Rural Agroecology Network

Rural Agroecology Network (RAN) is a grassroot Non-profit Youth-led organization and a member of Agroecology Coalition dedicated to promoting sustainable agriculture, environmental protection, and biodiversity conservation within the rural communities of Karamoja, Northeastern Uganda, focusing on empowering local farmers through the adoption of best agroecological practices that enhance resilience and Food Security, and Livelihoods

OUR FOCUS AREAS

1. Biodiversity conservation: We work with local farmers to promote the preservation of indigenous and climate-resilient crop varieties by facilitating seed savings, ensuring communities' access to diverse and locally adapted seeds - this safeguards traditional foods from extinction and reduces reliance on expensive hybrid seeds from the Agrovet shops, strengthening food sovereignty. 

2. Environmental Conservation: Our initiatives focus on soil fertility restoration, reforestation, and climate-smart farming techniques that help restore degraded ecosystems and water retention in Karamoja’s semi-arid landscape. 

3. Food Security and Livelihoods: We conduct agroecology training for farmers, youth groups, women and community leaders, focusing on sustainable farming techniques like, organic pest control, composting, permaculture design and food safety, these array of practical skills improve crops' yields, enhance nutrition, and reduce reliance on costly and unhealthy foods from the formal markets; We also empower environmentally friendly and climate-smart income generating activities that are responsive to environmental protection and conservation.

OUR HOLISTIC APPROACH
With our training, we empower Karamoja’s rural communities to build resilient food systems, preserve their environment, and improve their livelihoods sustainably. Our work fosters sustainable development for the Karamoja region, which faces the longest dry spells, the highest food insecurity, and economic challenges in Uganda.