The Catholic Women’s Association of St. Mary’s Parish, Aitape, has launched an innovative community garden project aimed at improving food security and nutrition for families in the parish.

Project Overview

The “Garden of Hope” project involves:

• A large communal vegetable garden on parish land
• Training in sustainable farming techniques
• Seed distribution to participating families
• A small market to sell surplus produce

Women Leading Change

Over 40 women have enrolled in the program, which is supported by the diocesan Caritas office.

“This is not just about growing food,” said project coordinator Mrs. Agnes Wanum. “It’s about empowering women, building community, and teaching our children the value of working together.”

Sustainable Farming

An agricultural extension officer from the provincial government provided training on:

• Composting and natural fertilizers
• Water conservation techniques
• Crop rotation for soil health
• Pest control without chemicals

Future Plans

The association plans to expand the project to other parishes in the diocese and to include a small poultry farming component.

Bishop Siby Mathew visited the garden and blessed the project, encouraging more parishes to undertake similar initiatives.