This case study explores how communities in semi-arid Kenya can develop sustainably. The film looks at the impacts of appropriate soil and water conservation techniques in terms of improved availability of water and food, improvement in health, incomes and the positive contribution towards addressing the impacts of climate change. It also picks out the elements that make the development sustainable; the positive impact on the natural environment, our bottom-up approach and the use of appropriate technology.
The story is told with images and interviews with community members talking about their lives; pictorial models and questions at the end of the three sections to keep students alert and suit all kinds of learners. Suitable for KS3 & GCSE sustainable development modules.
Part1 Introduces the concept of sustainable development and what it means for farmers in semi-arid Africa then examines the obstacles to development in this area. These are water availability in the dry season and soil erosion, both of which limit the amount of food these communities can grow. (7’ 22”)
Part2 Looks at how Excellent Development support farmers to tackle their main problem, i.e. soil erosion and lack of water, using soil and water conservation techniques and then to develop further in order to improve food production, incomes and health. (14’ 08”)
Part3 Considers what can help and hinder development in the human environment. The charity’s founders and community members explain what they believe to be sustainable development. Subjects raised include bottom up development, a community-led, self-help approach and the use of appropriate technology. (10’ 06”)
Film Guide
Overview of film with key vocabulary, answers to questions raised in the film, suggested activities, and full film script.
Powerpoint document containing diagrammatic models from the film. Can be printed as up to 9 to a page or individually as the basis for an exercise. The accompanying film script can be seen by going to view/notes pages.
