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Mahamud Sheikh, 69, demonstrates the benefits of collective and diversified farming in Dolo Ado, Ethiopia

At 69, Mahamud Sheikh is a farmer in Boriyali Kebele, Dolo Ado Woreda. He has spent most of his life growing maize, sorghum, beans, and bananas. Farming is what he knows best. In the past, each farmer worked alone and sold their crops separately.

With support from the Danish Refugee Council (DRC), through funding from SIDA and the Norwegian Embassy in Addis Ababa, Mahamud has learned that working together and trying new farming methods can help everyone earn more and do better.

Because of his experience and positive attitude, DRC selected Mahamud as one of seven lead farmers in his area. He now grows different types of crops, including onions, sweet potatoes, mung beans, groundnuts, tomatoes, lettuce, chillies, and capsicum. These crops bring in more money and help protect his family from losses when there is drought or pests.

Learning and sharing

Mahamud remembers when agricultural officers rarely visited, and pesticides ruined their maize. Things are different now. He experiments with new ideas such as proper crop spacing, weed control, and using organic fertiliser. He makes compost and uses it on his farm. His neighbours often visit to see how he works and learn from him.

He also plants Sudan grass around his farm to stop the soil from washing away. In one section, he grows moringa seedlings, which people use for food and medicine. Trees planted around his farm act as windbreaks and protect his crops. For Mahamud, these small steps help make his farm stronger and more productive.

This land raised me. If I do not teach others how to take care of it, then what have I achieved?

Mahamud Sheikh

Selling and planning ahead

Now, traders come directly to Mahamud’s farm to buy his onions. They transport them to other towns, including Addis Ababa. He no longer sells in small amounts on his own. Instead, he works with other farmers to sell as a group, which helps them get better prices.

Still, Mahamud worries about floods that can destroy crops. He wants to see storage facilities and collection centres built to keep harvests safe.

When asked why he keeps farming at his age, Mahamud smiles and points to the ground.

To many young farmers, Mahamud is a teacher and an example. His story shows that learning new skills can change farming for the better, no matter how old you are.