ABOKE, KOLE DISTRICT – Bonny Okello, a teacher at Onoro Primary School in Aboke Sub-County, is demonstrating that one does not need vast tracts of land to achieve agricultural success and financial stability.
With a piece of land less than half an acre, Okello has meticulously cultivated a diverse and thriving mini-plantation that is already supplementing his income and serving as a live classroom for his community.
The innovative project began when Okello was given the small plot. Instead of seeing its size as a limitation, he saw potential. He strategically planted 18 stems of bananas, 18 jackfruit trees, pawpaw, eggplants, and a variety of other crops, creating a multi-layered and sustainable agricultural system.
"From this small piece of land, I have already started earning some money," Okello confirmed, showcasing his flourishing garden. His success, however, is not just measured in shillings. He views his farm as an extension of his teaching vocation.
"I will not regret when I am transferred to another school because as a teacher, it is my duty to open the eyes of others by showing good examples," Okello stated. His primary goal is to inspire fellow teachers and community members to maximize the potential of their own land, however small, to fight poverty and improve household incomes.
Looking to the future, the educator is remarkably optimistic and strategic. He has projected that within the next three years, his diverse plantation will be a significant source of wealth.
"I am optimistic that in the next three years to come, I will be earning more than five million shillings from the plantation," Okello said confidently. "This will greatly improve my welfare and that of my family."
Bonny Okello's story is more than just a tale of agricultural enterprise; it is a powerful lesson in resourcefulness, vision, and the role of educators as community change agents. His small plot in Aboke stands as a testament to the big impact that can grow from a small beginning.
