In 2010 and 2011, the Livelihoods Program was piloted in four districts, and subsequently expanded to 11 districts where, in 2014, 29 livelihood groups had been established. Livelihood efforts were focused particularly on vulnerable communities such as significantly impoverished and isolated villages and those where multiple crop failures had occurred.
The program aims to build resilience in communities in everyday life as well as disaster recovery, improve the overall quality of life and extend local commerce opportunities. After initial assessments of the specific context, in conjunction with the community, determinations are made about the most viable, sustainable, locally sourced product to be developed according to the wants and needs of the beneficiaries.
Over 1000 families increased their income as a result of improved livelihoods in the areas of agriculture (including composting and organic pesticides), cassava chip and coconut oil production, construction and stocking of fish ponds and poultry farms, weaving of traditional tais and baskets, and salt manufacturing. Additionally, in 2014, in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the Keyhole Gardens Project was piloted in three locations across two districts, which will be broadened in 2015, encouraging families to grow their own nutritious plant food and sell any excess at market.
