Seeds and training bring hope to struggling farmer

Starting with a handful of seeds from World Vision and lots of hard work, Savino is today living his dreams and earning a living from his land.
Today Savino, 45, his wife and their nine children grow kumara (sweet potato), taro, peanuts, beans, Chinese cabbage, baiara (slippery cabbage), eggplant, capsicum, tomatoes, watermelon, pineapple and chilies. 

    

For the people of Tawairoi community in South Malaita, Savino is a role model transiting from poverty to prosperity within a short period of time. 

“Life was very different before I had a farm,” said Savino.  How was it different?

After receiving seeds and tools from World Vision, followed by training, Savino sold his first harvest and earned his first ever significant income. He also began to replant.  

"It’s hard to work all day out under the scorching sun", says Savino, but he has a passion for farming and takes pride in watching his crops grow over time. 

“It helps me to dream bigger knowing that I am going to have bigger sales if I work hard and plant more. This year I have planned to buy Christmas presents for my children and save some money for their school fees for next year. 

“So far my savings are more than the calculated expenses for my goals and so I am happy that for a change, for Christmas, I am going to buy presents for my family.” 

After each harvest, Savino travels by banana boat to Afio market to sell his crops. Depending on who is free, Savino or his wife will look after the sale of their crops at the market. 

While farming is going well, Savino still faces challenges. “Unpredictable weather, lack of good seeds and the need for fertilizers, are some of the challenges I face.”

To improve soil quality, Savino received training from World Vision Solomon Islands Community Economic Development team and community group, Bushman Farming Network. 

“I am trying my best to make my own compost and use proper mulching techniques that match the soil type and weather.” 

World Vision’s Solomon Islands Economic Development project is supported by the Australian Government and has helped farmers in 15 communities in South Malaita with seeds, tools and training.