Empowering Rural Farmers to Effectively Use Agroecological Practices for Sustainable and Resilient Food Systems
COAST Foundation
Bangladesh
In a coastal village in Bangladesh, a group of 25 farmers came together under the banner of the Coastal Farmers Association. Led by Md. Akter Hossen, they dreamed of building a productive, sustainable, and resilient food system. The Coastal Farmers Association is one of the farmer groups supported by the APFP-FO4A program.
The group began cultivating safe vegetables using the Sarazan method. When preparing their land, they enriched the soil with vermicompost, made from cow manure collected from their own homes. They also cultured fish under elevated nets. In their cucumber fields, they used sex pheromone traps and yellow sticky sheets to manage pests naturally, avoiding harmful chemicals.
Their vegetables grew strong and healthy, providing proper nutrition for their families. Income increased, and hope spread across the community. What began as a small group of 25 farmers became an example of how agroecological practices could empower rural communities, ensuring food security and resilience for generations to come.
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The Capturing Agroecology in Action Video Contest 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 challenges such as food insecurity, environmental degradation, and rural poverty. Click here for more information.