1. Annual Report on FAO activities in support of producers‘ organizations and agricultural cooperatives Prepared by E. L. Crowley1, Chair, Ilaria Tercelli, and Nora Ourabah Haddad FAO Inter Departmental Committee and Inter Departmental Working Group on Institution Building for Agriculture and Rural Development 2011 2. 2 We are grateful to the members of the Inter Departmental Task Force, the Inter Departmental Committee on Institution Building for Agriculture and Rural Development and the many other FAO officers and management at headquarters (from AGA, AGN, AGP, AGS, ESA, EST, ESW, FI, FO, LEG, NRC, NRL, OCE, ODG, OEK, OSD, TCE, TCI) and decentralized levels (FAORAF, FAORAP, FAORLC, FAOSAP, FAOSEUR, FAOSFC, FAOSLC, FAOSRC) for their inputs, review, and guidance on this report. The views expressed in this report are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations 3. 3 AAACP - All ACP Support Program on Agricultural Commodities, Including Cotton ABC - Agricultural Business Center ABU - Agricultural Business Unit ACP - Africa, Caribbean and Pacific AGA - FAO Animal Production and Health Division AGN - FAO Nutrition and Consumer Protection Division AGP - FAO Plant Production and Protection Division AGS - FAO Rural Infra-structure and Agro-industries Division ARENET - Agricultural Research and Extension Network ASOCON - Asia Pacific Soil and Water Conservation Network for the humid tropics BGRI - Borlaug Global Rust Initiative CA - Conservation Agriculture CAADP - Comprehensive African Agricultural Development Program CAC - Consejo Agropecuario Centroamericano CaFAN - Caribbean Farmers Network CARIFORUM/CARICOM - Caribbean Forum of African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) States /Caribbean Community CBO - Community-Based Organization CFC - Common Commodity Fund CDMP - Comprehensive Disaster Management Programme CEP - Champs-écoles des Producteurs CFS - Committee on World Food Security CPF - Confederation Paysanne du Faso CSO - Civil Society Organization DRM - Disaster Risk Management EAFF - East African Farmers Federation EC - European Commission ECO - Economic Cooperation Organization ECTAD - Economic Trade and Agricultural Development ES - FAO Economic and Social Development Department ESA - FAO Agriculture and Development Economics Division EST - FAO Trade and Markets Division ESW - FAO Gender, Equity and Rural Employment Division EU - European Union EX-ACT (Ex Ante Appraisal Carbon-balance Tool) FAO - Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations FAOAF - FAO Representation in Afghanistan FAOMR - FAO Representation in Morocco FAORAP - FAO Sub-regional Office for Asia and the Pacific FAOSEUR - FAO Regional Office for Europe FAORLC - FAO Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean FAORNE - FAO Regional Office for the Near East FAOSAP - FAO Sub-regional Office for the Pacific Islands FAOSEC - FAO Sub-regional Office for Central Asia FAOSFC - FAO Sub-regional Office for Central Africa FAOSFE - Sub-regional Office for Eastern Africa FAOSFS - FAO Sub-regional Office for Southern Africa List of abbreviations 4. 4 FAOSL - FAO Representation in Sierra Leone FAOSLS - FAO Multidisciplinary Team for South America FAOSNE - FAO Sub-regional Office for North Africa FAOTZ - FAO Representation in Tanzania FBS - Farm Business School FC - Forest Connect FFS - Farmer Field School FIP - FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy and Economic Division FIPI - FAO Fisheries Policy, Economics and Institutions FIPM - FAO Fisheries Products, Trade and Marketing FIR - FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Resources Use and Conservation Division FIRA - FAO Aquaculture FIRF - FAO Marine and Inland Fisheries FIRO - FAO Fishing Operations and Technology O FO - Farmers‘ Organization FO - FAO Forestry Department FOE - FAO Forest Economics, Policy and Products Division FOEI - FAO Forest Products and Industries FOEL - FAO Forestry Communication and Liaison FOEP - FAO Forest Policy and Economics FOM - FAO Forest Assessment, Management and Conservation Division FOMA - FAO Global Forest Assessment and Reporting FOMC - FAO Forest Conservation FOMR - FAO Forest Management FSCA - Food Security through Commercialization of Agriculture GAP - Good Agricultural Practices GCP - Government Cooperative Program GDA - Groups of Agricultural Development GI - Geographical Indication GIAHS - Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems GTZ - Deutsche Gesellschaft für Technische Zusammenarbeit HPAI - Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza HQ - Headquarters IBC - International Banana Conference ICARRD - International Conference on Agrarian Reform and Rural Development IDC - Inter Departmental Committee IDWG - Inter Departmental Working Group IFAD - International Fund for Agricultural Development IIED - International Institute for Environment and Development ILO - International Labor Organization of the United Nations INCAGRO - Innovación y Competitividad para el Agro Peruano IPM - Integrated Pest Management JFFLS - Junior Farmers Field and Life Schools LADA - Land Degradation Assessment in Drylands LEG - FAO Legal Office LEGN - FAO Development Law Service LoA - Letter of Agreement LTU - Lead Technical Unit MA&D - Market Analysis and Development approach MFFN - Melanesian Farmer First Network MIS - Member Information System MDG - Millennium Development Goal M&E - Monitoring and Evaluation MoA - Ministry of Agriculture NCARE - National Center for Agricultural Research and Extension NEDAC - Regional Network for the development of agricultural cooperatives in Asia and the Pacific 5. 5 NFP - National Forest Program NGO - Non-Governmental Organization NMTPF- National Medium Term Priority Framework NPFS - National Program for Food Security NR - FAO Natural Resources Management and Environment Department NRC - FAO Climate, Energy, and Tenure Division NRL - FAO Land and Water Division ODGS - Strategic Planning Unit OEK - FAO Office of Knowledge Exchange, Research and Extension OEKC - FAO Knowledge and Capacity Development OEKR - FAO Research and Extension Branch OSD - Office of Support to Decentralization PDR - People's Democratic Republic PES - Payment for Environmental Services PFNL - Produits Forestiers Non Ligneux PISCES - Policy Innovation Systems for Clean Energy Security PMH - Petite et Moyenne Hydraulique PO - Producers‘ Organization POP - Persistent Organic Pollutants PPLPI - Pro-Poor Livestock Policy Initiative PROPAC - Platform of Peasant Organizations of Central Africa RADCON - Rural and Agriculture Development Communication Network REU - Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia RKN - Rural Knowledge Network ROPPA - Réseaux des Organisations Paysannes et de Producteurs Agricoles de l‘Afrique de l‘Ouest RUFIP - Rural Financial Intermediation Program SACAU - Southern African Confederation of Agricultural Unions SACCO - Saving and Credit Cooperative Organization SADC - Southern African Development Community SARD - Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development SLM - Sustainable Land Management SMFE - Small and Medium Forest Enterprise SOFI - State of Food Insecurity TC - FAO Technical Cooperation Department TCEO - FAO Emergency Operations Service TCI - FAO Investment Centre Division TCIA - Africa Service of TCI TCIN - Near East, North Africa, Europe, Central and South Asia Service of TCI TCIO - Latin America, the Caribbean, East Asia and the Pacific Services of TCI TCP - Technical Cooperation Program TCPF - Technical Cooperation Program Facility TECA - Technology for Agriculture UNJP - United Nations Joint Program UTF- Unilateral Trust Fund VDC - Village Development Committee VERCON - Virtual Extension and Research Communication Network VPPG - Village Poultry Production Group WB - World Bank WBF - World Banana Forum WBGS - West Bank and the Gaza Strip WFP - World Food Program 6. 6 Summary and Overview Activities undertaken in 2011 Helping to create an enabling environment 12 Direct technical support services to field projects in member countries provided 25 Meetings held and regional networking activities supported 77 Knowledge platforms for POs capacity development, software products and good practices databases 81 Activities for 2012 2012 Projects 85 Publications, issues papers and normative guidelines in support of PO and cooperative development 87 Global and regional meetings to be held and networking activities to be supported 88 Annexes Annex A - Lead Technical Units Institution Building Competency table 89 List of Units and Divisions‘ Acronyms 107 New FAO Headquarters structure as for October 2011 110 Annex B - 2011 Publications, issues papers, normative guidelines, e-learning tools, policy briefs and workshop/conference proceedings in support of PO‘ development 111 Annex C - 2011 Technical learning resources of value to producers' organizations and cooperatives 115 Index 7. 7 Highlights of FAO’s 2011 and planned work in support of Producers’ Organizations and food, agricultural and rural cooperatives Demand from consumers in emerging economies is increasing, population continues to grow, and any further need for energy supplies will place additional demands on the food system. Food price volatility may increase due to stronger linkages between agricultural and energy markets, as well as an increased frequency of weather shocks, moving in tandem with unstable financial and equity markets (Food Outlook, 2011). According to the State of Food Insecurity in the World (2011) food price volatility and high food prices are likely to continue in the years ahead. Small scale producers in many developing countries were not able to reap the benefits of high food prices during the 2007-2008 food price crisis. The opportunity that high food prices could have provided as a pathway out of poverty for small producers in developing countries was not realized. Yet, evidence shows that strong rural organizations such as producer organizations and cooperatives are able to resist shocks. When they are strong and supported by a conducive policy environment, producer organizations (POs) can provide a full range of services to small producers, they are able to play a greater role in meeting a growing demand for agricultural produce on local, national, and international markets, and they can enable small producers to have some influence over the policy and programs that affect their lives. In 2011, FAO continued to provide support to producers and cooperatives through a wide range of programs and projects in various countries and regions in the world. Because of their critical role in reducing world hunger and promoting economic growth and rural well-being, FAO expects to revitalize its commitment and rebuild its engagement with cooperatives and producers organizations in the course of the next biennium (2012-13). FAO’s assistance in support to POs and cooperatives FAO primarily provides policy assistance to governments to address small producers‘ needs more effectively. Directly or indirectly, FAO also reinforces the organizational capacities of POs, cooperatives and local community organizations to reach their organizational goals. Over 20 FAO Headquarter technical units and departments, as well as decentralized offices provide assistance to POs and cooperatives through sectoral programs and projects. In 2011, FAO‘s achievements relating to producers organizations and cooperatives cover over 100 countries with a total of 182 projects1, including the following activities and intervention areas: Capacity development to create an enabling environment and foster representation and participation of POs as key stakeholders in agriculture and rural development policy formulation (36 projects on issues including trade, research, tenure, inputs‘ provision and access to credit); Technical assistance (projects approved or implemented in support of POs, cooperatives and community based organizations: 10 Global/Cross-regional projects, 67 in Africa, 25 in Asia, 1 in Europe and Central Asia, 1620 in Latin America and the Caribbean, and 15 in the Near East); Awareness raising (23 conferences, meetings, consultations, awareness raising, training events were held, all directly or indirectly supportive of organizations of farmers, fisher folk, forest users, agricultural enterprises and cooperatives); 1 See Annex A for more information on the Lead Technical Units - Institution Building Competency Table Summary and Overview 8. 8 Knowledge generation (17 relevant publications2, 20 knowledge platforms/portals for POs‘ capacity development and 3 good practices databases). The FAO New Corporate Strategy on Capacity Development was endorsed at the 141st session of the FAO Council in April 2011. It creates the official framework for FAO to engage in activities that support countries and regions to strengthen their capacities for agriculture development and food security across three dimensions: individuals, organizations and the enabling environment. It emphasizes the importance of promoting organization/institutional development through an effective mobilization of existing institutions and capacities, the analysis of the institutional context, support to the development of conducive policies, advising on processes for the empowerment of local and national organizations, and support to national ownership and leadership. Activities are underway to implement the Strategy, such as the development of a learning program for FAO staff and collaborators. Corporate Achievements 1) 37th Committee on World Food Security (CFS) Regional African Farmers‘ Organizations (Network of Peasant and Producers‘ Organizations of West Africa, ROPPA, and Eastern Africa Farmers Federation, EAFF), representatives from international farmer and peasant movements, fisherfolk, youth, pastoralists and indigenous people participated in the CFS- led Intergovernmental Negotiations that took place during 12-15th July and 10-15th October 2011 for the final text of the Voluntary Guidelines on Responsible Governance of Tenure of Land, Forest and Fisheries. The Voluntary Guidelines are intended to contribute to the global and national efforts towards the eradication of hunger and poverty, based on the principles of sustainable development and with the recognition of the centrality of land to development by promoting secure tenure rights and equitable access to land. The Pan-African Farmers‘ Organization (PAFO), the Regional Platform of Peasant Organizations of Central Africa (PROPAC), the National Coordination of Peasant Organization of Mali, EAFF, and ROPPA participated in a side event during the 37th CFS ‘’Africa can feed itself’’. This event contributed to policy dialogue in the context of the CFS on food security, investment in agriculture and access to resources by highlighting concerns and proposals advanced by major actors of food security in Africa: governments and small-scale food producers. The participation of POs and cooperatives in these two events demonstrates that the CFS reforms have been implemented by ensuring that all relevant voices are heard in the policy debate on food and agriculture. The vision of the reformed CFS is to be the most inclusive international and intergovernmental platform for all stakeholders to work together to ensure food security and nutrition for all. POs and cooperatives were considered as key for addressing Food Price Volatility and Gender, two of the topics discussed at the Policy Roundtables during the 37th Committee on World Food Security (CFS) that took place on 17-22nd October 2011 at the FAO Headquarters. Assistance to cooperatives and community grain storage initiatives is an important first step in reducing post-harvest losses and increasing resilience, as well as addressing emergency needs and reducing domestic food price volatility by allowing farmers to market beyond harvest season. The CFS noted the need for policies to facilitate access to credit for storage improvements by farmers, cooperatives and private traders and to the necessary technology and training to minimize post-harvest losses. There is also a need for training to build specialized storage management skills both for farmers‘ associations and cooperatives as well as for the private sector. 2 See Annex B for more details on publications, issues papers, normative guidelines, e-learning tools, policy briefs and workshop/conference proceedings and Annex C for more details on technical learning resources of value to POs and cooperatives. 9. 9 Women‘s participation in both women only and mixed cooperatives is important, POs and cooperatives enable women farmers to aggregate their harvests, negotiate better prices, introduce value added processing, and potentially provide better access to transportation for members‘ produce. The CFS urged Member States to actively promote women‘s leadership and to strengthen women‘s capacity to organize, especially in rural areas. 