🌾 Sri Lanka Showcases JICA-Backed SHEP Farming Model to 11 Asian Nations

• International Collaboration: Sri Lanka's Department of Agriculture and JICA host 33 delegates across 11 Asian nations (Sept 7–11) to showcase the institutionalization of the Smallholder Horticulture Empowerment and Promotion (SHEP) approach. • Market-Oriented Approach: SHEP transitions farmer mindsets from "Grow and Sell" to market-driven "Grow to Sell," improving rural livelihoods and market efficiency. Originally tested in Kenya, it spans 60+ countries globally. • Field Visits & Knowledge Sharing: Following 2 weeks in Japan, participants observe agriculture extension systems in Sri Lanka. Program includes market surveys at Keppetipola Dedicated Economic Center and interacting with SHEP farmer groups in Nuwara Eliya. • Project Timeline: JICA’s technical cooperation ran from July 2021 to March 2026, with implementation now driven by national and provincial agriculture departments.