Working in agriculture in Nicaragua within a development model requires that we select the right participants into our programs. Believe it or not, not every producer that we interact with wants the services and opportunities that Ministerio La Semilla presents. Many people are stuck in a lack of vision, and are not looking for solutions for them to develop themselves – economically, socially, nor spiritually. If there were things being given away, sure, they would be first in line, but the effort and «cost» of development – no thanks. Sustainable development starts with a vision and desire to improve!
Thankfully though, we meet many producers who do believe in a better future for themselves and their families, and will take active steps to make changes. Over the years and growing seasons that we have worked in Nicaragua, we have continually defined our programs and the manner in which we make them available for the producers here in Carazo. The core of our programs is application of new agricultural technologies, which takes place through various mediums: quality seed, technical assistance, access to credit & mechanical services, to name a few. Beginning in 2017, we have divided our producers into different groups based on the experiences we have had with each individual. Each group has access to different aspects of the programs, which in a sense, is reward for past performance. This has allowed each of our ministry team the ability to easily advise and decide on the extent of involvement that the ministry will have with each producer.
I am happy to report that we have 25 producers in our primer group, producers that have access to all the services we provide, including credit up to their potential as determined by our team of agronomists! This is great news! These 25 are influencers. Most are leaders in their respective communities and our hope is that their success will be the best promoter of the services and opportunities that we offer. As these folks work their land, their neighbors are taking notice of the improvements, and as they have profits that will be invested in their homes, and in the lives of their children, again, neighbors will take notice and perhaps desire a change themselves.
We have another 500 producers that we work with in varying levels, again, dependant on their expressed desire to embrace change and improvements in their lives. I’m thankful that we can be a part of lasting and positive change in Nicaragua!
