Yayasan Bina Tani Sejahtera (YBTS), supported by William & Lily Foundation (WLF), held an expo called “Rainbow Garden Sesibu” on June 28-29, 2022, as part of their Agricultural Livelihood Project through Integrated Approach (PERMATA) program, which aims to enhance farming livelihoods through an integrated approach in Southwest Sumba Regency. The purpose of the vegetable expo is to inspire farmers and disseminate knowledge and skills on vegetable farming.
Seminari Sinar Buana (Sesibu) was selected to host the event as they have demonstrated excellent crop growth and development under YBTS’s guidance. Other factors that influenced the selection of Sesibu include their unity, availability of land and water, diverse range of vegetables grown, potential for marketing, and support from local government and stakeholders.
“Through learning from demonstration plots in each group, YBTS has transferred knowledge and technology on vegetable farming integrated with soil and water conservation. The aim is to boost the farmers’ confidence in maximizing their vegetable cultivation efforts and experiencing the benefits of seeing their crops grow and develop from the practices they have undertaken so far,” explains Junike Susan Medah, Project Coordinator Agriculture Livelihood Project.
The Sesibu group, consisting of 21 members, has committed to preparing a 3500 m2 area and planting nine types of vegetables, such as chili, tomato, eggplant, cabbage, leafy vegetables, bitter gourd, honey pumpkin, and flowers. This is in line with the event’s theme, “Rainbow Garden Sesibu,” due to the diversity of vegetables planted. Additionally, the members of Seminari are from various ethnic and cultural backgrounds but remain united in their farming practices.
The two-day event includes several activities, such as harvesting together, seed clinics, financial institution stands, and a nutritious food processing competition.
“Welcome to the Sesibu farmer group’s land, where we grow 12 types of vegetables. Thanks to YBTS’s guidance and support from WLF, everything is growing well and fertile. We are grateful to YBTS and WLF for their unwavering support. We also invite all farmers to continue planting, regardless of the challenges, and always be open to new knowledge,” says Ferdinand Nangkang, Leader of the Sesibu farmer group.
