Empowering Young Farmers: Dinesh Roshan Peiris’ Success Story
# Smallholder Agribusiness Partnerships

Empowering Young Farmers: Dinesh Roshan Peiris' Success Story

In the heart of Wellawaya, in the village of Handapanagala, a young agripreneur named Dinesh Roshan Peiris is making waves in sustainable farming. Through the Smallholder Agribusiness Partnerships Program (SAPP) Youth Entrepreneurs Development Program, Dinesh obtained a loan of LKR 2 million, which became the foundation of his agricultural success.

With a vision for efficient and profitable farming, he strategically divided his cultivation into two acres. One acre is dedicated to pest-resistant net-covered farming, ensuring high-yield, quality crops with minimal pesticide use. The second acre is open-field cultivation, allowing him to diversify his crops and optimize his harvests. His efforts have yielded impressive results, generating a monthly income exceeding LKR 100,000.

Beyond cultivation, Dinesh has taken proactive steps to safeguard his investment. Utilizing the matching grant provided through the program, he constructed an electric fence covering two acres. This innovative approach has significantly reduced crop losses caused by wild animals, enhancing both productivity and profitability.

Beyond cultivation, Dinesh has taken proactive steps to safeguard his investment. Utilizing the matching grant provided through the program, he constructed an electric fence covering two acres. This innovative approach has significantly reduced crop losses caused by wild animals, enhancing both productivity and profitability.

Beyond cultivation, Dinesh has taken proactive steps to safeguard his investment. Utilizing the matching grant provided through the program, he constructed an electric fence covering two acres. This innovative approach has significantly reduced crop losses caused by wild animals, enhancing both productivity and profitability.

Awareness Creation Programme on Social Mobilization
# Smallholder Agribusiness Partnerships

Awareness Creation Programme on Social Mobilization

Awareness Creation Programme on Social Mobilization

To work out the vision of the newly appointed Program Director, Mr. P. B. Dayarathne, the Smallholder Agribusiness Partnerships Programme (SAPP) successfully conducted a two-day workshop on Social mobilization for Value Chain Mobilizers of the programme. This workshop, held at Rathnasiri Wickramanayake National Training Center – Hanthana, Kandy on the 5th and 6th of September 2024,  was a key initiative aimed at fostering deeper engagement and understanding of social mobilization practices among the participants, who play a pivotal role in the value chain development projects implemented by SAPP.
The workshop’s primary focus was to enhance the participants’ knowledge of various social mobilization techniques and explore their practical application within the framework of value chain development. By doing so, the workshop sought to empower the mobilizers with the necessary tools and strategies to foster stronger community involvement and sustainable growth in the agricultural value chains they work with.
The attendees participated in dynamic and interactive sessions, including group discussions, case studies, and practical exercises throughout the two days. These activities were designed to promote collaboration and enable the participants to apply social mobilization concepts to real-life scenarios, ensuring a hands-on learning experience. The workshop also provided a platform for participants to exchange ideas and best practices, fostering a sense of community and shared purposes among the mobilizers.
Sustainable Water Management in Agriculture: SAPP’s Commitment to a Brighter Future.
# Smallholder Agribusiness Partnerships

Sustainable Water Management in Agriculture: SAPP's Commitment to a Brighter Future.

Water is life; water is food – two undeniable truths that underscore the fundamental importance of water in agriculture. The Smallholder Agribusiness Partnerships Program (SAPP) recognizes the vital role water plays in agriculture and is dedicated to harnessing this resource efficiently for the benefit of everyone involved. In the pursuit of sustainable agriculture, SAPP has initiated various off-farm projects in selected districts where water is the lifeblood of agricultural activities. These initiatives not only optimize water usage but also promote responsible water management, safeguarding this precious resource for future generations.

Off-Farm Water Management Initiatives:  

SAPP – the Smallholder Agribusiness Partnerships Program, is committed to supporting off-farm development projects that contribute to sustainable agriculture and the well-being of rural communities. To achieve this goal, SAPP offers financial assistance of up to 10 million Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR) for selected off-farm development initiatives.

This significant financial support serves as a crucial resource for local farmers and community members who are looking to undertake projects aimed at improving water management, infrastructure development, and various other endeavors that enhance agricultural practices and livelihoods

SAPP’s funding for off-farm development projects not only facilitates the efficient use of water resources but also contributes to the overall growth and sustainability of agriculture in the selected districts. It underscores SAPP’s commitment to fostering innovation, environmental stewardship, and economic prosperity within the agricultural sector while leaving no one behind.

