The Veilomani Women’s Club in Nabouono Village, Udu Point, is making significant progress in promoting community sustainability through a cattle farming initiative. This project is transforming the villagers’ approach to food sourcing and is also having a positive impact on traditional event planning and catering practices.
Talica Vugayawa, a member of the club, shared insights into the project’s promising outcomes. By providing a new source of meat, the initiative has led to a decrease in the reliance on sea turtles, which have historically been a vital resource for community events. Vugayawa stated, “With the increase in cattle since the launch of this project, we’ve received positive feedback. During the Provincial Council meeting, we were able to feed hundreds of people with our beef.”
The shift towards cattle farming is enhancing the logistics involved in organizing large gatherings, reducing the need for villagers to travel long distances to purchase meat. As government restrictions on turtle harvesting have tightened, many communities are increasingly considering sustainable alternatives like cattle. Vugayawa noted that requests for turtle harvesting permits may allow approval for only two turtles, underscoring the practicality and abundance of beef in comparison.
The community’s dedication to protecting sea turtles is clear. Vugayawa pointed out, “When comparing the meat yield from two turtles to that of a single cow, the sustainability factor is clear. It’s essential to protect our turtles and oceans for future generations.”
In addition to cattle farming, the Veilomani Women’s Club plans to branch out into beekeeping. With training already completed, club members are actively seeking support from various organizations to fund this new venture. This diversification not only promotes ecological sustainability but also aims to strengthen the overall economic resilience of the village.
The success of this initiative illustrates a wider commitment in the region to harmonize traditional practices with sustainable living. The efforts made by the Veilomani Women’s Club demonstrate how local communities can innovate to preserve cultural heritage while fostering environmental stewardship, paving the way for a positive future that combines tradition and sustainability.