It’s now always easy to show the impact of our work, but in this case, the results speak for themselves. The tailor-made training (TMT) in dairy farming given in Lebanon had a profound impact. Karim Mazloum’s story shows us that broadening the expertise of a consultant can bring lasting change to a community.
Karim Mazloum, a recent graduate and HollandDoor trainee, stepped into his role following the tailor-made training (TMT), eager to make a difference. He quickly immersed himself in the challenges faced by dairy farmers such as Ahmad Mahmoud Al Atrash, a 41-year-old from Shaat-Baalbek. Ahmad’s farm, like many in the region, suffered from outdated practices, limited resources and inadequate infrastructure. Low productivity left him struggling to support his family and uncertain how to improve.
Through HollandDoor’s TMT, funded by Nuffic, Karim acquired knowledge in farm management that he began applying in the field. Recognizing the untapped potential in Ahmad's farm, Karim worked alongside local experts, such as Salim Maalouf, to provide tailored guidance. They identified key areas for improvement: Ahmad's cows were housed in inadequate conditions, and his farm layout was inefficient, resulting in low milk production. Karim recommended the following solutions: better housing for the cows, a reorganization of the feeding process and the introduction of modern dairy techniques.
The most fundamental change was Karim's suggestion to sell Ahmad’s existing herd and invest in nine Holstein Friesian cows, a breed known for higher milk yields. Initially hesitant, Ahmad placed his trust in Karim's expertise. The results were remarkable. Within just two months, milk production soared, transforming Ahmad’s farm into a more efficient operation.
Ahmad’s success did not go unnoticed. Karim’s guidance not only transformed Ahmad’s farm – it set a new standard in the region. Other farmers began to seek Ahmad’s advice, and his success sparked a sense of hope in the community. For Karim, this experience was more than just an assignment; it was the beginning of his journey as a leader in agricultural development.
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