Meet the women of Ifakara, affectionately known as “Wamama wa Uyoga”, a group of retired women deeply involved in mushroom cultivation. Juliana Njombo, a member of the mushroom growers shares that their drive in mushroom farming was because it allows cultivation throughout the year and with less cost compared to rice farming which is a major agricultural activity in Ifakara. These women epitomize entrepreneurship, shattering stereotypes and carving a niche in the agricultural sector.
These women entrepreneurs, known as "Wamama wa Uyoga," are adopting various methods to ensure productivity in mushroom cultivation. In addition to implementing an automatic irrigation system, which helps maintain optimal moisture levels and a temperature of 28 degrees Celsius in the growing environment, they have also adopted innovative farming practices such as hanging the mushroom farms. By hanging the farms, they can optimize space utilization and increase yields. This multi-faceted approach highlights their dedication to maximizing efficiency and sustainability in their farming operations.
Over the years, women have increasingly engaged in various economic activities. According to the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM), the percentage of women involved in entrepreneurship has seen an exponential rise. This growth reflects a powerful shift toward gender inclusion.
As we at Ifakara Innovation Hub celebrated International Women’s Day, we recognized the invaluable contributions of women entrepreneurs like Wamama wa Uyoga. Their resilience, determination, and willingness to embrace change are paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future. Through their endeavor, they are not only creating economic opportunities for themselves by also inspiring others to pursue their entrepreneurial dream.
“Beyond income, our achievements include connecting with others at business expos, which allows us to exchange ideas. We've employed a young person to manage our systems and hire youths for processing work, thus creating jobs. Women learners are among those we've trained, also benefiting from our knowledge sharing”.
In commemorating #IWD2024 IIH reaffirms its commitment to supporting women-led initiatives and empowering women entrepreneurs to thrive in their respective fields. By providing access to resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities, we aim to foster an environment where women can unleash their full potential and drive positive change in their communities. Together, let us continue to champion economic inclusivity and empower women to shape a brighter tomorrow.