2) Closing the gender gap through strong Cooperatives and Producer Organizations Closing the gender gap in agricultural inputs alone could lift 100–150 million people out of hunger. Women make significant contributions to the rural economy in all developing countries. Their roles differ across regions, yet they consistently have less access than men to the resources and opportunities they need to be more productive. Increasing women‘s access to land, livestock, education, financial services, extension, technology and rural employment would boost their productivity and generate gains in terms of agricultural production, food security, economic growth and social welfare (State of Food and Agriculture, 2010-2011). FAO works with governments, POs and cooperatives to support both rural women and men who are small producers in agriculture and who, otherwise, might not gain access to the resources or services they need to improve their livelihoods. The Knowledge Management and Gender Program (composed by the following projects: Capitalization, Dimitra, Holivar and the Rural Finance Learning Centre) uses participatory approaches for the exchange of knowledge and a systematic integration of gender issues through better information management and communication. Action-Training activities, participatory assessments, and events to share experience and knowledge such as share fairs, have led to the strengthening of POs and the empowerment of rural populations. Impacts include: developing more equitable and sustainable POs and associations through better awareness of gender balance and the commitment of members to encourage access of women to leadership positions. FAO has also recently launched action research on women‘s participation within Rural Producer Organizations (RPOs) in developing countries, in order to establish multi-stakeholder dialogues with policy makers and other relevant actors to inform gender-sensitive policies, with the ultimate goal of improving gender equality in leadership and decision-making processes in these organizations. It is also meant to encourage governments to create the enabling environment in which POs and cooperatives can develop and thrive. This also ties into the 16th year of the Beijing Platform for Action, which sets out an international agenda for women's empowerment. Worldwide farmers speak up through their producer organizations: from the G120 to the G20 FAO participated in the conference "G120, the world's farmers speak!''. A week before the meeting of ministers of agriculture of the G20, French agricultural organizations (FNSEA and Young Farmers France-JA) invited 120 agricultural organizations from 80 countries to gather in Paris at the OECD headquarters on 16 and June 17, 2011. During these two days, 400 participants from five continents developed proposals on the future of global agriculture. After the meeting, 120 agricultural organizations agreed to propose and submit to the G20 agriculture ministers a set of recommendations for the development of world agriculture and to reduce the volatility of agricultural prices. 3) The celebration of the International Day of Cooperatives 2011: focus on youth The theme for the 2011 International Day of Cooperatives, Youth, the Future of Cooperatives, highlighted how the cooperative model of enterprise can successfully empower youth. It links to the celebration of the United Nations International Year of Youth, which encourages dialogue and understanding across generations and promotes the ideals of peace, respect for human rights and freedoms, and solidarity. Young people are often unaware of the cooperative model of enterprise - they do not learn about cooperatives in school as they rarely figure in their school curricula. FAO, together with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the International Movement for Catholic Agricultural and Rural Youth (MIJARC), are developing a program on how to 10. 10 facilitate engagement of rural youth in agriculture. Firstly, a mapping exercise of young farmers‘ organizations, farmers‘ organizations which are addressing youth issues and rural organizations representing young farmer interests was carried out. Secondly, a qualitative survey to identify challenges and opportunities specific to young women and men producers in rural areas; their level of representation and participation in organizations; and the factors of success and/or failure of youth entering into agriculture was conducted. Thirdly, three regional workshops in Africa, Asia and Latin America composed of young representatives of farmers‘ organizations were organized. The workshops aimed at providing young farmers with a space to express their aspirations, voice their concerns and provide recommendations for future policy action. The findings of the first phase of this program will be presented and discussed at the upcoming IFAD Farmers‘ Forum to be held in February 2012. In fact, throughout this year‘s observance of the International Year of Youth, decision makers around the world stressed the importance of including young people at all levels of the development process. The active inclusion of young women and men in social and economic development helps reduce social exclusion, improve productive capacity, break cycles of poverty, promote gender equality and raise environmental responsibility. 4) Launching the 2012 International Year of Cooperatives Small scale producers as members of rural cooperatives can benefit from a variety of services related to access to and management of natural resources, improved access to input and output markets, as well as a stronger voice in decision making and improved bargaining power leading to improved food security and poverty reduction for millions. FAO, IFAD and the World Food Program (WFP), on the occasion of the official launch of the International Year of Cooperatives 2012 (IYC) on October 31, 2011, at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, FAO, IFAD and WFP highlighted the importance of agricultural cooperatives. FAO spoke on behalf of the three Rome based Agencies at a jointly organized event on agricultural cooperatives ―A means to achieve Food Security‖, which also included representatives of cooperatives and farmer organizations, GFAR, and other civil society organizations from all regions of the world. Seventy representatives of government and civil society participated in the event. Participants recognised the critical role of cooperatives for rural and agricultural development and in particular the role of women farmers which deserves to be enhanced and supported. There was a call to better define expected outputs from the IYC process in 2012, as well as reflect on tools needed to stimulate the cooperative movement. There was also a call to explore ways of replicating such success stories in additional countries. In 2012, the Rome-based UN agencies will remain committed to supporting agricultural cooperatives, which provide members with economic advantages and offer them a wide range of services that build up their skills and improve their livelihoods. With the theme of “Cooperative Enterprises Build a Better World”, the Year seeks to encourage the growth and establishment of cooperatives all over the world. It also encourages individuals, communities and governments to recognize the importance of cooperatives in helping to achieve internationally agreed upon development goals, such as the Millennium Development Goals. In particular the three Rome-based agencies will collaborate to raise awareness on the significant role played by food, agricultural and rural cooperatives in sustainable employment generation, poverty alleviation and food security. Ways forward The collaboration initiated between the three Rome-based agencies in 2011 for the preparations of the launch of the International Year of Cooperatives 2012 (IYC) will serve as a basis for continued, sustained efforts in jointly promoting food, agricultural and rural cooperatives. The three Rome-based agencies have identified three main events in 2012 that will serve as catalysts for the promotion of the IYC. Events promoting food, agricultural and rural cooperatives could be held back to back with the following events: 11. 11 The Farmers‘ Forum that will be hosted by IFAD in February 2012, in conjunction with its Governing Council; FAO is participating in a youth day event which could be leveraged to highlight issues pertaining to young farmers‘ organizations including cooperatives. The fifty-sixth session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) that will take place at United Nations Headquarters in New York from Monday, 27 February to Friday, 9 March 2012. The theme for the fifty-sixth session of CSW, is the empowerment of rural women and their role in poverty and hunger eradication, development and current challenges. FAO will be leading the organization of several joint side event together with the RBAs, UN Women, ILO and others. The General Assembly of the World Farmers‘ Organization (WFO) that will take place in Rome in May or June 2012. FAO proposes to hold a joint FAO-WFO event to celebrate the IYC. FAO Regional Conferences, the Plunkett Foundation‘ World of Rural Co-operation Conference‖, area among numerous other possibilities FAO and IFAD will also disseminate the joint good practice publication entitled ―good practices in building innovative rural institutions to increase food security‖ which presents numerous examples of innovative POs, cooperatives and other institutional arrangements that have proven to be successful in helping small producers overcome their different constraints. A monitoring exercise to measure the uptake of this work is foreseen. Beyond the dissemination of these practices, FAO, will undertake, at the country level, more in-depth analysis aimed at better defining the contextual elements of the needed enabling environment for producer organizations to develop and thrive. In this context, a range of activities at country level including the production of tools and materials will be developed. FAO and the International Labour Organization (ILO) agreed to collaborate on the development of a brief along with a series of good practices featuring institutional arrangements linking value chains to multinational enterprises. These materials could be used as a contribution to the celebration of the 2012 International Year of Cooperatives. Although these materials could be cross-sectoral, FAO would obviously focus on the rural, food and agricultural dimensions. These examples demonstrate UN- interagency commitment to supporting food, agricultural and rural cooperatives throughout the year ahead and beyond. FAO will also develop a special learning module on ‗Organization analysis and development, which capitalizes on FAO‘s past experiences and normative products in this field. It also aims at mainstreaming coherent approaches in the area of organization development in order to influence FAO policy support and practices. In addition, a series of seminars and knowledge sharing events on organization development related issues are envisaged in 2012. As 2012 marks a period of new leadership for FAO, more fundamental changes in the Organization‘s relationship to cooperatives and producers are expected to emerge in the course of the next months. FAO counts on its many partners to continue to support its fundamental commitment and evolving engagement with producer organizations and cooperatives. 12. 12 This section describes the activities FAO supported in 2011 in order to help create an enabling environment for cooperative and producers‘ group enterprise development. It concerns mainly policy processes and advice to member countries and support to POs to participate in policy dialogue and influence economic and financial policies as well as the regulatory and legal frameworks for rural development. Mainstreaming support to POs in investment programs and national institutions (i.e. including defining research agendas and demand led extension and advisory services) is also a key feature of the Organization‘s work. FAO‘s work in support of forest users‘ and fishers‘ organizations is considered separately in later sections due to their specificity. Global/Cross-regional All ACP Agricultural Commodities Program3, Including Cotton (AAACP) (GCP/INT/045/EC, LTU: EST/2007-2011). The overall objective of this interregional program was to improve incomes and livelihoods of producers dependent on agricultural commodities - in the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) regions - by building the capacity of actors along commodity chains to develop and implement sustainable value chain strategies. The four-year program is client-driven with activities prioritized on the basis of participatory value chain diagnosis. A major area of support has been capacity building for: i) policy makers to design policies that incorporate the value chain approach in order to develop integrated commodity strategies; ii) farmer federations to strengthen the integration of smallholders into value chains. Conservation and Adaptive Management of Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) (GCP /GLO/212/GFF, LTU: NRL/2008-2013 and GCP/GLO/198/GER, LTU: NRL/2008-2011). FAO‘s GIAHS-Initiative endeavors to raise global and national awareness of and support for agricultural heritage systems worldwide. Rather than promoting the preservation of GIAHS as agricultural museums, the GIAHS approach aims to reinforce the underlying ecological and socio-cultural processes of agricultural heritage systems, while enhancing their viability and promoting development for their custodians. It supports the social empowerment of farmer and livestock-keeper communities by improving their land and natural resource rights and building capacity of their social organizations and institutions to access public services and information on technologies, markets and policies. Currently, the initiative has devised two projects for selected GIAHS: GCP /GLO/212/GFF (Peru, Chile, China, Philippines, Tunisia and Algeria) and GCP/GLO/198/GER (Kenya and Tanzania). (For more information please refer to the GIAHS website http://www.fao.org/nr/giahs/giahs-home/en/). 3 FAO is a program partner together with other four International Organizations, namely the International Trade Centre (ITC), the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the World Bank (WB) and the Common Commodity Fund (CFC) Executive Summary Activities undertaken in 2011 - Helping to create an enabling environment 13. 13 In 2009, the European Union (EU) has increased its support to global food security through a €1 Billion Food Facility, targeting the transition period from emergency aid to longer-term development. Over €232 million was channeled through FAO, as a major partner for its implementation, allowing the organization to field operations in twenty-eight countries in Africa, Asia and Latin America, touching the lives of more than nine million people in rural areas4. From 2009 until 2011, activities under the Food Facility targeted the improvement of farmers‘ access to quality inputs and services; boosting agricultural production through such measures as micro-credit schemes; improved rural infrastructure and support for FOs; and providing safety nets to vulnerable groups (for more information please refer to http://www.fao.org/europeanunion/eu-in- action/eu-food-facility-details/en/). EU Food Facility – Case study Liberia Background In 2007/2008, there was an upsurge in food prices on international markets, adversely affecting the food needs of developing countries like Liberia. The Government of Liberia (GOL), together with the EU and UN development partners, responded to the crisis with the formulation of the European Union Food Facility (EUFF) project, entitled: Support to the Government’s Coordinated Response to the Food Price Increase. Launched in May 2009 and funded by the EU, the 26 months project was part of the Joint Program on Food Security and Nutrition of the GOL and implementing UN agencies: FAO, United Nations Development Program (UNDP), United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and World Food Program (WFP). The project provided direct support to 21,950 Liberian food insecure rural farmers, including 12,855 rice farmers and 9,095 vegetable growers in eight Counties: Bomi, Bong, Grand Gedeh, Lofa, Nimba, Grand Bassa, Margibi and Montserrado. Impacts of the POs and cooperatives on livelihood The project provided some innovative elements in the above context through: Provision of inputs such as seeds, tools, fertilizer and pest management equipment. Instant access to FAO staff for technical support by farmers, Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) extension workers etc. Periodic monitoring field visits to give technical support to field staff and to assess work quality relative to project objective and goal. Training in the areas of rice and vegetable production, agro-machinery operation and maintenance and agri-business entrepreneurship. Collaborating with the MoA, other line government agencies, NGOs, UN agencies and project implementing partners. Impacts of the POs and cooperatives on The provision of inputs, field visits, training and technical backup support to the POs and cooperatives had impacts on livelihood as follows: About 4,000 hectares were brought under cultivation with rice in 4 counties. 