From Soil To Saving : Strengthening Elderly Livelihoods Through Farming And Financial Discipline

On 10th November 2025, Sight For Development Foundation Uganda ( sdf ug ) conducted a community engagement meeting on elderly empowerment under the theme “from soil to saving : strengthening elderly livelihoods through farming and financial discipline. ” the engagement brought together elderly community members and key districts stakeholders at Limburg Resort, Pida 2 village , telela parish , Ayer sub – county , Kole district  .  with the aim of promoting sustainable livelihoods among older persons .

Addressing Key Challenges Facing the Elderly

 The engagement was designed to respond to two critical challenges affecting elderly livelihoods in the community . Frist was the issue of declining food security , largely caused by reduced physical strength , poor soil management practices, and unpredictable weather patterns. Second was weak financial stability , driven by irregular income , limited savings ,and high dependency on family members .

To address these gaps ,  the engagement adopted an integrated approach that combined practical farming skills training , financial literacy education, legal awareness, and elder-led dialogue sessions. This approach ensured that the solutions  discussed were not only practical but also relevant and sustainable for elderly community members .

Opening and stakeholder participation

The engagement was officially opened with remarks from key stakeholders who emphasized the importance of elderly empowerment  and seif-reliance. These included Mr. Tom Jacob Ogwang , District Education officer for Kole District , who saved as the moderator , James  Nyeko, Field officer From SDF , David Alula from Bare foot law firm, and Mr.  Thomas Ayo , District commercial officer for Kole District .Their contribution highlighted the need for collaboration between government offices, civil society organisations, and communities in improving the wellbeing of older persons.

Practical Farming Skills For Sustainable food security

A major focus of the engagement was farming skills training , facilitated by the SDF Field officer. Elders were guided on low – effort and age – friendly farming practices aimed at improving productivity while minimizing physical strain.

Key topics included soil management , where participants learned how to identify healthy soil using colour and texture . the facilitator demonstrated simple soil improvement methods such as mulching , composting kitchen waste , and suing cow or got manure . these practices were particularly appreciated by the elderly because they are affordable , locally available , and easy to adopt.

The session was highly interactive , with many elders sharing their traditional knowledge and experiences , enriching the discussion and encouraging peer learning .

Promoting Financial Discipline and Saving culture

In addition to farming , the engagement  emphasized financial literacy as a critical pillar of elderly empowerment . Elders were  guided on the importance of saving small but consistently , budgeting limited income , and planning for emergencies . Discussions also highlighted the role of group savings and community – based financial initiatives in reducing dependency and strengthening financial  security among older persons.

Legal Awareness and elder – led Dialogue

Legal awareness was also integrated into the engagement to help elders understand their rights, property ownership , and protection from abuse . This  session empowered participants with knowledge that enhances their confidence and ability to make informed decisions.

Elder – led dialogue sessions provided a platform for older persons to voice their concerns , share solutions , and actively participate in shaping interventions that affect their lives . this participatory approach reinforced dignity , inclusion , and ownership among the elderly

Outcomes and way forward

The community engagement strengthened elders knowledge on sustainable farming , financial discipline, and legal rights , while also fostering dialogue between community members and duty bearers . participants expressed renewed motivation to adopt improved farming practices and savings habits , as well as to support one another through collective action

Sight for development foundation ( SDF – UG ) remains committed to supporting elderly empowerment through continued community engagement , capacity  building , and partnerships hat promote food security , financial independence , and dignity in old age