Shazeda Begum, 38, a devoted mother of six, resides in Telkhola. In her homestead garden, she now cultivates eggplants, red spinach, radishes, green chilies, tomatoes, and beans, providing her family with fresh, nutritious meals. While her husband, as a farmer, earned modestly, their income was insufficient to cover their monthly expenses. Two years ago, hope entered into their lives when Shazeda and her husband learned about the LIFE Project. After being selected as a beneficiary, Shazeda not only received vegetable seeds but also comprehensive trainings in goat rearing, crop production, tilapia farming, nutrition and household economy. From that point, Shazeda never had to look back Shazeda began homestead gardening, growing high-nutrition and market-value vegetables. Shazeda said, “If my husband is late coming home from work, I simply pick fresh vegetables from our garden and cook for my family. We no longer rely on or spend as much on purchasing vegetables from the market, where prices are inflated. The homegrown vegetables ensure that my children receive nutrition from organically grown produce.”.
“We would have benefited from more opportunities if the LIFE Project had lasted longer. But it feels reassuring to see that the Japanese are engaging with us directly. They constantly keep telling us what they are doing or planning for our benefit along with the support they will provide.”
Additionally, Shazeda acquired nutrition insights through the project’s nutrition training. She learned the importance and techniques of washing hands and vegetables properly, a practice previously absent from their routine. Prior to the intervention, she used to cut her vegetables first and then wash them, losing much of their nutritious contents. Now, she prioritises washing the vegetables first before cutting, ensuring that they retain all their nutrition for her family’s meals.
The household economy training sessions toughed her how to manage their monthly budget effectively. Shazeda explained that there are times her husband’s income falls short. During these periods, she contributes to the family with the earnings from her vegetable garden, ducks, and chickens. This newfound financial contribution has empowered her significantly.