4 Countries in Batch 1 are: Afghanistan, Burkina Faso, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, Eritrea, Guinea Bissau, Haiti, Liberia, Mozambique, Pakistan, Sierra Leone and Zimbabwe. Countries in Batch 2 are: Burundi, Cambodia, Guatemala, Jamaica, Kenya, Lesotho, Nepal, Nicaragua, Niger, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Togo, and Zambia. 14. 14 livelihood Rice production increased from 1.5 - 2.0 mt/ha to 3.5 – 4.0 mt/ha especially under lowland/swamp ecology. Power tiller operation reduced labor cost and increased acreage cultivated which enabled farmers to produce more paddy. Rice thresher and rice mill operations improved product quality through value- addition and eliminated rocks, dirt and other foreign elements thus increasing income to farmers. 14 farmer organizations have now: leadership and management skills; proper record keeping capacities; can make business and financial plans, and are conducting their own farming activities as a business. Collaboration with partners enabled the selection of qualified farmer groups for the project; appropriate project locations identified for project implementation; appropriate project inputs identified, purchased and distributed to beneficiaries. General success factors Stakeholders‘ consultation at national, county and district levels enhanced accountability and transparency at every stage of project implementation. Timely delivery of quality inputs. Effective training in areas of production, processing and agri-business. Effective technical backstopping support to farmers. Periodic field maintenance at all levels of supervision. Problems remaining to be resolved Insufficient availability of land preparation equipment such as power tiller, tractor, etc. Training in land development, pest management, business entrepreneurship and water management. Training of farmers groups/cooperative in the application of the improved technology to value addition (product processing, packaging, labeling, and storage) Key recommendations Support for additional funding to ensure the provision of equipment for land preparation and value-addition. More training in the areas of pest management, water management, agri-business and agro-machinery operation and maintenance. Training in planting material propagation (rice seeds, cassava cuttings, vegetable seeds) FAO/Belgium Partnership Program 2008-2011 in the Field of Knowledge Management and Gender (FBPP/GLO/001/BEL, OEKC/2008-2012) Background Niger has benefited from 1999 to 2007 from a project promoting the use of agricultural inputs by POs, called ‗‘boutiques d‘intrants‘‘ (input supply shops). The project targeted agricultural input supply (fertilizers, pesticides, seeds, etc.). There was a particular interest on issues related to inputs‘ financed by the warehouse receipt system. This has led to the development of a strategy of supply of inputs for sustainable agriculture (ACIS) included in the Rural Development Strategy (RDS) of Niger. The continuation of the project since 2008 are conducted through the project: Intensification of agriculture by strengthening the input shops Cooperatives (IARBIC). Based on these achievements, and in close collaboration with the project IARBIC, the program aims to expand capitalization and equal opportunities for female and male producers‘ access to agricultural inputs. The gender approach fully integrates this goal, seeking equal access and control of men and women to productive resources 15. 15 (land, finance, inputs, information and education), responsibilities and decision- making. The project Capitalization of good practices in support of agricultural production and food security (FBPP/GLO/002/BEL, LTU: OEKC/2008-2012) with Dimitra Phase III (GCP /INT/810/BEL, LTU: ESW/2002-2012) (Addendum Phase II of Rural Women and Development - Dimitra (GCP /INT/673/BEL, LTU: SDW / 1998-2001) are two of the four axes of the partnership program between FAO and Belgium entitled Knowledge Management and Gender, which use a participatory approach for the exchange of knowledge and a systematic integration of gender issues through better information management and to communication.. Hortivar (www.fao.org / HORTIVAR) and the Center for Rural Finance Learning (www.ruralfinance.org) is the technical wing of the program. It is executed by FAO with funding from the Belgian government. Speaking at the regional level, it has a coordinating unit based in Niamey, which implements activities in Niger and Burkina Faso (extensions planned in Mali and Senegal). Impacts of the POs and cooperatives on livelihood In its implementation, the project integrates gender equality, and aims at transforming experiences on the management of inputs in the knowledge that female and male producers can use. To this end it has initiated many activities: Practical training, called "training - action," to learn by making products and using tools integrated into the activities of the organizations. The areas covered include: data management and statistical computing, input management, communication and management of electronic information, knowledge management and capitalization of experiences. Identification and collection of good practices: documentation of gender sensitive significant experiences, documentaries on the internet. Definition of methods and mechanisms for communicating best practices: strengthening information systems and communication of farmers' organizations (FOs) and organizations of rural support, exchange of experience - expertise - methods (travel, workshop, fairs, and networking). Development and implementation of initiatives to reduce gender gaps: research on the problem of managing inputs according to a gender perspective at the PO's level; training on equity in men-women communication for development and management of development projects. Implementation of methodological meeting points: they are both i) places of exchange, learning, participatory action research where innovations are tested and applied best practices, ii) the baselines of Monitoring and Evaluation (M & E) for a more precise analysis of the impact of management practices; iii) places of training and exchange involving POs and other actors in rural development. Production and distribution of material: on various topics (capitalization, extension, and training) linked to several themes related to the management of inputs and on different media (audio and video documentary, fact sheets, manuals, CD-ROMs, websites and forums). Impacts of the POs and cooperatives on livelihood Action-Training activities, participatory assessments, organizing events to share experience and knowledge such as the share fairs, have led to changes at POs and individual level. Impacts include; developing more egalitarian and sustainable POs and associations through better gender balance, awareness and the commitment of members to encourage greater access of women to positions of responsibility. In terms of knowledge and skills acquired, over 75% of participants are trained on the promotion of gender equality. Female and male producers and their partners have better access to information and knowledge management capitalized on the input integrating gender equality. On 31st April 2011, the project counted 1978 days of training. 16. 16 Women representation has increased significantly during the period of the project from 23% on 31st October 2009 to 36% on 30th April 2011. Initiatives to reduce gender gaps (literacy, AGR and relief kits for distribution of housework for women) are being put in place through advocacy and lobbying undertaken with technical and financial partners (Amélie Fund, Swiss cooperation, CISV, ISEP, IARBIC). Financially, the promotion of a warehouse receipt system accessible to the poor-are paving the way for equal access to credit. General success factors Continuity of team members (national coordinator, national experts, administrative staff and drivers). Very good knowledge relations with officials and POs' members. Problems remaining to be resolved The main POs' constraints to be resolved are: illiteracy, low level of organization and supervision of producers‘ members. Key recommendations Lessons learned: the issue of access to land. Gender equality is critical in the inputs‘ management. Resistance to gender equality in participation in the decision-making bodies at the PO level is more related to the lack of information and training than any other factor. Promoting Sustainable Banana Production and Trade through the Development of the World Banana Forum (MTF/GLO/308/MUL, LTU: EST/2011-2013) is the second phase of the World Banana Forum (a multi-stakeholder forum on sustainable banana production and trade) (MTF /GLO/242/UK, LTU: EST/2009-2010). Since 2009 the FAO Trade and Markets Division (EST) facilitates the World Banana Forum (WBF). The WBF is a public-private partnership created to facilitate collaboration between stakeholders to promote sustainable banana production and trade. It provides the different players of the banana sector worldwide with a permanent space where they can jointly find solutions to their common challenges. POs and agricultural cooperatives have found in the WBF a platform where their voice can be heard by the industry leaders and public sector policy makers. The WBF tackles the most urgent needs considered by its participants, and implements a goal oriented work plan to effectively address them (including ad hoc pilot projects). The beneficiaries typically belong to banana-producing and exporting countries although participants from consumer countries have proved their commitment to turn the project‘s objectives into real changes. The Working Group on Value Chain published in 2011 a Living wage methodology for Latin American banana production (available at: http://bit.ly/r60K59). The Working Group on Labor Rights conducted a diagnosis of labor rights situations in thirteen countries (detailed info at: http://bit.ly/u5Qb8V) raising the most urgent concerns in the following areas: Freedom of Association and Collective Bargaining; Gender Discrimination and Occupational Health and Safety. For more information, please visit: www.fao.org/wbf Promotion of Origin-Linked Quality Products (‘’Appui au renforcement des politiques de qualité spécifique des aliments’’ – Phase II and III of GCP /INT/022/FRA, LTU: AGN/2007-2013). This FAO Program aims to assist member countries and stakeholders, including local FOs, in implementing both local and institutional-level systems regarding origin-linked specific quality and Geographical Indication (GI) labels. The program also endeavors to raise Government awareness of the importance of involving FOs in the elaboration of codes of practice in this field. Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development in Mountain Regions (SARD-M) (GCP /GLO/136/MUL, LTU: ESW/2005-2011) The project‘s overall objective was to facilitate the 17. 17 formulation, review, implementation and evaluation of SARD policies for mountain regions at national, decentralized and community levels, taking into account global, regional and transboundary contexts, institutions and linkages, in order to enhance rural livelihoods. (For more information please refer to the project website http://www.fao.org/sard/en/sardm/home/index.html). Africa Regional FAO/Belgium Partnership Program 2008-2011 in the Field of Knowledge Management and Gender (FBPP/GLO/001/BEL, OEKC/2008-2012) includes several projects among which “Good practices capitalization in support of food production and food security‖ (FBPP/GLO/002/BEL, LTU: OEKC/2008-2012). This project aims to capitalize on and disseminate knowledge for food security and empowerment of rural populations, especially women‘s groups. The creation of the FAO- Belgium Partnership Program Knowledge Management and Gender is based on a systematic consideration of gender issues and the experiences and learning that have resulted from FAO projects and programs. In the long term, this Program will contribute to the food security of the rural poor, notably women. Through a participatory approach, it will improve the living conditions of rural populations, the integration of gender issues, and knowledge sharing. Rural Women, Gender and Development - Collection, Processing and Dissemination of Information in Sub-Saharan Africa - Dimitra Phase III (GCP /INT/810/BEL, LTU: ESW/2002- 2012) (Addendum Phase II of Rural Women and Development - Dimitra (GCP /INT/673/BEL, LTU: SDW / 1998-2001) Dimitra is a participatory information and communication project which contributes to improving the visibility of rural populations, women and their associations in particular, so that they can make their voices heard and be empowered through access to information and communication. By working in close partnership with a network of local organizations, it encourages the sharing and exchange of information, best practices, ideas and know-how. The project uses traditional and new information and communication technologies and tools. The outputs include: (i) the Dimitra database that contains profiles of African CSOs which have projects or programs involving rural women and development and/or adapting a gender approach, (ii) a website on relevant activities carried out by Dimitra and its network of organizations and (iii) a bulletin to disseminate information about the activities of the project and partners organizations in Africa. Under the All ACP Support Program on Agricultural Commodities, Including Cotton (AAACP Program) (GCP /INT/045/EC, LTU: EST/2007-2011) In Africa the Rural Infrastructure and Agro- industries Division (AGS) has worked closely with the regional farmers federations on a capacity building program of work entitled ―building the capacities of FOs to respond to changing agriculture markets‖. The findings from this area of work will contribute to recommendations for decision makers, including references to the enabling environment. Under the AAACP, the Trade and Markets Division (EST) has also provided the following organizations with enhanced opportunities to influence policy processes: In Mali: Faso Giji (a network of cooperatives and unions specialized in cereal marketing), Plateforme Riz (a new inter-professional organization created following an FAO workshop on rice), the Conseil national des organizations professionelles du Mali. In Burkina Faso: the Conseil inter-professionnel du Riz au Burkina Faso, the Conseil inter- professionnel des céréales au Burkina, the Fédération Provinciale des Professionnels Agricoles de la Sissili (FEPPASI) and Réseau des Organisations paysannes et des Producteurs d’Afrique de l’ouest (ROPPA), in Cameroun: Plateforme Sous Régionale des Organisations Paysannes de l’Afrique Centrale (PROPAC) and support to the cassava sector in Malawi and Zambia. Activities have also included round tables to strengthen or establish national commodity bodies (inter- professional organizations) for maize, sesame, rice and sorghum/millet and a regional workshop on the role of inter-professional organizations in the development of cereal markets. In addition, the national cotton union in Burkina Faso and cotton FOs in Mali benefited from: a large Farmer Field 18. 