On 7–8 February 2026, ALiSEA organized a two-day technical learning exchange visit on local heirloom seed saving and storage at Taung Chun Myay Farm in Loilem Township. The purpose of this exchange visit was to enhance knowledge on seed saving and storage techniques and to promote local heirloom seed conservation practices. These practices are vital for strengthening food sovereignty and climate resilience among ALiSEA members, technical experts, and local farmers. This visit was part of ALiSEA’s 2026 seed saving and storage knowledge-enhancement series, developed based on an ALiSEA Myanmar member needs assessment conducted in March 2025.

Nineteen participants (12 males and 7 females) attended the event, representing four ALiSEA member organizations: Karuna Myanmar Social Services (KMSS), SWISSAID-Myanmar, Myanmar Institute for Integrated Development (MIID), and GRET. Additionally, four partner organizations affiliated with ALiSEA members—Shwe Danu, POINT, Htar Wa Ya Alin, and Taung Chun Myay—were represented under the coordination of Alin Ein, SWISSAID-Myanmar, and the Samdhana Institute.

The exchange group also had the opportunity to engage with 10 farmers (1 male and 9 females) from Koloni and Khauk Ohe villages. Participants observed household-level seed saving and storage practices and learned firsthand how these farmers preserve heirloom seeds for future planting seasons.

The event began with an introduction by the ALiSEA-Myanmar National Coordinator, who provided an overview of ALiSEA and its support for member organizations. This was followed by an outline of the seed saving and storage series, along with the main objectives and plan for the exchange visit.

During the visit, participants gained insights into local community practices through group discussions and on-site field observations. Knowledge and experiences were exchanged between participants and villagers, enriching understanding of diverse seed saving practices across different areas.