In an effort to encourage and motivate women's groups engaged in the orchid cultivation business, which had been in a poor condition as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Lore Lindu Biosphere Reserve (CBLL) Coordination and Communication Forum, in collaboration with FORCLIME, conducted a study visit for the KAREBA Orchid CBL women's orchid group, which operates in the Lore Lindu Biosphere Reserve, from 26 - 30 July 2022. The group visited the Bogor Botanical Gardens, Gino Nursery (Parung), Uli Orchid and the Ragunan Orchid Garden. According to Dr. Sri Ningsih Mallombasang from the Faculty of Forestry at Tadulako University, the orchid group’s instructor, this programme is considered of vital importance in terms of its goal of increasing the knowledge of the women's orchid group about species, cultivation techniques, economic value to orchid networks and markets. Strengthening the capacity for cultivation and the economic value of this orchid supports the conservation of orchids and forest ecosystems in the Lore Lindu Biosphere Reserve area, as it becomes an additional income for the people who live in this area.

During this study visit, participants gained firsthand information and knowledge on the care and cultivation of orchids, including nurseries, pest control and the organization and management of greenhouses. This study visit also contributed to the introduction of the breeding network and the orchid market.

After returning from the visit, the group agreed to undergo a group restructuring process, as well as to prepare a schedule a number of maintenance and to hold regular meetings aimed at the communication of relevant information and shared experiences.

Since 2017, FORCLIME has provided assistance to women's groups that engage in the cultivation of orchids in the villages of Karunia, Rejeki and Bahagia. Various training sessions have been held during this time in the hope of increasing the capacities of women's groups in the three villages as regards the development of orchid cultivation.

For more information, please contact:
Fikty Aprilinayati, Adviser for Sustainable Forest Management and Biosphere Reserve Management
Ismet Khaeruddin, Senior Advisor for the Biodiversity Focal Point for the KFW Forest Program 3 and Provincial Coordinator for Central Sulawesi