Mary Jallah, a resident of Bopolu District in Gbarpolu County, has embarked on a journey to self-sufficiency through a humble yet impactful project—her potato garden. Under the guidance of her younger brother, a student at Bombomma Public School, Mary has learned to cultivate potatoes using innovative farming techniques taught by the 4-H program at the school.

Mary’s brother, inspired by the knowledge he gained through the school’s agricultural program, returned home and shared what he had learned with his sister. He taught her how to plant potatoes on mounds, a method that not only optimizes space but also improves yield. Mary, eager to support her family, quickly adopted these techniques and set to work creating her own garden.

The results have been transformative. Stretching across a significant portion of her land, Mary’s potato garden is a testament to her hard work and determination. As she prepares for the upcoming harvest, Mary is filled with hope. The income from selling the potatoes will help her cover essential expenses, including her children’s school fees, which have been a significant concern for her.

Despite facing challenges like a lack of tools—especially a hoe, which would make her work easier—Mary remains optimistic. She plans to expand her garden even further, believing that with the right resources, she can increase her income and provide even better opportunities for her children.