Government Recognition of Mardika Imanuel

Since 2009, Institut Leimena has supported 44 farmer families in two villages in Kupang, Nusa Tenggara Timur (NTT). “Mardika Imanuel” farmer group in Oeteta village and “Kanaan” farmer group in Manusak village have enjoyed 5 corn harvest seasons. Dry season is no longer a disaster in these two villages.

Institut Leimena is grateful that the “Mardika Imanuel” farmer group in Oeteta village has been officially registered by the local government on December 14th, 2010. The registration process started with a hearing by the Oeteta Village government officials and all the members of farmer groups in that village on August 6th, 2010. The hearing then decided that the “Mardika Imanuel” farmer group was eligible to receive corn seeds assistance from the Food Crop Agency at the Kupang Regency.

“Mardika Imanuel” farmer group was also approved for official registration at the village government. Therefore, the village government issued the letter of decree, signed by the Village Head and witnessed by other farmer groups, Sub-Regency Head, and Agricultural Extension officials.

Benefits for registered farmer group include:

• Recognition by the village community and other farmer groups.

• Recognition by the sub-regency and regency government.

• Attention by the Agricultural Extension Office at local government. Registered group will also be included in government programs, such as training and assintance on seeds and fertilizer.

We hope that one day all farmer groups in all villages in Indonesia will be registered by the local government, so that they too can receive support from the state. Greetings from Oeteta village!