USAID DEC
Soil degradation was attributed to intensive farming practices and lack of conservation tillage, while limited market access hindered farmers' ability to sell their produce at competitive prices.
62 pages

Abstract
The training emphasized the importance of crop rotation, composting, and conservation tillage to improve soil fertility and reduce erosion. The plots also served as a platform for farmers to share knowledge and best practices. This may be attributed to the fact that women are often more involved in household food production and are more likely to adopt new practices that improve food security. The program also provided training on business skills and market access, enabling farmers to negotiate better prices for their produce. The evaluation also showed that the program had a positive impact on poverty reduction, with 22% of participants reporting a reduction in poverty levels. The program's success can be attributed to the combination of agricultural and market access interventions, which addressed the root causes of poverty and food insecurity in the target communities. The program's impact was also evident in the increased adoption of sustainable agriculture practices among farmers. By the end of the program, 85% of farmers had adopted at least one sustainable agriculture practice, with 45% adopting three or more practices. This represents a significant shift towards more sustainable and productive farming practices, which is expected to have long-term benefits for the environment and the economy.
Classification
USAID DEC