SHI-Belize continues to strengthen the self-sufficiency of local citizens through educational programs.  New initiatives include integrated school programs in Toledo and Stann Creek Districts and incorporating bamboo in latrine construction. SHI-Belize is paving the way in innovation by testing plantain and banana stalks as a natural alternative to plastic seedling bags.

With the support of field staff, families have planted over 281 acres of mixed-use forest (agroforestry) and incorporated a variety of native tree species and fruits including bilimbi (Averrhoa bilimbi) and Honduras mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla).  Since July, SHI-Belize planted approximately 33,285 trees on those 281 acres - roughly 118 trees per acre.  In conjunction with mixed forests, SHI-Belize aided participants in the community of Colombia to establish a small business selling small batches of coconut oil.  The group sells the oil to local community members and in the nearby town of Punta Gorda. 

In October, SHI-Belize organized and sponsored the first organic fair in the country, giving SHI participants the opportunity to showcase their vegetables, tree saplings and farming techniques. According to participants, the fair was an opportunity to represent the future of small-scale farming in Belize and strengthen their self-esteem.

During the past fiscal year, SHI- Panamá expects to graduate 27 families in the communities of Bella Florida, Los Alonsos, La Cabuya, and La Mata, and begin incorporating new families into already participating communities.

Staff have received several trainings in collaboration with APOCHI, a collective of organic producers in Chiriqui, and is introducing families to nutrient dense crops like amaranth (calaloo). Over the next several months, we will be working to integrate various projects according to nutrient flow in order to produce zero waste. Systems will vary but consist of pig pens, duck and fish ponds, vegetable gardens and rice paddies.

During the last fiscal year ’09, we converted 174 acres to sustainable land use, installed more than 45 wood-conserving stoves, and provided direct market access for families through various local farmers markets and fairs.