As a CorpsAfrica Volunteer, I arrived in my community with a willingness to serve, but I had no knowledge of gardening. My deployment was just beginning, and I was about to embark on a journey that would not only transform my community but also transform me.
It was on my second day in Massembeh, when Iwent to support community members with measuring garden beds. We worked tirelessly for days, and when we finished, the community members were overjoyed with the support. One of them approached me and asked if I could do some gardening. I wanted to say no, but something inside me said, “Let me just say yes.” I smiled and agreed, and to my surprise, they gave me six beds to cultivate vegetables.
As I stood in front of those beds, my mind began to wander. What was I thinking? I had no knowledge of gardening, Panic and fear started to took over me but I took a deep breath, remembered my host mom was there, and decided to give it a try . The next morning, I accompanied my host mom to the garden, and she asked if I would be able to cultivate the beds. I told her I would try, and that’s how my gardening journey began.
She guided me through the process, and I started by clearing the beds, mixing the sand, and sowing onions. I struggled with the tiny onions , but I refused to give up. I watered them diligently, but they weren’t growing as I had hoped. I consulted with the community extension worker, and he trained us on compost making, to use as manure. With the compost, my onions began to grow, and I was happy.
The community came together to make compost, contributing cow dung, sheep dung, and chicken dung as it is a resource in my community. It was a successful initiative, and we shared the compost among ourselves. I used it to my vegetables, and they flourished. My community members were happy, and some even decided to make compost in their own homes.
As I reflect on my journey, I realize that I didn’t just train my community members a new skill, I also learned something valuable myself. From having no knowledge of gardening to cultivating vegetables, I have come a long way. My experience has shown me that with determination and the right guidance, anyone can make a difference.
As a Corps Africa volunteer, I have discovered that community development is not just about imparting knowledge but also about learning from the community. My garden journey has been a testament to the power of resilience and the impact of community support.
Today, i am proud to be watering my garden, watching my onions grow with beautiful green leaves. It’s a reminder that you never know what you are capable of until you try. My experience has been a blessing in me , and I am grateful to have had this opportunity to grow, learn, and serve.
