A section of retired teachers from the Teso region, under the Retired Teachers Welfare Association (RTWA), are redefining life after service by embracing agriculture.
The group is working closely with FIPS Africa, a local NGO, which is providing technical support and modern farming techniques.
A key component of the project is the cultivation of grafted Hass avocado, a high-value crop with export potential.
According to FIPS trainers Collins Otiende and John Kipchumba, the trees begin fruiting within two years, with a 50 by 100 feet plot accommodating up to 20 trees.
“Each tree has the potential to generate up to Sh14,000 annually, with harvesting done twice a year,” said Otiende.
FIPS Africa has encouraged the retirees to adopt the use of organic fertilizers to ensure the fruits meet export market standards.
“Export markets have already been identified in Europe, particularly the United Kingdom, as well as the Middle East, including Qatar, with additional opportunities in other international markets,” said Martin Mango, a FIPS officer.
Through the programme, the retirees are also serving as role models in agriculture by sharing knowledge with local communities, promoting food security, generating income, and encouraging young people to venture into farming.
They are championing the use of organic manure as a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to chemical fertilizers.
Speaking during a training session on avocado farming, soil sampling and manure production in Amagoro yesterday, one of the retirees, Mary Emadau, urged farmers to utilize locally available materials such as grass cuttings, dry leaves and household organic waste to produce manure.
“Instead of spending money on fertilizer, we can use what we already have around us,” she said, noting that the approach not only reduces costs but also improves soil health.
RTWA Chairman Jared Olubayi Eng’ong’o said the association, which started in 2023 with eight members, has since grown to 65 active members and is targeting more than 160 retirees.
“Membership requires a registration fee of Sh1,000 and a monthly contribution of Sh500. Members also contribute Sh4,850 per month for 10 months towards a medical cover,” said Eng’ong’o.
Beyond farming, the association promotes social welfare through regular meetings, emergency support funds and planned group activities, including trips to Mombasa and Rwanda.
By Moses Wekesa
