The benefits of agroforestry are not only addressing essential needs but are also contributing to environmental conservation and economic growth.
“Agroforestry is not just about planting trees; it’s a holistic approach that uplifts communities by addressing their immediate needs while ensuring long-term sustainability,” emphasizes the local Farmer Training Facilitator.
In our reforestation projects, we focus on the land-use system of agroforestry. It means that we combine forestry with sustainable agricultural practices, the planting of trees intercropped with fruits and vegetables, on the same plot to create ecological and economic benefits. So how does this work?
In our Farmer Field Schools, we teach smallholder farmers the fundamentals of agroforestry. Since workshops are taught in actual fields, the participants gain hands-on experience.
Each year, we diligently raise hundreds of thousands of seedlings in our own community-based nurseries. The seedlings are distributed to farmers based on the size of their plots and their needs.
Some of the trees are planted as a timber source. They will be harvested just like the other food crops and replanted, creating incomes and a sustainable resource.
“Agroforestry acts as a natural shield against soil erosion, safeguarding the fertile topsoil crucial for agricultural activities. This, in turn, creates a positive environmental impact by attracting rain and fostering optimal crop growth
We aim to empower communities economically while ensuring that they play a role in environmental conservation,” our local Farmer Training Facilitator further stresses.
Forest initiatives have also paved the way for job creation, offering employment opportunities to residents. “Our focus is not just on agriculture; we’re creating opportunities for communities, for example, there is also jobs as a monitor of tree growth,” explained the local Farmer Training Facilitator.
While agroforestry has proven to be a beacon of positive change, it is very important to ensure and constantly improve the farmer’s training according to the individual and specific needs of the participants.