Narayan Foods and Austrian Development Agency empower farmers with sustainable intercropping project in Sri Lanka
Austria, Slovenia, 13. 2. 2024 – Narayan Foods, the largest European vertically integrated virgin coconut oil producer, and the Austrian Development Agency (ADA), the operational unit of Austrian Development Cooperation, launch a business partnership to strengthen sustainable intercropping in Sri Lanka. This initiative marks a significant milestone in Narayan Foods' mission to empower local farmers and change agricultural practices through sustainable intercropping trials.
The project developed in collaboration with the Department of Plantation Management at Wayamba University, aims to enhance food production and sustainability. By intercropping coconut plantations with pineapple, Narayan Foods aims to maximize land use, increase crop yields, and reduce water and CO2 usage.
Intercropping, the practice of growing two or more crops simultaneously in the same space, not only boosts productivity but also promotes biodiversity and resilience in agricultural ecosystems. Narayan Foods' goal is to transform over 10,000 hectares of land into sustainable pineapple cultivation, making it the largest grower of sustainable pineapple in Sri Lanka within the next five years.
"We believe that sustainable agriculture is the key to a healthier planet and healthier communities," said Mario Brumat, CEO of Narayan Foods. "Through our project, we are not only increasing food production but also addressing key issues such as food waste, deforestation, and community development."
Less than 5% of coconut plantations in Sri Lanka are currently intercropped, primarily due to financial constraints and lack of knowledge among farmers. Narayan Foods aims to change this by providing training and support to over 100 small-holder farmers and their families, creating new employment opportunities and improving livelihoods in rural communities.
In addition to boosting agricultural productivity, Narayan Foods is committed to corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives that address critical issues within the coconut farming communities. Through partnerships with local NGOs, the company will focus on combatting food malnutrition, improving education access, and enhancing infrastructure such as water supply and transportation.
The project has a duration of three years and is supported by ADA with the total amount of 200.000 Euros as it strengthens both sustainable agriculture, and economic development in Sri Lanka.
About Narayan
Narayan Foods is disrupting the traditional food industry by offering a seed-to-table value chain for sustainable plant-based foods and ingredients. With a focus on vertical integration and circular operations, the company is promoting a more sustainable food future, catering to largest European retail chains.
