Permaculture is a method for designing sustainable, human-supporting landscapes that mimic the operation of natural ecosystems. By linking the different parts of each system in ecologically sensible ways, permaculture achieves high yields, reduces inputs, and actually builds fertility over successive seasons. Based on three core ethics and a set of design principles, permaculture can be applied in any climate and at any scale.
The term "Permaculture" combines "permanent" and "agriculture" as well as "permanent" and "culture." Permaculture is a philosophy that allows us to use the resources that we have around us to their fullest potential. By observing and learning from our environment (such as how does nature replenish its soil, how does nature protect and conserve its water resources, how has nature adapted to the specific climate of an area, etc.), we can learn how to imitate these natural processes in our daily living. The more closely that we can work with nature, the more likely we are to establish a balance which will provide us with the things that we need without damaging the environment.
Permaculture is rooted in the fact that no single problem or solution stands on its own. In recognition of this balance, it embraces four basic principles:
1. Working with nature rather than against it
2. Thoughtful observation rather than thoughtless labour
3. Each element should perform many functions rather than one
4. Everything is connected to everything else
Like so many other countries in Africa, Uganda is enmeshed within a web of complex, interrelated social and environmental issues. Poverty levels are high, particularly because so many families have been affected by the HIV+/AIDS pandemic; post-primary education levels are low; and these factors, combined with decades of civil conflict, have left the country with more than 2.4 million orphans.
Uganda's population is predominantly rural. Families need to subsist on their own small plots of land, with few income-producing jobs available in the small townships where the majority of the population farm and live. Access to academic or practical agriculture classes is minimal. Although local District Agriculture Officers have some awareness of sustainable agriculture concepts, and are very keen to know more, very little training is available to them and consequently they are unable to pass on knowledge to the community.
We are at a pivotal point in history. The developing world is disproportionately affected by climate change and food insecurity, and the great majority of Ugandans are struggling to meet the skyrocketing costs of food and non-food items. Therefore, the need for communities and individuals to achieve food, water and power sovereignty is increasingly more critical. Permaculture provides communities with vital skills and knowledge to provide for their needs in socially just and ecologically sustainable ways.
This two-week residential will be delivered to both local community members and international participants. The course fees paid by international participants will subsidise local participants, , directly contributing to the promotion of permaculture in East Africa and affording a cross-cultural experience for all concerned. (The course will be taught in both English and Luganda). The aim of the courses is to train trainers who will go on to be active in community development, so participating in these courses is about far more than getting PD certified! As local participants are prioritised, places for international guests will be limited. Book now to confirm your place in this unique learning experience.
The course is scheduled to run prior to the 9th International Permaculture Convergence (IPC9) being held in Malawi, South Africa and Zimbabwe in October 2009. Ugandan and East African graduates from the course will be eligible for scholarships to attend IPC9, so that they gain a broader and deeper knowledge of permaculture, establish an active East African permaculture movement, and build mentor relationships with members of the international permaculture community.