Asia-Pacific Farmers’ Forum – Support to Farmers’ Organizations for Asia
The Asia-Pacific Farmers’ Program (APFP) – Support to Farmers Organisations for Asia (FO4A) programme is a capacity-building and market-oriented programme that aims to increase income and improve the livelihood, food, and nutrition security of smallholder farmers and family farmers in 29 countries in Asia through their farmers’ organisations (FOs). The programme is formed by a USD 3 million grant (APFP) from the International Fund for Agriculture Development (IFAD), a USD 2 million grant (ARISE) from the Rural Poor Stimulus Facility of IFAD, and a USD 8 million co-financing (FO4A) from the European Union.
Growing together; Sustaining communities; Empowering farmers’ collective development
APFP-FO4A heavily builds on the experiences and lessons of the Medium Term Cooperation Program (MTCP) and the ASEAN Farmers’ Organisations Support Programme (AFOSP) along the rich experiences gained by federated FOs at local, national and regional levels across the Asia region over the last decade.
This programme is the natural outcome of multiple participatory consultations amongst stakeholders and FO representatives at regional, sub-regional and national levels and is implemented by the Asian Farmers’ Association for Sustainable Rural Development in consortium with La Via Campesina together with various national farmers organizations.
WHAT WE DO
We engage in various activities together with our partner farmers’ organizations to achieve our goals
CLIMATE RESILIENT AGRICULTURE
We nurturing innovative strategies to ensure food security and sustainable farming practices in the face of a changing climate
AGROECOLOGY
We promote a shift away from conventional, input-intensive farming practices towards more holistic, agroecological approaches that prioritize the well-being of people and the planet
POLICY ADVOCACY
We work to shape effective policies that nourish sustainable growth, innovation, and resilience within the agricultural sector
COOPERATIVES & ENTERPRISES
We help capacitate individuals and communities to work together to achieve shared economic, social, and environmental goals
WOMEN & YOUTH
We cultivate opportunities, skills, and voices to foster gender inclusivity and drive sustainable farming communities and we build inclusive pathways for the next generation, fostering leadership and sustainable farming for a brighter tomorrow
KNOWLEDGE SHARING
We bridge experience and innovation to foster a thriving community of informed farmers and sustainable practices
Latest news
Our latest updates
VIDEO CONTEST
Capturing Agroecology
in Action
This activity seeks to spotlight the transformative power of agroecology, focusing specifically on its benefits for farmers’ organizations and agricultural cooperatives. Farmers’ organizations and agricultural cooperatives play a crucial role in promoting sustainable agriculture practices, empowering smallholder farmers, and strengthening rural communities. By showcasing real-life examples and success stories, we aim to inspire and educate audiences about the potential of agroecology to address pressing challengers such as food insecurity, environmental degradation, and rural poverty.
UPCOMING ACTIVITY
Asia-Pacific Young Farmers
Camp & Agrilympics
As part of our work to attract and strengthen youth engagement in agricultural development, the consortium of AFA, ICA-AP, and PFO will conduct a five-day Young Farmers’ Camp and Agrilympics (YFCA) activity on August 12-16, 2024 in Los Baños, Laguna, Philippines
OUR REACH
We work with millions of small scale family farmers and their Farmers’ Organizations in the Asia-Pacific region, helping them grow their livelihood
Central Asia
Agriculture in Central Asia is characterized by a diverse range of crops and livestock production across the countries in the region. The region’s agriculture has historically been influenced by its climatic conditions, including arid and semi-arid landscapes, as well as its nomadic traditions and Soviet-era agricultural practices. Efforts to address challenges and adopt sustainable practices are essential for the sector’s future viability in the face of changing conditions.
East Asia
East Asia has a long history of traditional farming practices, and its agricultural sector has undergone significant changes over the past few decades, driven by rapid industrialization, urbanization, and globalization. Despite the advances made in East Asian agriculture, the sector still faces numerous challenges, including environmental degradation, water scarcity, and labor shortages. However, these countries are taking steps to address these issues through sustainable agricultural practices, the use of advanced technologies, and investments in research and development.
South Asia
Agriculture in South Asia is the cornerstone of livelihoods for millions, deeply interwoven with the region’s cultural fabric. The fertile lands of countries like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Nepal sustain a rich tapestry of crops, from rice and wheat to pulses, vegetables, and fruits. Smallholder farming is predominant, reflecting a blend of traditional wisdom and modern techniques.
The sector grapples with diverse challenges, including population pressure, land fragmentation, and climate variability. Innovations in irrigation, crop varieties, and sustainable practices help address these issues, fostering food security and economic growth. South Asia’s agriculture embodies a delicate balance between age-old practices and contemporary advancements, representing a critical force in shaping the region’s future.
Southeast Asia
Southeast Asia’s agriculture is a vibrant tapestry of diverse cultivation practices spanning a mosaic of landscapes. This region boasts a rich agricultural heritage, characterized by the cultivation of staple crops such as rice, along with a wide array of tropical fruits, vegetables, and cash crops. The dynamic interplay of traditional and modern farming methods, combined with unique agro-ecological conditions, shapes the agricultural tapestry of Southeast Asia. This intricate blend contributes to the region’s food security, economic growth, and cultural identity, while also facing contemporary challenges such as sustainability, climate resilience, and equitable resource distribution.
The Pacific Islands
Agriculture in the Pacific Islands is a blend of tradition and innovation, reflecting the unique landscapes and cultures of these remote and diverse islands. The sector revolves around staple crops like taro, yams, and coconuts, deeply ingrained in local diets and customs.
Challenges such as limited land, vulnerability to climate change, and market access barriers are met with efforts to promote resilient farming practices, introduce new varieties, and improve infrastructure. With a focus on preserving traditional knowledge and embracing emerging solutions, Pacific Islands’ agriculture aims to forge a path toward sustainable development, ensuring a resilient food supply and fostering vibrant island communities
RETRO REELS
Young Farmers
Dance Challenge
At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, we conducted this activity to attract young people to join Farmers’ Organizations, build friendship and cooperation among young farmers, and raise awareness about young farmers’ contribution in preventing the spread of COVID-19 as well as their contribution in the recovery from the pandemic.