SAPP has undertaken substantial off-farm water development activities to support farmers in rural areas. These efforts include the renovation and construction of canals, water lines, tanks, and anicuts. These infrastructure improvements not only facilitate proper irrigation but also protect against water wastage and contamination, benefiting local communities.   – For instance, the Dimbulagala seed paddy cultivation project witnessed the development of two water canals, improving water access.

   – Gonagala turmeric project beneficiaries received sub-distribution water lines, enhancing water availability for their crops.

   – The SAPP-Meliban plenty food project led to the development of the Huruluwewa FC6 canal and the introduction of cannels like Thambuththegama D1-FC8,9, and SD2 sub-distribution water canals.

Through SAPP’s support, young entrepreneurs like Mrs. Sanjeewani are able to access the resources and knowledge they need to succeed in agriculture. As a result, they are not only empowering themselves but also encouraging their communities to adopt sustainable farming practices and embrace innovative technologies.

Today, Hiruni is a successful farmer and entrepreneur. Thanks to the support of SAPP and the Green Veg Exports Greenhouse Cultivation Youth Project, Hiruni was able to turn her passion for agriculture into a successful business. Her story is a testament to the power of education, training, and entrepreneurship in transforming the lives of rural smallholders.

Drip Irrigation and Sprinkler Systems : 

One of SAPP’s flagship initiatives is the introduction of modern irrigation methods like drip irrigation and sprinkler systems. These technologies enable farmers to water their crops more efficiently, minimizing wastage and maximizing the benefits of every drop. By using these systems, water is delivered directly to the root zone, reducing evaporation and ensuring that plants receive the precise amount of moisture they need for optimal growth.

Poly Mulch for Soil Moisture Retention and conservation of water

SAPP encourages the use of poly mulch, a technique that involves covering the soil with plastic sheets. This simple yet effective method reduces water waste, soil moisture evaporation, enhances temperature regulation, and ultimately conserves water. It is especially beneficial for crops that require consistent soil moisture levels for healthy growth.

Rainwater Harvesting: Recognizing the significance of rainwater, SAPP has introduced rainwater harvesting systems, particularly for greenhouse projects. Farmers are now using water ponds to capture and store rainwater, ensuring a readily available and sustainable source of irrigation for their crops.

 

Wastewater Management : SAPP understands the importance of responsible wastewater management to prevent land pollution and protect water quality. Through cross-cutting training programs, farmers are educated on best practices for controlling drains and terraces. This proactive approach not only safeguards water resources but also contributes to a cleaner environment.

Promotion of Water-Efficient Crops:

‘’Our community has a long history of paddy cultivation, but it became increasingly apparent that this practice demanded an extensive amount of water, a resource that was not readily available in our region. However, everything changed for the better when we embraced the Smallholder Agribusiness Partnerships Program’s (SAPP) groundnut project. This transformational shift opened our eyes to the fact that groundnut cultivation required significantly less water than paddy farming.

SAPP recognizes that traditional paddy cultivation can be water-intensive. To address this, SAPP introduced groundnut cultivation for dry areas, a crop that requires significantly less water. This diversification allows farmers to reduce their reliance on water during the Yala season, thereby mitigating water scarcity issues.

In conclusion, the Smallholder Agribusiness Partnerships Program (SAPP) is committed to ensuring that water resources are used efficiently and responsibly in agriculture. By implementing innovative technologies, promoting sustainable practices, and supporting off-farm water infrastructure development, SAPP is not only securing the future of agriculture but also benefiting rural communities and the environment. SAPP’s holistic approach to water management demonstrates that water is indeed life, and through responsible stewardship, it can continue to nourish both the land and the people who depend on it. Leave no one behind – a motto that reflects SAPP’s dedication to a brighter and more sustainable agricultural future for all.

From Rural Roots to Technological Triumph: Empowering Young Greenhouse Farmers in Sri Lanka
# Smallholder Agribusiness Partnerships

From Rural Roots to Technological Triumph: Empowering Young Greenhouse Farmers in Sri Lanka

