My time at Field of Hope this summer was nothing short of amazing. It was a long-awaited opportunity to experience Africa, and Uganda proved to be the perfect place. Field of Hope provided me with a space to immerse myself in Ugandan food, culture, and language, all while contributing to meaningful agricultural development and forming lasting connections with the local community.
While in Lira, I was assigned to work with Tom Anyii at TAF Assured Mixed Farm. TAF is comprised of 3 different farms, each highlighting different sustainable agricultural practices. Tom was inspired to revitalize his farm by making the most of his land after a conference visit to the Netherlands. In the mornings, I started work on the agrotourism farm where I learned how to manage a successful livestock operation. In addition, I was also learning the local names of various staple crops, such as buga (eggplant) and nywagi (maize). Every day, I was welcomed by Tom and his team with bright smiles and the local greeting (Itye ningo?).
Annually, Uganda produces up to 200,000 metric tons of honey. Strong demand for bee products, combined with low startup costs, makes apiary farming a popular and profitable business in Uganda. As TAF stands for Training Apiary Farmers, Tom saw beehives as a perfect way to utilize his land. Much of my time was dedicated to constructing the TAF improved beehive. In Uganda, traditional beehives were stored high in trees and took on a cylindrical shape. This posed an issue for the safety of women, as it is conventional in Lira for women to wear skirts, as well as children, who may not have been able to reach. Tom’s dedication to increasing opportunities for women and children inspired him to create the TAF improved beehive. These beehives have a semicylinder shape and are placed on welded metal legs, about 3 feet high. Additionally, the tree used in the improved beehives is more durable and has a longer life span of 25-30 years.
When I wasn’t working on the beehives or the agrotourism farm, I spent time with Tom’s eldest daughter, Winnie. Winnie and I got along very well, and it was through her that I learned much about women’s roles in Uganda. I dedicated a considerable amount of time assisting her with her black soldier fly operation- an innovative practice I had never heard of until meeting her. Black soldier flies play a vital role in reducing animal waste and enhancing soil health. Once more, I was exposed to another unique agricultural method, further expanding my perspective and growth as a future educator in agriculture.
During my international education experience, I grew extremely close to all the staff. As a tribute to the meaningful connections I made, I planted a memorial mango tree on the agrotourism farm and named it Atudu- the Lango name for duck! – Kiwi. I am deeply grateful for my experience with Field of Hope and TAF. This exposure has significantly broadened my understanding of agriculture. Through this experience, I have gained insight into smallholder entrepreneurship in Uganda, gender equality initiatives, sustainable farming practices, and ongoing efforts to decrease poverty and enhance food security.
Kennedy Spiller, Tuskegee Fellow ’25
