WILLEMSTAD – Stichting Kosecha Koperativa Kòrsou is expanding its efforts to promote regenerative agriculture on the island through farmer training, educational workshops and sustainable land management initiatives.
According to the foundation, its farming methods are based on regenerative and organic principles that aim not only to grow food but also to restore soil health. Kosecha says it avoids the use of chemical pesticides and synthetic fertilizers while focusing on efficient water use, an important consideration in Curaçao's dry climate.
The organization believes these practices can improve long-term agricultural productivity while helping preserve the island's limited farmland.
The project has received partial financial support from Stichting DOEN in the Netherlands, the social impact fund of the Dutch Postcode Lottery and VriendenLoterij. DOEN identifies Kosecha as one of its partners in promoting regenerative agriculture in the Caribbean part of the Kingdom.
Because of the funding requirements, the initiative was established as a foundation rather than as a cooperative, despite the word "Koperativa" in its name. According to Alvin Daal, the founders had originally intended to create a cooperative, but opted for a foundation to qualify for financial support. The organization has not ruled out establishing a separate cooperative in the future.
As part of its broader mission, Kosecha plans to launch a workshop on syntropic agriculture later this month. This farming method combines different crops and trees to naturally improve soil fertility and ecosystem health.
The foundation also intends to introduce a tree pruning and removal service. Organic material collected from pruning operations will be converted into biomass for agricultural use, helping protect the soil from intense sunlight and reducing water evaporation.
In addition, Kosecha is recruiting people interested in learning modern farming techniques with the goal of eventually starting their own agricultural businesses. Applicants holding a Category C driver's license are particularly encouraged to apply.
Through these initiatives, the foundation hopes to build a stronger local agricultural sector while creating new opportunities for sustainable food production and employment on Curaçao.