champs écoles paysans in Tchad: empowering farmers for sustainable harvests
Farmers in the Guéra region of Tchad are transforming their agricultural practices through champs écoles paysans (CEP), a community-driven initiative designed to enhance food security. These farmer field schools provide hands-on training in sustainable soil management and crop diversification, helping producers boost their yields while adapting to climate challenges.
how farmer field schools are reshaping tchadian agriculture
The Nachbo project—meaning “we will be satisfied” in Arabic—implements CEP across multiple villages in Tchad. Through this initiative, farmers learn tailored technical itineraries that optimize productivity while combating food insecurity. The five-month CEP cycle runs from the start of the year until late June, aligning with the rainy season and providing critical support during planting.
Key benefits observed include:
- increased crop yields through improved farming techniques
- enhanced soil health with sustainable management practices
- better adaptation to climate change by adopting resilient agricultural methods
voices from the ground: farmers and experts share insights
Etienne Djedangombaye, Tchad country director for SOS Sahel, emphasizes the project’s role in reviving traditional knowledge while introducing modern sustainable practices. Younous Mahadjir, a community animator with the NGO Nagdaro in Bitkine, Guéra, highlights the practical impact: “Farmers are not just learning—they’re applying these techniques to secure their food supply and livelihoods.”
sustainable agriculture in the face of climate challenges
The CEP model serves as a vital tool for Tchad‘s agricultural sector, particularly in regions like Guéra where food security remains a pressing concern. By equipping farmers with adaptive strategies, the project helps mitigate the effects of erratic rainfall and soil degradation, ensuring more stable harvests for rural communities.
Through community-led learning and practical application, champs écoles paysans are fostering a new generation of resilient farmers in Tchad, paving the way for long-term food security and economic stability.