Farming by radio in Africa

As the global food crisis continues, Christian radio is making a concerted effort to help those in the hardest hit regions of the world.

Africa is rich in natural resources, yet is one of the world's most poverty-stricken regions.

Poor agricultural standards often result in severe crop failures, and each year tons of grain is imported to meet the shortfall.

Peasant farmers comprise more than 85 percent of the continent's population, and most have lived malnourished, degraded lives.

Trans World Radio is endeavouring to help change that through their Farming God's Way radio program.

Farming God's Way is a 15-minute broadcast which teaches three main principles - biblical training, technology and management.

As basic farming skills are taught, farms can quickly flourish and provide food for families and a source of income.

Airing twice daily, the 31-part Farming God's Way emphasizes that the church is an accountable and faithful vehicle to demonstrate this method of farming. So far, it has changed lives in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, Tanzania, Kenya and Lesotho.

"My English is poor, but I am always tuned in to the radio in the morning, listening to Farming God's Way," wrote one listener in Mozambique. "You are doing a good work. It gives listeners hope and faith in God to face day-to-day challenges positively."

TWR-Africa hopes to translate Farming God's Way into more African languages to help more people not only understand basic farming principles, but introduce them to Jesus.