The degradation of Mother Earth and the effects of climate change are no longer distant concerns, they are lived realities in communities such as Kaande in the Diocese of Mongu. Once rich with trees, the landscape has been affected by widespread charcoal burning, leaving both environmental and economic challenges for local families.
In response to this growing crisis, the Comboni Missionary Sisters introduced a transformative initiative, the cultivation of Moringa as an alternative source of livelihood and environmental restoration.
A Vision Rooted in Care for Creation
The project was born out of both spiritual reflection and environmental concern. According to Sr. Alice Masika Muyayalo, coordinator of the Mother Earth Centre, the Sisters realised that protecting the environment required practical solutions that also support livelihoods.
“We could not just tell people to stop cutting trees for charcoal without offering an alternative source of income,” she explained.
“That is how we introduced Moringa cultivation, which later developed into processing and selling as a sustainable livelihood.”
Watch the Story: Mother Earth Project in Kaande
Community Trust and Land for Transformation
The land for the project was generously donated by Induna Charles Mutemwa, a traditional leader whose Catholic education influenced his trust in the Sisters’ mission.
“I went through Roman Catholic schools from Lukulu to university,” he shared.
“Because of that background, I had faith in the work of the Catholic Sisters.”
His contribution provided the foundation for what would become a major community transformation initiative.
From Small Beginnings to a Community Movement
The Moringa project began in 2006, initially involving youth in the Catholic Diocese of Mongu before expanding to the wider Kaande community and other churches.
Mr. Crebby Kamaya, a farmer, recalled how the project began and how it transformed his life into that of a Moringa farmer.
“We received Moringa seedlings and training. Later, I started planting trees from seeds given to me by the Comboni Sisters. That is how I became a Moringa farmer,” he said.
A Changing Landscape
What was once degraded bushland is now slowly transforming into productive farmland and homesteads.
Induna Mutemwa said the community had experienced visible change.
“This was all bush. Now we see properties and Moringa plantations. Our people have been trained in farming and using Moringa for health and nutrition,” he said.
Farmers also emphasise sustainable practices such as organic manure use, ensuring long-term soil health and productivity.
Health and Nutrition Benefits
Moringa has become an important part of local diets due to its high nutritional value.
Sr. Sonia De Jesus Garcia, a health worker, explained that Moringa contains vitamins and iron which helps increase blood levels, regulates blood sugar, stimulates appetite and improves overall health.
Families now use Moringa leaves and powder to improve nutrition, especially for children and mothers.
From Farm to Factory: Value Addition
At the Mother Earth Centre, Moringa undergoes a carefully monitored process of sorting, washing, drying, grinding and packaging to ensure quality.
Production officer Mr. Victor Mundia explained the process from harvest to final product, while Ms. Queen Pumulo highlights capsule production using specialised filling machines to maintain hygiene and precision.
Challenges and Market Growth
Despite its success, the project faces challenges in market expansion and price competition.
Sr. Alice said, “Our challenge is the market. People often focus on price rather than quality. We encourage people to support Moringa from Mother Earth as a way of sustaining the farmers.”
A Sustainable Future
What began as a response to environmental destruction has become a model of hope, linking environmental restoration, economic empowerment and improved community health.
Moringa continues to transform lives in Kaande, proving that when communities are given alternatives, both people and the environment can thrive together.