Agriculture has always been an essential part of Sri Lanka’s economy, especially in rural areas. However, for young people in these areas, becoming an entrepreneur in agriculture can be a challenge due to a lack of access to financial resources and technological knowledge. This is where SAPP (Smallholder Agribusiness Partnership Programme) comes in to support and encourage youth to become entrepreneurs. Through SAPP, over 2,500 young entrepreneurs have been registered in youth projects, and the programme has provided startup financing for business plans, averaging USD 1000 in the form of start-up funds and credit facility up to Rs. 2 Million. For those with higher-value projects, SAPP considers funding requirements through 4P partners to ensure the success and sustainability of the project. One inspiring example of a young entrepreneur who has benefited from SAPP’s support is Mrs. Pradeepa Sanjeewani. With the help of SAPP, she challenged traditional gender stereotypes by empowering herself through strengthening financial capacity and decision-making skills. Today, she runs her own greenhouse farm and encourages other young people to adopt innovative farming methods. Mrs. Sanjeewani shared her experience, saying, “Earlier, I didn’t know about greenhouse farming methods & technology, and I used to stay at home and depend on my parents. In our patriarchal society, women are not seen as breadwinners for the family. Even if we start a business, we don’t know how to run it due to a lack of technological knowledge. But after SAPP’s intervention, I gained technological know-how and more knowledge to build my own financial capacity through greenhouse crops.” SAPP has identified major challenges for women in rural areas and has taken steps to empower them. In order to create sustainable agriculture and business, SAPP has identified labor-saving technology for women and girls in rural areas. As a result, most of the young female entrepreneurs in the Welimada area are practicing innovative technology for their crops.
Mrs. Sanjeewani also shared how technology has helped her save time and energy, saying, “I was able to save my time and energy because of the innovative technology and know-how. My friends are also impressed by my knowledge and dedication for greenhouse farming. As a young entrepreneur, I would like to encourage other girls to start their own farm because it’s easy to manage if we are aware of the farming and technology. Regardless of our gender, anybody can achieve sustainable income through innovative methods of farming. It gives more income than traditional farming methods. As an entrepreneur, I would like to encourage other youth entrepreneurs to start their own farm with new technology and know-how.” Through SAPP’s support, young entrepreneurs like Mrs. Sanjeewani are able to access the resources and knowledge they need to succeed in agriculture. As a result, they are not only empowering themselves but also encouraging their communities to adopt sustainable farming practices and embrace innovative technologies. Today, Hiruni is a successful farmer and entrepreneur. Thanks to the support of SAPP and the Green Veg Exports Greenhouse Cultivation Youth Project, Hiruni was able to turn her passion for agriculture into a successful business. Her story is a testament to the power of education, training, and entrepreneurship in transforming the lives of rural smallholders.
SAPP GreenVeg Collaboration colored my life in Green
# Smallholder Agribusiness Partnerships

SAPP GreenVeg Collaboration colored my life in Green

Hiruni, a 20-year-old girl from Abagasdowa,a small village in Sri Lanka, had always been interested in agriculture, but her parents wanted her to study commerce in school. After completing her Advanced Levels in commerce, Hiruni decided to pursue her passion for agriculture and started looking for opportunities in the field. That’s when she heard about the Small holder Agribusiness Partnership Programme (SAPP) and the Green Veg Exports Greenhouse Cultivation Youth Project. Hiruni was intrigued and decided to apply for the program. “As a girl and youth entrepreneur, I will be able to increase my income as well as my household income with the support of the SAPP program. Additionally, I aim to inspire young people in my village to persue a career in agriculture and start their own business.” – Hiruni Madhubhashini After going through a farmer-friendly selection process, Hiruni was selected to be a part of the program. She was provided with training in greenhouse cultivation, maintenance, and marketing. Hiruni was also given access to modern farming equipment, seeds, and fertilizers. With the support of SAPP and the Green Veg Exports Greenhouse Cultivation Youth Project, Hiruni started her own greenhouse cultivation business. She started growing bell peppers as the first crop.
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Hiruni’s hard work and dedication paid off as her crops started to achieve vegetative growth. She will be able to sell her vegetables at a premium price to local markets and also to the Green Veg Exports company, which exported the vegetables to international markets.

Today, Hiruni is a successful farmer and entrepreneur. Thanks to the support of SAPP and the Green Veg Exports Greenhouse Cultivation Youth Project, Hiruni was able to turn her passion for agriculture into a successful business. Her story is a testament to the power of education, training, and entrepreneurship in transforming the lives of rural smallholders.

Cultivating Success: Effective Time Management in Greenhouse Farming
# Smallholder Agribusiness Partnerships

