Agroecology – SWISSAID
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Agroecology

In order to feed the world’s population in the long term, a transformation of the food system is necessary. We need a more ecologically and socially compatible agriculture. Agroecology is an integrative approach that aims to link the social, ecological, economic and cultural domains. It is our tool for achieving a sustainable, fair and healthy food system.

The multi-layered approach of agroecology is based on natural cycles, conserves resources and reduces dependence on external factors such as chemical fertilisers. In addition, the cultivation method strengthens the soil – and thus protects against storms, heavy rain or droughts.

Together with local experts and a strong partner network, we have always been committed to an agroecological transition in project countries in the Global South. We impart agroecological knowledge and demonstrate methods that smallholder farmers can apply and develop further. By producing their food in a resource-efficient way and marketing it profitably, they can overcome hunger.

In Switzerland, we are also campaigning for agroecology at a political level. In the ‘Agroecology Works!’ network, we show the public the potential of agroecology. And as a co-founder of the Sufosec Alliance, we promote synergies between different organisations. So that knowledge about agroecology can be exchanged and the latest results can be easily shared:

By promoting agroecology, we are helping to achieve the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.

Facts and Figures

57,487 farming families

used agroecological methods in 2023

41,057 people

had access to regional seeds in 2023

21,040 households

were able to overcome their food shortage in 2023

Below you can find out how we are involved in both the Global South and the North. Our key project in Niger provides an overview of our work on the ground for people in need. An article on our expertise in agroecology presents the philosophy behind our work and shows how we work on reports, advocacy and networking. In addition, an interview with an expert in the South provides insights into the benefits of agroecology for local people.

Our commitment to agroecology

Publications

Projects and Contributions



Project

Vanilla farming in Colombia: one spice, many opportunities

How agroecology empowers women and promotes gender equality

Emilce Reyes, paysanne de Ciquizá, Boyacá, Colombie, au milieu de son champ.

“I am a proud women farmer – and I will not let anything bring me down”

Project

Impressions of the white onion fair in April 2025 in Soucoucoutane.

The revival of Soucoucoutane’s white onion

Project

A full and varied plate thanks to agroecology

Project

A community united to protect its ecosystem

Project

Strong together: Ecuadorian women fight for their rights

Project

Agroecology creates hope for farmers in Myanmar

Project

More self-determined lives thanks to agroecology

Project

Finding salvation in agroecology

Project

Traditional diversity instead of new simplicity

Project

Water: The essential foundation for agroecology and resilience in Chad

Project

TA Macho Sauti

No hunger thanks to mobile phones

Project

Green Schools: Where the future grows

Project

Agroecology brings an upturn

War in Iran: threatening food security in the Global South

Agroecology meets digital technology in the Andes

Colombia: How Boyacá’s Youth are Leading an Agroecological Revolution

Young people in Boyacá are revolutionising agroecology in Colombia. Together with SWISSAID, the El Convite Campesino association is protecting the paramos and building a sustainable future.

Transforming Food Systems in India

Walking the Talk? Regenerative Agriculture Against Climate Change

“Agroecology is far more than ‘kitchen garden agriculture”

Agroecology on the rise

Colombia strengthens its commitment to agroecology

Scientifically confirmed: Agroecology fights hunger

Agroecology in Tanzania: New research findings demonstrate positive Impact

Hunger rises with prices

More resilient to the climate crisis thanks to agroecology

Fighting hunger with old varieties

Agroecology: A Universal Solution to Global Food Crises? 

Agroecology, our core competence

Agrobiodiversity on the plate

Our team



Francesco Ajena

Senior Advisor Agroecology

f.ajena@swissaid.ch