Barren, rocky land is a challenge for farmers in the Polewali Transformational Community Development (TCD) village. This condition forces them to think hard to find the best way to cultivate the land. In general, the Balanipa community has only planted coconuts in the past, and although coconuts generate income, it is not enough for the community at large. There is a need for short-term crops so that they can make ends meet and help household finances.

This is a topic that has been discussed regularly in meetings with the village TCD committee and the TCD training team. Residents initially planned to utilize land directly outside their homes to plant herbs and medicinal plants. A woman named Maizah* then began thinking about plants that were more productive and profitable. She learned that shallots seemed suitable with the climate and soil condition in their village. Moreover, a number of farmers in nearby villages have reportedly succeeded in growing shallots in rocky soil.

Upon hearing this idea, a number of community members took action. First, they knew they needed to learn methods of cultivating shallots. To obtain this knowledge, residents set out to visit a neighboring village. There they met and learned directly from farmers who were raising shallots. They were able to witness firsthand the process of planting and caring for the plants and returned home to mull over their plans for the future. The visit was a tremendous encouragement for the Polewali community, and they look forward with hope that this opportunity will help them continue on their journey toward better livelihoods.

*For the purpose of safety and wellbeing, “Maizah”, is a pseudonym for the individual mentioned in this project.

Thank you,

Written by Didi, GHNI Partner