Getting farmers to adopt new agriculture practices, and thereby improve yields and impact food insecurity only works if farmers can see the impact for themselves. This is exactly what happened to get Mr. Eusebio to try the conversation techniques on his farm.
Mr. Eusebio, who plants soy, maize and beans began experimenting with conservation agriculture after attending a field training day hosted by of NCBA CLUSA’s Lead Farmers.
After seeing the difference for himself, he began using conservation agriculture on his own plots. Techniques like soil cover, adequate seed spacing and others help protect the plots from torrential rains, create healthier soil that can withstand drought and produce more yield. On average, yield increases have been 60% or higher.
Mr. Eusebio owns five hectares in which he produces soy, maize and beans and says he plans to expand conservation agriculture practices to his entire production area.
Demo plots and lead farmers, 71 percent of whom are women, have been instrumental in demonstrating the practical usefulness of new agriculture techniques. Beyond increased yields, farmers are also earning more off their land through applying for land titles, receiving business training and numeracy skills so they have more access to markets.
PROMAC is implemented by NCBA CLUSA with funding from the Government of Norway.
(September 1, 2015)
