Water is the lifeblood of Bali, and in a village like Cepaka, the irrigation system is what keeps the community thriving. Recently, the COCO Social Fund team headed back out to the fields to check in on the newly installed irrigation system. We believe that finishing a project is only the first step, the real work lies in making sure it actually works for the people who depend on it every single day.

Before we even brought in the excavator to start the heavy lifting, we knew we couldn’t do this in isolation. Our team sat down with the officials at Pemkab Badung to discuss the irrigation issues from a technical and administrative level. We wanted to make sure our plan to excavate and clear the channels was fully aligned with the regency’s water management goals. This collaboration was key, it ensured that our “quick fix” would actually be a long-term solution for the farmers.

Now that the system is in place, our focus has shifted to making sure it stays clear. For us, “monitoring” means walking the banks of the channels and having real, honest conversations with the local farmers. They are the ones who know this land best, and by listening to them, we can make sure the water is flowing exactly where it needs to go.

However, keeping the water moving is only half the battle. As we move forward, our next big focus is tackling the waste that often ends up in these vital channels. We are currently working on a plan to strengthen our coordination with local authorities to improve waste management in the area. Alongside this, we’re starting an educational initiative to work with farmers on the importance of keeping the irrigation lines clear of plastic and debris.

It’s a simple cycle: clean channels mean clean water, and clean water means a healthier, more productive village. Every time we visit Cepaka, we are reminded that a greener future isn’t built overnight, it’s built through these consistent, hands-on actions. We’re proud to be part of the journey toward a cleaner and more empowered Cepaka, one field at a time.