By Soutima Boudvised – PAKA
Xiengkhoung, Laos: on 06 – 08 August 2024, the Agroecology Alliance Learning in South East Asia (ALiSEA) to bringing 27 participants, 10 women, 16 participants from ALiSEA networks. This first time for field visit and exchange for ALiSEA members in Laos. The objectives of field visit for:
- Showcase best practices in agroecology implemented by ASSET partners and ALiSEA members in Xiengkhouang province.
- Facilitate knowledge exchange and peer-to-peer learning among participants on successful AE approaches.
- Foster collaboration and networking opportunities between Laotian ALiSEA members and ASSET partners.
Over the field visit, participants engaged learning and exchange session focusing on six topics selected by the ALiSEA network. During the field visit, participants engaged in learning and exchange sessions focused on six topics selected by the ALiSEA network. They had the opportunity to exchange with Peak DAFO about pesticide risk reduction and to learn alongside people supported by the ASSET project including raising ducks in rice paddies and planting coffee under shade trees and the Sustainable Agricultural and Environment Development Association (SAEDA) such as coping with climate change by planting chilies, Commercial crop production and sustainable rice cultivation, at the field we listed representatives from the group shared techniques, administration and management practices that contributed to the success of agricultural producers in implementing these activities.
This gathering aimed to foster a collaborative learning, showcase best practices in agroecology, foster learning and experience, where each participant could contribute to and benefit from the collective knowledge and experiences shared.
“Mr. Sengsavanh, CODA” Raising ducks in rice fields is an excellent project and a highly beneficial practice for the community, as it acts as a natural fertilizer for crops and provides additional income for families.
The field visit provided me with numerous new ideas to enhance the project aimed at promoting the community. The activity of raising ducks in rice fields inspired me to explore the idea of promoting chicken farming in organic vegetable gardens. Ms: Sodsada, POCA
The participant mention: “that they have gained additional knowledge in the cultivation of integrated crops, specifically in growing coffee under the shade of trees”.
