A strategic collaboration between the CGIAR Initiative on Sustainable Animal Productivity (SAPLING) and the Agricultural Service Centre (ASC) in Mai Son District, Vietnam, is driving significant changes in agricultural practices. Focused on sustainable livestock production, this partnership seeks to empower farmers with the skills, tools, and techniques required to balance productivity with environmental stewardship. The initiative addresses not only agricultural productivity but also the growing environmental challenges associated with traditional farming methods. Through a series of specialized training programs, the initiative is transforming Mai Son’s agricultural landscape into a model of sustainable development.
Collaboration for Sustainability
The highlands of northwest Vietnam present both opportunities and challenges for farmers engaged in livestock production. On one hand, the region’s natural resources provide ample potential for livestock farming; however, over time, practices such as improper manure management, overgrazing, and soil erosion have threatened both productivity and environmental health. In response to these challenges, SAPLING and ASC have joined forces to introduce more sustainable farming methods.
Pooling technical expertise and resources, SAPLING and ASC launched a series of farmer training sessions between June 11 and June 22, 2024. These sessions were designed to address the most pressing issues in livestock farming while providing practical solutions for farmers. The training programs focused on critical aspects such as feed preparation, forage techniques, manure composting, and animal health, ensuring that participants left equipped with actionable knowledge.
Focus on Key Practices
One of the highlights of the training initiative was the emphasis on silage preparation, which plays a pivotal role in improving livestock nutrition, particularly during the dry season when fresh forage is scarce. Farmers were guided through hands-on sessions in which they learned how to select, prepare, and store silage, ensuring year-round access to high-quality animal feed. In addition, the training covered forage planting strategies that can enhance both productivity and environmental resilience.
Composting and manure management were also central topics during the training sessions. Farmers were shown how to convert livestock waste into organic fertilizer, reducing environmental pollution while enriching their soil. These techniques help prevent harmful runoff and contribute to sustainable crop-livestock integration, where farm waste serves as a valuable resource rather than a liability.
Beyond improving yields, the initiative addressed animal health management, equipping farmers with the knowledge needed to detect and treat common diseases early. This aspect of the program is crucial not only for enhancing productivity but also for reducing economic losses caused by livestock illnesses.
Scaling Success and Expanding Impact
The success of the training programs has exceeded initial expectations. A total of 34 sessions were conducted, with nearly 1,200 farmers participating, about 35% of whom were women. The participation of female farmers highlights the program’s commitment to inclusivity, recognizing the essential role women play in the agricultural sector. The adoption of sustainable practices by these farmers has already led to noticeable improvements in productivity, with many participants reporting better livestock performance and reduced environmental issues on their farms.
The collaboration between SAPLING and ASC aims to create a model of sustainable agriculture that can be replicated across other communes in Son La province and beyond. Recognizing the potential for broader impact, ASC has recommended scaling the initiative to reach more farmers. This expansion will require additional resources, including more training materials and continued follow-up support to ensure the adoption of new practices.
Building Environmental Awareness
The training programs not only focus on improving livestock productivity but also emphasize the environmental benefits of sustainable farming. By planting forages strategically, farmers can prevent soil erosion and improve soil health, contributing to the long-term sustainability of their farms. Proper manure management, a core component of the program, helps minimize pollution and reduce the carbon footprint of livestock production.
Through these environmentally conscious practices, farmers are becoming active participants in the district’s broader environmental goals. The program encourages a shift from traditional farming methods to practices that not only yield better results but also align with efforts to combat climate change and protect natural resources.
Reporting Progress and Ensuring Continued Support
To formalize the progress made through the initiative, ASC submitted an official report to the Mai Son People’s Committee on June 30, 2024. The report outlines the outcomes of the training sessions, highlighting the significant adoption of sustainable practices among local farmers. It also emphasizes the importance of ongoing collaboration between SAPLING, ASC, and government stakeholders to maintain momentum and secure the resources needed for future training and support.
The report identifies key recommendations for scaling the program across other areas. It suggests increasing investment in training materials and infrastructure while also providing continuous technical support to farmers. The ASC also proposes that government authorities consider incorporating the program’s principles into local agricultural policies, ensuring that sustainable livestock production becomes a standard practice in the region.
A Model for the Future
The partnership between SAPLING and ASC exemplifies how strategic co-investment can transform agricultural practices. By providing farmers with practical training and ongoing support, the initiative has laid a strong foundation for sustainable livestock production in Mai Son District. The lessons learned from this collaboration serve as a blueprint for other districts and provinces looking to adopt more environmentally friendly and productive farming practices.
The success of the program extends beyond individual farmers to benefit the entire community. As farmers adopt sustainable techniques, they not only improve their own livelihoods but also contribute to the district’s environmental and economic resilience. This integrated approach to agriculture ensures that future generations can continue to farm productively while preserving the natural resources that sustain them.
Looking Ahead
With the positive outcomes achieved so far, SAPLING and ASC are committed to expanding the program and reaching even more farmers in the region. The partners recognize that long-term success depends on continuous learning, adaptation, and collaboration. Plans are already underway to conduct additional training sessions and develop new materials tailored to the evolving needs of farmers.
Continued support from local authorities, including the Mai Son People’s Committee, will be essential in scaling the initiative and maintaining its impact. By fostering a culture of sustainable farming, the district can position itself as a leader in agricultural innovation, setting an example for other regions in Vietnam and beyond.
The collaboration between SAPLING, ASC, and local farmers offers a powerful example of how agriculture can evolve to meet modern challenges. Through a combination of knowledge-sharing, practical training, and environmental stewardship, the initiative is helping to create a more sustainable and prosperous future for Mai Son District. This model of sustainable livestock production, rooted in community engagement and co-investment, serves as a beacon of hope for regions facing similar agricultural challenges worldwide.
