Lao People's Democratic Republic
MicrofinanceProvide Microfinance to Disadvantaged Laos Farmers
Provide Microfinance to Disadvantaged Laos Farmers
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From the farmer
This farmer wants to create an income from agriculture, but he needs help. Long ago his land was cleared for timber and it has since been sitting idle and bare. He would like to plant Jatropha Curas and a productive rice paddy, and ensure a stable future for his family.
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A new member
Tit Phua is one of SEDA's newest members. He has a 2-year-old plantation that he started himself. SEDA will provide information and growing education to this farmer so that his first income-generating harvest is successful. We will ensure he receives a fair price for his seeds.
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Growing gains
Farmers working with SEDA have already planted out 150 Jatropha Curas seedlings since this project started in late 2007. With your support, we aim to have 9000 acres planted with Jatropha by the end of 2009 - that's almost one million trees!
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The tree of choice
This Jatropha Curas tree is part of a member plantation in Vientiane Province. It's about 2 years old and has already produced two small seed harvests. By its third year it will have produced enough seeds to be harvested for the growing bio-energy market.
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The good oil
SEDA has been collecting Jatropha Curas seeds from different parts of the world to find out which trees produce the best oil. Each farmer will be guided by SEDA and a team of specialists to make sure what we know is passed on to the farmers too.
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Going strong
Jatropha Curas was initally discovered growing naturally in villages in Vientiane Province. The local soil has been tested and determined perfect for this species, which means that crops are guaranteed to thrive.
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Materials for market
This farmer has been harvesting herb plants for market, which earns him less than 3 cents/lbs - he can barely feed his family. By planting Jatrapha Curas, he can sell the seed for 25 cents/lbs. When combined with the sale of traditional herbs, this will earn him a more stable income.
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Water for life
Utilizing natural resources is the key to a successful project. Using an eco-friendly design, this stream will be used to create a fish pond, irrigation and clean, accessible water for the village. This will also ensure ongoing irrigation of Jatropha crops and a successful crop.
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Inter-cropping is the key
Inter-copping is essential for agricultural development in Laos. Bio-enery is just one component. Areas must also be dedicated to food, such as rice paddies, and other income generating crops, like traditional herbs.
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Jatropha field
A farmer inspects her Jatropha field which was planted with SEDA's assistance.
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SEDA
Photo from Progress Report 'A Postcard from Provide Microfinance to Disadvantaged Laos Farmers'
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Provide Microfinance to Disadvantaged Laos Farmers
Photo from Progress Report 'SEDA Provides Disadvantaged Farmers in Rural Laos with Seedlings and Training'
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Tit Phua in his Jatropha plantation
Photo from Progress Report 'Meet SEDA's newest member'
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Mai would like to work with SEDA to expand her weaving business
Photo from Progress Report 'The Jatropha project is underway!'
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