A five-day Training of Trainers (ToT) on Sustainable Integrated Farming Systems (SIFS) has successfully concluded in Kolti, Budhinanda Municipality–2, Bajura, on the 4th of September 2026, equipping 25 farmers and agricultural technicians with practical knowledge and skills to promote sustainable, integrated, and agroecological farming practices within their communities under the EMPOWER Project, implemented through the partnership of LI-BIRD, FWEAN, and KCDC, with financial and technical support from WHH and BMZ Germany. 

The training aimed to strengthen local capacities and develop skilled people capable of promoting sustainable and agroecological farming practices at the community level. The training combined theoretical learning, practical exercises, and knowledge-sharing, covering key aspects of sustainable integrated farming, including soil health and fertility management, integrated nutrient management, integrated pest management (IPM), seed management, efficient use of local resources, and crop and livestock integration. 

In his closing remarks, the Chair of Budhinanda Municipality, Mr. Janak Kumar Bohara, highlighted the need to leverage local agricultural potential, strengthen organic production and market systems, and use such initiatives to challenge negative perceptions of Bajura and Mugu. Participants also gained knowledge and practical skills on the development of agroecological model farms, which will support the demonstration and wider adoption of sustainable farming practices. Following the training, participants will apply and share their knowledge through Farmer Field Schools (FFS) and contribute to the establishment of 10 agroecological model farms and villages across the project area, strengthening resilient, inclusive, and sustainable local food systems.