Soil for agroecology

For my master's thesis in agricultural sciences I'm working with the AgroEcological Community in Benin and seeing every day how their training is changing the lives of farmers. I spoke to a farmer who previously did not know that vegetables could be grown without synthetic pesticides and, thanks to the course, can now completely avoid using these substances, which are harmful to her health and her soil. The local population often lacks the equipment to protect themselves when applying pesticides, which can cause skin irritation, respiratory problems, and chronic diseases. In this context, it is particularly important to continue building agroecological knowledge.

The core team of the AgroEcological Community was able to test, develop, and demonstrate agroecological methods on their farm. This enabled them to engage in a practical exchange with the farmers. However, since the state expropriated two-thirds of their land (only 0.28 hectares remain), they have had to severely restrict their activities as they no longer have a real base. Changes in land law would now make it possible to purchase land that is much better protected against expropriation.
The aim of purchasing land is to rebuild a place where agroecological knowledge can be exchanged and put into practice. The AgroEcological Community would like to make parts of this land available free of charge to young farmers so that they can produce agroecologically on their own. This would make it much easier for them to get started in agricultural production. If necessary, the core team of the AgroEcological Community can provide them with support.

The AgroEcological Community currently only disposes of around CHF 2,000 of the CHF 5,000 required to purchase an easily accessible piece of land. As I am convinced of the importance of their work for farmers, consumers, and the environment in the region, I would like to help them raise this amount. If more money is raised, they will also have the opportunity to dig a well, build accommodation on the new land (i.e. for the young farmers) and continue the agroecological courses with increased intensity.

agroecologicalcommunity.com