At 16 years old, Yasin Mbonea Omary, a Form Two student from Kiluvya in Kibamba Ward, faced daily struggles that many students know toowell, lack of school essentials like uniforms, notebooks, and even soap. These challenges weighed heavily on him, often leaving him wondering how he would meet his basic needs.

In March 2024, Yasin joined a school garden initiative led by Madam Mpimbi. With a passion for farming and access to water resources at home, Yasin saw this as a timely opportunity. Through the project, he learned innovative techniques for organic farming, how to grow vegetables without chemicals, use ash to control pests, and avoid unnecessary chemical sprays that harm soil health.

The impact was immediate. Yasin and his family now enjoy a steady supply of fresh vegetables, and the income from selling surplus produce helps cover his school needs. As Yasin explains:

“Sio lazima kutumia kemikali kwenye kulima mboga mboga. Ukizitumia, mboga hazikai shambani kwa muda mrefu.” (It’s not necessary to use chemicals when growing vegetables. If you do, the crops don’t last long in the field.)

Looking ahead, Yasin plans to reinvest his earnings into poultry farming, creating another source of income. He encourages other students to join similar projects, saying:

“Watumie rasilimali zilipo kwao kuwa fursa, pia hii itasaidia hata baada ya shule kutokutegemea sana ajira.” (Use the resources around you as opportunities; this will help even after school, so you do not rely solely on employment.)

Yasin’s story is a powerful example of how practical agricultural skills can turn scarcity into sustainability, giving students hope and independence for the future.