A professional extension service has been a game-changer for many small farming enterprises in Guria, including a lettuce greenhouse owned by Mako Benidze. A startup farmer, Mako left the bustling streets of Tbilisi nine years ago to embrace the tranquillity of western Georgia's green hills.
Mako Benidze
With GEL27,000 (approximately, US$10,000) in funding from the RDA and expert advice from an extension specialist, Mako launched an agricultural business poised for success. That year, her greenhouse yielded an impressive 400 kilograms of lettuce. Eager to diversify, Mako is also cultivating basil and bell peppers, carefully selecting the most productive crops.
"Starting a greenhouse was no easy task, but the expert guidance from local extensionists made it achievable. They offered a perfect blend of theoretical knowledge and practical advice—a winning formula for success."
While Mako continues experimenting to find the farming project that suits her best, her lettuce greenhouse has become a solid foundation for a sustainable business and a steady income for her family.
Source: UNDP