DODOMA, February 2026 — IDN Africa has initiated a specialized training program for the Juncao Cultivation/Multiplication for Climate Resilience and Sustainable Development (J-CRISD) project. Running from February 18th to 24th, the sessions are being held across the Chamwino District to equip local farmers and extension officers with the technical skills required for sustainable fodder production.

Operational Launch and Theoretical Framework

The program opened with a formal session led by the District Director of Chamwino. This initial phase focused on the theoretical components of the Juncao value chain. Participants reviewed the technical requirements for nursery establishment, field management, and the logistical steps involved in the 1:8 multiplication model. The curriculum also covered the broader utility of Juncao technology, including its applications in mushroom production and clean energy.

Practical Field Application

Following the classroom sessions, the training transitioned to a practical, field-based format. This allowed the 20 Champion Farmers and local Extension Officers to work directly on the land. Key activities included:

• Plot Preparation: Hands-on instruction on bed preparation, irrigation setup, and planting techniques for Juncao cuttings.

• Site Management: Technical briefings on daily maintenance and protection protocols for the foundation stock.

• Knowledge Transfer: On-site demonstrations by lead instructors to ensure uniform planting standards across all five project divisions.

Community Impact and Farmer Perspectives

The training has highlighted a significant gap in traditional development aid. For many participants, this represents the first time a non-governmental organization has specifically targeted the needs of the livestock sector in Chamwino.

Mr. Isdory, one of the participating farmers, noted the importance of this shift in focus during a project interview:

“I have always witnessed NGOs supporting interventions such as children’s rights, women’s rights, and youth programs, but not at all livestock keepers. Today is a day that I have seen God’s hand. This organization supporting us livestock keepers is a miracle. Indeed, there is a right time for everything.”

Strategic Planning

A significant portion of the week was dedicated to ward-level strategy sessions. Champion Farmers and Extension Officers collaborated to identify specific geographical challenges within their respective areas. These discussions resulted in localized action plans for the next six months, focusing on how to successfully distribute cuttings to the 160 secondary beneficiaries as the nurseries mature.

By centering the training on the farmers’ own land, the J-CRISD project ensures that the technology is adapted to local soil and water conditions. This milestone marks the formal transition from project planning to active field cultivation in the Dodoma region.

The opening was visited by the National Tanzanian TV and here is the TV material, streamed just after the event.