Mostafa Zaman, a passionate and hardworking farmer from Kalapara, Patuakhali, embarked on his remarkable journey in 2017 when he began cultivating dragon fruits near his home. Initially, his venture was small, but with relentless effort and the valuable support of the local agriculture office, Mostafa’s dragon fruit farm began to flourish. The office provided him with plants and essential technical guidance, empowering him to pursue sustainable farming practices.
In addition to his dragon fruit farming, Mostafa expanded his operations by setting up a vermicompost plant adjacent to his farm. This not only ensured a steady supply of organic fertilizer for his crops but also served as an additional income stream. His diversification of farming activities has significantly improved his family’s financial well-being, marking a turning point in their livelihood.
Eco-Friendly Farming with Vermicompost
One of Mostafa’s key innovations was his adoption of eco-friendly farming methods. He relied solely on vermicompost, an organic fertilizer produced from earthworms, for his dragon fruit cultivation. This sustainable approach not only helped Mostafa avoid chemical fertilizers but also enriched the soil quality, contributing to healthier plants and higher yields. With seven harvests a year, Mostafa’s dragon fruit yield quickly gained popularity in local markets, and soon his success story reached far beyond his community.
As word spread about Mostafa’s success, his farm became a beacon of hope for other farmers in the region. Many were inspired to start dragon fruit cultivation, seeing the profitability and sustainability that the crop offered. Mostafa generously shared his knowledge and resources with these aspiring farmers, providing them with valuable advice, plant saplings, and vermicompost to support their own ventures. His willingness to help others showcases his dedication to uplifting his community alongside his personal succes
How Mostafa ventured into online selling of Dragon fruit saplings, earning significant revenue and gaining fame across the country.
Mostafa’s online business of selling dragon fruit saplings has also seen tremendous success. Last year alone, he earned BDT 4 lakhs from selling infant plants, further cementing his position as a successful and innovative farmer. His journey is a true testament to the impact of Smallholder Agricultural Competitiveness Project (SACP-RAINS), which supports farmers like Mostafa in cultivating high-value crops
Today, Mostafa spends his days working on his farm, continually improving his methods and dreaming of expanding his dragon fruit farm. His vision for the future includes establishing a larger farm dedicated to high-value crops, ensuring not just his own success but also inspiring many others in the region
Mostafa Zaman’s story is a shining example of how hard work, innovation, and community support can transform lives. His collaboration with SACP-RAINS and his commitment to sustainable farming practices have set a new standard for farmers in the region, proving that with the right resources and dedication, success is within reach for all smallholder farmers.
