Nishel Fernando’s Post

Sri Lanka's Agricultural Yield: A Comparative Insight 🌴 Our latest chart sheds light on the average income and profit margins from various crops in Sri Lanka. Tea leads the pack with a striking annual average income nearing LKR 3 million and a profit margin of 69%. Coconut stands out with an impressive 83% profit margin despite lower average earnings. Cinnamon and Paddy follow suit with solid performances, showing 61% and 67% profit margins, respectively. This data underscores the profitability of diverse crops, highlighting tea and coconut as particularly lucrative investments in the Sri Lankan agricultural sector. The value of such land remains high due to their investment potential, even with reduced income from plantation crops. Stay tuned for more insights and trends in agriculture! To download the full version of the Sri Lanka Real Estate Market Outlook Report 2024, please visit: https://lnkd.in/gfNrdDxr #SriLankaAgriculture #CropYield #ProfitMargins #Tea #Rubber #Cinnamon #Paddy #FarmersInsights

Three Circle Investing in the Fertile Land of Kashmir: A Green Revolution Unfolds In a groundbreaking move to harness the agricultural potential of the verdant Kashmir Valley, a consortium led by Mr. Bhushan Goel, Syed Basharat Hussain, and Dr. Bilal Ahmad Bhat has announced the launch of KASHmirie, a comprehensive initiative aimed at fostering agricultural growth, supporting local farmers, and promoting Kashmiri-made products. Kashmir’s Agricultural Abundance: A Strategic Opportunity Known for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse climatic conditions, Kashmir experiences the full spectrum of four seasons, making it an ideal region for agricultural activities. The fertile land and temperate climate create favorable conditions for the cultivation of a variety of crops. Collaborative Efforts for Economic Transformation Mr. Bhushan Goel, a prominent entrepreneur, Syed Basharat Hussain, a visionary leader, and Dr. Bilal Ahmad Bhat, a global entrepreneur, have joined forces to launch KASHmirie. Their shared vision is to create a platform that not only taps into the agricultural potential of the region but also establishes strong connections with farmers, manufacturers, and traders. In a joint statement, the trio emphasized their commitment to transforming the agricultural landscape of Jammu & Kashmir. They highlighted the economic opportunities that lie within the agricultural sector and expressed their dedication to supporting local farmers, fostering sustainable practices, and promoting Kashmiri-made products on a global scale. Boosting Local Economy: A Win-Win Proposition KASHmirie aims to collaborate with multiple brands, establish partnerships with farmers, initiate agriculture-related projects, and promote food product manufacturers. The comprehensive approach is expected to provide a significant boost to the local economy, creating opportunities for vendors, manufacturers, and traders in the region. #GratienMukeshimana #28COE #28coeecosystem #threecircle #investing https://lnkd.in/d8GyChjN

Growing Success: A thriving woman farmer🌱 As a 63-year-old widowed mother of six, I've turned my passion for vegetable farming into a sustainable source of income 💸. Despite facing challenges like limited resources, market fluctuations and climate change ⛈️, I've persevered and thrived. Through the support of Development Aid from People to People Zimbabwe (DAPP) Farmers' Clubs Chivi and GAIA USA, I have gained knowledge on climate-smart practices, smart agriculture, and financial literacy 📚. I have adopted organic farming practices 🌿, diversified my crops 🥕and developed a successful vegetable business model. Today, I sell 30kgs of vegetables weekly, increasing my income and supporting my family 🥗. I've gained control over my finances, improved my family's nutrition, food and income security at the same time enhancing soil fertility through organic amendments 🌾. I'm proud to be a resilient farmer, adapting to climate change and market fluctuations while promoting sustainable agriculture practices 💪👩🌾 More at👇 https://lnkd.in/dNdP7dFW #sustainablefarming #womeninagriculture #resilience

