At Liziba,
Agroecology Puts the Soil Back at the Center : A Journey into the World of Compost That’s Changing the Lives of Market Gardeners
In the heart of Kinshasa, in the Ndjili Brasserie neighborhood, an oasis of greenery is writing a new chapter in the history of urban agriculture. At the Liziba Agroecology Center, organic waste turns into compost, green manure replaces pesticides, and market gardeners breathe new life into long-depleted soils. With Justin Kakule, an instructor at the center, and Pascal Lukebadjo, a market gardener for fifteen years, this podcast takes us on a journey through a real-life transition :
The story of Congolese agriculture, which, through simple, time-honored practices, is rediscovering the path to sustainability and dignity. The rest of this journey will take us to Gemena, in South Ubangi, to discover the artisanal techniques that are transforming the daily lives of producers.
Gemena :
Where agroecology takes root.
After visiting Kinshasa and the Liziba Center, where we saw how compost can revitalize depleted soil, our journey now takes us to Gemena in South Ubangi.
Here, the members of the South Ubangi Agricultural Extension Workers Cooperative (CAMSUB) combine food crops with perennial crops, while reforesting their land to increase production without damaging the environment. A patient, intelligent approach to agriculture, deeply rooted in soil conservation..
To kick off this second part of the podcast, we’ll first hear from Noël Bamupalabe, president of the CAMSUB. He explains how the cooperative educates its members about the use of compost and green manure, and how these simple actions are transforming the lives of farmers.
Next, we'll hear from Sister Pierrette Okasuma, an agricultural veterinarian and seed producer. She explains the difference between compost, green manure, and chemical fertilizer, and shows why natural practices help preserve soil fertility over the long term.
Let’s head to Gemena, at the heart of an agroecological movement that nourishes, protects, and restores a future for both the land and those who cultivate it.
