Emergency Assistance for the locals of Myanmar

Following the emergency food assistance which we reported last time, we subsequently began providing agricultural-related assistance, to help local communities whose main source of income is farming. Our project site is located in Central Dry Zone with low rainfall and poor soil condition (not conducive for farming). For a long period of time, locals relied on chemical fertilizers and pesticides hoping to increase their production, as well as their income. Unfortunately, this decision gradually resulted to land degradation, and increase in unproductive farmlands.

Moreover, the prolonged corona pandemic and political upheaval across the country, farmers were burdened by the soaring prices of agricultural inputs, and of a serious cash shortage. With an aim to somewhat help improve the current situation, we are providing technical assistance, agricultural inputs, and small-scale loans to local farmers.

So far, we have helped a total of 360 households in 12 villages, and we intend to continue doing it. One of the farmers who received support said, “I now understand that I can still produced crops without buying expensive chemical fertilizers, instead, I can use the available organic materials as alternative. Using the sustainable farming methods taught by OISCA; I will work together with my friends, neighbors and fellow villagers so that we could produce more stable and healthier produce. I hope that in the long run, our efforts will help stabilize our area`s agriculture industry”.

While paying close attention to the security situation, our staff are working hard to provide trainings in making of organic fertilizer and compost production. Thank you for your continued support.