A new report from IIED showcases how traditional knowledge combined with innovative new approaches improves local agrobiodiversity and resilience.

In the Middle Hills of Nepal, within the Bhimphedi Rural Municipality of the Makawanpur District, the Chabeli Farmer Group, a collective of 20 smallholder farmers, is transforming local lives and economies by undertaking sustainable agricultural practices that boost agrobiodiversity.

The National Farmer Group Federation (NFGF) Nepal, a leading voice for economic empowerment through agroecological products, is particularly interested in the Chabeli Farmer Group. This group is a prime example of their mission in action - the farmers work tirelessly year-round, growing six types of cereals and over 20 diverse vegetable crops. Adding to the mix are several fruit-bearing plants, forage, and fodder species, while their livestock includes chickens, cows, buffaloes, and goats.

Navigating Modern Challenges with Ancestral Wisdom

These farmers have successfully created a delicate balance between agrobiodiversity and livelihoods, irrespective of annual production. They recognize the critical role their farm landscape plays in conserving agrobiodiversity.

A unique blend of traditional and modern knowledge guides the Chabeli Farmer Group. These farmers have inherited a wealth of knowledge from their ancestors - secrets of the land, soil fertility management, pest and disease control, post-harvest and storage practices, seed selection, and agroforestry practices. Today, with technical and financial support from the NFGF and the Forest and Farm Facility, they have successfully integrated this age-old wisdom with modern farming techniques. The result? A resilient agricultural system that not only withstands challenges like climate change and global pandemics but also enhances sustainable resource use.

The Chabeli Farmer Group's farming practices are now centered around producing diverse agricultural and agroforestry products. They manage the seeds of diverse crops and trees through group nurseries and have even started collectively approaching markets with their array of produce. In a bold move towards sustainability, they've partnered with the local government to initiate a participatory guarantee system (PGS), certifying their products as safe and organic-oriented.

Building a sustainable future

Building on this momentum, the Chabeli Farmer Group plans to transform their area into an organic production pocket to retain local agrobiodiversity. Emphasizing local production, they've initiated promoting their organic products in local and provincial markets. They've developed a marketing strategy that underscores the benefits of organic farming, including its impact on biodiversity and climate change. Encouraging participation in local farmers' markets and establishing direct-to-consumer links through online platforms is a core part of their long-term strategy.

The success of Chabeli Farmer Group is a testament to the strength and resilience of smallholder farmers in Nepal. Through their dedicated efforts, they not only contribute to their local economy but also preserve their agrobiodiversity, safeguarding it for generations to come. Their journey serves as an inspiration for other farming communities around the world, proving that the integration of traditional wisdom and modern knowledge can lead to remarkable achievements in sustainable farming.

Find out more about the Chabeli Farmer Group’s work in the new report by IIED, available here.