Foste Baretzi, a 38-year-old father of six, fled Congo in 2018, leaving behind his life as a farmer. Upon arrival in Uganda, he struggled to provide even basic meals for his family. Life was tough until ADRA’s RISE project offered him a lifeline.
Foste standing at his house under construction
Selected as a Trainer of Trainers (TOT), Foste received vegetable seeds including onions, cabbage, tomatoes, spinach, and green peppers. More importantly, he gained comprehensive training in Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA), post-harvest handling, and other essential agricultural skills alongside fellow TOTs.
Building a New Foundation
The knowledge and support from the ADRA RISE project transformed his circumstances. Foste now owns six goats and has hired two acres of land from the host community, where he grows green pepper, onions, tomatoes, cabbage, beans, and maize. His children attend school regularly, the family has adequate clothing, and food security is no longer a concern.
In 2025, the RISE project expanded its support to include financial literacy training. This equipped Foste with skills in income management and savings, helping him understand that refugees can earn a sustainable income through farming. Armed with this knowledge, he has begun constructing his own house and maintains an innovative, productive garden.
Foste showing his green pepper garden after applying climate-smart agriculture techniques
Paying It Forward
Foste’s vision extends beyond personal success. “I now approach everything with clear objectives, budget, and plans,” he explains. Together with other TOTs, he is committed to uplifting the entire community by sharing the skills and knowledge they’ve gained.
He has already trained the Afia group, which consists of 10 members who now practice collective farming and savings in Sweswe Kitonzi. Even under the harsh sun, they diligently water and tend their crops.
His demo has attracted a number of community members, development partners, and government officials since he is providing skills and training to the community.
Looking Ahead
Foste deeply appreciates the RISE project’s intervention and hopes the organization will continue supporting vulnerable families. His story demonstrates that with proper training and resources, refugees can rebuild their lives and become valuable contributors to their communities.