Edited from a submission by Sr. Rita Lourenço Luis, Kyma Kyetu project manager, Angola (Province of Angola/Mozambique)

The lively celebrations of the Harvesting Festival held on April 16, 2026, still echo across the rural landscapes of Angola, where climate uncertainty, limited infrastructure, and economic hardship shape daily life.

In these communities, a quiet but deep transformation has taken root through the Good Shepherd’s Kyma Kyetu project. As we move from the joy of the recent harvest into World Earth Day on April 22, this community-based agricultural initiative stands as a living embodiment of our Congregation’s clear position on Integral Ecology. By growing sustainable food, we are actively restoring dignity, opportunity, and environmental resilience, honoring the deep interconnectedness between the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor.

Founded by our sisters and partners-in-mission in the Sector of Angola-Mozambique (SAM), Kyma Kyetu, overseen by Sr. Rita Lourenço Luís (pictured), demonstrates our deep commitment to both environmental protection and human rights. Focusing on one of the most powerful drivers of global change, the project supports female farmers and vulnerable youth, many of whom were formerly living on the streets.

Operating across Luanda, Kiminha, and the rural region of Camabatela, Kyma Kyetu brings together training, co-responsibility, and sustainable agricultural production. Today, around 144 women and young people are actively cultivating crops such as tomatoes, sweet potatoes, cabbage, eggplant, and peanuts.

However, this is much more than a farming project. It is a vital pathway to food security, economic justice, and social reintegration. For many participants, agriculture has become a source of identity, stability, and hope. The abundant harvests celebrated at the April 16 festival reflect this progress and demonstrate the immense power of our collective effort to transform lives.

From Harvest to Market

As we reflect on Earth Day’s call to eliminate waste and protect our natural resources, we must also address the critical challenges our farmers face. Without adequate storage, processing facilities, or efficient transport, a significant portion of food is lost before it ever reaches the market.

For our communities, this deeply impacts vital income, but it also represents a profound ecological burden—squandering the precious water, labor, and land generously provided by our planet. Long transport routes to urban centers further contribute to environmental strain. Because of this we are so deeply grateful to our sisters in Münster, Germany, who have raised money for us to purchase a truck from their baking and handicrafts (read more about the fundraising work of the sisters in Germany here).

A Vision for Sustainable Transformation

At Kyma Kyetu, we are committed to improving soil health through sustainable farming practices that respect the natural environment. We are actively reducing food loss through small-scale processing—such as drying and preservation—and recycling agricultural waste into rich, organic fertilizers.

Furthermore, we are seeking to strengthen local logistics to connect farmers more efficiently to markets. In Camabatela, where more than 100 hectares of land stand ready, we envision a model landscape for community-led agriculture that honors the earth and sustains future generations.

Empowerment Beyond the Fields

The transformative impact of Kyma Kyetu extends far beyond the soil, integrating education, vocational training, healthcare, and social inclusion. An example occurred during the rainy season, when participants received raincoats and boots. These basic items, often unaffordable for many, brought great relief. More importantly, they symbolized our deep recognition of the inherent value of these women and their vital environmental work.

Our Call to Action

This World Earth Day, our recent successful harvest at Kyma Kyetu stands as a testament that meaningful change emerges when we create systems that nurture both humanity and the environment. By empowering women and embracing sustainable agriculture, we realize that reducing waste is just as vital as increasing our harvest.

The journey is far from complete, and challenges in infrastructure and scaling remain. Yet, our foundation of care is strong. With continued support and investment, Kyma Kyetu will continue to grow as a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable rural development project—reminding us all of the profound impact we can achieve when we unite our hearts and hands for the earth.