LocationsSupporting Farmers to Grow Stronger: Climate-Smart Agriculture and Value Addition Training Transforms Sarete Community, Vanuatu
September 30, 2025
The training provided a critical platform for farmers, many of whom had never engaged in formal agricultural education.
Sarete, Vanuatu – The farmers of the Sarete Community in South Santo participated in a landmark training designed to enhance climate-resilient farming practices and promote value addition of local crops. Supported by the Markets for Change Project, in collaboration with the Vanuatu’s Ministry of Agriculture and the Department of Industry, this initiative aims to empower smallholder farmers with sustainable agricultural techniques that protect natural resources while increasing their economic opportunities.
Advancing Climate-Smart Farming for Sustainable Livelihoods
The training provided a critical platform for farmers, many of whom had never engaged in formal agricultural education. Through participatory learning, they gained practical skills on environmentally sustainable farming practices including intercropping, pest management, and adaptive planting calendars aligned with changing climate patterns.
“I learned new methods such as planting different crops together to control pests, and better ways to care for my farm considering the weather changes,” said Prisca Marmar, a mother and community member. “This knowledge strengthens our ability to maintain productivity despite climate challenges,” she added.
Similarly, Wilfred Havojuju, a market vendor and farmer, noted: “Training on seed testing and composting has enhanced our understanding of good farming practices and improved crop yields.”
Promoting Value Addition to Increase Incomes and Reduce Waste
The program also focused on adding economic value to crops through processing techniques. Participants were equipped with skills to transform fruits and vegetables into products such as jams, juices, and teas—diversifying income streams and reducing post-harvest losses.
Karina Ngwango of the Department of Industry emphasized: “Value addition enables farmers and vendors to increase earnings by creating market-ready products, while supporting food security and sustainability goals.”
Market vendor Erial Vuti shared her experience: “Making jams and juices from surplus produce means less waste and more income for my family.”
Young farmer and mother Livan Alo expressed appreciation: “This free training opened my eyes to new business opportunities and practical ways to support my family.
Strengthening Community Resilience and Economic Inclusion
Beyond technical skills, the training incorporated financial literacy and business planning, empowering especially women farmers to manage their resources effectively and plan for future growth.
Community leader Danise Livoholo remarked: “Women farmers are gaining confidence and tools to make informed decisions, which will positively impact household food security and community development.”
Livan Alo added: “Learning safe food handling and packaging improves our products’ appeal, helping us access wider markets and increase income.”
A Sustainable Pathway Forward
This initiative represents a vital step towards achieving inclusive rural development, climate resilience, and poverty reduction in Vanuatu. By equipping farmers with sustainable farming knowledge, value addition skills, and business acumen, the project supports multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
With continued partnerships and investment, the Sarete Community intends to lead the way in transforming agriculture for a greener, more prosperous future—building resilient livelihoods that support families, strengthen local economies, and sustain the environment
The M4C project is implemented by UN Women in partnership with UNDP and with support from the Government of Australia.
This work is in support of SDG 5: Gender Equality, and SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.
For more information, please contact:
Josian Merick, Project Associate, M4C Vanuatu josian.merick@undp.org and Vilisi Veibataki, Markets for Change Project Manager, UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji | vilisi.veibataki@undp.org | +679 3227701
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