As part of efforts to strengthen agricultural livelihoods among farmer groups, Oxfam, in collaboration with the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) handed over two tricycles and three grinding mill machines to selected farmer groups in Bidi-bidi and Imvepi Refugee Settlements.

The equipments are intended to support farmer groups in improving transportation, processing, market access and marketing, promote value addition and marketing of agricultural produce while creating income-generating opportunities for group members.

Oyabako Women’s Group in Bidi Bidi Refugee Settlement and Unity for All in Imvepi Refugee Settlement each received a tricycle, locally known as a tuk-tuk. Each group has 30 members who will collectively use the tricycles to strengthen their livelihoods.

Farmers often experience difficulties transporting agricultural produce from production areas to nearby markets due to high transportation costs and limited transport services.

The tricycles will improve transportation challenges for farmers to access markets by facilitating timely transportation of agricultural produce to markets, reduce transportation costs incurred by farmers and improve market access and competitiveness.

Additionally, tricycles will also serve as income-generating assets for farmer groups through provision of transport services to community members at a fee.

The groups are expected to establish management mechanisms that will ensure proper utilization and maintenance of the tricycles while generating income for future repairs and sustainability.

Distribution of grinding mill machines

For farmer groups in Bidi Bidi and Imvepi Refugee Settlements, access to agro-processing machines is an important step for turning agricultural produce into better incomes and stronger livelihoods.

Three grinding mill machines were distributed to selected farmer groups in the two Refugee Settlements.

The groups include Jeribu Farmer Group, with 30 members, and Anikan Farmer Group, with 25 members, in Imvepi Refugee Settlement, Terego District, as well as Imani Farmer Group, with 30 members, in Bidi Bidi Refugee Settlement, Yumbe District.

The grinding mills will enable the groups to process agricultural produce such as maize, millet, cassava, sorghum and other grains within their communities. 

Instead of relying on external milling services, farmers will be able to process their produce locally, helping to reduce costs while improving the quality and value of their products.

The equipment will help farmers add value to what they grow, increase household incomes and create economic opportunities within refugee settlements and surrounding host communities.

The selection criteria

The selection process for the grinding mill and tricycle beneficiary groups was based on several key criteria. Priority was given to groups that produce large quantities of agricultural products such as cassava, maize, millet, and sorghum. 

Consideration was also given to groups located far from major markets, where access to transportation and processing services is limited. Additionally, we considered only active groups with demonstrated commitment to their livelihood and agricultural activities for support

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Refugee resilience resilient livelihoods Farming