Empowering communities through sustainable rice cultivation: Walk the Talk Association’s training program

The Walk the Talk Association in collaboration with the Taiwanese Technical Mission and the National Agricultural Research Institute, is in full swing with the second phase of its monthly rice cultivation training program.

This initiative designed to equip local farmers with essential skills and knowledge, is making a tangible impact on rural communities across the Rigo District.

The current training session is being attended by 14 enthusiastic participants from a wide range of villages, including those from Rigo Central, Rigo North, Rigo East, and Rigo Coast LLGs.

These villages include Sivitatana, Bore, Saroakeina, Imuagoro, Saroa, Girobara, Kwalimurubu, Riwali, Gabone, Kalo, and Kamali.

The training program aims to teach the art and science of rice cultivation, beginning with the preparation of rice plots and progressing to the planting process.

On the third day of training, the participants took to the field with great energy and enthusiasm to execute the essential skills learned to prepare a rice plot effectively, followed by the practical task of planting a 30m-by-30m rice plot.

The ease with which the participants took to this hands-on task reflects the growing confidence and skill they are gaining through the training.

The Walk the Talk Association’s president Vera Raga said the approach focuses on both theoretical learning and practical demonstrations, ensuring that participants leave the training center with real-world applications they can use back in their villages.

“The methods and practices taught at the Training Centre in Laloki are directly transferable to local farming operations, allowing the participants to implement what they've learned in their home communities,” he said.

“This combination of classroom instruction and fieldwork is key to driving sustainable agricultural practices in the region. TWTTA’s mission is to transform traditional food production practices and promote sustainable living and economic empowerment.”

He said by training local farmers in modern, environmentally friendly farming techniques, the association is looking to boost food security, create new economic opportunities, and foster long-term sustainability in rural areas.

“Through this initiative, the association is helping local farmers transition from conventional methods to more efficient, sustainable agricultural practices that can help improve both the quality and quantity of rice production.

The commitment of the association in partnership with the Taiwanese Technical Mission and NARI, is helping to drive meaningful change in local farming communities, ultimately contributing to the broader goal of sustainable development.