In Northern Sri Lanka, coconut farming remains a vital source of income for hundreds of smallholder families. Yet, evolving market requirements, certification demands, and climate-related production challenges have increasingly placed pressure on farmers to adapt.

A targeted capacity-building program was organised by Fairtrade NAPP in partnership with Seemasahitha Countrywide Wagakaruwange Samithiya (SCWS) to strengthen Fairtrade compliance, improve farm productivity, and secure long-term livelihoods for coconut producers in Kilinochchi and Chavakachcheri.

Strengthening Knowledge for Fairtrade Success

In December 2025, 250 coconut farmers gathered for an intensive field-level training program aimed at closing critical knowledge gaps around Fairtrade certification. Many farmers had limited prior exposure to detailed compliance procedures, internal control systems, record-keeping requirements, and audit preparedness. Without this understanding, maintaining certification — and access to Fairtrade markets — becomes a significant challenge. The training directly addressed these needs through structured sessions on Fairtrade standards, producer responsibilities, traceability, and governance, ensuring farmers gained clarity and confidence in navigating certification systems.

Blending Certification Training with Practical Agronomy

Beyond compliance, the program recognized that sustainable certification must go hand-in-hand with strong agricultural practices. Technical experts from the Coconut Development Board delivered practical training on soil fertility management, correct fertilizer application, good agricultural practices, and climate-resilient coconut cultivation techniques. This blend of certification knowledge and agronomic guidance enabled farmers to connect Fairtrade requirements with everyday farm decisions — transforming compliance from a paperwork obligation into a pathway for improved productivity and sustainability.

Immediate Support Through Fairtrade Premium Investment

To reinforce learning with tangible support, Fairtrade Premium-funded fertilizer was distributed equitably to participating farmers. This timely input assistance not only addressed urgent cultivation needs but also demonstrated how Fairtrade Premium resources can be strategically reinvested to strengthen farm performance and community resilience. For many farmers, this was a direct and immediate benefit — translating training insights into real-world action in their fields.

Laying the Foundation for Long-Term Impact

While the immediate outcomes include stronger knowledge, improved record-keeping awareness, and better farm management decisions, the long-term vision is even more significant. The program is expected to reduce non-conformities during Fairtrade audits, enhance institutional capacity within the producer organization, increase productivity through improved agronomic practices, and promote environmental sustainability and climate resilience. Follow-up monitoring, refresher trainings, and ongoing technical support will ensure momentum continues well beyond the training period.

A Model for Collaborative Rural Transformation

This initiative stands as a powerful example of how collaboration between Fairtrade NAPP, national technical institutions, and local producer organizations can drive meaningful change. By combining certification knowledge, practical agricultural training, and Fairtrade Premium investment, the program has not only equipped farmers with skills but also strengthened their confidence to participate competitively and sustainably in global markets.

Siththappa, Farmer Group Leader (65 Y)

“This training was very useful for all of us farmers in the field. We clearly understood the importance of applying fertilizer correctly and following the Fairtrade standards properly. By maintaining our records and complying with the standards, we can face Fairtrade audits with confidence. Working together, following the guidance given, and using Fairtrade Premium support responsibly, we can build a sustainable future for our farms, our families, and the next generation of farmers.”

Mrs. Ranjani, Lady Farmer Leader (60 Y)

“All these efforts are for the benefit of our coconut cultivators and our long-term development. By complying with Fairtrade standards and following the recommended practices, we can strengthen our livelihoods and secure a sustainable future. Let us commit ourselves to full compliance and work together for our collective good.”