The acquisition of a 600-watt Port Power Station by the Tree Kangaroo Conservation Program (TKCP) is predicted to enhance operational capabilities for Conservation Liaison Officers and Rangers on patrols.
Dillian Nason, TKCP’s Research and Monitoring Coordinator, said the far-reaching benefits of this new equipment play a pivotal role in ensuring data consistency, a critical aspect for the success of the SMART (Spatial Monitoring and Reporting Tool) program.
“This equipment marks a significant leap forward for TKCP’s conservation and research efforts. It prolongs the lifespan of field equipment, enabling extended data collection periods, which is vital for scientific research,” said Nason.
The Port Power Station ensures a reliable power source for phones, laptops, devices like Blackview, cameras, and various tools used by Conservation Liaison Officers.
Previously, TKCP used Goal Zero stations, but it was too costly and depended on other power sources. TKCP then relied on solar-generated power to charge essential devices and allowed officers to operate in remote or off-grid locations where there was no traditional power source.
However, TKCP experienced operational delays and that hindered the efficiency of their conservation efforts. Hence with the aquisition of the 600-watt port power station, TKCP aims to continue its efforts towards the conservation of tree kangeroos.
Tree Kangaroo Conservation Program Associate Director, Modi Pontio says the conservation program is committed to the long-term survival of tree kangaroos and their habitats.
“We work towards achieving this through research, community engagement, habitat protection, and conservation education. We envision a future where tree kangaroos thrive in the wild. And their habitats are protected and well-managed. Our aim is to achieve this by fostering a sustainable coexistence between communities and wildlife. Ensuring the preservation of biodiversity and ecosystem health”, Pontio explains.
“We must start talking about increasing the number of coffee bags instead of the price of coffee bags,” said Yayuna.
These coffee farmers, however, have faced challenges that have led to their reluctance in participating in coffee production.
These challenges primarily revolve around the mode of transportation in particular the airline services to airlift coffee bags and the lack of market demand that is affecting the sale of coffee. Another challenge is the fluctuations in coffee prices at the world market that deters farmers’ interest in coffee production.
Tree Kangaroo Conservation Program Livelihood Coordinator, Sharon Erick, says the coffee production records from 2020 to 2022 reveal an impressive trajectory of progress. In 2020, 25,500 kilograms of parchment were sold, fetching a revenue of K114, 404.40.
The following year, due to the adverse impacts of Covid-19 and flight restrictions within the NCA, production experienced a drop, with 11,850 kilograms of parchment sold for K89, 901.00. However, 2022 marked a resounding comeback, as 23,400 kilograms of parchment were sold, generating an income of K118, 245.12.
This upswing demonstrates the resilience and adaptability of YUS coffee farmers in the face of adversity. To address these issues and reignite the interest of coffee farmers in the area, The Tree Kangaroo Conservation Program (TKCP) has implemented several key initiatives.
TKCP provided training to coffee farmers to help them better understand the intricacies of the coffee supply chain. This training aims to improve their knowledge of the entire process, from farming to export.
In addition to supply chain training, financial literacy programs have been conducted for coffee farmers. These programs empower farmers with essential financial skills, enabling them to manage their resources effectively.
Farmers have collectively developed a coffee calendar to streamline the logistical process. This calendar helps farmers delegate their roles and responsibilities while providing a clear timeline for various tasks, including TKCP’s involvement.
Farmers have agreed to set specific coffee production targets for the year. One initiative TKCP has implement to revive coffee production is YUS Conservation coffee co-operative planning workshops that are run prior to coffee production.
One major advancement to facilitate these payments is the establishment of a MiBank agent in the YUS Conservation Area.
This development not only ensures the timely and secure payment of farmers but also addresses the safety concerns associated with officers carrying cash to the field. Pontio emphasizes that this process helps minimize risks and ensures timely payments, enabling parents to cover their children’s school fees at the beginning of the academic year and during festive seasons. Furthermore, the MiBank agent who is currently at YUS conservation is opening individual accounts with the bank.
This significant development of the MiBank agent was made possible through the support of the Lukautim Graun Program, funded by USAID. These initiatives and the establishment of the MiBank agent mark important steps towards revitalizing coffee farming in the YUS Conservation Area, addressing safety, and ultimately benefiting the livelihoods of the local farmers and eventually contributes to the sustainability of the program.
The heart of this success story lies in the vast expanse of YUS coffee farming communities. A staggering total of 117,800 coffee trees thrive across the area, sustained by the nurturing hands of the dedicated farmers. These trees are spread over 42.5 hectares of prime coffee farming land, a testament to the dedication and passion of the community.
The YUS Conservation Area has witnessed a remarkable transformation, with its coffee industry emerging as a beacon of success and sustainability.
The unwavering spirit of 512 coffee farmers, combined with strategic partnerships and a commitment to quality, has propelled this region into the global spotlight.
As the aroma of YUS coffee wafts through markets far and wide, it carries with it the story of a community that dared to dream big and succeeded in turning those dreams into reality.
