Fiensh

Tuhar, a 55-year-old farmer from Central Java, has embarked on an intriguing journey in the farming business for the past 23 years. In 2000, he made a bold decision to transition from cultivating tobacco to growing food crops and coffee. This change reflects the evolving perspectives and practices in farming within his region.

Tobacco farming has played a significant role in the cultural and agrarian history of the area. However, tobacco’s unfavorable prices and detrimental impact on the environment led some farmers to pivot to other crops. Tuhar, formerly an active tobacco farmer who served as the chairman of the Indonesian Association of Tobacco Farmers (APTI) in Kledung District, Temanggung, is among the tobacco farmers who transitioned to horticulture farming. Throughout his 23-year journey, Tuhar has continuously adapted to challenges and honed his expertise in the agricultural field. His decision to transition from tobacco to horticulture farming demonstrates courage and a desire to create a more sustainable and diverse farming approach. He faced change with resilience and successfully established better sources of income by choosing #GrowFoodNotTobacco.

Assignment for WHO
WHO/Fieni Aprilia

Tuhar showing a photo of mature tobacco plants in his plantation before he transitioned to coffee cultivation and growing other crops.

Tuhar and other farmers in Temanggung witnessed firsthand the negative aspects of tobacco farming. They decided to shift their focus because they believed that the marketing and governance of tobacco were unfavorable and unhealthy.

Tuhar looking at his vegetable crops that are planted next to his coffee plants

“In the past four years, tobacco has become unhealthy in terms of its marketing. That's why I encouraged [the other farmers] to grow other crops.”

One of the main issues Tuhar and the community encountered was the unhealthy practices in the tobacco market. Many middlemen who traded tobacco had little knowledge about the crop itself but still held the necessary permits to sell it. This imbalance in the market affected their community negatively.

Cauliflower crops planted in Tuhar’s plantation in Temanggung.

Tuhar stresses the importance of strengthening food security through the cultivation of crops such as chili peppers, scallions, cauliflowers, and coffee. By focusing on such crops, the farmers can create a more environmentally friendly farming system.

Tuhar inspecting his perennial crops in Temanggung, Central Java, Indonesia.

Perennials crops play a crucial role in mitigating the effects of the climate crisis. Their extensive root systems help prevent soil erosion and retain water, thereby reducing the risk of floods and enhancing water availability during dry seasons.

Yamidi and Tuhar, ex-tobacco farmers in Temanggung who initiated the transition from tobacco farming to food crops cultivation. This transition not only brings economic diversification but also brings hope among the farming community. Such a shift not only ensures their economic stability but also contributes to the larger goal of building a more sustainable agricultural sector.

Chili peppers in the process of sun drying on Tuhar’s rooftop.

The transition from tobacco to food farming has allowed the farmers in Tuhar’s community to diversify their income streams, enhance food security, and contribute to the local economy.

Tuhar poses in front of the entrance of his house which acts as a coffee shop in Temanggung, Central Java.

Tuhar and his fellow farmers improved their economic prospects as well as contributing to sustainable agriculture by choosing to grow food not tobacco.

Food crops at the foot of Mount Sumbing, Central Java.

By breaking away from the confines of a single crop, Tuhar and his fellow farmers embarked on a path that not only improved their economic well-being but also prioritised the health of their community and the environment.