ALM UNDP

Summary:

DSAP originated from the previous Pacific Regional Agriculture Programme (PRAP) projects. PRAP projects made significant progress in addressing some of the problems in Pacific agricultural systems through the projects - Farming Systems in Lowlands of the Pacific Regional Agricultural Program (PRAP 1) and Atoll Farming Systems (PRAP 6). DSAP builds upon the foundation of PRAP projects 1 and 6 and also attempts to address problems faced during their implementation. The design and content of the DSAP project was finalized at a participatory planning workshop in October 2001 which involved representatives from various government, non-government and donor organizations from numerous Pacific Island Countries and Territories and the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC). DSAP differs from the previous PRAP projects. In the atolls, the DSAP approach focuses on the identification of problems and the testing of technologies with farmers to improve the traditional tree crop-based multi-story agricultural systems as well as ensure the integration of livestock into this system. In the lowlands, the emphasis moved from research to identification and promotion of promising technologies including: improved crop varieties, pest and disease management, land conservation and agroforestry technologies. DSAP also includes a project component for the production and use of a variety of extension communication which strengthens the promotion efforts within member countries. This component also enhances national capabilities in the production and use of a variety of extension communications methods such as radio, posters, handbooks, brochures and videos. Finally, the DSAP project is an important part of the SPC Agriculture and Forestry Programme giving DSAP access to valuable SPC technical assistance and training.