Sun for Our Goat Cheese!

This is what it's all about.

My name is Arnaud, and I started La Ferme Terre Vivante in 2020 with a simple but powerful goal: to fight malnutrition and undernourishment in Togo—especially among children in rural areas—by producing local, sustainable sources of protein.

I’ve always believed that agriculture can be a force for good. That’s why I set out to create a farm that goes beyond just farming. A place rooted in agroecology, education, and health. A place that connects people to the land and gives them the tools to grow.

I began raising dairy goats of the Swiss Saanen breed—known for their excellent milk production—and brought them all the way from Switzerland to Togo. It was a bold move, but it paid off: we’re now the only farm in the country producing fresh, artisanal cheese and yogurt from goat milk. These products are not only rich in nutrients, they’re a completely new and exciting discovery for many in our community.

But the farm doesn’t stop there. Together with my team, we also raise chickens, ducks, and rabbits in free-range conditions. We grow fresh vegetables and host young people who want to learn about sustainable farming. Between 2020 and 2024, we’ve welcomed around thirty interns from all walks of life—offering them hands-on training and real experience.

Loris, a volunteer from Switzerland, spent time with us during a sabbatical. He described the experience like this:

«Working with Arnaud and his team, connecting with the land, learning how to make cheese in such a unique and beautiful setting—it was inspiring. Even with simple living conditions, the experience was unforgettable.»

And yet, behind this beautiful project are very real challenges. We still have no stable electricity and no direct access to water. Every drop used to feed animals, grow vegetables, or make cheese must be carried manually—an exhausting task that holds back the farm’s full potential.

That’s why we’re launching this appeal: to install a solar-powered system for our borehole, allowing us to pump up to 10 m³ of water per day. With CHF 6,500, this crucial step becomes possible.

My project is special because ...

La Ferme Terre Vivante is more than a farm—it’s a movement toward healthier, more sustainable, and more self-sufficient communities in Togo.

At the heart of it all is our commitment to improving food security. By producing high-quality dairy products locally, we provide an essential source of protein—especially for children in areas where access to nutrition is limited.

And the cheese itself? It’s rare, delicious, and made with love. Or as I like to say: «Each batch is a blend of Swiss tradition and Togolese resilience!»

We also serve as a space for education, where young people can learn about farming, agroecology, and self-reliance. For many, it’s their first experience getting their hands in the soil and discovering the power of producing real food.

But without water and energy, every step is a struggle. With solar power and a working pump, we could finally focus on what we do best—feeding people, training youth, and growing a sustainable food system.

Supporting this project means amplifying real, local impact. It’s about giving people the tools they need to build something lasting and nourishing.

This is what I need backing for.

Every franc raised will go directly into building a sustainable water and energy system for the farm. Here’s how the funds will be used:

✔️ Solar panels to power the farm’s energy needs ✔️ A water pump to draw water from the borehole and support crop irrigation and animal care ✔️ Batteries and an inverter for consistent energy, even during cloudy days

With this system in place, we’ll finally have the resources to farm with greater ease and security. We’ll be able to produce food year-round—not only for the goats, but for ourselves and our community.

La Ferme Terre Vivante is a beautiful example of what’s possible when you combine vision, tradition, and heart.

Let’s build the next chapter—together. Määh.