Organic farming is a low cost production system that relies onecological processes, biodiversity and cycles adapted to local conditions,rather than the use of high cost inputs (synthetic fertilizers and syntheticpesticides) that have long term adverse effects. It combines tradition,innovation and science to benefit the shared environment and promote fairrelationships and a good quality of life for all those involved by emphasizingthe production of environmentally-friendly goods (organic products). Thisinnovation aims at utilizing the rich supply of locally available manure,macro- and micro-biofertilizers like earthworms, rhizobia, mycorhiza fungi andtrichorderma fungi among others in SME. This will promote an environmentallysound, socially acceptable and economically rewarding food production method,thus ensuring conservation of agricultural biodiversity, which is essential forfood security, and sustainable agricultural development in the area.

The validation process used participatory tools and techniquesdeveloped through stakeholder consultations. The local communities living inthe wet region, farmers, agricultural officers, the hotel industry and cropproducts traders are the expected beneficiaries of this innovation.

The introduction of soil and water management practice is aworthwhile livelihood diversification strategy. It is highly adoptable byfarmers because it does not involve use of expensive agricultural inputs. Thepractice can be used by all gender categories, but particularly addresses thecontext of women farmers, who are responsible for most household farmproduction activities. Innovation enhances agricultural production directlybolstering food security in households. 

The technology is gender sensitive sinceorganic farming is practiced and managed by both male and female famers.

El-Hage Scialabba, N. and C. Hattam (eds.) Organic agriculture,environment and food security. Environment and Natural Resource Series No. 4.FAO. Rome.