Agriculture

THIS IS HOW WE DO IT

Agriculture

Revolutionizing Agriculture Through Innovation and Sustainability
ADRA stands at the forefront of sustainable agriculture and climate-smart practices, empowering smallholder farmers across diverse regions to unlock their full potential. Through a fusion of innovation and sustainability, ADRA’s Agricultural Technical Support enhances crop yields, improves livestock performance, and strengthens livelihoods. Our comprehensive approach incorporates cutting-edge techniques like permagardens, conservation agriculture, and fisheries, while also promoting best practices in horticulture and forestry. Every seed planted, every field cultivated is not just feeding communities—it is building lasting prosperity and resilience.

Empowering Farmers Through Dynamic Learning Models

ADRA’s revolutionary approach to agriculture is centered on empowering farmers with hands-on, transformative learning experiences. Through our Farmer Field Schools (FFS) and Farmer Market Schools (FMS), smallholder farmers receive training in sustainable agricultural practices, market-oriented production, and essential business skills. Our innovative Lead Farmer and Farmer-to-Farmer Model enables peer-to-peer learning and community-driven development, as seen in Madagascar, where 88 Lead Farmers have evolved into Private Service Providers, delivering expert agricultural solutions. These community-based models bring field trials and breakthrough innovations directly to farmers, while Community Animal Health Workers, including 34 newly trained livestock agents, ensure that animal health is supported from the grassroots level.

Building Resilient Food Systems

At ADRA, food security is foundational to sustainable livelihoods. We champion productive, equitable, and resilient food systems through a partnership-driven approach that addresses the entire food chain. From increasing the availability of crops and improving access to markets to ensuring the utilization and stability of food resources, ADRA employs tailored strategies to deliver measurable, long-term impact. By establishing Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) and market systems development, we improve financial access, promote savings discipline, and enhance the economic resilience of rural communities.

Climate Adaptation: Pioneering Resilient Agricultural Solutions

ADRA’s climate adaptation efforts span continents, delivering agricultural innovations that are transforming the way farmers respond to climate challenges. In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), ADRA promotes climate-smart practices such as composting and the use of disease-resistant crops, while in Honduras, we introduce drought-resistant crops and advanced irrigation systems to optimize water usage and boost food security. Our climate-resilient development work extends to countries like Madagascar, Zambia, Sudan, Zimbabwe, Ghana, Uganda, and Mozambique, driving sustainable agricultural growth and ecosystem protection.

Evidence-Based Innovation for Global Impact

ADRA’s approach is driven by evidence-based methodologies that ensure success is backed by data and local insights. Through the field school model, farmers and pastoralists become their own experts, testing new practices and scaling up proven solutions. These piloted innovations ensure that agricultural advancements are not only effective but also sustainable and adaptable to local contexts.

Harnessing Technology and Innovation

ADRA embraces cutting-edge technology to revolutionize agriculture and ecosystem protection. From utilizing Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in Mozambique to applying Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping across Africa, our programs enhance disaster risk management, improve agricultural productivity, and drive climate-smart solutions. ADRA is also exploring innovative funding mechanisms, such as carbon credit markets, while building capacity to access multi-donor stewardship funds, further advancing our global impact.

Global Leadership in Climate-Resilient Agriculture
With over 90% of ADRA offices integrating climate change as a strategic priority, our work directly supports the achievement of key global targets, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). ADRA’s projects contribute to SDG 2 (ending hunger through sustainable agriculture), SDG 13 (climate action), and SDG 15 (ecosystem protection), helping communities worldwide thrive in harmony with nature. By employing the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)’s nature-based solutions framework, we enhance community resilience, ecosystem services, and human well-being.

Partnering for Global Impact

ADRA works with bilateral and multilateral donors—including USAID, EU, FCDO, GAC, CFGB, BMZ, DEFAT/Australia, the World Bank, and UN agencies—to implement scalable, climate-smart agricultural programs that create measurable benefits for communities. Guided by a 5-year strategic framework aligned with the Paris Agreement and the Sendai Framework, ADRA actively supports global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve carbon sequestration, and champion environmental stewardship.

In 2020 alone, ADRA’s climate-focused initiatives impacted over 800,000 people across 60 countries, advancing a future where communities thrive, food systems are resilient, and ecosystems are protected. Our commitment to global environmental responsibility continues to drive sustainable development in over 100 countries, building a more secure and prosperous world for generations to come.

GLOBAL IMPACT

Where We Work

Discover the incredible impact ADRA has across the world! With a presence in over 120 countries, ADRA brings new hope and positive change to countless communities in need. From disaster relief to long-term sustainable development projects, ADRA’s commitment to making a difference has inspired many to join in their efforts to create a better world. Through perseverance and compassion, ADRA has touched the lives of so many and continues to inspire us all to work towards a brighter future. Together we can make a difference.

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