Who we are
Lifeworks provides free training that empowers small-scale farmers to achieve resilience and sustainability through simple solutions using readily available materials.
After 10 years in the field, our methods have evolved, improving our impact. Now, our cascade training model costs $1 per farmer – and doubles their yield and income.
We work with established partners running projects in farming communities. We are looking to spread our work further and are actively seeking partners and funders. Please contact us to explore how we can work together.
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What we do
Based on the findings of research institutes worldwide into microbial technology, Lifeworks Global has devised a programme that can deliver lasting change.
Empower
We train groups of small-scale farmers in techniques that bring the soil back to health in a natural, low-cost way that is accessible to everyone.
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We offer on-going support for those we train, establishing communities of practice.
Scale Up
We fund those we’ve trained to train others, and provide on-going support and guidance.
Why we do it
Our work is more urgent than ever as the growing impact of soil degradation and climate change affect the lives of millions, with the poorest being hit the hardest.
Farmers using our techniques are reporting significant increases in crop yield – between 50% and 150%. Small-scale livestock and poultry farmers also benefit from better animal health and higher prices at market.
Transforming the soil
Microbial science is revolutionising farming. Research has shown that natural preparations made with readily available materials can transform soil health, boost crop yields and strengthen plants’ resistance to disease and pests.
Soils degraded by poor farming practice and overuse of fertilisers and pesticides can be restored by applying organic compost and supplements rich in lactobacillus and other beneficial microorganisms.
Lifeworks has developed training programmes and related support in the preparation of a range of products for improving agriculture.
Our Impact
Over the last 10 years, we have supported farmers in Rwanda, Zambia, Kenya, Benin and India with very positive results. In 2021 we are training in six more African countries. We have developed close relationships with government ministries, NGOs, and regional and international bodies, including the World Bank and Anglican dioceses. Our model of training trainers means that thousands of small-scale farmers have now been helped to improve their soil, increase their yields and sustain their communities.
Agent of change in Rwanda
In just nine months after her own training, Clementine Murakatete went on to train nearly 500 farmers in her community, through a network of women’s and farming groups. She has a small plot, farming maize and potatoes in Eastern Rwanda.
Giving prisoners a future in Zambia
Christopher Chiluba is Regional Commander Western Zambia’s prison service. He and seven colleagues attended our training in Kaoma, Zambia, in September 2020. He was so inspired that he committed to rolling out the Lifeworks method to inmates across the six correctional facilities he oversees, and to support them after their release.
Resilience to climate change in Kenya
Augustus Barasa’s neighbours in Western Kenya are asking what he has done to his fields. Compared to theirs, his are flourishing. Augustus is now passing on what he learned at a Lifeworks training about building resilience to torrential rains.
Building on success in Rwanda
Patrick Tuyishimire first bought a pig with the profits from his increased yield following a Lifeworks Training. Now he is building a house.