smallholder farmers

This case study looks at the potential value of horticulture for farmers in Tanzania, and the contribution of the seed sector to the growing Tanzanian horticulture sector. Small farmers could all use commercial open pollinated varieties (OPV) and adopt low-cost production technologies. A profitable, responsible sector meeting the national needs is possible and reliable seed companies are critical to the vitality of the sector. »

This Access to Seeds Index evaluates the performance of the seed industry in taking the lead in reaching smallholder farmers in Western and Central Africa. Only half of the 23 evaluated seed companies in the region have breeding activities. A large part of the youngest varieties in the portfolio of regional companies is older than five years. »

This insight paper aims to contribute to a better conceptualization of ‘farmers’ and to an improved understanding of ‘farmers. The objective is to inform Dutch Food & Nutrition Security (FNS) Policy and provide recommendations on how to enhance the policy’s results for and with the target groups. The Dutch FNS policy and its implementation would gain clarity if it made use of clearer language and definitions of the farmer target groups it intends to reach. A flexible, context-specific, and stakeholder-informed approach is key to prevent blueprints or classifications that disempower some farmers. »

This paper aims to provide a more precise insight into Inclusive Businesses (IBs), from a conceptual perspective and from a more practical one when implemented. Results show that whereas multiple-instrument IBs do obtain improved inclusiveness of low-income communities and smallholder farmers in commercial value chains, issues related to corporate control over resources, lack of knowledge transfer and marginal benefits remain. »

This Access to Seeds Index evaluates the performance of the seed industry in taking the lead in reaching smallholder farmers in Eastern and Southern Africa. The index reveals that companies are present in all index countries and investing in local seed sector development, but need more step up efforts to reach more smallholders. East African Seed tops the 2019 Access to Seeds Index for Eastern and Southern Africa. »

This paper assesses how private-sector actors across the supply chain manage climate smart agriculture (CSA), with an eye on how civil society can better engage companies in promoting CSA practices. The research highlights the need for the scientific community to provide more detailed, actionable information to incentivise companies’ investments in CSA. »