Cultivating Success: Effective Time Management in Greenhouse Farming

The story of Mr. Janaka Manjula, a successful greenhouse farmer in Uva Paranagama, Sri Lanka, is a testament to the benefits of good time management in agriculture. With the help of the Smallholder Agribusiness Partnership programme (SAPP), Mr. Janaka has learned valuable lessons in managing his time and resources, which have contributed to his success. “It was because of the partnership built by the SAPP with public and private institutes that I was able to do everything from greenhouse construction to harvesting quickly and successfully. – Mr.Janaka Manjula” Uva Paranagama is a small village in the Badulla district of Sri Lanka, known for its fertile soil and lush green fields. Agriculture is the primary source of income for the villagers, and in recent years, the use of modern farming techniques and new technologies has led to significant growth in the agriculture sector. Mr. Janaka’s journey as a greenhouse farmer began as a novice, struggling to manage his time and resources effectively. One of Mr. Janaka’s biggest challenges was managing the various tasks involved in greenhouse farming. With so many activities to take care of, such as land preparation, construction, planting, watering, fertilizing, pest control, harvesting, packaging, and marketing, he often felt overwhelmed. However, with the help of SAPP, Mr. Janaka learned to prioritize his tasks and create a schedule that allowed him to work efficiently.
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By identifying critical activities, such as preparing the growing media and plant nurseries during greenhouse construction, which typically takes usual farmers 21-25 days for growing media preparation and 21 days for plant nurseries, Mr. Janaka was able to get his harvest 25 days earlier than usual after the construction of greenhouses. This allowed him to earn a revenue of Rs.514850.00 with a net profit of Rs.462610.00 during the first month of harvesting from the new greenhouses, which were constructed using the Rs.2 million credit facility provided by SAPP. Additionally, he invested in a drip irrigation system, which helped him save time and reduce the risks. With the implementation of these strategies, Mr. Janaka was able to efficiently manage his time and successfully expand his business by increasing the cultivation extent to 5000 square feet of greenhouses. He also hired a permanent employee for greenhouse maintenance, which allowed him to focus on other aspects of his business. He is now a role model for aspiring greenhouse farmers in Uva Paranagama, proving that with good time management, success in agriculture is achievable. With SAPP’s support, there is hope for the next generation of sustainable agricultural value chain leaders. Investing in the youth is the key to ensuring the future of agriculture in Sri Lanka. With the right support and resources, small holder agropreneurs like her can transform their lives and create a better future for themselves and their families.
Breaking the Mold: Sri Lanka’s Youth Leading the Way in Sustainable Agriculture
# Smallholder Agribusiness Partnerships

Breaking the Mold: Sri Lanka's Youth Leading the Way in Sustainable Agriculture

Investing in the youth is crucial for the future of agriculture. Sri Lanka, being an agrarian nation with a rich history of agriculture dating back over 2500 years, has seen the sector contribute significantly to the country’s GDP and poverty reduction efforts. However, one of the major challenges faced by the agricultural and agribusiness sector in Sri Lanka has been the low participation of youth, compounded by COVID-19 restrictions since March 2020.

Fortunately, the SAPP youth grant program has stepped in to fill this gap and create partnerships with public and private financial institutions, as well as with the support of the Ministry of Agriculture and the Sri Lankan government. This has provided greater access for youth in rural areas to achieve sustainable income.

Previously, many youth faced difficulties accessing financial support due to unstable income sources and lack of knowledge. However, with the SAPP initiative, they were able to learn how to apply for loan facilities with minimal interest rates from recognized banks in Sri Lanka. With the reasonable interest rates, they were able to scale up production, receive technological support, and gain market access. This has been a huge opportunity for youth to sustain their farming and business, as well as increase their profits.

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SAPP aims to facilitate youth in rural areas by building commercial partnerships, providing access to finance, improving technical know-how and financial literacy, introducing mechanization to agriculture, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Recently, SAPP signed an agreement with the National Youth Council to raise awareness about the SAPP youth grant program and YED facilities, which has had a major impact on Sri Lanka’s youth who are passionate about sustainable and profitable agricultural value chains.

With SAPP’s support, there is hope for the next generation of sustainable agricultural value chain leaders. Investing in the youth is the key to ensuring the future of agriculture in Sri Lanka.

With the right support and resources, small holder agropreneurs like her can transform their lives and create a better future for themselves and their families.

Success Stories of Entrepreneurs – Shiromee Damayanthi
# Smallholder Agribusiness Partnerships

