The effect of the zakat empowerment program on youth farmers’ participation : a case study of desa tani program by Dompet Dhuafa

Abstract

The declining interest of young people in agriculture not only threatens the sustainability of the agricultural sector but also endangers the livelihoods of farming communities in Indonesia. This research examines the effect of the Zakat Empowerment Program, specifically the Desa Tani Program by Dompet Dhuafa, on the participation of youth farmers in the agricultural sector. This research uses a mixed methods approach, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews and document analysis. The quantitative analysis uses the Mann-Whitney U test to compare the perceptions and outcomes of youth farmers who participated in the program with those who did not. The qualitative analysis involves thematic analysis of interviews with youth farmers from both groups, program administrators, and community leaders to gain deeper insights into the effect of the program. In addition, the Analytic Network Process (ANP) is used to assess the relative importance of various program interventions in attracting youth farmers. The findings indicate that the Desa Tani Program has benefited youth farmers’ participation in agriculture. Program participants showed higher intentions to enter agriculture, increased access to resources such as land, finance and technology, also higher incomes compared to non-participants. The qualitative analysis highlights how Dompet Dhuafa helps youth farmers by providing motivation, resource training, and creating a supportive community environment. Also, the ANP analysis identified strengthening market linkages and local institution as important interventions for Dompet Dhuafa to attract youth farmers. Based on these findings, this research offers recommendations to Dompet Dhuafa and other zakat management institutions to improve the effectiveness of their empowerment programs. These recommendations include strengthening market linkages, increasing access to resources, addressing social and cultural barriers, leveraging technology and innovation, and establishing a robust monitoring and evaluation system. The research concludes that the Desa Tani Program serves as a model for encouraging youth participation in agriculture and sustainable rural development through zakat-based initiatives.