SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE PRATICES WITH ALTERNATIVES BASED ON POLYCULTURE COFFEE PLANTATION ON DRY LANDS FARM IN RIVER FLOW AREA IN ERMERA OF MUNICIPALITY

Authors

  • Jose F.N. Soares
  • Dr. Domingos Cairesi Bendito Beremau Gomes
  • Xisto Martins, Ph.D.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3007/rhkm3d14

Keywords:

Sustainable agriculture, Coffee Polyculture, drylands, Ermera City, Watershed

Abstract

This study assesses the effects of sustainable coffee-based polyculture on productivity, environmental health, and farmer resilience in the dryland watersheds of Ermera. Using a mixed-methods approach random sampling of 150 farmers, structured surveys and interviews, and quantitative analysis in Excel and SPSS—the research compares polyculture systems (coffee intercropped with shade species such as bananas and avocados) against coffee monoculture under dryland conditions. Findings indicate that polyculture significantly improves land-use efficiency, crop productivity, soil moisture retention, erosion control, and on-farm biodiversity, while enhancing household income and food security. These ecological and socioeconomic gains align with agroecological principles and contribute to improved watershed management. Major constraints to wider adoption include limited farmer technical knowledge and weak institutional support. To realize the full potential of coffee-based polyculture, the study recommends targeted extension services and regular capacity-building, policies and incentives favoring agroecological practices and market access, strengthened farmer cooperatives, improved access to finance for smallholders, and continued research and monitoring to adapt models to local contexts and evaluate long-term impacts. With coordinated technical assistance and policy backing, coffee-based polyculture in Ermera’s dryland watersheds offers a viable, scalable pathway to sustainable agriculture, ecosystem conservation, and enhanced rural livelihoods.

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Published

2025-10-01

How to Cite

Jose F.N. Soares, Dr. Domingos Cairesi Bendito Beremau Gomes, & Xisto Martins, Ph.D. (2025). SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE PRATICES WITH ALTERNATIVES BASED ON POLYCULTURE COFFEE PLANTATION ON DRY LANDS FARM IN RIVER FLOW AREA IN ERMERA OF MUNICIPALITY. International Scientific Journal of UNPAZ Timor-Leste, 1(01), pp.188-194. https://doi.org/10.3007/rhkm3d14