First Corn, Now Cows

Without realizing, the Citizen Economic Empowerment program conducted by Institut Leimena in East Nusa Tenggara has entered its third year. The members of the two farming groups that were developed in Manusak Village and Oeteta Village continue their agricultural efforts in the form of corn planting and other horticultural crops. A change in character and work ethics can be seen from the initiatives and awareness to working hard displayed by members of these groups.

In 2011, 20 members from the farming group “Canaan” of Manusak village and farming group “Mardika Imanuel” from Desa Oeteta worked on a land of 3.6 ha for the planting of corn for 2-3 times. They planted various types of corn. In addition, they also took the initiative to grow vegetables such as eggplant, lombok, cabbage, kangkung and many others. The yield from the farm was enough to satisfy the needs of the families and part of the crops were sold to supplement family income.

Since the lands of the farmers are relatively small, the crop yield is mainly meant to sustain the needs of the family. Thus to build economic independence for the farming family, starting 30th November 2011, Institut Leimena developed a program for the fattening and breeding of cows, especially in Manusak Village. Nine families participated in this follow up course. Starting aid of 9 females for breeding and 9 bulls for fattening were given to members of the “Canaan” farming group. The fattening process will last 6-8 months, and later sold for extra income. As for the breeding process, postpartum, the cow will be rolled over to a new farmer. This way, every farmer is able to have his own cattle to grow. They are very excited and enthusiastic about the program. Santhy Chamdra of Institut Leimena will conduct regular visits to supervise and guide. With help and assistance in the field, the farmers are expected to keep growing and contribute to the community around them.