Why this research matters
Across Indonesia,
small-scale farmers often rely on monoculture cropping and chemical
fertilizers. While these practices can increase short-term yields, they also
raise production costs, degrade soil health, and limit income diversification.
Women farmers, who play a central role in household food security, are often
excluded from technical training and decision-making.
How the program was
carried out
The research was based on
an international community service program using a participatory,
hands-on approach. Instead of classroom-style instruction, the researchers
worked directly with 20 women farmers through:
- Field observations, interviews, and group discussions to identify local challenges
- Practical training on intercropping design and organic fertilizer production
- On-site demonstrations and supervised field practice
- Continuous monitoring and mentoring during the growing period
Cow manure, previously
considered waste, was processed into compost using simple bioactivators and
locally available materials. The women farmers applied the compost directly to
their intercropped roselle and mustard plots.
Key findings at a glance
The program delivered
measurable improvements across technical, environmental, and social dimensions:
- 100% participation: All group members took part in training and field activities.
- Around 90% adoption rate: Most participants were able to independently apply intercropping and organic fertilization techniques.
- Reduced reliance on chemical fertilizers through the use of composted cow manure.
- Improved soil conditions, including better structure and moisture retention.
- Higher land-use efficiency by growing two complementary crops simultaneously.
- Stronger group organization, with about 80% of members showing improved understanding of basic management and coordination.
Women farmers reported
greater confidence in making farming decisions and managing collective
activities.
Real-world impact and
implications
The findings highlight a
scalable model for sustainable rural development. By combining
intercropping with organic fertilization, farmers can reduce costs, diversify
production, and protect soil health. The approach is especially relevant for
areas with limited land and access to livestock waste.
For policymakers, the
study offers evidence that women-centered agricultural programs can
deliver both economic and environmental benefits. For agricultural extension
services, it shows that hands-on, participatory training is more
effective than top-down instruction. For local communities, it demonstrates
that innovation does not always require expensive inputs—only knowledge,
collaboration, and local resources.
As the researchers note,
empowering women farmers also strengthens household welfare and food security.
Increased confidence and leadership among women contribute to long-term
resilience at the community level.
Voices from the research
According to I Gusti
Bagus Udayana of Universitas Warmadewa, the program shows that sustainable
farming is closely linked to social empowerment. He and his colleagues
emphasize that when women farmers are actively involved in planning and
implementation, “technology adoption becomes faster and more sustainable because
it grows from real local needs and shared experience.”
Author Profile
- I Gusti Bagus Udayana, PhD
– Universitas Warmadewa, Indonesia. Expertise in community empowerment and
sustainable agriculture.
- Made Sri Yuliartini, MSc
– Universitas Warmadewa. Specialist in agricultural extension and rural
development.
- Anak Agung Sagung Putri Risa
Andriani, MSc – Universitas Warmadewa. Focus on
horticulture and community-based farming systems.
- Ni Luh Putu Sulis Dewi Damayanti, MSc
– Universitas Warmadewa. Expertise in organic agriculture.
- Ni Kadek Desy Andya Dewi, MSc
– Universitas Warmadewa. Focus on women farmers and local resource
management.
- Sii Khairiyah binti Mohd. Hatta, PhD
– Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia. Specialist in community
development.
- Aida Firdaus, PhD
– Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia. Expertise in sustainable food
systems.
- Kadek Nandika Aryantha Satya, MSc
– Universitas Warmadewa. Agricultural technology and training.
- I Made Rhagyil Nandhikesvara, MSc
– Universitas Warmadewa. Agroecology and soil management.
- I Komang Suwedi, MSc – West Kintamani Plantation Management Agency. Regional agricultural development.
Source
Udayana, I. G. B., Yuliartini, M. S., Andriani, A. A. S. P. R., dkk. “Community Empowerment through Intercropping of Roselle and Green Mustard in Mekar Wijaya Kusuma Women Farmers Group.” Asian Journal of Community Services, Vol. 5 No. 1, 2026.hlm. 9-18
DOI: https://doi.org/10.55927/ajcs.v5i1.542
URL: https://journal.formosapublisher.org/index.php/ajcs
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