18 School program (FFS) on Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and Integrated Pest Management (IPM), organized by the Plant Production and Protection Division (AGP). Amélioration de la Production de riz en Afrique de l’Ouest en Réponse à la Flambée des Prix des denrées Alimentaires (Initiative to Boost Rice Production in Sub-Saharan Africa (GCP /RAF/453/SPA, LTU: AGP/2010-2012). This project, aims to increase rice production in five West African Countries (Côte d'Ivoire, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, and Senegal) in response to soaring food prices. The project objective is to improve national seed regulation and policies and to increase seed security by improving the capacities of smallholder seed enterprises and seed associations. Supporting CAADP5 process. FAO Investment Centre Division (TCI) has been assisting a number of countries in Africa to develop their national agricultural sector investment programs (NAIP) based on their national CAADP compacts. These programs provide the detailed investment framework, which serves as a basis for Governments to dialogue with and guide development partners in prioritizing their investments programs and projects. This is followed by TCI support to countries in formulating Post CAADP Compact investment strategies, plans and programs. TCI has collaborated with Burundi, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, Cote D‘Ivoire, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea Bissau, Kenya, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Swaziland and Tanzania, Togo and Uganda on these activities. TCI has also supported country investment plans in Haiti and Bangladesh. In the above cases, assistance provided has included whenever feasible facilitating the participation of producers’ associations in the preparation of such plans and programs. Support to the Eastern Africa Grains Council in the development of a more coherent grains trade policy framework in East and Southern Africa. By providing a platform for dialogue between stakeholders including producer cooperatives, and supported by analysis, EST‘s input has facilitated stakeholders‘ in articulating their concerns about current policy interventions in grains markets. National (Angola) Apoyo a las instituciones gubernamentales para la mejora de la gestión de la tenencia y administración de la tierra y los recursos naturales, en las provincias de Huambo y Bié, Angola (GCP /ANG/045/SPA, LTU : NRL/2010-2013) The project aims to strengthen land management and natural resources capacities through support to local actors primarily, both governmental and non-governmental organizations, to improve the institutional framework responsible for its management in the provinces of Huambo and Bié, Angola. The project follows a community based approach and most of the activities are implemented through local farmers groups with the help of implementing partners as required. The project also builds the capacity of the provincial and district agriculture office in Bamyan so that qualified counterparts are available to directly work with the project. (Gabon) Appui au renforcement des organisations professionnelles agricoles, OPA (TCP/GAB/3202, LTU : AGS/2009-2011). The project's main objective was to assist the MoA of Gabon in the preparation and implementation of a capacity building plan for FOs in rural areas. This project contributed to strengthening national capacity for implementing programs and projects which rely on producer groups. It addressed legal and regulatory aspects, and strengthened FOs through a system of supervision. Based on a typology of existing FOs, appropriate training modules were developed to enhance their technical and organizational skills. Capacity building of producers, access to credit and the promotion of women's groups were among the actions undertaken. A computerized database of POs was also created. 5 Common African Agricultural Development Program (CAADP) 19. 19 (Liberia) Support to the Government’s Coordinated Response to the Food Price Crisis (GCP /LIR/014/EC, LTU: AGP/ 2009-2011). Within the broader context of the GoL‘s Poverty Reduction Strategy and the National Agriculture Policy and Strategy, and in particular, the Joint Program on Food Security and Nutrition, the project contributed to ensuring that all Liberians have access to the food they need, and are able to utilize that food to live active, healthy and productive lives. FAO under the European Union Food Facility Project supported the fourteen cooperatives in capacity building and provision of essential inputs, lowland rehabilitation, provision of agro machinery, training and technical backstopping. (Swaziland) Swaziland Agricultural Development Project (GCP /SWA/016/EC, LTU: OEKR/2009-2014). The purpose of this project is to improve smallholders‘ production, and marketing systems, through the expansion of a range of successful initiatives such as FFS and Conservation Agriculture (CA). The MoA will be supported in developing demand-driven research and agricultural services for small producers and their organizations. In addition, the project foresees to improve the linkages between smallholders and commercial markets, through contributory grant funds for relevant investment and technical assistance to enterprises. Support to the Government’s Coordinated Response to the Food Price Crises (GCP /LIR/014/EC, LTU: AGP/ 2009-2011) Farmers’ Organization Location FAO’s Inputs/Progress Project Impact on Beneficiaries 14 farmers groups including eight cooperatives assisted: Bong, Lofa, Nimba Counties 14 farmers groups including 8 cooperatives received assistance from FAO under EUFF Project. Assistance included: Provision of essential inputs, training, technical support: seed rice, fertilizer, tools, IPM inputs, rice mill, thrashers and power tillers: 10 farmers groups were provided with agro- machineries (power tiller, thresher, rice each); 10 farmers groups participated in two rounds of training in agro-machinery operations and maintenance; 14 farmers groups underwent three rounds of training in agro- business and marketing skills; 14 farmers groups trained in value addition practices; 14 farmers groups trained in group or cooperative leadership/managerial skills. Improved organizational development ad leadership structure; Improved capacities of 14 farmers groups including eight cooperatives in modern farming methods that increased production and income; 10 farmers using agro-machineries to reduce labor, increase production and income; 14 farmers‘ groups including eight cooperatives managerial and leadership skills improved that enabled them properly increase production, income and livelihoods; 14 farmers‘ groups including 8 cooperatives assisted in commercialization of their produce. 20. 20 Asia and the Pacific Regional Medium-term cooperation Program with FOs in Asia and the Pacific Region (GCP /RAS/249/IFA, LTU: FAORAP, 2009-2012). The main objective of this IFAD-funded program is to improve the livelihoods of rural poor producers, enabling small FOs in Asia and the Pacific region and their networks to influence policies affecting their members. The following MTCP national activities are conducted: mapping of FOs; National Farmers Forum Consultations; National Farmers‘ Forum Advisory Committee‘/ Steering Committee Meetings; national research and studies on priority themes; detailed profiling of FOs mapped to select those that can substantially contribute to IFAD‘s country program; strengthening involvement of FOs in IFAD country program‘s activities (design, implementation and M&E); and coordination of national activities. To date, progress has been reported in five countries (Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Philippines and Vietnam), while implementation in China and Myanmar has been delayed because of internal processes and procedures. Under the All ACP Support Program on Agricultural Commodities, Including Cotton (AAACP Program) (GCP /INT/045/EC, LTU: EST/2007-2011), In the Pacific island region four POs and a regional farmers network (Melanesian Farmers First Network – MFFN) were supported in strengthening their capacities in service provision to members for improved farmer-market linkages and to improve their respective business models. A Lessons Learned workshop was held and an impact assessment report is being prepared. The findings will contribute to make recommendations to decision makers, including references to the enabling environment. National (Pakistan) Mainstreaming livelihood oriented DRM into public sector organizations and communities through piloting, research and capacity building interventions under the One UN Framework (UNJP/PAK/121/EDF, LTU: TCES, 2010-2011). The project integrated livelihood oriented Disaster Risk Management (DRM) into planning and development processes of key public sector organizations at National, Provincial and District levels. Direct beneficiaries included: government officials and departments, and, civil society organizations (CSOs) and community based organizations (CBOs) who participated as implementing partners, Europe and Central Asia (Albania) Assessment of current agricultural research and extension system, stakeholder information and communication needs and gaps for providing effective and relevant services to Albanian smallholder farmers (UNJP/ALB/006/UNJ, LTU: OEKR/2008-2011). The project assessed the strengths and weaknesses of the current agricultural research and extension system, and the needs of its stakeholders, recommending follow-up actions for the improvement of services to farmers. As a result of the project, the capacities of, at least, 20 organizations have been improved to assess the public research and extension system. In 2010, UNJP/ALB/006/UNJ was granted an extension into a second phase to further address the needs, identified during phase I. Project document “Strengthening the functional linkages and building capacities among the stakeholders of the national research and extension system for providing effective and relevant services to Albanian smallholder farmers‖ was developed and agreed with Albanian government and UN Delivery as One. The outcome of the project‘s second phase improved the involvement and effective interaction among all stakeholders of the Agricultural Knowledge and Information System (AKIS) in Albania. Particular attention was given to smallholder POs, including rural women organizations. As a result of the project, the following outputs were produced: efficient and 21. 21 improved institutional framework for AKIS in Albania; effective communication strategy in extension, including pilot ICT network; Improved networking capacities of all groups of stakeholders. (Armenia) Establishment of a virtual extension and research information and communication network (TCP/ARM/3204- Phase II of TCP/ARM/3103, LTU: OEKC/2010-2011). The project developed the necessary institutional structures and processes, and capacity building to improve communication and exchange of information among selected stakeholder organizations, including POs and cooperatives, and extension service providers in Armenia. (Georgia) EC/FAO Program on information systems to improve food security decision- making in the European Neighborhood Policy (ENP) East Area (2010 – 2012). Strategic guidance is provided to the MoA to foster cooperation and social cohesion among farmers, an essential condition to improve the productivity of small farmers and move from subsistence to market-oriented agriculture. The program will carry out an assessment of farmers‘ different types of organizations. Specifically, the assessment will focus on identifying experienced farmers‘ organizations, documenting their structure, results (production and incomes), and advantages vis- à-vis individual farmers. The assessment will draw conclusions on the best ways to improve value chains and farm incomes in Georgia, based on experience of processors, consolidators and farmers. This assessment will provide strategic guidance to support cooperation between farmers for agricultural development. (Republic of Azerbaijan) Capacity Building in Rural Development for Internal Displaced Person (IDP) and Refugees in New Settlements of Aghdam District - Azerbaijan - Consolidation Phase of the Pilot project (GCP /AZE/003/SWI, LTU: AGS/2009-2012). The project has implemented important and sustainable production activities for IDPs, refugees and local farmers in the District of Agdam (Azerbaijan) with positive outcomes related to income generation for the individual farmers and the pilot region. Through further support to Farmer Based Organizations (FBO) and Business Development Services (BDS) providers it could create conditions for replication in other parts of the country. The Ministry of Agriculture of Azerbaijan has requested FAO to further strengthen the business capacity of the existing producer groups and to formulate a project, which should replicate this approach in a wider framework in other regions of the country with large numbers of IDPs and refugees. The main outcome of the project would be to transfer results from the FBO support of the project into a project proposal for a possible UTF project to strengthen the income of IDPs and farmers in other regions of Azerbaijan. Latin America and the Caribbean Regional Under the All ACP Support Program on Agricultural Commodities, Including Cotton (AAACP Program) (GCP /INT/045/EC, LTU: EST/2007-2011), In the Caribbean island region four POs and the regional Caribbean Farmers Network (CaFAN) were supported in strengthening their capacities in service provision to members for improved farmer-market linkages and to improve their respective business models. A Lessons Learned workshop was held and an impact assessment report is being prepared. The findings will contribute to make recommendations to decision makers, including references to the enabling environment. Apoyo al seguimiento a la Conferencia Internacional sobre Reforma Agraria y Desarrollo Rural: Nuevos desafíos y opciones para revitalizar las comunidades rurales (CIRADR) en Sudamérica (TCP/RLA/3209, LTU: TCSP/2009-2011). FAO Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean (FAORLC), with the support of the Government of Brazil, has launched a capacity building program to support the participation of farmer, women, youth, indigenous and fishers‘ organizations in the design of rural development policies. This has been done through the 22. 22 implementation of national workshops enhancing dialogue between social movements and the governments of Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Panama and Cuba, as well as through multiple capacity building initiatives. Calidad de los alimentos vinculada con el origen y las tradiciones en América Latina (TCP/RLA/3211, LTU: AGN/2009-2011). This project strengthened the capacities of institutions and local organizations in implementing programs related to local quality products. Within the pilot cases (in each of the six countries: Chile, Argentina, Brazil, Costa Rica, Peru and Ecuador), the project built capacity and organized training with POs on value chain approaches in order to develop and manage a collective labeling and a marketing strategy. Programa Regional para reforzar los impactos de las políticas públicas en la erradicación del hambre y la desnutrición crónica infantil (GCP/RLA/169/SPA, LTU: FAORLC/ 2008-2011). Under the territorial development component of this project, the Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean (FAORLC), with the support of the Spain-FAO Trust Fund for Latin America, has implemented a training program on participation and leadership in land management, benefiting about one hundred leaders of peasant and indigenous organizations from Bolivia, Chile and Peru. This activity is part of a leadership training process that aims to strengthen public policy participation of leaders and peasant organizations in the region, through the incorporation of a territorial approach in their development initiatives and proposals. In addition, the component on Core training in Public Policy trained about 2,000 professionals of public institutions and CSOs working with small-scale agriculture in the formulation, implementation and evaluation of policies, programs and projects through distance learning courses. Programa Especial para la Seguridad Alimentaria (PESA III) en el marco de la Seguridad Alimentaria Nutricional Nacional El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua y Componente de Coordinación Regional (GCP/RLA/136/SPA; LTU: TCSF/ 2008-2012) – The main objective of this regional project is the coordination, monitoring and supervision of the national projects, with special emphasis in giving assistance to the governments of the participating countries in institutional strengthening and in the identification and formulation of projects in the area of food security. With the objective to institutionalize good practices, the regional PESA, as well as the 4 national PESA, work in close collaboration with local, national and regional government institutions, as well as universities, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), cooperatives and POs. In 2011, PESA has provided technical assistance to PDRR and the Red de Soberanía y Seguridad Alimentaria de Centroamérica. PESA also assisted the regional project ‗‘Reforzamiento de las políticas de producción de semilla de granos básicos en apoyo a la agricultura campesina para la seguridad alimentaria en países miembros del CAC’’ (GCP/RLA/182/SPA, LTU: AGP/2010-2013) in undertaking a study to identify factors of success of Pos, some of which have cooperated with PESA. Promoting CARICOM CARIFORUM Food Security – Phase II (GTFS/RLA/141/ITA, LTU: ESA/2003-2011). The overall objective of this project was to improve incomes, nutrition and trade opportunities and the policy environment that promote sustainable attainment of food security. Under the policy component a regional food and nutrition security policy was developed. A technical working group made up of stakeholders from various government ministries and private sector organizations, including POs, finalized a plan of action for the implementation of the policy. Under the value chain component POs in five countries were supported and participated in value chain upgrading activities. A study on supporting policies and enabling environments in support of the value chain upgrading efforts was completed. Reforzamiento de las políticas de producción de semilla de granos básicos en apoyo a la agricultura campesina para la seguridad alimentaria en países miembros del CAC (GCP /RLA/182/SPA, LTU: AGP/2010-2013). The main objective of this regional project is to improve the availability of and access certified seeds for farmers. It contributes to the improvement of basic grain production in member countries of the Consejo Agropecuario Centroamericano (CAC) and thus improves the availability 23. 