The cultivation of mushrooms has become a promising source of income for women in the Nadawa area, according to Nanise Litea, the leader of the Nadawa Methodist Women’s Fellowship. This group had been revitalized after the departure of several elder members and now consists of 64 women. However, only a few have engaged in mushroom cultivation.
Nanise has been involved in the Nadawa community for over 30 years and has led the fellowship for two years. The mushroom project was initiated through a hands-on demonstration that took place in their church three months ago, which attracted the attention of Minister for Women Lynda Tabuya.
Next week, the minister plans to visit the group to provide support for their initiatives while also looking to revive ties with China through a Juncao Technology Demonstration focused on mushroom cultivation.
During her visit, Lynda provided two machines to enhance their mushroom production, remarking that the women showed significant progress. The process takes about seven days to grow mature mushrooms, which have proven to be a valuable crop, both fresh and quickly marketable.
They can sell mushrooms at $5 for every 500 grams, indicating a good market demand currently being met by other producers. The group’s endeavor has garnered appreciation from community leaders and the minister as they continue to promote mushroom sales.
Nanise encourages women in their region to join the fellowship to develop their skills in handicrafts and mushroom cultivation for quicker financial returns.