SRI is a set of effective, eco-friendly rice farming practices proven to increase crop productivity, while at the same time reducing inputs such as seed, water, fertilizer and pesticides. Though effective, SRI represents a radical break from traditional farming practices in most rice-growing regions, and requires effective education and awareness building among farmers before it can be implemented successfully. When adopted, though, SRI can bring dramatic improvements to the livelihoods of rural communities.
Over the past year, three program partners, Oxfam Quebec, the Plant Protection Department (PPD), and the Centre for Sustainable Rural Development (SRD), have, with funding from Oxfam America, worked to develop a collaborative initiative that aims to support small-scale rice farmers through SRI implementation. The initial implementation of the SRI program in Vietnam took place in 12 communes, distributed among six provinces: Ha Tay, Yen Bai, Phu Tho, Thai Nguyen, Nghe An and Ha Tinh. This initiative is part of Oxfam America’s broader Livelihood and Income Security program in the Mekong Sub-region (including Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam).
Watch this space for more information and updates on the program’s progress.
