AMARTA Quarterly Report October – December 2009

The project, which began in 2009, aimed to increase the value of international exports of targeted commodities and improve the living standards of farmers. AMARTA added 6,415 hectares under improved technologies through the implementation of value chain interventions, including cocoa and high-value horticulture. Additionally, 18,440 units of animals, fish, and other aquaculture products were introduced under improved technologies. The project assisted 225 associations and farmer groups, including cocoa, coffee, and high-value horticulture organizations. Training programs were conducted to provide knowledge on best agricultural practices, resulting in 5,907 farmers participating in agribusiness trainings. The training improved overall yields and post-harvest handling practices, increasing sales for farmers. Exporters reported significant export value increases, with cocoa exports increasing by 3% or $4,565,521 in South and Southeast Sulawesi. The AMARTA Grants Program supported the development of infrastructure and equipment for smallholder farmers. Three new PADA grants were submitted and approved by USAID, including support for Maria Bintang Laut to improve ice storage and for Baliem Arabica Cooperative to increase coffee processing efficiency. AMARTA maintained a constructive dialogue with agriculture stakeholders in North Sumatera, including Senator Parlindungan Purba. The project also collaborated with Radio Republic Indonesia to feature a program called "Siaran Pedesaan," which provided an interactive dialogue for farmers and traders to ask questions regarding banana development. The project's quarterly overview highlighted the delay in receiving the project extension, which adversely impacted the program. However, after the agreement was completed, AMARTA immediately began hiring new staff, reestablishing relationships, and planning training activities. The advocacy for an improved enabling environment focused on network and partnership development, continued collaboration with Senator Purba, and the broadcasting of the Barangan Banana Alliance on Radio Republic Indonesia. The project also covered AMARTA's Barangan Banana Community Alliance demonstration plot in Deli Serdang, which was featured on TVRI North Sumatera. Overall, the AMARTA project aimed to improve the productivity and competitiveness of smallholder farmers in Indonesia, with a focus on value chain interventions, training programs, and infrastructure development. The project's quarterly report highlighted the progress made in the first quarter of 2010, including the addition of new hectares under improved technologies and the implementation of value chain interventions.