ABSTRACT
The CARP project addressed climate-smart food security through the adaptation of small grains and legumes, introduction of water harvesting techniques, pest management and good agricultural practices, post-harvest grain management and value addition. More than 5,000 lead farmers and extension officers were trained on rain water harvesting, farming as a family business, value addition and product development. Eleven students graduated with M.Sc and 34 TVET students from CARP research areas were supported. Three farmer field schools were established, and three value addition centres were set up and equipped for the communities. Productivity improved with up to a 40% increase in the yields of small grains such as millets, cowpeas, sorghum and groundnuts. Products developed include an instant porridge from small grains, small grains porridge meal mix, sesame butter, sesame oil, roasted sesame lunch bar and a wild fruit (Ziziphus mauritiana) beverage. The porridges were fortified and flavoured using its fruit pulp. The CARP project increased the visibility of Bindura University to the community and imparted skills to the youth and women at various levels. The project has helped to ease the burden of the youth to their community as they now possess skills which can assist them to improve their farms and to be independent.