23 of food in quantity, quality and timeliness, as well as increases the income of rural families and the possibility of greater access to other food commodities. The Ministers of Agriculture of CAC members have led the development of this regional project that will benefit around 1088 FOs and agricultural communities who will take part to the process of dialogue and convergence for planning, implementing and evaluating the seed chain. National (Chile) Diseño de proyectos de Desarrollo Territorial (TCP/CHI/3202, LTU: TCIO/2009-2011). This project, implemented in the Chilean communities of Salamanca (Region of Coquimbo) and Tirúa (Bio Bio region), has contributed to the elaboration of a medium-term investment plan for rural development and growth, a plan for institutional development validated by authorities and beneficiaries, a proposal for productive processing linked with competitive markets, and to strengthen local teams trained in specific technical issues related to territorial approach. Local development groups and organizations were key stakeholders throughout the whole participatory process. (Colombia) Integration of ecosystems and adaptation to climate change in the Colombian Massif (UNJP/COL/032/SPA, LTU: NRC/2008-2011) The project strengthened the coordination and integration of environmental issues within the national development agenda, with an emphasis on supporting farmers and social organizations to get involved in the formulation, coordination and implementation of strategies and policies. (El Salvador) Fortalecimiento del liderazgo y acciones de concertación de las organizaciones a nivel nacional para el desarrollo agropecuario rural (TCP/ELS/3301, LTU: TCSP/2011). This project strengthened the national coordination in order to contribute to agricultural development programs, strategies, government policies and plans focusing on small producers and cooperatives. (Guatemala) Apoyo a la Formación de Grupos y Organizaciones de Desarrollo Local (GDCP/GUA/001/SPA, LTU: NRC/2007-2011). The specific objective of the project was to strengthen existing local associations and, more generally, organized participation linked to sustainable agriculture, thus revitalizing the rural economy and increasing rural employment opportunities. (Panama) Apoyo a la identificación de posibilidades de inversión en pequeños sistemas de riego, al mejoramiento de la eficiencia de inversiones en riego ya realizadas, y al fortalecimiento de capacidades en temas afines (TCP/PAN/3303, LTU: TCI/2011-2012) The objective of the project is to increase the efficiency of existing irrigation systems in some identified production areas, through the study and analysis of the functioning of the actual systems. The project will identify and strengthen Water User Associations in the existing irrigation schemes. (Peru) Proyecto INCAGRO (Innovación y Competitividad para el Agro Peruano). This World Bank (WB) financed Project, carried out by the Peruvian MoA with formulation support by TCI, has the objective of establishing a modern system of science, technology and innovation. Specifically it aims at introducing demand-driven competitive funding for agricultural innovation involving POs, CSOs and private companies. With these alliances, INCAGRO has obtained co-financing of some USD 36 million. The project has contributed to the establishment of new ‗rules of the game‘ for the development of agricultural innovation initiatives, fostering the participation of POs, private business, NGOs and public organizations. 24. 24 Near East National (Saudi Arabia) Support to Rural Institutions for the Benefit of Small-scale Farmers in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (UTF /SAU/014/SAU, LTU: FAORNE/2007-2012). The main goal of this project is to enhance the living conditions of small-scale farmers through community and farm- based sustainable rural development. The immediate objectives include the development and strengthening of POs, both at national level and in four pilot areas, to empower rural communities and small-scale producers. (Syria) Institutional Development of Organic Agriculture in Syria (GCP /SYR/011/ITA, LTU: AGP/2005-2012). The overall development objectives of the project are to build an enabling environment for the establishment of a legal, institutional and scientific platform where Syrian farmers‘ cooperatives can improve their revenues and contribute to environmental improvement. They will share the benefits offered by a well-defined and supported organic agriculture sub-sector. 25. 25 Direct This section lists ongoing FAO projects and activities dealing with capacity development of cooperatives and POs in specific technical and managerial skills. The majority of the interventions tackle the need for these organizations to adopt a more commercial approach and improve their technical, managerial and marketing skills in order to benefit from remunerative markets. Strengthening technical capacities to carry out the tasks required to intensify production in a sustainable manner, manage natural resources and disaster risk, and enhance gender equity and rural employment are also significant areas of support. Forest users‘ and fishers‘ organizations have been considered separately in later sections due to their specificity. Global/Cross-regional All ACP Agricultural Commodities Program6, Including Cotton (AAACP) (GCP/INT/045/EC, LTU: EST/2007-2011). The overall objective of this interregional program was to improve incomes and livelihoods of producers dependent on agricultural commodities - in the Africa, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) regions - by building the capacity of actors along commodity chains to develop and implement sustainable value chain strategies. The fouryear program, was client-driven with activities prioritized on the basis of participatory value chain diagnosis. Under the program the Rural Infrastructure and Agro-Industries Division of FAO (AGS) has been mandated to strengthen the institutional capacity of FO‘s to improve small farmers integration into value chains, which has been done, firstly using a business model approach that aims to strengthen the relationship between FO‘s and buyers in selected chains. As a result organizations have been able to interact more effectively with the formal private sector, improve the role of smallholders in value chain strategies, as well as increasing the number of informal and formal contracts with small, medium and industrial buyers. Secondly, to reinforce this program of work and the capacity of FO network across commodities AGS organized a series of capacity building workshops, in each ACP region entitled ―Building the capacities of FOs to respond to changing agriculture markets‖ These trainings took place in close collaboration with the regional farmer federations and national apex organizations on value chain concepts and agribusiness topics most relevant for each of the regions. As part of the program, the Trade and Markets Division (EST) has developed and tested a new diagnostic and action plan development tool targeting POs (GAIN Approach) for effective market integration. This tool provides a quick appraisal of the nature and extent of the organization‘s current relations with markets; provides a road map for supporting the organization to self-generate demand-driven actions and initiatives to ensure that local or regional markets work more effectively 6 FAO is a program partner together with other four International Organizations, namely the International Trade Centre (ITC), the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the World Bank (WB) and the Common Commodity Fund (CFC) Activities undertaken in 2011 - Projects in member countries 26. 26 for their members. In doing so, the GAIN approach adheres to key organizational principles, including: decentralized governance, self-autonomy, demand-based activities, and integrated approach to training and capacity building. This methodology has been applied to three women- majority producers‘ organizations in Cameroun, Burkina Faso and Mali. Following this work, further analyses will be carried out to test the potential for scaling up, dissemination and for identifying linkages with national policies targeting development of capacity for POs. EST supervises a significant number of Common Fund for Commodities (CFC) projects, almost all of which deliberately involve or rely on POs and cooperatives. Their involvement may vary by project, but the type of commodity value chain development aimed at in FAO/CFC projects involves the strengthening of POs as a way of involving smallholders as primary stakeholders and beneficiaries. Examples from the oilseeds sector include: Supervisory Body Production of Oily Plants and Commercialization of Natural Vegetable Oil as Fuel in Replacement of Diesel for the Public Transport in Peru and Honduras (MTF /RLA/164/CFC, LTU: EST/2007-2013). Jatropha/rapeseed bio-fuel project in Peru/Honduras that exclusively involves POs on crop production, processing and marketing. Improving the income generating potential of the oil palm in West and Central African region, Cameroon and Nigeria (MTF /RAF/443/CFC, LTU: EST/2008-2012). Palm oil processing and POs as suppliers of oil palm fruit. Creation of a Pilot Demonstration Plant and Training to Improve Olive oil Quality in Latin America (MTF /RLA/186/CFC, LTU: EST/2010-2014). POs are primarily involved regarding olive supply, processing, and marketing. Improving the Competitiveness of Small Scale Oil Palm Farmers and Production in Latin America and the Caribbean: Bridging the Yield Gap (MTF /RLA/185/CFC, LTU: EST/2010-2014). POs are the main suppliers of oil palms. Development of export-orientated sesame production and processing in Burkina Faso and Mali (MTF /RAF/459/CFC, LTU: EST/2010-2014). POs are engaged in the supply, processing and marketing. Integration of small scale farmers into the market economy through soybean value chains in Malawi and Mozambique (MTF/RAF/470/CFC, LTU: EST/2011-2015). The establishment of POs is actively promoted as a means to improve integration of small holder farmers into the market and commodity value chain, with the aim to raise economic returns, technical/managerial skills, capacity to take initiatives and group cohesion. Further CFC projects include: Promoting production and marketing of organic bananas in Asia (MTF/RAS/270/CFC, LTU: EST/2010-2013). The objectives are: to strengthen capacity of private and public players in the production and trade of organic bananas; improve accessibility of China organic bananas to world markets; establish organic banana models for organic certification. Development, production and trade of organic tea (MTF/RAS/219/CFC, LTU: EST/2006-2011). PEA: International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM). The objectives are: to develop technology, skills and systems of organic tea production; convert existing tea producing areas develop standards for export and certification. Capacity building and rejuvenation of tea smallholdings by adopting eco-friendly management practices and strengthening marketing links for enhanced income generation of poor farming communities (MTF/RAS/264/CFC, LTU:EST/2010-2013). The objectives are to enhance productivity by rejuvenating existing degraded tea smallholdings; train smallholders on technology, organizational building and leadership skills; strengthen the bargaining position of tea smallholders. 27. 27 Development and piloting of horticulture out-grower schemes for export markets in Eastern and Southern Africa (MTF/RAF/436/CFC, LTU: EST/2007-2011). One of the objectives of this project is to enhance the capacity and number of small-scale out growers‘ farmers groups so that they will be able to produce for export markets. Increased production of vegetables and herbs through the use of protected agriculture in the Caribbean (MTF/RLA/187/CFC, LTU: EST/2010-2013). The objectives are to support the development and transfer of commercially viable and sustainable vegetable and herb production using adapted protected agriculture (PA) systems suitable for the Caribbean and so improve smallholder livelihoods, food security, traceability, yields and trade of regional food production. Medicinal plants and herbs: developing sustainable supply chain and enhancing rural livelihood in Eastern Himalayas (MTF/RAS/220/CFC, LTU: EST/2007-2012). Objectives are to develop appropriate production and post-harvest techniques, marketing strategies, supply chain integration and policies to enhance livelihoods and preserve natural resource. Pilot project on processing fruits and vegetables using vacuum oil-bath dehydration technology (MTF/INT/106/CFC, LTU: EST/2010-2013). A project component has been designed to support smallholder farmers to establish Farmers‘ Cooperative and capacity building for Farmers‘ Cooperative management team. The Cooperative should involve 2,000 smallholder farmers in which most are female household heads. Land Degradation Assessment in Drylands (LADA) (GLO/502/GEF, LTU: NRL/2006-2011) This global project implemented in Argentina, China, Cuba, Senegal, South Africa and Tunisia has developed tools and methods to assess land degradation on dry land ecosystems, watersheds and river basins, carbon storage, and biological diversity. The project was designed with two principal objectives: i) to develop and implement strategies, methods and tools to assess land degradation; and ii) to build national, regional and global assessment capacities to enable the design, planning and implementation of interventions to mitigate land degradation and establish sustainable land use and management practices. At national and sub-national level, LADA followed a decentralized, country-driven and integrated approach, aimed at supporting decision making for a sustainable use of natural resources. An important achievement was ―Questionnaire for Mapping Land Degradation and Sustainable Land Management” (QM). QM enables the construction of databases with background information on the different Land Use Systems (LUS), as well as environmental and social data per geographical area. At the local level, LADA developed a comprehensive toolbox approach that integrates attention to socio-economic drivers of land degradation with the bio- physical characterization of the process. The project complemented field activities with capacity building in order to create and gradually consolidate a sound understanding of the methodology and its meaningful adaptation to the specific conditions of each country. The project also contributed to a systematic compilation of Sustainable Land Management (SLM) models or any technological and social practices that contribute to reversing land degradation in drylands. The result is a ―catalogue of best practices‖ that practitioners and professionals can consult, and which has a high potential for promoting networking and knowledge sharing. Support to the Commonwealth Secretariat for the preparation of strategies for maximizing the benefits of migration and remittances for pro-poor sustainable development and food security (TCP/INT/3302, LTU: TCSP/2010-2011). The project contributed to designing strategies, as well as programs/projects for their implementation to maximize the benefit of migration and remittances both at individual and national level, including the agriculture and rural sectors. The project also devoted special attention to ensure discussion and collaboration with farmers’ associations and rural women’s organizations. 