A farming initiative in Westlock County, Alberta, called Kurudi Mashambani aims to empower newcomers and help feed the community.

Kurudi Mashambani is a Swahili phrase meaning “back to the land.” The community-led, one-year pilot project gives newcomer farmers a chance to grow different crops on two hectares of land, and the produce will be shared with the local community. At the same time, the farmers gain an opportunity to rebuild their livelihoods, connect with their new community, and become part of the local food system.

Kurudi Mashambani grew from a need in the newcomer community for opportunities to return to farming and use their skills in Canada. The project aims to move beyond short-term food bank support by helping newcomer farmers use their knowledge to grow food, strengthen food security, and contribute to revitalizing rural Westlock.

The project was created through a partnership between community organizations and local groups, with Westlock Terminals providing about two hectares of farmland through a one-year, reduced-rent agreement. Organizers say finding affordable small plots of farmland can be difficult because most land is used by large farming operations, making this opportunity especially valuable for newcomer farmers who want to grow food and contribute to the local community.

The Kurudi Mashambani project is growing quickly as newcomer farmers bring valuable farming knowledge from their home countries. The farmers are currently working with basic tools and hope to raise money or receive equipment donations from local farmers. Organizers hope the project will grow across Canada and show how newcomers can use their skills to build stronger, more sustainable communities.

Source: Mrinali Anchan, CBC