DILI, 03 december 2024 (TATOLI) – The Agroforestry Skills for Employment and Resilience Project, implemented by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in collaboration with CCI-Ermera and funded by the European Union, successfully concluded a 10-day Training of Trainers (ToT) focused on cacao cultivation and processing. This significant initiative took place in Ermera and gathered 27 trainers, including 7 women, from various organizations such as NGOs, the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, and Forestry (MALFF), and both public and private training centers. The training aimed to strengthen skills and knowledge in cacao production and processing, while promoting a green, sustainable, and market-oriented cacao industry in the country.
Cacao cultivation in Timor-Leste has a long history, originating within agroforestry systems where it is often intercropped with coffee and other crops. The cacao plant grows in regions with warm, humid climates and fertile soils, including Ermera, Liquiça, Aileu, Viqueque, Lautem, and others. Most cacao produced is exported in its raw bean form, typically through small-scale traders handling relatively low quantities. To address these challenges in both production and market access, the Agroforestry Skills Programme is spearheading crucial initiatives aimed at transforming the cacao sector. These initiatives focus on introducing best agricultural practices, enhancing production techniques, and improving the overall quality and sustainability of cacao farming.
The 10-day training, facilitated by cacao expert Peni Agustijanto and co-trainer Rauf Sunusi, offered a comprehensive combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Participants gained expertise in cacao cultivation, processing, waste management, market alignment, and certification processes, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of the cacao value chain. Peni highlighted that Timor-Leste has a strong potential for cacao cultivation and pointed to the fertile soil and favorable conditions in regions like Ermera. Peni noted, “This training provides an opportunity to enhance the knowledge of farmers and stakeholders in the cacao sector. Timor-Leste’s land is ideal for cacao, as shown by the soil pH and structure in Ermera. However, farmers face challenges in managing crops due to limited understanding of best cultivation practices. Through this program, we introduced methods suited to Timor-Leste’s specific context.” said Peni in the training location in Ermera.
The cacao lead trainer continued to encourage the participants to take the knowledge gained from the training and apply it to their own farms, with the goal of establishing sustainable, efficient, and quality-driven cacao cultivation methods that would benefit both farmers and the broader industry.
Participants expressed strong enthusiasm for the training, sharing their experiences and aspirations. Isidro Napoleão Soares, a cacao farmer from Ermera, shared, “This is my first time attending such a comprehensive training, and it has truly motivated me. I’ve gained in-depth knowledge about good agricultural practices for cacao cultivation and processing, particularly in areas like soil testing, seed preparation, planting and understanding the market process for selling cacao through ICS (Internal control system) for premium organic Cocoa Market.” Said Isidro. Inspired by the knowledge and experience gained, Isidro plans to expand his cacao plantation and share his expertise with fellow farmers in the Ermera community. “With these new skills, I’m confident that I can contribute to improving cacao farming practices in my community while ensuring sustainable growth in the agroforestry sector.” he shared
Another participants Sergio Martins, a young grower, shared his sentiments with great enthusiasm, saying, “over the course of the 10-day training, I learned valuable and practical techniques such as pruning, implement sanitation practices, cacao waste mangement, and the creation of organic fertilizers to enhance cacao production.” This ToT training equiped Sergio with necessary skills and knowledge to enhance the quality of cacao production in his community. “As a young farmer, I am determined to apply these methods on my own land and to support other young growers (trainees) in my village. This training has not only increased my knowledge but also given me the confidence to diversify our family’s sources of income. With these new skills, I am now better equipped to strengthen our economic resilience and ensure a more sustainable future for our community.” Sergio spoke with clear self-confidence, eager to put his newfound knowledge into practice.
This initiative marks a significant step toward enhancing the skills and resilience of cacao production and processing in Timor-Leste, while fostering a sustainable and market-driven cacao industry in the country. By equipping trainers with essential skills and market knowledge, this initiative paves the way for improved livelihoods, sustainable practices, and a stronger connection between local farmers and global markets. The enthusiasm and determination of participants signal a promising future for cacao cultivation in Ermera and beyond.
TATOLI
