Investing in smallholder farmers can yield significant returns for both local economies and global food systems.
Research indicates that supporting smallholder agriculture can contribute to poverty alleviation and improved food security. A study by the World Bank found that for every 1 percent increase in agricultural productivity, poverty can be reduced by 0.6 percent.
In the complex ecosystem of global agriculture, smallholder farmers represent a cornerstone of food security and economic development.
They contribute approximately 75 percent of Kenya’s total agricultural output and providing livelihoods for about 80 percent of the rural population (Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, 2022).
However, the challenges they face – ranging from limited access to markets and finance to vulnerability to climate change – are daunting.
Smallholder farmers are critical to the agricultural landscape, particularly in developing countries. They often produce a significant portion of staple foods, contributing to local economies and food systems. However, their limited resources hinder their ability to thrive.
According to a 2021 World Bank report, smallholder farmers often lack access to technology, financial services, and information, this can lead to low productivity and income.
Additionally, they frequently encounter barriers to market access due to inadequate infrastructure and market information. As a result, they often receive lower prices for their produce, perpetuating a cycle of poverty that hinders agricultural productivity.
One effective way to support smallholder farmers is through the establishment of cooperatives. These cooperatives enable farmers to pool their resources, share knowledge, and access larger markets. They can negotiate better prices for inputs and outputs, thereby increasing their bargaining power.
A meta-analysis conducted by the Food and Agriculture Organisation highlighted that cooperatives could enhance the livelihoods of smallholder farmers by providing them with access to credit, training and new technologies. Kakuzi, through its extension services team, has empowered avocado smallholder farmers by offering training and free avocado maturity testing services.
The training emphasizes on improved agronomic techniques, technical assistance, integrated pest management and adherence to international market standards, equipping farmers with the knowledge needed to enhance their productivity and quality.
Furthermore, integrating smallholder farmers into the agricultural value chain can enhance their resilience to climate change. Kakuzi has partnered with the smallholder farmers both within and outside Muranga County to prioritise purchases from local suppliers.
This initiative includes collaborating with “mama mboga” vendors who sell fruits and vegetables at the farmers’ market, fostering a sustainable ecosystem of support and collaboration that benefits the community at large.
Moreover, public policies play a vital role in supporting smallholder farmers. The Kenyan government has introduced various initiatives aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity, such as the Agricultural Sector Transformation and Growth Strategy (ASTGS). However, there is a need for more targeted investment in rural infrastructure and market access.
In conclusion, supporting smallholder farmers is essential for building a resilient agricultural value chain and achieving sustainable development.
As highlighted in the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2 on Zero Hunger, supporting smallholder farmers aligns with global efforts to eradicate hunger and promote sustainable agriculture. The time to act is now, as the fate of our food systems and the livelihoods of millions-hangs in the balance.
The writer is General Manager, Avocado Operations at Kakuzi PLC
