THE NEEM FARM
REGENERATIVE AGROFORESTRY
The basic principle of this new form of agriculture is to stop opposing nature and agriculture, with the idea that the power of ecosystems can be multiplied by human action, with the objective of producing food.
The idea of regenerative agroforestry is to plant all kinds of plants, trees, shrubs, in order to recreate a self-sustaining ecosystem generating an abundance of food while recreating soil life on damaged land.
Ernst Götsch is an international reference in agroforestry systems and agroecology. He came to Brazil in 1984 to work on a fazenda on old degraded lands. His agronomic and practical research focuses on the symbioses that occur when trees and crops are combined.
The implementation of a brand new form of regenerative agroforestry applied to a vegetable farm is a pioneering project in Djibouti.
At Neem Farm we have decided to take inspiration from this research by growing a variety of fruit trees: mango, papaya, lemon, banana, date and guava. In addition to these plantations, we also grow vegetables: eggplant, tomato, melon, watermelon, chili, carrot, corn, onions, lettuce and herbs.
Chickens, horses, cows and goats complete this ensemble.
At Neem Farm we have decided to take inspiration from this research by growing a variety of fruit trees: mango, papaya, lemon, banana, date and guava. In addition to these plantations, we also grow vegetables: eggplant, tomato, melon, watermelon, chili, carrot, corn, onions, lettuce and herbs. Chickens, horses, cows and goats complete this ensemble.
THE NEEM
The Neem also called neem tree (Azadirachta indica) is native to India, it is a fast growing monoecious tree, which can reach a height of 20 meters. Known for its resistance to drought, it can tolerate very high temperatures, and grow in areas with an annual rainfall of less than 400 mm, but in these cases it depends largely on the level of groundwater, as is the case on the farm.
Perhaps this is why the Neem has been declared by the United Nations "the tree of the 21st century".
Because of all these virtues we decided to plant hundreds of Neem trees throughout the property for the past ten years. The objective is to try to extract Neem oil.
Perhaps this is why the Neem has been declared by the United Nations "the tree of the 21st century".
Neem oil has been used in the field of wellness and health for many centuries. The first evidence of its use dates back more than 4500 years, the first writings, in Sanskrit, of Ayurvedic doctors, testify to the benefits of the fruits, seeds, leaves, roots and cortex. This is why in India, Neem is called the "village pharmacy", or its Sanskrit definition "sarva roga nivarini": the healer of all ills, because its various components have anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, insecticidal and antibacterial properties. In the traditional culture of India, the Neem is considered sacred and protective.
AS EYLA
THE NEEM FARM
Near the village of As Eyla, in the Horn of Africa, Neem Farm is less than three hours from Djibouti City. With a hot and dry climate almost all year round, the Farm is located in gardens along a wadi and acts as an oasis.
Whether it is for one night or a week, a Lodge can welcome visitors all year round. A lodge built in the middle of the farm, surrounded by Neem, can accommodate groups of 10 to 12 people. For couples or families with children we offer Suites located in the Palmeraie.
A restaurant allows our guests to discover home-made dishes with products from the Farm.
The surrounding area offers the possibility of buggy rides, bicycle rides, camel rides or walking tours. Whether it is to explore Lake Abbe, visit the archaeological sites or explore the gardens, each visit is an opportunity to live an intense and unforgettable experience.
A small glimpse of the atmosphere at the farm
© Photos @asseyla_market_djibouti
THE ADVENTURE
GO TO THE NEEM FARM
N10°59’54 E42°06’44
It takes 3 hours by car from Djibouti:
- 120km of paved road via the RN 1 which takes 2 hours
- 40km of track between Dikhil and As'Eyla (old RN 6) which is done in 1 hour
At the exit of Dikhil you will find a brand new gas station, pass it and turn left at the cemetery. Here begins the track of As'Eyla, during all the way you will see km markers painted in white; they will lead you to As'Eyla.
At the entrance to As'Eyla you will see - on your right - a black and white painted water tank overlooking the village (and a few houses on your right), take the trail down towards the village for exactly 1km then turn slightly left and take a much smaller trail. Follow this track for 1.5km heading towards the As'Eyla gardens which are on your left below.
Do not enter the town center of As Eyla.
