketing systems and capacity building. Major accomplishments in the project are the completion of the feasibility study and organizing farmers in viable marketing structures. Partners include Waterman foundation (The Netherlands) and ISCOM.
Ethno-botanical survey:
The research was conducted to determine the utilization of indigenous plants in the Mt. Kenya area and to indicate potential for their inclusion into the local farming system. A total 160 species were recorded as being utilized by the sample population. The report summarises the main features of the use and knowledge of indigenous plants in the traditional and local economies of the communities. The information that was gathered serves as a tool for conservation and economic development. Following the survey, HSHC decided amongst others to promote planting of cape chestnut trees, the seeds of which contain valuable oil.
HIV / Aids research in Juja, Witeithie and Karkuret
2007
Social worker Jayne Holden (Canada) conducted research amongst women in three communities, namely Juja, Witeithie and Karkuret. The study focused on the challenges that women face that are infected or affected with HIV / Aids. Most are primary breadwinners and at the same time responsible for taking care of their (grand) children and the elderly in the community. The women indicated that their wish was to start small businesses, like tailoring. Following the research HSHC raised funds to buy sewing machines and materials to assist the women. They were also trained in tailoring and business skills to help them run small enterprises so that they can earn some income and feed their (grand)children.
Value Chain Analysis of oil products
In May 2008 MMA consultants assessed the potential of sunflower, canola and cape chestnut oil to improve livelihoods amongst smallholder farmers. It was concluded that the production of the 3 oils, particularly cape chestnut, can be profitable, even though the relatively unknown canola oil needs good marketing. The community can benefit by growing sunflower and canola. The collecting of cape chestnut seeds is a particularly attractive income-generating activity which is easy to engage in, especially for women.
HSHC continues to develop the oil project with the aim of detaching from it so that the oil production facility can run independently as a business.
In case you like to know more about the studies mentioned above, please feel free to contact HSHC.
|
