The project’s primary objective is to ensure the vitality of local agriculture and the sustainability of harvests. It is within this context that our teams work tirelessly, day in and day out, to protect and preserve every grain, every vegetable, every fruit, to ensure they reach the dependent populations intact. It’s a constant battle against unforeseen circumstances and adversities, carried out with dedication and expertise.
Context and Justification of Our Commitment:
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Constant Threats to Harvests:
- Unpredictable Climate Conditions: The region is subject to extreme climatic variations, from torrential rains to prolonged droughts, including strong winds. Each weather event poses a direct threat to developing or mature crops. Our teams are on the ground implementing adaptation and protection measures, such as setting up emergency drainage systems or protecting fragile plants.
- Pests and Diseases: Crops are constantly exposed to attacks from various pests and the rapid spread of plant diseases. This requires continuous monitoring and the swift application of control solutions to prevent massive losses. Our agronomic experts advise and support farmers in these daily challenges.
- Fragile Infrastructure and Difficult Access: The lack of adequate infrastructure, particularly good roads and suitable storage systems, makes transporting harvests to markets difficult and perilous. Post-harvest losses are a major issue, and our teams strive to minimize these losses at every stage.
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The Race Against Time for Food Security: For millions of people in the DRC, including a large part in the east of the country, access to sufficient and nutritious food is a daily challenge. Every kilogram of food saved directly contributes to the fight against hunger. Preserving harvests is not just a matter of yield; it’s a matter of survival and dignity for families.
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The Crucial Role of Our Field Teams:
- Support and Training: Our technicians and agronomists are in direct contact with farmers, training them in resilient best agricultural practices, early recognition of threats, and appropriate storage techniques.
- Rapid Intervention: Faced with an epidemic or a climatic event, responsiveness is essential. Our teams are ready to intervene to limit damage and implement emergency solutions.
- Logistics and Security: Harvest protection doesn’t stop in the field. Our teams also work to secure transport and storage, sometimes under difficult conditions, to ensure that products arrive in perfect condition.
Our Commitment: An Act of Resilience and Hope:
By implementing the « Block Farming » strategy, we are not just promoting more efficient agriculture; we are fighting to ensure that the fruit of farmers’ labor is not lost. It is a constant commitment to the resilience, productivity, and food security of the South Kivu communities, a collective effort where every member of our team plays an indispensable role in making every harvest a victory.