Sustainable Cocoa Farming in Borneo: Dynamic Agroforestry for Climate Resilience

This project, supported by the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) through the Forests and Climate Change Programme (FORCLIME), focuses on integrating dynamic agroforestry systems (DAF) (also known as successional agroforestry) into cocoa farming in the Malinau and Kapuas Hulu districts of Indonesia. By combining ecological principles with innovative farming techniques, the project aims to improve cocoa production, enhance biodiversity, and contribute to regional climate resilience and conservation goals.

Enhanced Biodiversity, Productivity & Climate Resilience in Cocoa Farming

The project aimed at the following objectives:

• Promote Biodiversity: Implementing dynamic, multi-species agroforestry systems that mimic natural forests.
• Enhance Productivity: Improving the ecological and economic sustainability of cocoa farming through better agricultural practices.
• Empower Farmers: Building local capacity and knowledge to manage and maintain DAF systems effectively.
• Sustainable Land Use: Supporting conservation goals by integrating farming systems into local landscapes.

Scaling Sustainable Cocoa Agroforestry in Indonesia

The key activities consisted of the following: 

• System Design and Implementation: Develop agroforestry models inspired by natural forest succession to maximize resilience and productivity.
• Farmer Training and Capacity Building: Conduct workshops and field training sessions to support farmers in transitioning to dynamic agroforestry systems.
• Monitoring and Research: Evaluate the ecological and economic impacts of agroforestry systems on cocoa production.
• Policy Integration and Advocacy: Work with stakeholders to align project activities with GIZ’s and FORCLIME’s broader objectives for sustainable land use and conservation.

Advancing Climate-Smart Cocoa Farming & Conservation

The outcomes of the project were: 

• Successful implementation of dynamic agroforestry systems across cocoa farms in the target regions.
• Increased biodiversity and enhanced ecosystem functions within agricultural landscapes.
• Improved farmer livelihoods through sustainable production and reduced dependency on external inputs.
• Contribution to regional conservation efforts and climate mitigation goals through carbon sequestration.

With the support of GIZ and FORCLIME, this project demonstrates the potential of DAF systems to transform cocoa farming into a sustainable, regenerative practice. It serves as a replicable model for balancing agricultural productivity with ecological restoration and climate action.