Farming Towards Improved Livelihoods

Farming Towards Improved Livelihoods

The Niri Kalebu Farmers Group, formed in September 2021 and inaugurated in February 2022, aims to enhance the welfare of its members through agriculture. “Niri Kalebu” in Sumbanese means "sheltering under a big tree," reflecting collaboration and support from various parties such as the government, agriculture extension workers, non-governmental organizations, and other institutions with aligned vision. Agustinus Billi Tanggu, affectionately known as Bapak Ayu, serves as the leader of the Niri Kalebu farmer group, is committed to continual learning and growth within a more experienced community. With guidance from technical field officer (TFO) YBTS, the Coordinator and the Field Agricultural Extension Officer (PPL) of Wewewa Barat Agricultural Extension Office through the Agricultural Livelihood through Integrated Approach (PERMATA) program, this farmer group has acquired knowledge in horticultural cultivation, farming business planning, market opportunities, and adjusting crops according to the season. 

Bapak Ayu, along with the members of the Niri Kalebu farmer group who successfully planted 1,600 chili pepper trees of the Dewata 43 variety, feels confident in their achievements. "We successfully held our first harvest event in October 2022, which was attended by the Governor of East Nusa Tenggara, the Regent of Southwest Sumba, and the Main Director of Bank NTT," said Bapak Ayu proudly. From the harvest, they managed to earn approximately around IDR 10,000,000 with a selling price of IDR 20,000 per kilogram. This marked a milestone of success and motivated them to rely on horticultural as their primary livelihood. Each member began to develop their land by planting various crops, such as chilies, bitter gourd, tomatoes, beans, long beans, and leafy vegetables. "We sell the harvest from our garden twice a week at Wee Wula Market, South Wewewa District, and Waimangura Market, West Wewewa District, and from the proceeds, we can earn Rp 1,000,000 every week," adds Bapak Ayu. 

Of course, every farming endeavor is not without challenges, especially in meeting market demand. To address this, YBTS connected with Bank Mandiri through a People's Business Credit (KUR) loan of IDR 80 million. These funds were used to purchase seeds, fertilizer, pesticides, build water storage infrastructure, and support sustainable farming efforts. The profitable harvest has had a positive impact on the economic transformation of the families. Group members can meet their daily needs and cover the school expenses of their children. "This success has not only given us financial benefits but has also enhanced the quality of our lives," said Mr. Ayu proudly.