As we step into the fall of 2024, we find ourselves reflecting on the incredible journey we’ve shared this year. Thanks to your unwavering support—whether through financial contributions, sporting our merchandise, or simply spreading the word—we’ve made remarkable strides together. We’re excited to share some updates on our progress and what lies ahead!

🌱 Spring Highlights

• Boots on the Ground: Our April trip to Rwanda was more than just a visit; it allowed us to build meaningful partnerships with organizations dedicated to uplifting youth and women in agriculture.
• Dream Team Assemble: We’ve expanded our advisory board with passionate individuals who bring fresh perspectives and valuable expertise. Our team is stronger than ever, ready to tackle the challenges ahead!
• Science Meets Soil: Engaging strategy sessions with the Rwanda Agriculture Board and the University of Rwanda have sparked new ideas and innovations that we can’t wait to implement.
• Inspiring Future Leaders: Co-founders Archie and Sam had the wonderful opportunity to share their journey at Cornell University’s Brooks School of Public Policy, inspiring students to become advocates for agriculture.

🌾 Summer Successes

• Knowledge is Power: We successfully trained 40 extension officers in modern agricultural practices, empowering them to share their newfound knowledge within their communities.
• Making Waves: Our participation in the Africa Food Systems Forum connected us with passionate individuals and leaders who are equally committed to shaping the future of agriculture in our region.

🍂 Fall Goals and Exciting Developments

With all this momentum, we’re eager to continue our work:

• Pilot Plots Initiative: We’re thrilled to be supporting the extension officers who attended our training in planting 20 hectares of barley, wheat, and beans this fall! This initiative will allow our trained extension officers and local farmers to put their skills into practice in a hands-on way.
• Cultivating Sustainability: These pilot plots serve a dual purpose; they are not only a training ground but also a vital step in developing a pipeline of lower-cost inputs for farmers. By producing our own seeds and testing sustainable farming methods, we aim to make agriculture more affordable and accessible for everyone.
• Building for the Future: We’re making great strides in establishing co-owned storage facilities and milling plants, which will transform the local supply chain from farm to flour.
• End-of-Year Report: Keep an eye out for our comprehensive report detailing our efforts to breathe new life into Rwanda’s agricultural sector. We promise it will be an insightful read!

🎉 Your Support Makes It Possible

We couldn’t do any of this without you—our amazing Walisha community. Your support fuels our mission and brings us closer to creating a thriving agricultural landscape in Rwanda. Here are some ways you can continue to get involved:

• Follow us on social media for real-time updates and heartwarming stories from farmers.
• Support our Plant the Seed campaign, which focuses on providing essential training and resources this fall.
• Share our mission! We invite you to tell five friends about Walisha’s work—together, we can reach even more people!

Every time you enjoy a slice of bread or a side of beans, remember that you’re connected to the farmers we support. Let’s make that connection meaningful!

Wishing you a warm and bountiful fall,

The Walisha Foundation Team

P.S. We’d love to hear from you! If you have questions or ideas, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Your thoughts are always welcome!