The Shamba
In 2013, a plot of land (Shamba in Swahili) of approximately 26,000 m2 was purchased, a short distance from the Bambakofi Academy, with the aim of growing typical local produce and raising animals to help provide food for the school canteen.
Over the years, thanks to the purchase of a tractor and the contributions of volunteers, agricultural technicians, and a plumber, production has significantly improved in quantity and quality.
Sustainably grown fruits and vegetables now contribute to supplying the school cafeteria with fresh produce, significantly reducing food costs. Drip irrigation allows for important water savings, thanks in part to the purchase of rainwater storage tanks.
In 2025, a well was drilled and a pump installed to ensure greater and more constant availability of water for crops.
Today, four farmers, ATKYE employees, tend the fields and raise chickens. They have a small two-room house, a warehouse, and bathrooms, as well as a kitchen with a storage room.
Working with the locals
The tractor, which is also rented to other farmers in the area at a fair price, helps to keep good relations with local families in the neighbourhood.
The exchange of experiences with neighboring producers has always been and remains of great mutual help.
Following our example, some have refused to lease their land to chilly growers, which quickly dries out the soil.
During the pandemic, our products were distributed to our students' less well-off families.
Educational value
Students from our classes often visit the camp to take guided lessons or participate in age-appropriate activities. They bring the knowledge they've learned back to their families, indirectly helping the rural population adapt to climate conditions that have changed dramatically in recent years.