Dompet Dhuafa Launches 'Madaya Food Garden' Program in Sukabumi

Dompet Dhuafa has launched its 'Kebun Pangan Madaya' (Madaya Food Garden) program at the Green Lido Tahfiz Islamic Boarding School in Sukabumi, West Java. This initiative aims to empower communities by transforming underutilized land, including home yards, office spaces, and community gardens, into sources of family food and new economic opportunities.

Ahmad Juwaini, chairman of the Dompet Dhuafa Foundation, stated that the program's launch at the Green Lido school marks a significant step in their empowerment efforts and strengthens food security. "We present Kebun Pangan Madaya for empowered farmers in their own land," he said, noting the program's alignment with Dompet Dhuafa's 33rd anniversary.

The program holistically addresses food security, environmental conservation, household income enhancement, and practical agricultural education. Dompet Dhuafa is rolling out this initiative across multiple cities simultaneously, engaging local volunteers and residents. As of 2026, a similar initiative, 'Kebun Sehat Masyarakat' (Healthy Community Garden) for sustainable food security, had already been established in 10 provinces, involving community gardens, households, beneficiaries, and local food support.

Despite its potential, the program faces challenges such as securing land tenure, ensuring management commitment, and navigating environmental factors. Local authorities, represented by Dedi Yuda from the Cicurug sub-district, have pledged full support, recognizing the program's alignment with government goals for nutrition and economic improvement. The initiative seeks to build a comprehensive empowerment ecosystem, including cultivation guidance, community institution strengthening, agricultural product development, and market access, ultimately aiming for broader community benefits like increased income and improved food consumption quality.