USAID DEC
Soil degradation was attributed to intensive farming practices and inadequate crop rotation, while limited market access hindered farmers' ability to sell their produce at competitive prices.
1 pages

Abstract
The training emphasized the importance of composting, crop rotation, and conservation agriculture to improve soil fertility and reduce erosion. The plots also served as a platform for farmers to share knowledge and best practices. This suggests that women may be more receptive to new agricultural techniques, potentially due to their greater involvement in household food production and management. However, the high cost of irrigation equipment limited its adoption, highlighting the need for more affordable and accessible technologies. The evaluation also found that program participants were more likely to engage in off-farm income-generating activities, such as selling handicrafts or providing services, indicating a broader impact on local economic development. These findings suggest that the initiative has been successful in improving agricultural productivity and household income, while also promoting more diversified and resilient livelihoods.
Classification
USAID DEC