Sustainable Nutmeg Farming

When we think of nutmeg, we often picture it as a warm, comforting spice sprinkled into holiday drinks or traditional Filipino treats like suman, bibingka, and biko. But for many women in Papua, nutmeg is more than just a kitchen staple—it’s their livelihood, their legacy, and a key to a more sustainable future.

The Women Behind the Nutmeg Harvest

In the lush forests of West Papua, Indonesia, women like Mama Siti play a crucial role in nutmeg farming. While men climb the trees to pick the fruit, it’s the women who take over the rest of the process—gathering, cleaning, drying, and preparing the nutmeg for sale.

For generations, the Indigenous communities of Papua have honored nutmeg trees as sacred, never cutting them down and ensuring they are harvested with care. One of their unique traditions is the “wewowo,” where a kebaya (a traditional dress) is placed on the trees months before harvesting as a sign of respect and patience.

The Challenges of Nutmeg Farming

Despite the high demand for nutmeg, farming it is not always profitable. Prices constantly fluctuate, and since nutmeg trees only bear fruit every two years, many families struggle to make ends meet. Moms like Mama Siti often take on extra jobs just to put food on the table.

“The Tomandin nutmeg tree is not just a tree to us. It is a legacy from our ancestors, passed down through generations to give us life,” says Mama Siti.

Sustainable Solutions for a Brighter Future

To help women farmers like Mama Siti, the nonprofit organization Kaleka launched Wewowo Lestari, a program that provides training on better processing techniques and eco-friendly farming practices. With improved solar drying methods, farmers have seen their sales increase by up to 40%!

Beyond farming, Kaleka is helping turn nutmeg into high-value products like essential oils, syrups, and even perfumes. Thanks to their work, nutmeg from Papua is now being used by luxury brands like Hermès and Chanel—a huge milestone for these hardworking moms!

From Farm to Family: A Legacy Worth Preserving

With over 26,000 Indigenous people relying on nutmeg farming, sustainability is essential—not just for income, but for the environment. Instead of letting nutmeg pulp go to waste, moms in the community have found ways to turn it into delicious fruit juice, selling over 500 bottles so far!

As moms, we know the importance of making the most of what we have, whether it’s stretching a meal budget, upcycling old clothes, or teaching our kids the value of sustainability. The women of Papua remind us that when communities come together with knowledge, creativity, and purpose, they can build a better future—one nutmeg at a time.

Would you try a nutmeg-infused perfume or drink? Let’s celebrate these incredible moms by sharing their story!