Empowering Local Farmers Through Socialization of Cocoa and Chili Cultivation, and Chili Seed Nursery Practices Using Household Waste in Berambai Hamlet

Pemberdayaan Petani Lokal Melalui Sosialisasi Budidaya Tanaman Kakao, Cabai, dan Praktik Persemaian Benih Cabai dengan Pemanfaatan Limbah Rumah Tangga di Dusun Berambai

Abstract

Agriculture remains a major sector in supporting rural livelihoods, including in Bukit Pariaman Village, Tenggarong Seberang District, Kutai Kartanegara Regency. The agricultural potential in this village is quite significant; however, it has not been fully optimized due to limited knowledge and skills of the community in managing crop cultivation. This study aims to improve community understanding and skills through a community service program consisting of cocoa cultivation socialization, chili cultivation socialization, as well as chili seedling and nursery practices. The activities were carried out in Berambai Hamlet involving members of the Serdang Permai Forest Farmers Group and local residents. The implementation methods included lectures by resource persons, interactive discussions, and field practices. The materials provided covered seed selection techniques, land preparation, fertilization, pest control, and innovative chili seedling practices using environmentally friendly media. The results indicate that the program successfully enhanced community knowledge and skills in cocoa and chili cultivation. In addition to gaining theoretical insights, residents were able to directly practice the techniques. This activity fosters the use of productive land, food self-sufficiency, and the improvement of community welfare.