Celebrating International Day of Plant Health 2024

As we mark the International Day of Plant Health, we acknowledge a global challenge that transcends borders and significantly affects livelihoods everywhere. Although the focus often lies on the global transportation of plant materials, at a local level, smallholder farmers play a crucial role. By adopting practices that enhance plant health without the use of pesticides and respecting biodiversity, they can make a substantial difference.

Our commitment to plant health at Haller is rooted in the legacy of Dr. Rene Haller, whose pioneering work in dryland agriculture and plant health has guided our approach to agricultural regeneration. This approach ensures food and trade safety, promoting sustainable, transparent, economies and livelihoods across communities.

The Global Significance of Plant Health

Plant health is a critical concern that impacts us all. According to the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO), around 40% of food crops are lost annually due to plant pests and diseases. In Africa, losses from pests in staple crops could rise by 50% by 2050.

The proliferation of invasive species significantly contributes to biodiversity loss, disrupting the intricate web of life essential to our planet's health. These pests thrive and spread in new niches created by rising global temperatures, posing an increasing threat to agricultural stability and ecosystem balance.

Regenerative Practices and the Haller Farmers App

This year, the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) has themed the International Day of Plant Health 2024 around three pivotal areas: Plant health, safe trade, and digital technology. We are proud to be at the forefront of incorporating these themes, having long integrated cutting-edge technology with traditional agricultural practices to enhance plant health.

The Haller Farmers App is a testament to our integrated approach. Within the app, users find resources on plant health divided into useful sections such as “Soil” and “Bugs,” featuring over 22 lessons on the topic. These range from enhancing soil health to effective natural pest management strategies, aiming to maintain ecological balance and promote beneficial biodiversity on farms.

By placing these powerful tools in the hands of farmers, we can not only control plant health at its source but also help secure nutritious diets for those who depend on their crops and for close-knit communities that rely heavily on the surrounding agriculture.

Download the Haller Farmers App.

Impact Through Education: Case Studies

Our demo farm showcases our methods and serves as a learning centre for farmers like Abdallahi, who sought natural solutions to severe pest infestations. His success story highlights the economic benefits of adopting sustainable practices—reducing reliance on harmful, expensive chemicals and growing crops that are safe for the well-being of his community.

Last year, we also hosted Hendry from Indonesia, who collaborated with Dr. Rene Haller to deepen his understanding of biological land rehabilitation and regenerative agricultural techniques, focusing on natural pest management. 

Hendry said: “This experience has been nothing short of transformative, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to expand my knowledge and skills in the field of conservation and sustainable farming.” Read more about this unique and transformative visit here.

We have welcomed thousands to our demo farm, offering training in drought-resistant planting, climate-smart planting, SALT (Sloping Agricultural land Technology) to control soil erosion, agrichar/biochar, composting, mulching and much more. Last year we hosted over 920 learners at the Mtopanga demonstration plot! Our 2023 annual report will be published soon, subscribe to our newsletter to keep up with all project updates. 

Our Ongoing Commitment

Our dedication to improving plant health continues as we innovate and integrate local knowledge to combat pest-related challenges. Supporting Haller means contributing to global plant health efforts and making environmentally conscious decisions in your daily life.

As we continue to evolve our tech offerings, this year is set to see significant advancements. We are expanding the app's accessibility by adding more languages and improved UX and UI for our community. New modules are being developed to ensure that even more farmers can access pest-free, regenerative solutions. 

The training offered and communities engaged at our demo farms and as part of our outreach in Kenya continue to grow year after year. We look to a future that enables us to reach more people, with practical opportunities to learn through our developing Partner programmes. 

By placing powerful tools in the hands of farmers, we not only control plant health at its source but also contribute to securing healthy diets within communities.

Your donations help us to empower communities, ensuring healthier plants, people and the planet. 

Together, we can make a lasting impact. Please Donate now 💚 🌱