Agriculture

Production of diverse vegetables are sold to the Mine, but with increasing volume sold and consumed in the locality.

Farmers have taken important steps to make this project self-sufficient. Farmers now purchase the seeds and other supplies, and handle directly the weekly delivery of vegetables to the Mine canteen. This represents a great achievement for the farmers and KMAD in the growth of the project because it represents a major step to sustainability. These new arrangements also lead to better coordination and team work between the three farmer groups, more independence and enhanced the enthusiasm of farmers.

The continuous challenge to provide year-long production has been addressed. A drip irrigation system was proposed which is technically simple, enables economical use of water, and is cost effective. KMAD is considering installation of such a system at the farm in Thipane as a pilot project. In the meantime, KMAD continues to work with farmers to look for alternative plots and to implement recommendations made by the irrigation technician.