SOLUSI Project transitioned into its grassroots implementation phase in Central Java through Yayasan KEHATI’s local partner, ARuPA, between November 2025 and February 2026. This initiative targets the restoration of degraded areas spanning the Serayu watershed to the Kebumen Geopark, utilizing Nature-based Solutions (NbS) to contribute to the project’s goal of 28,000 hectares of community-led Land-and-Seascape (LaS) management 

In the upstream region of Banyumas, 7,136 seedlings of multi-purpose tree species, such as coffee, avocado, and durian, were planted into 30 hectares via agroforestry schemes within the Perum Perhutani KPH Banyumas Timur conservation area. Concurrently, downstream in Cilacap and Kebumen, over 9,000 mangrove seedlings were planted to reinforce coastal defences against abrasion. 

Agus Budi Purwanto, ARuPA’s SOLUSI Program Coordinator, emphasised that the success of rehabilitation is predicated on community stewardship, “The success of rehabilitation is heavily contingent upon the community’s sense of ownership. This is why the community must be involved and plan every action, consolidated with relevant stakeholders, and intensively mentored in the field. This mentorship serves as our primary mitigation strategy in addressing technical challenges, such as limited water access during drought seasons, as well as providing early intervention against unexpected plant diseases or pests.” 

Meanwhile, Sukirman, a member of the LMDH Kentheng Jaya, expressed his aspiration during the ceremonial planting event in Ayah Village. “I am hopeful that these seedlings will prove beneficial, bearing fruit and ultimately enhancing our prosperity, particularly for our families and the broader community. Every component, from the conservation trees to the gliricidia (gamal), is valuable. While the gliricidia serves as livestock fodder, the bayurtrees provide essential conservation protection,” he stated. 

Beyond reforestation, the program enhances local capacity in sustainable silvo-fishery and integrated waste management. These efforts contribute directly to Output III of the SOLUSI Project, establishing a LaS Planning Laboratory to integrate climate resilience and biodiversity into subnational development. Through multi-stakeholder synergy, Central Java’s economic sustainability is set to flourish alongside its natural resources.