Growing Against the Odds: How a Farmer’s Willpower Is Providing for His Family and Community

By Ernestina Esinam Glikpo, Communications Manager

Alex is a devoted father of four from Kukubuso in Ghana’s Ashanti Region. Each day, he wakes up eager to create a better life for his family. He works hard as a farmer, growing sugarcane, cassava, maize, and plantains, and rearing goats and pigs. For years, though, his dreams felt out of reach. His yields were low, and expenses were high.

Everything began to change when Alex joined Self-Help International’s Agriculture & Entrepreneurship Development (AED) program three years ago. With hands-on training and access to improved seeds, fertilizers, and practical guidance, he discovered simple farming methods that unlock big results. 

One technique, planting crops in rows, completely transformed his maize fields. Today, Alex applies this method in all his home gardens. This approach boosts his food production and improves his family’s nutrition and income. Instead of buying costly fertilizers, he makes rich natural compost. This not only saves money but also enhances soil health and increases crop yields. “I am very grateful,” he says. “I can produce more without spending more. What I learn helps me farm better and provide for my children.”

Teamwork is vital in Alex’s journey. His wife, Doris, is a lactation coach, supporting new mothers to practice exclusive breastfeeding with SHI’s Nutrition Team. She also works as a petty trader to support their household. Together, they started a poultry business using her earnings to buy 50 cockerels. Although they lost two and gifted some to their neighbors, the family is still raising about 30 birds. Alex plans to expand this into a full poultry farm with additional support from SHI—an opportunity he never imagined before.

Life on the outskirts of the community is not easy. The family lives on their farm and uses solar-powered lights. They manage school fees for two children studying away and care for a newborn. Yet every challenge only strengthens their resolve.

Alex’s progress reflects the power of partnership. Donors who support Self-Help International uplift families like Alex’s. This help provides practical tools, training, and confidence to overcome poverty. 

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