The PANGAN Initiative: Transforming Nutrition and Food Security in East Nusa Tenggara

The PANGAN Initiative: Transforming Nutrition and Food Security in East Nusa Tenggara

Ensuring food security is crucial for the well-being of communities and the healthy development of children. Food security means that households have access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food that is distributed equitably and is affordable. When households face food insecurity, they often struggle to access essential nutrients, which can negatively impact the daily intake and growth of young children. This issue remains significant in Indonesia, with East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) reporting the highest prevalence of moderate or severe food insecurity according to the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) in 2023.

In response to this challenge, the PANGAN Initiative is making strides in the lush yet challenging landscapes of West Timor, East Nusa Tenggara. This innovative initiative by Kopernik, supported by the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), seeks to transform the nutritional landscape for children during their first 1,000 days of life and their families. The initiative aims to produce highly nutritious and diverse local food, contributing to the national goal of reducing stunting prevalence and achieving food self-sufficiency, while supporting the broader aim of national food resilience.

Empowering Farmers through Knowledge and Skills

In early June 2024, a pivotal capacity-sharing activity took place in So’e, a subdistrict in West Timor, East Nusa Tenggara, where 50 farmers from the nearby villages of Noinbila, Nonohonis, and Biloto gathered. This three-day event was designed to equip farmers with crucial knowledge on climate change, food security in Timor, and innovative post-harvest technologies.

The farmers who participated in the capacity-sharing program.

One standout participant was 19-year-old Aris, a young farmer from Nonohonis. His enthusiasm was evident throughout the activity. Aris shared “Learning about climate change and new food technologies has opened my eyes to the possibilities of improving our farming practices and ensuring better nutrition for our community.” Aris's participation exemplifies the potential of youth in driving agricultural innovation and sustainability in their communities.