Success Stories of Entrepreneurs - Shiromee Damayanthi

Shiromee Damayanthi was a hardworking woman who had been working in a garment factory for many years to support her family. However, her husband’s passion for farming and rearing buffalos always intrigued her. They had a small piece of land, but they didn’t have the resources to invest in their farm. “From a daily wage worker at a garment factory to a successful agri-business owner, the SAPP program has given me the opportunity to turn my dreams into reality and create a better future for myself and my family.” – Shiromee Damayanthi One day, while attending a SAPP awareness program, Shiromee learned about the opportunities and support available to small scale farmers through the program. She realized that this could be her chance to turn her family’s fortunes around. With the help of SAPP, Shiromee was selected to benefit from the smallholder agribusiness partnership program. She was provided with a credit facility of 1000000 to start her agribusiness. With the financial assistance and guidance provided by SAPP, Shiromee was able to resign from her job at the garment factory and start her own business. She decided to focus on curd production and branded her products under the name “Amaya .”
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Thanks to her hard work and dedication, Shiromee’s business flourished. She was able to save 2000 rupees daily in her bank account, which was a significant improvement compared to her previous job. Her products were in high demand, and she quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality curd. Shiromee’s success story is a testament to the impact that SAPP can have on smallholder farmers. Without the program’s support, she may have never been able to realize her dreams of becoming a successful agribusiness owner. The SAPP VCM, Mr. Anura, played a crucial role in identifying and supporting Shiromee throughout her journey. His guidance and support were invaluable in helping her achieve her goals. With the right support and resources, small holder agropreneurs like her can transform their lives and create a better future for themselves and their families.
SAPP commits to sustainable development goal no 05 – Gender equality
# Smallholder Agribusiness Partnerships

SAPP commits to sustainable development goal no 05 – Gender equality

Under the 2030 development agenda, the United Nations (UN) defined 17 global goals in 2015. In an understanding of our global needs, it vows to “leave no one behind.” Following the SDGs, SAPP conducted inclusive programs in Sri Lankan rural communities through the International Fund for Agricultural Development. Gender equality is a key component of SAPP’s women’s empowerment programs. It provides technology, know-how, financing, and decision-making leadership abilities to women and men in rural areas. By deconstructing traditional ideas regarding women, SAPP was able to assist young women in improving their livelihood options. She now runs her own business with the help of a youth funding program. “Hello, my name is Shanika, and I’m 30 years old. I wasn’t always a farmer. I started out working from home, but now I’m a thriving greenhouse bell pepper entrepreneur. I can simply work with labor-saving solutions thanks to the greenhouse technology and watering system. Watering the plants takes 30 minutes. Only one switch is required to water a green house. I’m leaving my children off at school and returning in 30 minutes. I am proud of myself as a woman. Currently, I am not reliant on my partner’s earnings. He also pushed me to create this company. I make a good living while also caring for my children and family members.” As a result of SAPP’s women’s empowerment training, many women, like Shanika, have been able to confront traditional gender norms. SAPP contributes to the SDGs through developing gender-equal and gender-sensitive projects in the community by giving empowering opportunities, know-how, and technology. Many women now work for themselves and provide a stable income for their families and communities. More than 300 youths currently participate in the SAPP greenhouse youth program, which has a vital market chain in Sri Lanka. People’s lives are made more sustainable by sustainable revenue sources. SAPP’s purpose is to make a tangible difference in the lives of rural women. Investing in women benefits their children, families, and communities as well. SAPP helps to achieve SDG 05 by empowering women in rural regions. It addresses patriarchal and systemic concerns of gender equality in order to ensure that rural women have access to profitable market possibilities. SAPP is also important in bridging decision-makers for policy execution. As a result, SAPP has a worldwide influence through contributing to SDG 5.

Contact Us

Address

Smallholder Agribusiness Partnerships
Programme (SAPP),
No.212/A,
Nawala Road, Rajagiriya,
Sri Lanka

Tel

+94 112 431 426

Fax

+94 112 431 345

Email

[email protected]

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SAPP Regional Offices

UVA Province

Mr. Chitrasena Vidanagamage
Regional Project Coordinator
Tel: 071 811 6152
Email: [email protected]
Address: SAPP Regional Office, Agrarian Service Center district office, Keppitipola Road, Badulla

Southern & Western Province

Mr. Sajith Samarasinghe
Regional Project Coordinator
Tel: 077 375 0881
Email: [email protected]
Address: Smallholder Agribusiness Partnership Programme, No. 212/A, Nawala Road, Rajagiriya

North Western Province

Mr. R. M. Gunarathna
Regional Project Coordinator
Tel: 077 329 5013
Email: [email protected]
Address: SAPP Regional Office, Provincial Department of Agriculture, Dambulla Road, Kurunegala

North Central Province

Mr. Thissa Pallekumbura
Regional Project Coordinator
Tel: 077 376 0028
Email: [email protected]
Address: SAPP Regional Office,Provincial Department of Agriculture,2nd Floor, Kada 12, Anuradhapura

Central & Sabaragamuwa Province

Mr. R. M. Gunarathna
Regional Project Coordinator
Tel: 077 329 5013
Email: [email protected]
Address: SAPP Regional Office, Department of Animal Production & Health, No.13, Peradeniya