When we asked the headteacher, David, about his priorities for Rugando Parents School, he told us that many pupils were underweight and below average height for their age. Improving nutrition was essential, as children learn better when they are adequately nourished. His goal was to establish a vegetable garden and, in time, a chicken coop to supplement pupils’ meals.

The vegetable garden was the most immediately achievable project. With the support of the Unite Community branch, the land was dug, tilled, and enriched, and seeds were supplied and planted. The first crop chosen was kale (Sukuma Wiki), a locally grown staple vegetable rich in nutrients.

Farming conditions in the area are challenging. The school lies close to the equator, resulting in intense sunlight, while its mountainous location in south-west Uganda also brings heavy rainfall. There is no piped water, so irrigation must be carried out manually, making the work labour-intensive.

Initially, the school cook and staff managed the planting. Looking ahead, there are plans to involve parents in maintaining the garden, as school staff do not have the time to manage it long-term. If organised successfully, this could allow parents who struggle to pay school fees to contribute through work, helping the garden flourish and enabling a greater variety of crops to be grown.

"The vegetable garden supports children’s health today while building resilience for the future."