Over the past 15 years, #Tanzania has witnessed a remarkable shift in its agricultural landscape - particularly in horticulture. The percentage of farms cultivating fruits and vegetables has more than doubled, jumping from 9.5% in 2008 to 21% by 2020. That’s according to AGRA's #Africa Agricultural Status Report 2024 released this month. 🔗: https://lnkd.in/drZQc8Dy The rapid expansion is particularly noteworthy among small-scale farmers, whose participation surged from 8% to 20%. Meanwhile, medium and large-scale farms also experienced substantial growth, with the area under fruit and vegetable cultivation increasing by 130%, adding 240,000 hectares in just over a decade. What makes this transformation especially interesting is the role of private-sector #MSMEs and farmers in driving this change. The Government may have played an enabling role - primarily through infrastructure development such as roads and market facilities - but private initiatives have spearheaded the expansion.   As a result, 55 wholesale markets have emerged in just eight cities, with over two-thirds established in the past 20 years to meet the growing demand for fresh produce. These markets are a key link between rural farms and rapidly urbanizing cities, fueling the growth of resilient agricultural value chains. That’s the power of all stakeholders coming together to support #AgriBusiness! #Africa | #Agriculture | #Horticulture | #FoodSecurity | #AgriSMEs

Look at this how beautiful, this is where you want your chocolate bar to come from right? I had the pleasure of visiting these hero cocoa farmers yesterday who have their beautiful farm in Ghana's Sefwi district. Cocoa trees combined with permanent trees, plantain and coconut trees for both shade and additional crops to sell. In the shade under the cocoa trees they grow ginger, and they have some bee hives to produce and sell honey to complete the picture. Due to climate change (extreme heat and drought, but also heavy rainfall leading to crop damage) cocoa production has dropped 55% in the last 5 years in Ghana (where along with Ivory Coast 65% of all cocoa comes from) causing the world market price of cocoa to triple in 1 year. Unfortunately, the ageing population of cocoa farmers - who earn about EUR 140 per month - see little of this price hike. Fortunately, there are already numerous good organizations, companies, and financiers working to make the cocoa sector more sustainable and future-proof. Like for example Tropenbos International which I am currently assisting in establishing a Facility to help more cocoa farms in Western Ghana follow this example of a healthy and diverse agroforestry farm, benefitting the landscape and increasing farmer's income. To properly match our offer of financing and TA with demand, we interviewed 132 farmers, 16 cooperatives, 15 Licensed Buying Companies and 8 Purchasing Clerks. Based on this research and my current visit to Ghana, I will be drafting an initial design for the setup of this Facility in the coming weeks, focusing on increasing sustainable cocoa productivity and expanding the cultivation of other crops. Additionally, I am also having discussions with potential partners to help establish this Facility, ranging from donors, cocoa offtakers and technical assistance partners, to larger buyers of non-cocoa products such as honey. So, if you have any ideas for suitable partners for this Facility targeting west Ghana, feel free to share them!

𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬 The country’s honey production increased by 12 percent in 2023, with about 41.8 metric tonnes of honey extracted last year compared to 37.2 metric tonnes in 2022. Samtse, Bumthang, and Sarpang are the leading dzongkhags in honey production. In 2023, a total of 18,523 beehives were recorded from 7,508 beehive holders, up from 6,342 in 2022. Of these beehives, 92 percent are local. The government has also expanded the apiculture program to boost the production of blossom honey, pot honey, and comb honey, largely through UN Development Programme grants. The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock has implemented various activities, including the procurement and supply of 187 full-fledged honeybee colonies, the promotion of 250 improved flow hive technology, and the provision of bee feeds and equipment for beekeepers. https://lnkd.in/guvsSiJf

Ugandan mushroom farmers are thriving, inspired by President Museveni's support for sustainable farming. They are now seeking government assistance for value-added equipment and better market access. Mushroom cultivation is helping urban poor communities generate steady income with minimal investment. By enhancing quality control and training, this growing industry could unlock major export potential in East Africa. Industry Perspective: The global trend of mushrooms as an affordable, nutrient-rich crop with low overhead costs, aligns with global goals of food security, sustainability, and urban agriculture. With support and scaling, Uganda could emerge as a key player in the regional mushroom trade, particularly in East Africa. Sharing this story amplifies the role mushrooms can play in economic empowerment and sustainable food production. By spotlighting Uganda’s strides in mushroom farming, it encourages global industry leaders to recognize similar opportunities in urban areas, particularly in developing regions. Source: https://lnkd.in/eNDk47bR

