Transforming Dryland Farming in Manikaji

The regenerative dryland agriculture learning program for farmers in our 3 Manikaji Customary Villages continues to deliver remarkable results. Thanks to the generous support from FINNS Bali Social Fund, local farmers are not only gaining valuable new knowledge but are also successfully applying these techniques on their own steep volcanic ash farmland. After nine months of practical training in their respective learning gardens, 30 of the 99 members of the farmers’ groups have begun implementing regenerative farming practices in their individual farms.

The results have been truly encouraging. Farmers have successfully harvested tomatoes, eggplants, chilies, and a variety of vegetables and fruits using organic compost without chemical fertilizers. Some families have even produced surplus crops, allowing them to sell fresh produce locally and generate additional household income. These achievements demonstrate that dryland regenerative agriculture not only increases crop productivity but also strengthens food security, improves family nutrition, and enhances rural livelihoods.

As the dry season takes hold and water becomes scarce, limited learning activities continued with a new focus. Farmers started constructing chicken coops in preparation for training in raising sturdy chicken breeds, providing an additional source of nutritious food and sustainable income for their families.

One participant, Pak Sudana, from Manikaji Puncak, shared, "We are deeply grateful to the donors and EBPP. The knowledge we have gained has completely changed the way we farm. Even during the dry season, I harvested tomatoes, eggplants, chilies, and fruits using organic compost. The produce is healthier, fresher, and plentiful enough that I was able to sell the surplus."

We extend our sincere appreciation to Finns Bali Social Fund for making this transformation possible. Their investment is empowering farmers with practical skills, renewed confidence, and a more sustainable future for remote communities in mountainous East Bali.

👏Follow our updates as they will begin raising sturdy chicken breeds!

#EBPP #RegenerativeFarming #EastBali #RuralCommunities #NGO

By Komang Kurniawan, EBPP Chairman & Team Leader