Sisal Value Chain in Kishapu | Response to Climate Change & COVID-19 Pandemic | Project Documentary

In the semi-arid landscapes of Kishapu District, where high temperatures and unpredictable weather shape daily life, sisal has long been an important source of livelihood for rural communities. For generations, families have depended on this resilient crop to support household income and sustain local economies. However, the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 exposed the vulnerability of communities that relied heavily on a single agricultural value chain. Market disruptions, reduced demand, and logistical challenges significantly affected sisal producers, leaving many households struggling to maintain their livelihoods. At the same time, rising temperatures and changing climate conditions continued to threaten agricultural productivity. In response to these challenges, a development initiative launched between 2023 and 2025 aimed to strengthen the sisal value chain while supporting communities to diversify their livelihoods. Through training, improved farming practices, and market support, farmers were equipped with skills to enhance sisal production and processing. At the same time, the project introduced complementary income-generating activities such as poultry keeping and horticulture to reduce dependency on a single crop. This documentary captures the voices, experiences, and resilience of the people of Kishapu as they navigate the impacts of climate change and the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. It highlights how community collaboration, knowledge sharing, and targeted support can help rural households build more sustainable and diversified livelihoods. The film offers a glimpse into a community that continues to adapt, innovate, and strengthen its future.