Impact story by the UN in Guinea-Bissau and edited by the Joint SDG Fund
In Guinea-Bissau's remote Gabú region, Djaja Baldé, despite her speech difficulty, enthusiastically showcases the bountiful rice fields cultivated with her family: “Look around, see for yourself. Never in all my years have I had so much rice.”
This abundance stems from innovative techniques introduced by FAO and WFP in collaboration with local communities. These methods to intensify rice farming have revolutionized rice cultivation, promising increased yields and food security.
Over 150 rice farmers participated in the pilot project, which received funding from the Joint SDG Fund and the FAO. In Sintchä Benfica, Djaja Baldé and others underwent training in modern planting techniques, deviating from traditional practices.
Although not novel, these techniques, proven successful in neighbouring countries, had not been adopted due to Guinea-Bissau's isolation and limited resources. However, Djaja and others' testimonies express newfound hope and confidence in their ability to secure food for their families.
While the results vary across regions, with some communities achieving exceptional yields, the overall increase in productivity is evident. In a nation grappling with food insecurity exacerbated by inflation and price hikes, the doubled harvest volume brings relief and optimism.
However, challenges persist, notably the high cost of inputs like fertilizers. Amidst global uncertainties, the project aims to promote organic alternatives, emphasizing the need for sustainable practices. Additionally, efforts are underway to revitalize the National Soil Laboratory, essential for ensuring soil health and productivity.
Despite these hurdles, the joint efforts of UNCT and local communities offer a glimpse of hope for sustainable agriculture and food security in Guinea-Bissau.
Note:
All joint programs of the Joint SDG Fund are led by UN Resident Coordinators and implemented by the agencies, funds and programmes of the United Nations development system. With sincere appreciation for the contributions from the European Union and Governments of Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Monaco, The Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Republic of Korea, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and our private sector funding partners, for a transformative movement towards achieving the SDGs by 2030.
