Snakes and Ladders on the way to Agroecology

In a nutshell

This project aims at developing a concept for the transmission (and repetition) of agroecological practices (Do’s and Don’ts) in a lively and conducive environment for smallholder farming families in India and Tanzania. The innovative concept involves the use of a board game integrated with supplementary information materials pertaining to agroecological practices in cotton-based farming systems. The concept places a strong focus on involvement of women and younger generation in farming decisions.

Assessment by the Jury

Why is it needed?

Farmers who want to transition to agroecological practices find themselves often with many questions but few answers from the traditional extension services. A good way forward is self-help, exchanging experiences and results of trials. The challenge therefor remains the perennial lack of government extension services support, and the need to reach to alternatives.

What is innovative about it?

One very promising alternative is being offered by this project. Although the use of board games to help farmers understand and learn about new practices, while collecting and exchanging information is not new, this project’s emphasis on farmer families, women and youth in the context of learning and introducing agroecological practices breaks new ground. This same approach could be applied to other crops and countries (possibly with games adapted to local cultures).

"This board game creates needed awareness and holistic understanding – which is the foundation of all other activities in the transition process from conventional to agroecological farming practices and eventually food system."

Games are known to be attractive, easy to get the family and friends together, therefore one can expect a rapid and wide adoption. Interesting and important is that the playful approach brings serious contents closer to people. Furthermore, of particular interest, are the posters, illustrating the problem and tested solutions (what worked or didn’t and why), which are drawn from farmers experience and locally adjusted, therefore relevant, and likely to be tested and adopted.

Challenges ahead

It is expected the game to be developed and tested, modifications identified in the proof-of-concept period. It will however be challenging to work in two countries. It is suggested that gender be considered throughout the project and expected that the games are really played at home the way they are intended to be played.