CGIAR System Organization - Consortium of International Agricultural Research Centers
CGIAR System Organization - Consortium of International Agricultural Research Centers
10/02/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 10/02/2024 18:41
SAPLING and Agricultural Service Centre partner to train farmers on sustainable livestock production in Mai Son, Vietnam
The CGIAR Initiative on Sustainable Animal Productivity (SAPLING) and the Agricultural Service Centre (ASC) of Mai Son District, Vietnam, have established a strategic co-investment initiative focusing on sustainable livestock development. Aiming to improve farming practices while addressing environmental challenges in the region, the initiative was held between 11 and 22 June 2024. As part of this effort, ASC issued a report to the Mai Son People's Committee on 30 June 2024, outlining the importance of training programs designed to equip local farmers with essential skills and knowledge in livestock intensification.
Luu Thi Huong from ASC guides farmers on silage preparation (photo credit: ILRI/Thanh Lo).
Strategic co-investment for sustainable livestock farming
SAPLING, an initiative dedicated to promoting sustainable livestock practices in the northwest highlands of Vietnam, and ASC have pooled technical expertise and resources to develop a comprehensive training program designed to equip farmers with the skills needed to adopt more sustainable and productive livestock farming practices. The training programs focus on key areas such as feed and forage techniques, composting and manure management, and animal health. The goal is to enhance productivity while minimizing the environmental impact of livestock farming.
ASC aims to create a sustainable model that can be replicated across other communes in the region. Already, the training programs have seen robust participation, with a substantial number of farmers adopting the techniques introduced during the sessions. The results are promising, reflecting a positive shift towards more sustainable farming practices in the district.
ASC's report to Mai Son People's Committee
To formalize the outcomes of the training and ensure continued support, the ASC has submitted an official report to the Mai Son People's Committee. This report outlines the progress made through the training programs and highlights the significant adoption of sustainable farming techniques by local farmers:
- Training effectiveness:With co-investment from SAPLING and ASC, 34 training sessions have been conducted in Mai Son District. Nearly 1,200 farmers, about 35% of them female, have participated in the successful transfer of knowledge and the practical application of new techniques.
- Strategic recommendations:The ASC has recommended scaling the training programs to reach more farmers. This calls for additional resources in terms of training materials, follow-up support, and further adoption of sustainable practices.
Report from Mai Son District Agricultural Service Centre to Mai Son People's Committee
'These trainings also address the environmental benefits of livestock production, particularly in terms of manure management and the planting of forages to reduce soil erosion. These practices not only enhance the productivity of livestock farming but also contribute to the broader environmental goals of the district,' says Hang Dao, Vietnam's focal point for SAPLING's work packages 1 and 5 on feeds and forage interventions, environmental evidence, and scaling.
The ASC's report is a critical document for securing the necessary support to sustain these initiatives. It highlights the importance of continued collaboration between the ASC, SAPLING, and local government stakeholders to ensure the long-term success of these programs.
Building a sustainable future
The partnership between the ASC and SAPLING has laid a strong foundation for sustainable livestock production in Mai Son District. By providing farmers with the knowledge and tools they need to adopt more environmentally friendly and productive practices, this collaboration is helping to transform the district's agricultural landscape.
With continued support from SAPLING, the ASC aims to expand these programs, ensuring that even more farmers can benefit from the training provided. The success of these efforts will not only improve the livelihoods of local farmers but also contribute to the overall sustainability of the region's agricultural sector.
This co-investment strategy, centered on training and practical application, serves as a model for other districts in Son La looking to enhance their agricultural practices while protecting the environment. ASC and SAPLING, with the backing of the People's Committee, are leading the way in promoting a more sustainable future for Mai Son District.
Read more about SAPLING Vietnam:
https://baosonla.org.vn/nong-nghiep/hieu-qua-buoc-dau-tu-du-an-ho-tro-chan-nuoi-FQsUildIg.html