Beekeeping
In 2015, DeafNET has established a beekeeping project in Jinja, Uganda which has involved the distribution of hives, equipment, and technical training. The project’s primary concern is to reduce poverty among rural Deaf communities and providing ongoing income for Deaf people. The direct beneficiaries were 10 Deaf members who have received training in basic beekeeping techniques such as apiary management, processing, and packing. During 2018, the Deaf beekeepers also received training in the harvesting of honey. The terms of agreement came to an end in September 2018, and the project was handed over to the Uganda Association of the Deaf on 30 September 2018, for further implementation. DeafNET has greatly contributed to the transformation of Deaf people’s lives in Jinga, Uganda, following the recent interventions of the beekeeping initiative.
The initiative is seen as a transboundary project and DeafNET has new plans to replicate the project in Kenya. DeafNET is looking to establish 20 beehives as a platform for training and adoption of beekeeping practices for Deaf people in Kenya. These hives and the training of ten Deaf members of Kakamega Deaf Association will be used as a platform for further training and support of other Deaf members who are interested in beekeeping.
Pastry Making
DeafNET in partnership with the Aaleemee Society and the Deaf Association of Mauritius, hosted training in pastry making, targeting Deaf people in a way to empower them. This is aimed at turning their lives around by seizing opportunities to take up internships and promoting sustainable development initiatives. The training course was presented by one facilitator from Aaleemee Society, one Deaf person, and one support staff from DeafNET. Over the last 12 weeks, learners have managed to develop a solid foundation of basic pastry-making skills. Further training is scheduled to take place.
