Edwin Nyambulapi is a 36-year-old young farmer living in the village of Kitandililo, located in the Makambako region of Tanzania. Together with his wife and two children, he manages a diverse agricultural venture. He has 25 chickens and 1 pig. He is also growing various crops, like 2 acres of maize,2 acres of beans,1 acre of watermelon, 1/4 acre of onion, 1 acre of avocado, 1 acre of Irish potatoes and 130 trees.
In 2019 Edwin became a member of Kitandililo AMCOS, due to the influence of various people who told him about the benefits of being within the cooperative. “For me the loan and input opportunities offered by the cooperative were the main reason to join”, he explained.
“Before, the production situation was poor. I only could afford a few acres, because I could not buy enough inputs. I did not have access to money that would allow me to buy inputs and do other family things, but through the cooperative, I now have the guarantee of inputs and income. I now can engage in additional development activities.”
“A cooperative is the backbone of the farmer.”
Edwin bought 1¼ acre where he grows Irish potatoes and maize for irrigation. He is able to receive timely inputs for all the acres he cultivates. He emphasises: “A cooperative is the backbone of the farmer and contributes to the success of agriculture. I wish everyone will join the cooperative to benefit from the opportunities available in the cooperative. And I hope the cooperative will become bankable as well in order to better serve its members with respect to their individual needs.”
In addition to his involvement in the cooperative, Edwin has personal goals he aims to achieve. He aspires to build a comfortable home and enhance his family's overall situation. Increasing his capital is another objective to support and improve his agricultural activities.
