The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations modernised farms and introduced Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) to over 600 smallholder vegetable farmers in Badulla, Monaragala and Mullaitivu districts.
The initiative focused on equipping targeted farmers with the tools and knowledge necessary to effectively adopt modern, climate-resilient approaches to agriculture. Emphasising the adoption of GAP, participants were provided with agriculture kits tailored for a land area of 0.25 acres. These kits comprised essential components such as drip irrigation systems, plastic mulch, insect-proof nets, and Galvanised Iron (GI) pipes, enabling efficient resource utilisation and cost reduction.
The FAO also facilitated capacity building through Farmer Field Schools (FFS), empowering farmers with the expertise necessary to achieve GAP certification. By utilising extension approaches and organising exposure visits to successful GAP farms, participants gained a comprehensive understanding of modern agricultural methodologies. The smallholder farmers received cash assistance through the World Food Programme (WFP), helping them meet their food and nutrition needs during the transition phase.
The tangible outcomes of the initiative underscore its success. Over 71 percent of participating farmers have reported notable improvements in crop quality and a reduction in pesticide and agrochemical usage. The implementation of insect-proof nets has led to a decrease in pest infestations and diseases while also reducing damage from wild animals such as monkeys, peacocks and wild boar, thereby enhancing crop resilience and sustainability.
Over 70 percent of farmers reported an increase in total income with over 24 farmers achieving profits exceeding Rs. 1,000,000 in a single cultivation season and more than 150 farmers surpassing the Rs. 500,000 mark. These figures underscore the significant economic impact of the programme. The initiative has also yielded significant environmental benefits with a 48 percent reduction in the average usage of chemical fertilizer per 0.25 acres of land.
This intervention is a part of a joint food security initiative, funded by the UN Sri Lanka SDG Fund. The Fund promotes innovative, catalytic, and transformative initiatives that align with the national priorities and the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (2023-2027). It is supported by Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States, the Peace Building Fund and the Joint SDG Fund.
Celebrating the achievements of farmers across all three districts, an awards ceremony was held in Thanamalvila under the patronage of Australian Deputy Head of Mission Lalita Kapur, Agriculture Provincial Secretary Upali Jayasekara and FAO Assistant Representative (Programme) Nalin Munasinghe. The event not only recognised exemplary achievements but also underscored the pivotal role of GAP certification in enhancing market demand and fostering sustainable agricultural practices.
