In June 2024, two representatives of the Fifata Group in Madagascar, Andry Rasamimanana, director of the Ceffel center, and Noelson Ranomenjanahary, regional branch manager of the Cap Malagasy, association, carried out a mission with the Cereal Growers Association (CGA) in Kenya, illustrating the importance and relevance of peer-to-peer exchanges.
“This experience has enabled us to understand and appreciate the role of advice and proximity in the advancement of agro-ecological practices”.
For almost two weeks, Andry and Noelson shared their long experience in agricultural production, agroecology and local agricultural consultancy, and also enriched their knowledge through contact with Kenyan farmers and technicians.
Several technologies were explored during the mission, including biochar production, the manufacture of an activator for rapid composting and vermicompost. Onion, carrot and potato seed production, as well as banana plant multiplication and vegetable cultivation, also attracted keen interest from CGA members.
The progress made by Malagasy producers and their farmer’s organizations (FOs) would not have been possible without the establishment and structuring of relay farmers and sustainable services, a topical issue for CGA member POs.
One of the initiatives that has caught the attention of Kenyan farmers is the setting up of a self-managed health service for their poultry. This innovative approach reduces animal mortality and illustrates the importance of collective action.
In the context of the recent development of vegetable production by CGA farmer- members, the experience of the Fifata Group’s marketing relay farmers has also inspired Kenyan growers, who see in agroecological vegetables an opportunity to increase their income.
Since the mission, many growers have started producing onion, carrot and potato seeds. Two groups have renewed the production of biochar and compost activators. The production of vermicompost has also increased thanks to the sharing of experience.
To find out more, watch the video featuring testimonials from a farmer and CGA technicians.
