Program Overview
Nakivale's first mushroom spawn multiplication lab. Training refugee women to grow oyster mushrooms from agricultural waste. Started 2024 with Re-Alliance and Mycorama partnership.
152
Women trained across 4 groups
4,800 kg
Mushrooms produced in 2024
5,000 kg
Agricultural waste recycled monthly
What We Do
Waste materials (maize stems, cotton husks) converted to oyster mushroom substrate. Women trained in spawn multiplication, cultivation, and product development.
Products Made:
- Fresh oyster mushrooms
- Mushroom wine
- Flour porridge for malnourished children
Context: Nakivale Food Crisis
Malnutrition rising: 2% (2020) → 21% (2023). 46% unemployment, 36% rely on farming. Many families eat one meal per day.
Participant Stories
Eagles Power Group - First Cohort
15 women led by Furaha Bahati. First group to harvest. Now earning school fees from mushroom sales.
Rosetta Nzonga - Mother's Testimony
"Thanks to Unidos trainers for the knowledge and skills that enabled me to treat my baby and restore her health."
Partners
- Re-Alliance: Technical training and program design
- Mycorama: Mushroom cultivation expertise
- UNHCR: Funding and support