Kampong Thom Cashew Industrial Zone: A Boon for Growth and Investment Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Manet has approved the establishment of a cashew industrial zone in Kampong Thom Province to boost rural livelihoods and economic growth. Utilizing state land, the initiative will create a year-round agro-industrial hub, providing employment and reducing reliance on traditional farming in Zone 3 and surrounding areas. This sustainable project aligns with Cambodia’s broader strategy to decentralize economic opportunities and improve rural incomes. The Prime Minister also encouraged other provinces to replicate this model, paving the way for widespread agro-industrial development. With a focus on sustainability, the project will ensure responsible farming practices, clear land boundaries, and eco-friendly methods, safeguarding biodiversity. For investors, this initiative opens opportunities in cashew processing, supply chains, and value-added agriculture. It enhances Cambodia’s potential as an investment destination with supportive government policies, availability of skilled labor, and growing global demand for cashew products. The project offers a platform to invest in Cambodia’s thriving agro-industrial future. 🎯Read More: https://lnkd.in/g5cY-Njf #TheBetterCambodia

Check out our recent research on farm diversification. You can find it at https://lnkd.in/gH2-2PVV Farm diversification builds resilience by creating additional income streams. Some forms of diversification are relatively simple. Others are more challenging. One of the bigger challenges is that some forms of diversification (value-adding, processing, selling direct to consumers, agritourism, exporting) require skills in marketing, and these are not normally part of a farmer's experience. If you're interested in farm diversification and would like some guidance, read our research report, or give us a call. RECoE is proudly part of the University of Southern Queensland Toowomba.

The Vanishing Breadfruit: A Bitter Reality of Agricultural Economics The unforeseen repercussions arising from urban farming priorities and the economic dynamics present a substantial risk to the survival of breadfruit, a vital crop with immense potential as a staple food in the future. Breadfruit exhibits high resilience to climate change and is suitable for cultivation in regions characterised by significant food insecurity. ⏳ Time Cost of Growing: A Barrier for Breadfruit Growing breadfruit trees is a time-intensive process, demanding years of dedicated care before they can produce fruit. In a world focused on immediate returns and driven by the pursuit of quick yields and higher profits, farmers often prioritise crops that offer faster results. Regrettably, this prevailing reality relegates breadfruit to the sidelines, placing it at risk of extinction in some countries. 💡 Urban Farming Priorities: A Challenge for Breadfruit Urban agriculture typically revolve around cultivating high-demand crops with rapid turnover, aiming to maximise return on investment. While it can be economically beneficial, it limits the space and resources available for cultivating unique crops like breadfruit. 🔬 Unleash the Potential of Breadfruit Breadfruit, a fruitful and protein-rich tropical crop, holds significant promise in the fight against hunger. Beyond its nutritional value, breadfruit offers a multitude of economic opportunities, with derived products ranging from chips to flour that can be exported worldwide. Entrepreneurs in Hawaii, Samoa, and Jamaica are introducing flour products to U.S. consumers. 🌱 A Call for Preservation and Collaboration Singapore, replying on imports for 90% of its food and allocating only 1% of its land for farming, faces a pressing need for collaboration and preservation. It is crucial that we join forces to safeguard the future of breadfruit and other crops, while also supporting local farmers and advancing sustainable agricultural practices. By embracing diverse food sources and investing in long-term solutions, we can establish a resilient and robust food system for future generations. Let us strive for a future where our food system is not only economically viable but also environmentally responsible. #ovalpartnership #heritageconservation #conversation #community #publicspace #sustainability #openspace #retaildesign #UrbanRevival #Breadfruit #ForgottenFoods #EndangeredFood #HeritageUnearthed #KampongEra #SoutheastAsianTreasures #FoodHeritage #SustainableAgriculture #FoodSecurity #Collaboration