28. 28 Africa Regional Under the All ACP Support Program on Agricultural Commodities, Including Cotton (AAACP Programme) (GCP /INT/045/EC, LTU: EST/2007-2011), the Rural Infrastructure and Agro- Industries Division (AGS) has been strengthening the institutional capacity of FO’s to improve small farmers integration into value chains using a business model approach that aims to strengthen the relationship between FO‘s and buyers in eight countries across East, Southern, West and Central Africa regions on specific commodities including : cotton (Kenya and Zambia), cassava (Cameroon, Zambia and Malawi), oil palm (Cameroon) and rice (Mali, Burkina Faso and Senegal). Under the AAACP‘s program of work entitled ―Building the capacities of FOs to respond to changing agriculture markets‖, AGS has also held a series of regional capacity building workshops in collaboration with: East African Farmers Federation (EAFF) for the representatives of national apex and district organizations from eight countries in the East Africa region; Southern African Confederation of Agricultural Unions (SACAU) for the representatives of national apex organizations and district from 14 countries; and Réseau des Organisations Paysannes et des Producteurs de l’Afrique de l’Ouest (ROPPA) and Platform of Peasant Organizations of Central Africa (PROPAC) for the representatives of national apex and district organizations from thirteen countries in the West and Central Africa regions Appui aux Acteurs et leurs Organisations pour le Développement d’Unités Semi industrielles de Transformation Agroalimentaire pour la Réduction de la Pauvreté et de l’Insécurité Alimentaire (GCP /RAF/410/ITA, LTU: AGS/2008-2012). This regional project, directly implemented by FAO Sub Regional Office for Eastern Africa (FAOSFW) benefits the Confederation Paysanne du Faso (CPF) and ROPPA, and involves five West-African countries (Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, Senegal and Togo). It aims to enhance rural livelihoods by strengthening FOs (mostly women) in commercial agro-processing, but also through capacity building of national umbrella organizations, members of ROPPA, which will implement the project in each country. Development of Innovative Site-specific Integrated Animal Health Packages for the Rural Poor (GCP /RAF/444/IFA, LTU: AGA/2009-2013). This project is developed in seven Sub-Saharan countries (Burkina Faso, Burundi, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, and Uganda). It aims at adopting innovative, comprehensive animal health packages customized to animal production systems and prevailing agro-ecological conditions. Technical skills and knowledge of farmers, livestock owners and animal health agents will also be enhanced. The immediate beneficiaries are the smallholder livestock communities and farmers' associations in rural areas. With regard to national institutions and services, benefits will consist in the increased technical capacity to control and prevent animal diseases and deliver technical knowledge. Farmer Field Schools in support of improved cassava disease management in Burundi, Kenya and Uganda (GCP /INT/099/ITA, LTU: AGP/2010-2011). The outcome of the project was to strengthened farmer knowledge and skills on cassava production including pests and disease management aspects in three countries affected by cassava disease. Gestion des Connaissances et Genre Capitalisation des Bonnes Pratiques en Appui à la Production Agricole et à la Sécurité Alimentaire (GCP /GLO/210/MUL, LTU: OEKC/2008-2012). The overall objective of this regional project, which involves four countries of Western Africa (Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger and the Republic of Senegal), is to contribute to food security of rural populations in arid agricultural areas, respecting gender equality and improving agricultural production through better management of inputs by farmers, individually or at FO level. 29. 29 Improvement of Food Security in Cross-border Districts of Burundi, Rwanda Uganda and Republic Democratic of Congo, in Support of the Modernization of Agriculture under NEPAD Framework (GTFS/RAF/391/ITA, LTU: AGS/2006-2013). Support is being provided to reinforce the management, market linkages and service provision and capacities of FOs in eleven countries in the Great Lake region: Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda, and Republic Democratic of Congo. Improving food safety in meat (poultry, beef and pork) value chains. FAO Nutrition and Consumer Protection Division (AGN) is involved in a series of interlinked activities in East Africa aimed at improving the safety of meat poultry (poultry, beef and pork) in order to minimize risks to human health and to ensure market opportunities are optimized within the region as well as with international partners. For example, FAO has initiated (with the World Health Organization), a series of studies in Kenya, that aim to assess and manage in an integrated manner, the public health risks associated with usage of antimicrobial drugs, microbiological contamination (Salmonella spp, Campylobacter spp), and antimicrobial resistance (AMR), along the poultry, beef and pork value chains continuum from production to consumption. These activities will be implemented with the participation of local producers and producers‘ cooperatives. Inter-country coordination of national projects on Food Security through Commercialization (GTFS/RAF/426/ITA, LTU: TCSF/2008-2012). This project has been designed to coordinate and operationally support Italian funded national food security projects in Senegal, Mali, Guinea Bissau, Sierra Leone, the Gambia, Guinea and Liberia (GTFS/SEN/060/ITA, GTFS/MLI/030/ITA, GTFS/GBS/028/ITA, GTFS/SIL/028/ITA, GTFS/GAM/025/ITA, GTFS/GUI/019/ITA and GTFS/LIR/010/ITA). The objective of the project is to contribute significantly to the development of African agriculture into a modern, competitive and commercially dynamic sector, while building on the achievements and lessons learned from playing a major role in the National Programs for Food Security. The coordination unit is assisting the seven national projects in implementing and following a common strategic framework, to ensure that information and communication flows are effectively ensured within all stakeholders, to support the elaboration of a regional policy strategy, and to ensure that a common monitoring and evaluation system is supported. The program supports the emergence and/or development of entrepreneurship among small-scale farmers through specific institutional and organizational building activities for FBOs in the concerned countries (Please refer to the concerned countries for further information on the national projects). Programme Sous-régional de Formation Participative en Gestion Intégrée de la Production et des Déprédateurs des Cultures à travers les Champs-écoles des Producteurs (GIPD/CEP) pour le Bénin, Burkina Faso, Mali et Sénégal (GCP /RAF/009/NET, LTU : AGP/2001-2011). Phase II (2006-2010) of this project was implemented in four countries (Burkina, Mali, Senegal, Benin). Approximately 80,000 farmers were trained in a range of cropping systems including rice, market vegetables and cotton systems, along with nearly 1,000 facilitators. Reducing Dependence on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) and other Agro-Chemicals in the Senegal and Niger River Basins through Integrated Production, Pest and Pollution Management (EP /INT/606/GEF, LTU: AGP/2009-2013) will also make it possible to cover Mauritania, Niger, and Guinea. Strategic partnerships with several key FOs are being implemented in each country with a view to building their capacity to provide technical services to their members. Beside technical training modules, the combined programs also include components on: policy reform (especially on pesticide management and extension) in which FOs will be involved; support to farmers’ groups/cooperatives to sell agricultural produce; pesticide risk reduction including methodologies for Human Health Risk Assessment; and monitoring water quality and pollution from agro-chemicals in the Niger and Senegal River Basins through community-based management and monitoring. Protection of the Agri-Food Biodiversity and Development of the Local and Export Market in four West African Countries: Mali, Senegal, Guinea Bissau and Sierra Leone. (GTFS/RAF/426/ITA, LTU: TCSF/2008-2012). The main objective of this cooperation agreement between the Slow Food Foundation and the FAO Inter-Country Coordination Project for Food 30. 30 Security in West Africa is to support the development of origin-linked quality products (Presidia- product) in four out of the five Western African countries involved in the project. It endeavors to strengthen existing POs, and to introduce regulations to protect original product features and production techniques at risk of disappearing. Regional Cassava Initiative in support of vulnerable smallholders in Central and Eastern Africa (OSRO/RAF/912/EC, LTU: AGP/2009-2011) This project restored cassava yields by reinforcing the capacity of the most food insecure farmers to prevent, prepare for and respond to cassava-related diseases in the region. Community sensitization and the involvement of farmers’ groups multiplication activities were considered key to success. As women are the main players in cassava harvesting, preparation of the cuttings and processing, the project ensured that women’s associations were involved and trained. Regional initiative in support of vulnerable pastoralists and agro-pastoralists in the Horn of Africa (OSRO/RAF/011/EC, LTU: TCEO/2010-2013). The overall objective of the program is to lessen the adverse impacts of hazards, reduce vulnerability and strengthen community resilience (also through the FFS approach) so that countries in the region become more food secure and are able to focus on developing sustainable food and agriculture systems. Supporting Conservation Agriculture for Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development (CA for SARD) Phase II (GCP /RAF/413/GER, LTU: AGS/2007-2011). The objective of this project was to contribute to the promotion of growth and improved food security in Kenya and Tanzania by scaling up CA as a SLM tool. Through an increase in the numbers of SLM-CA FFS, the project expanded the adoption of profitable CA practices by smallholder farmers in the two East African countries. Transboundary agro-ecosystem management program for the Kagera river basin (Kagera Tamp - FSP) (GCP /RAF/424/GFF, LTU: NRL/2010-2014). The full scale project has the long-term goal to protect the integrity of the ecosystems of the lower Kagera Basin and to harness global environmental benefits by ensuring the productive and sustainable use of biodiversity resources and agricultural ecosystems. An integrated ecosystem management approach across the transboundary river basin will help to: combat degradation, rehabilitate degraded lands and achieve local and global environmental benefits in terms of biodiversity conservation, protect international waters and mitigate the effects of climate change through enhanced carbon sequestration. CSOs, such as farmers groups and associations, water users associations, will benefit from capacity building in participatory learning and research-action approaches National (Angola) Appui au développement de la Filière « Manioc » en Angola (TCP/ANG/3302, LTU: AGP/2011-2012). The project aims: (i) To improve the leadership capacity of local producers in the three pilot provinces with the training of 20 officers of the EDA and its partners on all issues affecting the sector (production techniques, disease prevention, multiplication, processing and storage) (ii) the development of a methodology for introduction, multiplication, evaluation and dissemination of planting material and directly involving farmers, (iii) training, facilitation and the structuring of producers around the FFS focused on the promotion of the sector and integrating other crops farm as part of a systems approach, (iv) the introduction, as a demonstration of equipment and storage facilities, processing and marketing of cassava. (Benin) amélioration de la qualité des produits agricoles et alimentaires au Bénin (MTF /BEN/054/STF, LTU: AGN/2009-2011). The project analyzed the two strategic value chains of Shea nuts and cashew nuts, with a food safety perspective and proposing technological improvements at selected key points of the chain. Producers’ associations and cooperatives (as well as with middle men and exporter associations) identified the practices that needed to be 31. 31 improved, proposed training sessions, and tested new technical approaches to processing and traceability. (Burkina Faso) Projet d`Intensification Agricole par la Maîtrise de l`Eau dans les Régions du Centre-Sud et du Centre-Ouest (GCP /BKF/049/SPA, LTU: TCSF/2007-2011). The global objective of this project was to reinforce food security in regions with high climatic risks through the development of irrigated agriculture. The project supported groups of women with no or little access to land and twenty-eight community diversification projects. (Burkina Faso) Soutien au renforcement des bases de la sécurité alimentaire par le rétablissement des capacités de production de qualité au niveau des communautés rurales affectées par la flambée des prix des produits agricoles (GCP /BKF/052/EC, LTU : AGP/2009- 2011). This project improved the food security of populations affected by the decrease of prices by improving the quality seeds‘ marketing in rural markets and the use of appropriate policies. The project targeted vulnerable households and producers, including groups, associations or cooperatives engaged in production and marketing of seeds. (Burundi) Assistance agricole aux rapatriés récents, aux ménages vulnérabilisés par les perturbations climatiques et aux personnes déplacées dans les zones périurbaines touchées par la flambée des prix et l’accès limité à la terre (OSRO/BDI/002/BEL, LTU : AGP/2010-2011). The project ensured equitable access to inputs and agricultural tools to 38,000 vulnerable households living in the provinces of Kirundo, Ngozi, Kayanza, Bururi, Rutana and through seed fairs to agricultural inputs and 250 associations formed majority of displaced persons or returnees in suburban areas of cities of Ngozi, Gitega Rumonge Nyanza-lac and Bujumbura. (Burundi) Contribution à l’allégement de la flambée des prix des denrées alimentaires et du changement climatique par l’amélioration des capacités de production des populations vulnérables (OSRO/BDI/902/ITA, LTU : AGP/2009-2010), and Appui à la mise en place et à l’adoption rapide du système de certification de semences par les producteurs privées et les organisations agricoles (OSRO/BDI/004/BEL, LTU : AGP/2010-2011). The projects provided direct support to 38.000 vulnerable households through the provision of inputs and agricultural tools in the provinces of Kirundo, Ngozi, Kayanza, Bururi, Rutana. The projects have also provided technical support to 1490 producers‘ organizations formed mostly by displaced persons, returnees and youth with limited access to land in suburban areas of the cities of Bujumbura Ngozi, Gitega Rumonge Nyanza-lac and Bujumbura. To enhance marketing capabilities, the associations were assisted with storage facilities and training on various subjects including co-operative management (use of cash book, etc.). (Burundi) Assistance technique dans l`approche "Livestock Farmer Field Schools"(OSRO/BDI/806/IFA, LTU: TCEO/ 2008-2011). The overall objective of this project was to contribute to the improvement of income and food security of the poor by facilitating access to inputs to improve productivity and increasing farming a sustainable income-generating activity. Achieving this goal involved enhancing the capacity of livestock services and extension in the seven provinces of the project area by the introduction of hands-on learning through FFS approach. 32. 