Laudato Si Club of Holy Cross Lake View visit to Avail fruits of Faith Farm, Gayaza, Kampala

Immaculate Kisembo | Avail fruits of Faith Fram | Saturday, March 28, 2026

The Laudato Si Club of Holy Cross Lake View Senior Secondary School undertook an educational hands study tour, at Avail Fruits of Faith Farm located in Gayaza, Kampala. The visit, organized under the guidance of the programs manager and LSi-club’s patrons, aimed at equipping students with practical knowledge in sustainable agriculture, environmental stewardship, and innovative farming practices. The team was warmly received by Mr. Male Joseph, the team leader at the farm, whose passion for ecological farming set the tone for a highly engaging experience.

*Laudato Youth recieve practical training and education to on innovative urban farming from Mr. male Joseph at Avail Fruits of Faith Farm. Photo Credit Sarah Kirikuwino*

The visit commenced with a comprehensive briefing on the background and mission of Avail Fruits of Faith Farm. The farm operates as a multifaceted enterprise focusing on agricultural consultancy, supply of farm inputs, corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs, and agro-tourism. Its core mission is to promote sustainable farming practices while empowering communities with skills and knowledge to improve livelihoods and conserve the environment.

Laudato Youth recieve briefing from Mr. Male Joseph on the background and mission of Avail Fruits of Faith Farm the were inspired to learn that this farm is run by passion and the desire to transform communities including skilling young people. Photo Credit Sarah krikumwino

Following the introduction, students transitioned to hands-on learning sessions. One of the key highlights was the demonstration of spiral gardening. This innovative gardening technique involves creating a raised, spiral-shaped garden bed that maximizes space efficiency and water retention. Designed to be established even on small plots of land, spiral gardens allow for the cultivation of diverse crops in a compact area, making them ideal for both urban and rural settings. The students appreciated how this method supports sustainable food production while conserving resources.

*Water retention on the farm, spiral-shaped garden bed that maximizes space efficiency and water retention. Photo Credit Sarah krikumwino*

The learners were also introduced to the versatility of bamboo trees. They discovered that bamboo is not only fast-growing and environmentally friendly but also highly valuable in various industries. It can be used for construction, furniture making, textile production, and even in the crafting of tools and household items. The session emphasized bamboo’s role in climate change mitigation due to its high carbon absorption capacity.

*Laudato Youth were also introduced to the versatility of bamboo trees and their importance. Photo Credit Sarah Kirikumwino*

Another engaging segment of the visit focused on aquaculture, particularly fish farming in ponds. Students learned about pond management, fish feeding practices, and the importance of maintaining water quality. This session illustrated how fish farming can serve as a reliable source of food and income when managed effectively.

*Mr. Male giving Laudato Youth and their patrons a briefing on pond management, fish feeding practices, and the importance of maintaining water quality. Photo Credit Sarah Kirikumwino*

A particularly fascinating component of the visit was the introduction to hydroponics. Students were taught that hydroponics is a modern method of growing plants without soil, where crops are cultivated in nutrient-rich water solutions. At the farm, this system is integrated with aquaculture in a symbiotic approach commonly known as aquaponics. The nutrient-rich water from fish ponds is used to nourish plants, creating an efficient and sustainable cycle that minimizes waste and maximizes productivity.

*Students go a hands on chance to learn about Integrated with aquaculture in a symbiotic approach commonly known as aquaponics. Photo Credit Sarah Kirikumwino*

In addition, the students toured the greenhouse facilities. Inside the greenhouse, crops are grown under controlled environmental conditions, including regulated temperature, humidity, and light. This allows for year-round production and protection from pests and adverse weather conditions. The learners gained insight into how greenhouse technology can significantly enhance crop yields and quality.

*Green houses farming greenhouse facilities. Photo Credit Sarah Kirikumwino*

Beyond the technical knowledge, the visit instilled in students a deeper appreciation for environmental conservation and sustainable living, which are central to the Laudato Si philosophy. The integration of ecological practices observed at the farm demonstrated how agriculture can be both productive and environmentally responsible.

*Laudato Si Club of Holy Cross Lake View poses a photo with the Executive Director Fruits of Faith Farm to conclude their study tour. Photo Credit Sarah Kirikuwino*

In conclusion, the Laudato Si Club members expressed gratitude for the opportunity to visit Avail Fruits of Faith Farm. The experience was not only educational but also transformative, inspiring students to embrace sustainable practices and consider innovative approaches to agriculture. The knowledge and skills acquired during the visit will undoubtedly contribute to their personal development and their role as stewards of the environment both at schoool and when they return to their homes in holidays.