Photo: Enactus CUT team joined forces with Interstate Bus Line to train the fifth cohort of aspiring worm farmers from Thaba-Nchu.

Enactus CUT is taking its sustainable initiatives to the next level through partnerships. Enactus CUT has joined forces with Interstate Bus Lines to train the fifth cohort of aspiring worm farmers from Thaba-Nchu, underscoring the importance of the worm farming business.

Worm farming, also known as Vermitechnology, has emerged as a powerful and sustainable solution to multiple challenges. It not only reduces organic waste but also creates nutrient-rich compost that enhances soil fertility and boosts agricultural yields. Moreover, worm farming can be implemented on a small scale, making it accessible to individuals and communities with limited resources.

Enactus CUT has been at the forefront of promoting worm farming in the Free State. Over the past months, the team has initiated several interventions to educate and train communities, particularly farmers, in the art of worm farming. These efforts have reduced waste in the community and empowered individuals to generate income through the sale of worms and worm castings.

Interstate Bus Lines, a prominent transportation company in Bloemfontein, has committed to this initiative by sponsoring ten farmers from Thaba-Nchu to attend worm farming training at the cost of R 2000.00 per farmer.

Mr Vuyo Ondala, Stakeholder Relations Manager from Interstate Bus Lines, said, “our collaboration with Enactus CUT to train worm farmers is a testament to their dedication to sustainable practices. As Interstate, this kind of initiative gives us comfort to also plough back into our communities. We are also pleased because this training provided comprehensive information on worm farming techniques, composting, and business management. The participants also learned how to set up and manage their own worm farms, from sourcing worms to harvesting nutrient-rich compost. The training also includes modules on marketing and selling worm-related products, a component that every business needs,” he said.

Worm farming offers numerous benefits, making it a business with significant potential, such as waste reduction, soil enrichment, income generation, sustainable agricultural practices, and educational and empowerment opportunities.

Ms Maraka Lefera, Enactus CUT Co-Faculty Advisor, said their partnership with Interstate Bus Lines exemplifies how public and private sectors can come together to drive positive change and emphasise the important role that sustainable businesses can play in building a better world for all. “It is important for communities and companies to embrace worm farming business because waste can be reduced, agricultural practices can improve, and economic opportunities can be created,” she said.