The important role of coffee agroecosystem for rural development

Abstract

Rural development based on local resources utilization has been promoted as a strategy to achieve people prosperity in Indonesia. Although many studies have found that resource-based strategy is no longer relevant nowadays, for many areas this is still considered an appropriate approach. In order to examine the significance, we conducted a study in Sumba Barat Daya District of East Nusa Tenggara, focussing on coffee as one of the most abundant products in the region. Utilizing a socio-ecological approach, we collected data and information to depict the dynamics of coffee-based activities. A detailed study in Kadi Roma Village of Sumba Barat Daya on coffee ecosystem contribution to local community revealed that despite traditionally managed, coffee plays a significant role socially and economically. As a source of income to almost 17,000 smallholder farmers in Sumba Barat Daya, it can be concluded that coffee can become a gateway to attain successful rural development program. It also provides various opportunities for the community to participate which requires supportive innovation ecosystem to be established systematically by relevant local institutions, including include local government.