32 Appui au renforcement des capacités des organisations professionelles agricoles et des structures d`appui (TCP/BDI/3102, LTU: TCIA/2007-2009) In terms of legal framework, Burundi‘s associations are governed by the law on non-profit associations. The company code is not appropriate even if it includes a chapter on the cooperative. Reform is underway to propose a text appropriate for cooperatives. The project "Support to capacity building of agricultural organizations and support structures" has assisted the Government in developing a cooperative juridical framework, which has been adopted at the National Assembly. Other activities were conducted through three components: institutional and legal; the establishment of a database, and the analysis of agricultural policies. The target group of the beneficiaries was composed by: associations of vulnerable households (returnees, IDPs, vulnerable people to various hazards such as climate, and other demobilized young unemployed) without access to land but with organizational and operational capacity of manage the activity supported. 34 associations have been equipped with 28 mills and 6 huskers and 102 association members were trained in organization and management. Training sessions / demonstration on the use, operation and maintenance of the equipment provided was provided by suppliers on delivery. The results achieved by this project are: several diagnostic studies leading to a proposal for a new institutional framework, various training workshops, and the development of educational booklets. In the specific case, the activities initiated by the FAO in support to POs, were related to the promotion of income generating activities through the provision of some equipment such as mills. This activity was implemented through the distribution of laying hens with a kit of veterinary medicines and food. The associations of seed producers were supported by the provision of a basic seed kit with a lot of input support such as liming, fertilizers, pesticides, etc. The construction of a storage shed completed the kit. Seeds may be purchased by FAO for distribution to other needy recipients. Beekeeping associations were also assisted with the allocation of improved hives and equipment for harvesting and processing of honey (smoker, extractor, soaker, protective clothing, waffle iron, etc.). An important part of capacity building was on-site training and exchange visits that improved the skills of the members of the association. The training provided was articulated according to the following modules: Organization: Definition of an association and a cooperative; procedures for authentication and authorization of an association; the contents of an internal regulation; the governing bodies of an association and their roles; the relationships with other development actors; the techniques of control and monitoring and evaluation. Management: inventory; assets (depreciation allowances, maintenance, repair, insurance); human resources (recruitment and selection of personnel, employment contracts, remuneration, staff appraisal); micro-credit; the economic profitability; calculation of cost price and selling price. Internal communication and conflict resolution: communication in organizations; the conduct of meetings; strategies for prevention and conflict management. (Cameroon) Appui à l`amélioration de la gestion des ressources pastorales (TCP/CMR/3302, LTU: AGA/ 2010-2012). The long term goal of this project is to improve the management of pastoral resources in order to reduce potential conflicts associated with their use by different actors. Support was provided to the institutions responsible for collecting and disseminating reliable information on pastoralism to ensure the sustainability of the project. The project sustainability has been enhanced by the fact that professional organizations, through the network of the National Confederation of Cattle Breeders of Cameroon (Confédération Nationale des Eleveurs Bovins du Cameroun), participated in awareness raising and the dissemination of information on the process of developing the code on pastoralism. 33. 33 (Chad) Promotion d’activités génératrices de revenus en accompagnement au retour des personnes déplacées à l’Est du Tchad (CHD/09/001/01/34, LTU: AGS/2009-2012). The primary objective of this project is to improve the incomes of displaced returnees by promoting agricultural activities and building capacity of POs. This project aims to improve market access in remote areas through marketing, supply storage for fresh or processed production and to reduce post- harvest losses, while increasing product quality and better prices. (Congo, Democratic Republic) Community Empowerment and Peace-Building in Ituri (OSRO/DRC/916/UNO, LTU: TCEO/2009-2011). The project contributed to the consolidation of peace through the promotion of social and economic reconstruction, the protection and empowerment of war affected populations in fragile and high risk areas in the District of Ituri. In particular, the project provided capacity building support to fifty selected community based cooperatives and farmers‘ associations, fishermen and livestock breeders in the most war affected and poorest territories of Ituri. (Côte d'Ivoire) Appui à la mise en oeuvre d’un programme d’urgence pour la prévention et la lutte contre les maladies à tiques du bétail dans le Nord de la Côte d’Ivoire (TCP/IVC/3301, LTU : AGA/2010-2011). Agricultural organizations, private veterinarians and their staff and stakeholders of the livestock sector of the areas covered by the project were trained on how to better recognize and treat tick infestation and tick-transmitted diseases. (Côte d'Ivoire) Projet de suivi de la lutte contre les trypanosomiases animales en Côte d’Ivoire. (OSRO/IVC/904/EC, LTU: AGA/2010-2011). This project contributed to strengthening food security through improving animal health. Agricultural organizations, private veterinarians and their staff and stakeholders of the livestock sector of the areas covered by the project were trained and informed on how to fight against trypanosome diseases. Also, support to governmental institutions was provided in order to develop sustainable strategies for improved animal health and production. (Ethiopia) Support to vulnerable households to improve food security and increase resilience to climatic and food price shocks through the provision of agricultural inputs and technical support to achieve crop diversification and yield improvement in Ethiopia (GCP/ETH/077/AUS, LTU: AGP/2009-2011). The project measurably improved food security of farmers through increased crop diversification and provision of appropriate inputs and technologies in four drought affected regions of Ethiopia. The direct beneficiaries of the project were about 18 000 farm households, with a total population of 90 000, including their families. Seed grower farmers, cooperatives and the surrounding farming communities developed awareness on the importance of using good quality seeds, and the techniques and management of seed production and distribution. The capacity of the Government to implement the project, particularly of the regional Bureaus of Agriculture (BoARD) and the Woreda Agricultural and Rural Development Offices (WARDO) was also improved. The relevant staff of these institutions at regional, and development centre level gained experience in preparing, implementing, monitoring and evaluating similar projects in the future. (Ethiopia) Crop Diversification and Marketing Development Project (GTFS/ETH/067/ITA, LTU: FAOSFE/2005-2012). The objective of the project is the promotion of economic growth in rural areas by strengthening commercialization of small farms in areas with recognized market potential. The project aims at tapping new market opportunities by providing farm technology that has a potential to increase production and productivity as well as quality standards, through a community- driven development approach. As part of the capacity building activities, training is being carried out to improve FOs’ technical and management skills, with a special focus on women members. (Gabon) Appui à la production et la protection intégrée du manioc (TCP/GAB/3203, LTU : AGP/2009-2011). This project contributed to the improvement of cassava by providing target beneficiaries with healthy planting material and strengthening their crop management capacity (production and protection) through FFS. 34. 34 (Gambia) Food Security through Commercialization of Agriculture (FSCA) in the Gambia (GTFS/GAMB/025/ITA, LTU: TCSF/2009-2012). The overall objective of this project is to increase agricultural productivity and marketed output of FOs and small-scale agro-processors on a sustainable basis. To this end, the project is equipping FOs and agro-processors with relevant skills and supporting the engagement of farmers groups in improved value addition and marketing activities as well in contractual relationships with market agents. The project envisages to strengthens approximately fourty farmers‘ groups. Reducing the vulnerability of Afar pastoral and agro-pastoral communities to recurrent drought (OSRO/ETH/909/NOR, LTU: AGAH/2008-2010) Background The Afar region in the north-eastern part of Ethiopia has predominantly arid and semi- arid environment. Pastoralists and agro-pastoralists inhabiting these environments make their living from the extensive forms of livestock production. Here, feed shortage is the single most important cause of poor livestock production and reproduction, and massive livestock mortality. The OSRO/ETH/909/NOR project, which also has animal health, stock-water and crop components, was designed to address the chronic livestock feed crisis. In connection to this project, due emphasis was given to the efficient use of the locally available agro-industrial by-products. To achieve this objective, the project followed two strategies-the establishment of the grass-roots based feed manufacturing cooperatives and the promotion of multi-nutrient block (MNB) production technology. In fact, FAO started this initiative in the same region in 2009 through CERF funding (OSRO/ETH/802/CHA, LTU: AGA/2008-2009). In collaboration with Afar Pastoral and Agricultural Development Bureau (APADB) FAO promoted the MNB technology via MNB Producers Cooperatives established in strategic locations of the Afar region, i.e. Berhale Daar MNB Producer Cooperative in the north, Eneb Animal Feed Marketing Cooperative in the south, Abiweynumenu MNB Producers Cooperative in the East and Sabur‘is Animal Feed Producer Cooperative in the West. So far, the above producer groups have manufactured and distributed 1 800 metric tonnes of blocks to drought-affected pastoralists, agro-pastoralists and farmers in Afar, and parts of Amhara, Oromia and Tigray regions. This support has helped save the lives of 33 000 heads of cattle and 50 000 heads of shoats belonging to 21 000 livestock keeping households. Innovative elements for POs and cooperatives Technological. Members of the MNB producer cooperatives who were trained on manufacturing of MNBs from various locally available ingredients and equipped with basic facilities through the project are now producing blocks of high quality standard. The technical capability that created within the region has allowed the possibility of addressing drought-induced feed crisis in cost-effective and timely manner. Prior to the establishment of the MNB Producers Cooperatives, drought-induced livestock feed crisis responses in Afar were exclusively based on feed mobilized from the central highlands situated as far as 600 to over 1000-km. Such feed shipments are not only costly but also reaches the affected communities long after the crisis are over. Organizational. For pastoralists and agro-pastoralists who poorly integrated with the market oriented production, individuals are generally reluctant and do not have the motivation and the courage to engage in income generating economic activities. The project by organizing individuals into functional groups and enhancing their awareness about the basic principles of cooperatives has managed to diffuse the 35. 35 reluctance to run a business and build the entrepreneurial confidence. Impacts of the POs and cooperatives on livelihood Physical and natural capital: All the four MNB producer cooperatives have manufacturing sites, modest warehouses, and MNB manufacturing equipment and facilities under their command. Two of the stronger cooperatives (Eneb and Saburis) have bought two ISUZU trucks, which are being used to haul MNB-ingredients and manufactured MNBs as well as generate additional income. Financial capital: The MNB producer cooperatives because of their physical assets and active business are better placed to access credit from banks than their fellow pastoralists and agro-pastoralists. Besides, most of them have been engaged in other sideline business activities such as the distribution of basic goods to the communities in their surroundings. Human and social capital: By getting organized into functional groups that addresses feed shortage problem in the area, the MNB producers cooperatives have proven their usefulness to their communities. The existence of these cooperatives has contributed towards the improvement of the timeliness and cost-effectiveness of the livestock emergency feed interventions at times of drought. Furthermore, the consistency of the manufactured product quality and the ease at which the information on the MNBs composition was accessed has been vital in increasing the acceptance of the MNBs by beneficiaries. The relationship amongst the MNB producer cooperatives is strong and healthy. This has helped them to better compete with private feed processors and stay in the business. Food Security: The MNB business as it generates additional income; cooperative members have better food security standing than pastoralists and agro-pastoralists with few animals. FAO together with Afar Pastoral and Agricultural Bureau (APAB) is encouraging the MNB producer cooperative to engage in other complimentary income generating activities such as small ruminant marketing. To enhance the sustainability of the MNB-based business, the promotional work on the usefulness of the MNB as the survival and production ration is continuing. General success factors Internal factors: the business models (objective, strategy) and its model of governance (communication, trust, transparency and accountability, participation in decision making): As members of the cooperatives were drawn from the same community, there was no mistrust. The homogeneity of the cooperative is particularly useful in order to ensure free flow of ideas in the decision making process as well as in the equitable distribution of responsibilities and benefits. Factors related to the alliances/linkages between POs/cooperatives and key stakeholders: The cooperatives in different parts of the region do not see each other as a business rival. Their relationship is largely collegial and complimentary. Sharing of resources including cash is very common. The traditional Afar information/news extraction and communication system, i.e. ―Dagu‖, is being exercised by the cooperatives to communicate amongst themselves and other stakeholders. External factors: the institutional frame into which the POs/cooperatives are inserted (e.g. national policy for rural professional organizations, etc.) and the services from which it benefited (material, human and financial supports): There is some follow-up from national and regional cooperative offices, although this is not organized and regular. The advisory services provided by these bodies on the basic cooperative principle and record keeping is slowly shaping the cooperative to take up the good characteristics of formal business entities. Food security: In addition to the monthly income (50 US $/per head) generated from the MNB production, members of the cooperatives keep few heads cattle and/or 36. 