FAO and USAID Partner to Revitalize Sri Lanka’s Agriculture
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and USAID are teaming up with Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Agriculture. Their $9.2 million initiative aims to boost paddy productivity and diversify crops on marginal land. This collaboration will promote sustainable agricultural development programs in the country.
This partnership arrives at a critical time for Sri Lankan farming. The nation faces challenges after poor harvests in 2022 led to a 50% drop in production. The effort seeks to revive agriculture and support vulnerable farmers across the island.
FAO, with USAID’s support, has already made significant progress in helping Sri Lankan farmers. They provided over 58,700 metric tonnes of essential fertilizers to all paddy farmers within nine months.
The 2023 Yala paddy season sowing covered about 500,000 hectares. This impressive achievement accounts for 92% of the targeted area.
$9.2 Million Initiative to Enhance Paddy Productivity and Diversify Crops
FAO, USAID, and Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Agriculture have launched a $9.2 million initiative. It aims to boost paddy productivity and promote crop diversification in Sri Lanka. This four-year project will help 10,000 farmers in Hambanthota, Vauniya, Anuradhapura, and Kurunegala districts.
The initiative supports farmers in diversifying 1,250 hectares of paddy lands during the Yala season. It promotes sustainable farming practices and growing suitable cash crops. The project also encourages efficient water and fertilizer use on 5,000 acres of paddy.
Streamlining Supply Chains for Smallholder Farmer Support
A key goal is establishing streamlined supply chains for smallholder farmers. This ensures timely access to affordable supplies and machinery. The project aims to boost productivity and profitability in Sri Lanka’s agriculture sector.
The partnership addresses challenges like low labor productivity and the need for diversification. It promotes sustainable farming practices to increase agricultural output. The initiative also aims to boost export earnings and energize the rural economy.
Building on Previous US Support and Donations to Sri Lankan Farmers
The FAO and USAID partnership aims to revitalize Sri Lanka’s agriculture sector. This builds on the US’s vital support for Sri Lankan farmers during the recent economic crisis. In 2022, the US provided crucial fertilizer donations to help paddy farmers.
The US donated 36,000 metric tons of Triple Super Phosphate to Sri Lanka. They also provided 9,800 metric tons of urea during the economic crisis. These fertilizers went to over 1 million vulnerable paddy farmers for free.
Crucial Support for Vulnerable Paddy Farmers
FAO and the Ministry of Agriculture teamed up to distribute the donated fertilizers. They focused on reaching the most vulnerable paddy farmers in Sri Lanka. This effort helped farmers keep their jobs and ensure food security.
The new $9.2 million partnership strengthens US support for Sri Lankan farmers. It focuses on sustainable farming, crop diversity, and efficient resource use. The project aims to boost smallholder farmers’ resilience and profits.
FAO and USAID Partner to Revitalize Sri Lanka’s Agriculture Sector
The FAO and USAID have teamed up with Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Agriculture. Their $9.2 million project aims to boost the country’s farming sector. This initiative will help 10,000 farmers in four districts: Hambanthota, Vauniya, Anuradhapura, and Kurunegala.
The four-year program will improve paddy productivity and crop variety. Farmers will grow cash crops on 1,250 hectares during the Yala season. The project will also promote efficient use of water and fertilizer on 5,000 acres of paddy.
FAO Representative Vimlendra Sharan highlighted the partnership’s importance. He said it combines resources and expertise to build resilience in agriculture. FAO and USAID will work closely with Sri Lanka’s government to ensure success.
This project builds on previous US support for Sri Lankan farmers. In 2022, the US donated fertilizer to over 1 million paddy farmers. The current initiative aims to strengthen agriculture and improve farmers’ lives.