Zambia, Fruitful farming at the Kamfinsa Prison
Permaculture as a reinsertion tool
Combining socio-economic reinsertion with environmental stewardship is possible.
In the Kamfinsa Prison, planting fruit trees, vegetable gardens, Moringa, medicinal and timber trees on 79 ha impacts the lives of the 1800 inmates and their families while relieving pressure on indigenous forests and local rivers.
The plantations around the prison provide diverse and nutritious food for all; surplus fruit and vegetable generate income for medicine and medical equipment. The timber will generate future income for larger investments such as the upgrade of the medical center and a gym. Inmates get trained in permaculture and environmental awareness which should help their reinsertion in society.
A strong correlation between poverty and environmental degradation.
Approximately 80% of rural dwellers are living below the poverty line in Zambia. The UNPD Human Development Report for Zambia (2008) shows that there is strong correlation between poverty and environmental degradation due to lower income communities’ dependence on exploitation of natural resources for their survival. Charcoal production and informal agriculture are the primary contingent forms of income for local. Unfortunately, both cause massive environmental damage.
We believe training the inmates on how to maintain productive vegetable garden, grow medicinal and fruit trees efficiently and sustainably will help them get back to a positive contribution to society and eventually send their children back to school.
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