In a bid to uplift rural communities and tackle pressing challenges, a detailed examination of sustainable livelihood options has been undertaken in Bagek Kembar, West Lombok, Indonesia. This initiative aims to address critical issues such as limited education access, child marriage, stunting, and high migrant worker prevalence. Through a blend of business ventures and social initiatives, the endeavor seeks to foster economic growth, social equity, and environmental sustainability in the region.

Key Findings

Empowering Human Capital: Central to the initiative is the establishment of the Nature School, a beacon of hope for underprivileged youth. This educational hub offers not only academic knowledge but also essential life skills and vocational training, aiming to break the cycle of poverty and empower the next generation.

Business Ventures: In a strategic move to capitalize on local resources and promote sustainability, goat farming, stingless beekeeping, and ecotourism have been identified as promising avenues. Goat farming, in particular, stands out for its minimal resource requirements and high returns, while stingless beekeeping leverages the rich biodiversity of Bagek Kembar for income and conservation. Additionally, ecotourism, despite initial costs, holds significant potential for long-term revenue generation and community development.

Financial Viability: Financial analyses reveal encouraging prospects for goat farming and stingless beekeeping, with quick break-even points and high profit margins. Meanwhile, ecotourism, although requiring substantial investment upfront, offers promising returns in the long run. Treating these initial costs as grants from governmental and international agencies could alleviate financial burdens and accelerate progress.

Social Impact: Beyond economic gains, the initiative addresses pressing social issues like child marriage, stunting, and gender inequalities. By providing comprehensive education and training through the Nature School, the community aims to empower its youth and promote gender equality, laying the groundwork for sustainable development.

Equitable Management: An effective management framework and profit-sharing scheme are deemed crucial for the sustainability of these ventures. Clear roles, regular monitoring, and equitable profit distribution among stakeholders are essential for fostering community support and ensuring the success of educational initiatives like the Nature School.

Path Forward

As the world grapples with complex socio-economic and environmental challenges, initiatives like the one in Bagek Kembar offer a beacon of hope. By harnessing local resources, empowering youth, and fostering community engagement, sustainable livelihoods can be nurtured, paving the way for inclusive development and a brighter future for all.

The complete report is available for download at the following link: https://bettertogether.id/list-data-yayasan/comdev/

Author: Fuad Andhika Rahman, S.Pi, M.Sc