36 small ruminants. Some members buy the blocks and feed it to the lactating animals to stimulate milk production. As a result, the cooperative members have much better household food security than fellow pastoralists in the neighborhood. Problems remaining to be resolved Much of the income generated by the cooperatives is consumed and little goes to the expansion of the business. The Afar community has strong communal culture where people with a view of ‗your pocket is my pocket‘ still prevails, capital accumulation as individual or organized group is quite difficult. Due to this cultural influence, members of the cooperatives share proceeds of wage labor to fellow Afar rather than investing it in livestock or saving it in the bank. The majority of cooperative‘s members are illiterate. As a result, they still depend on outside body for keeping the records of their business transaction and asset inventory. Limited initiative to take up new and additional business opportunities. Due to the limited experience in market-oriented production are less proactive in diversifying their business base. Weak market integration of the pastoral production system in cooperatives operational areas. The MNB market is largely restricted to times of drought. Despite the potential of the MNB to improve milk production and market for milk, pastoralists in the area are not keen in buying and feeding the blocks to lactating animals in normal times. Key recommendations Despite the number of challenges, the MNB Producer Cooperatives in Afar have continued functioning as successful business unit due to two outstanding reasons. These include: The purpose or objective for which the cooperative were established. Principally, the promotion of the MNB production technology and the establishment of the MNB producer cooperatives are intended to reduce the critical drought-time feed shortage. Livestock asset saved through MNB feeding particularly at times drought is the greatest motivation and cause for continued existence of the MNB producer cooperatives. Nature/type of the livelihood alternative. Although the MNB technology is new to the area, it is a technology that requires little sophistication and capitalizes on inputs locally available. Within few days of practical skill enhancement training and custom made equipment, the members of the cooperatives were able to manufacture blocks of acceptable quality standard. What lessons can we learn from this case, especially from the relationships or partnerships with social, political and economic actors? Similar to other businesses, healthy relationships and partnerships pays great dividend. With modest starting capital, the MNB producer cooperatives in the Afar region have managed to handle MNB orders worth of over 50 000 US $ by forging partnership among themselves and maintaining good rapport/trust with beneficiaries. Which measures can be recommended to authorities (policy makers, donors, other decision-makers) to make possible, better value and multiply such initiatives on behalf of POs/cooperatives? Grassroots based humanitarian and development initiatives are easier to support when beneficiaries are organized in groups than when dealt individually. This benefit of such approach has been noted in MNB Producer Cooperatives. The positive impact of an organized group on their own life and the community they serve can be amplified when the support is more integrated and comprehensive. Organizing and equipping them with 37. 37 the appropriate skills and facilities may not be enough to attain lasting success. Such supports should be complimented with supports that address the gaps in basic literacy, entrepreneurial skills, Principles of Cooperatives and market integration of the pastoral production system (Guinea) Intensification, diversification et valorisation des productions agricoles dans la région de Kindia (GTFS/GUI/019/ITA, LTU: TCSF/2009-2012). This project aims to promote food security, by supporting specific national policies to introduce sustainable systems of production, processing, and marketing. Adequate communication tools will be developed to ensure that POs are the focus of the proposed interventions, with particular attention paid to gender issues. (Guinea-Bissau) Diversification, Intensification et Valorisation des Produits Agricoles Locaux (DIVA) dans les Régions de Oio et de Bafata (GTFS/GBS/028/ITA, LTU: TCSF/2008- 2011). This project strengthened the capacities of producers and their organizations, with a focus on women members, in storage, conservation, processing and commercialization issues, as well as to diversify and intensify their produce. (Kenya) Agribusiness Support to Smallholders (AbSS) (GCP /KEN/070/GER, LTU: AGS/2010- 2012). The project addresses the challenges that small farmers and small and medium agricultural enterprises (SMAEs) face in benefiting from commercialization trends by supporting business models linking producers to SMAEs. To support replication and up scaling of validated models, the project is reinforcing the institutional framework for assisting producers and SMAEs, with specific attention to relevant public sector units, producers‘ organizations, and agribusiness organizations. One of the project outputs focuses on improving the capacities of KENFAP and local producers‘ organizations to support collective action and provide business services. A workshop on ―Improving Performance of Farmer Organizations in Value Chain” was held to increase capacities of KENFAP staff and five POs. KENFAP field coordinators were also trained in ―Rapid Agribusiness Appraisal and Planning‖. These coordinators support 134 POs in the field by providing agricultural extension training. The AbSS project aims at increasing the number of organizations and improving the effectiveness of market linkage services between producers of raw materials and SMAE processors. Further trainings targeting the development of POs and improving their linkages to SMAEs will be held in the remaining implementation phase of the project. These training sessions will cover topics such as contract negotiation, logistics management and quality standards to better meet the needs of SMAEs. (Liberia) Food Security through Commercialization of Agriculture (GTFS/LIR/010/ITA, LTU: TCFS/2008-2012) is among seven national projects in West Africa funded by the Italian Government. The main objective of the four-year agricultural development project is to support the development of African agriculture into modern, competitive and commercially more dynamic sector, while building on the achievements and lessons learned from the National Programs for Food Security. The overall goal is that rural poverty and household food insecurity is reduced on a sustainable basis. The overall objectives are: Increased agricultural productivity, marketed output and incomes of beneficiaries, resulting in improved livelihood of FBO members. The project has 3 main components: support to FBOs (aimed at establishing/strengthening sustainable FBOs); support to value addition and marketing; coordination, monitoring and evaluation, and sub regional cooperation. 38. 38 (Liberia) Food Security through Commercialization of Agriculture (GTFS/LIR/010/ITA, LTU: TCFS/2008-2012) Innovative elements for POs and cooperatives The project provided capacity building opportunities for strengthening 108 FBOs in: Improved organizational and leadership development. Improved crop production practices through the farmer field school system. Business and financial management system, and linking FBOs to financial institutions. Market linkages with WFP P4P and MOA seed purchase programs. Provided support also in value addition to farmers’ products by the provision of 2 mills to FBOs for improving quality of rice products. Constructed 4 fish post-harvest technology platforms and improved smoked ovens for fisher folks groups engaged in artisanal fishing to improve quality of fish products. Impacts of the POs and cooperatives on livelihood Improved organizational development and leadership structures of 108 FBOs put in place backed by written by-laws and constitutions guiding their daily activities. 25% increase in production and income generation. 100 crops FBOs organized into 14 clusters groupings which would eventually lead them to bigger cooperatives. 50% of the 108 FBOs have opened saving accounts with reputable banks in rural communities as a way of developing trust in the banking system, thus enhancing confidence in managing their own funds. Improved rice quality and fish products on the markets. Sustainable management plan put in place for operation of rice mills by FBOs; thus FBOs take care of the repairs of the mills in case of break down. General success factors Implementation strategy: The project coordination Unit (PCU) works within the MoA through the National Project Director (NPD), County Agriculture Coordinators (CACs), District Agriculture Officers (DAOs), Fishery Technicians, Cooperative Development Agency (CDA), and local partners as well as international consultants and FAO technical support in project activity implementation. Collaborative efforts amongst the various stakeholders provided technical backstopping and training opportunities for the FBOs at all levels. Problems remaining to be resolved Lack of adequate value addition facilities and equipment/materials (Flake ice making machines, cassava processing machines) for the crops and fish component. Training of FBOs in the application of the improved technology to value addition in – product processing, packaging, labeling, and storage. Key recommendations Support for additional funding to ensure the provision of facilities, equipment/materials for value addition. FBOs trainings in the application of improved technology to value addition, management and marketing. Replication of project concept to other locations; and need for MOA follow up with current FBOs to ensure their further empowerment into cooperatives. 39. 39 Security through Commercialization of Agriculture (GTFS/LIR/010/ITA, LTU: TCSF/2008-2012) Name of Farmers’ Organization Location FAO’s Inputs/Progress Project Impact on Beneficiaries FSCA over 3 years has provided training opportunities for 108 FBOs (100 FBOs in crops while 8 FBOs are in fisheries. There are 70 crop FBOs in Nimba and 30 crop FBOs are in Maryland Counties. In fishery 5 FBOs are in Grand Kru with 3 FBOs in Montserrado Counties.) in Montserrado, Nimba, Maryland and Grand Kru Counties in leadership structure development, business and financial management, exposure to banking institutions services, improved crop production activities, concept and practices of commercialization and marketing. These windows of opportunities have created significant impacts on the livelihoods of project beneficiaries. Value addition equipment have been provided to beneficiaries, including rice mills and flake ice making machines. Montserrado, Nimba and Maryland Counties 108 FBOs (crop and fishery) registered (crops & fisheries). Training on financial services & Cooperative development for 65 FBOs members. Facilitated 100 FBOs (crops) into 14 clusters. Encouraged FBOs established internal savings. Encouraged FBOs in opening bank accounts. Encouraged FBOs in developing bylaws and constitutions. Established 6 rice- cum-fish culture sites in lowland rice fields. Constructing 4 Fish Technology Platforms in Montserrado and Grand Kru Co. Procurement of value addition. equipment/fishing inputs in process Trained 30 Fisher folks and technicians in fish postharvest handling and processing. Constructed 11 improved ovens for fish smoking. Improved organizational development and leadership structure 85% FBOs have written by-laws and constitutions. 100 FBOs groupings organized into 14 clusters. FBOs adopting improved crop production and marketing practices through FFS 25% increases in production of rice, cassava and vegetables and income generation. 100% FBOs introduced to banks/financial institutions and 50% opened savings account FBOs linked with markets including WFP‘s P4P and MOA‘s seed rice purchase scheme Improved value addition practices as a result of EUFF/FAO donation of rice mill; good financial & mill management system put in place, and opened saving account with the bank (This applies to FBOs in Ganta and Kpaytuot, Nimba County). Over 75% increase in income generation over baseline data; over 30% increases in catches; adopted improved fish value addition practices through the use of chorker (smoke – ovens); established good financial management system and opened saving account with the bank. FSCA constructed fish postharvest technology platform with flake ice making machine. FBO put sustainable management plan in place (This applies to Artisanal Fishery Group in Grand Kru County) (Liberia) Joint Program in support of the national response to Food Price Increases and the Food Security & Nutrition Strategy (UNJP/LIR/011/UNJ, LTU: AGS/2009-2011). In response to the Global Food Crisis and medium-term priorities in the National Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS), the Government of Liberia and the United Nations have developed this program. Specific strategies to address gender equality concerns through project implementation included; (i) enhancing women‘s access to resources and extension services; (ii) ensuring that interventions pay attention to women‘s time burden‘ (iii) ensuring that women friendly technologies are 40. 40 introduced in the strategies to increase agro production and processing; and (iv) ensuring that women have increased voice in the governance of the sector. In total 45 groups (fifteen per county) were organized, with 200 women per group in the low land and 100 women per group in the up land. Joint Program in support of the national response to Food Price Increases and the Food Security & Nutrition Strategy (UNJP/LIR/011/UNJ, LTU: AGS/2009-2011). Name of Farmers’ Organization Location FAO’s Inputs/Progress Project Impact on Beneficiaries Sanoyea Rural Women Bong County Received 4.375 metric tons of improved seed rice. Assorted agricultural hand tools Power tiller. Rice mill, thresher, de-stoner. 1 poultry building stocked with 500 broilers and 500 layers. Training. Structure‘s membership increased from 175 to 300. Family members‘ protein-rich food sources increased. Income generating capacities improved through sale of first batch of poultry. Bank Account established by one structure with more than L$75,000. 40% Increase in rice production in 2009 – 2010 farming season. Groups linked to market through WFP‘s P4P program. Awarded contract by MoA to procure & process at least 50 metric tons of paddy rice. Palala Rural Women Bong County Received 11.75 metric tons of improved seed rice. Assorted vegetable seeds groundnuts & cowpea. Assorted agricultural hand tools Power tiller. Rice mill, thresher, de-stoner. Training. Structure‘s membership increased from 470 to 750. Income generating capacities improved. Bank Account established with at least L$60,000.00 deposited. Increase in rice production by 55% in 2009 – 2010 farming season as Group was linked to market through WFP P4P. Awarded contract from WFP through its P4P Program. Karnplay Rural Women Nimba County Received 16.0 metric tons of improved seed rice. Assorted agricultural hand tools Power tiller. Rice mill, thresher, de-stoner. 1 poultry building stocked with 500 broilers and 500 layers. Training. Increase in group membership from 640 to more than 1,000. Protein-rich food sources increased. Income generating capacities improved. Bank Account established with more than LD$75,000 deposited. Increase in rice production by 40% in 2009 – 2010 farming season as Group was linked to market through WFP P4P. Awarded contract from MOA to procure & process at least 50 metric tons of paddy rice. 41. 41 (Malawi) Enhancing Food Security and Developing Sustainable Rural Livelihoods (GCPS/MLW/030/NOR, LTU: AGS/2006-2011).This project alleviated immediate food security problems through the water management improvement. The institutional development component of the project involved the establishment of Water Users’ Associations (WUAs), FOs and CBOs by strengthening their technical and management skills and the development of effective partnerships with: CBOs, Village Development Committees (VDCs), NGOs and private sector service providers. (Malawi) Delivering As One - Promoting Rural Youth Employment and Empowerment (UNJP/MLW/034/EDF, LTU: ESW/2010 - 2011) and - Policy support on rural employment and decent work towards equitable and sustainable livelihoods under conditions of climate change - Malawi component (FMM/GLO/007/MUL, LTU: EST/2011-2013) Given the currently limited capacity and capital-intensiveness of centre-based models, this joint program scaled up, refined and demonstrated effective and complementary models for youth employment, both at community level and through training centers. (Mali) Projet d'Appui aux Organisations Paysannes du Plateau Dogon pour une Meilleure Valorisation de leurs Productions Maraîchères (GTFS/MLI/030/ITA, LTU : TCSF/2008-2012). This project is implemented within the framework of the Food Security through Commercialization of Agriculture program (FSCA), endeavors to intensify and diversify horticultural productions, increasing competitiveness and therefore the incomes of the population of one hundred villages in eleven districts. Each project within the FSCA Program includes a Communication for Development component. This approach enables the project stakeholders to receive/disseminate information about the activities and share knowledge and lessons learned with the other stakeholders, at both national and regional levels. Among its technical components, the project strengthens POs’ technical and operational capacities. In addition, a packaging and conditioning centre is established. With additional funds received from the Italian Government, the project is becoming more active in the Eastern area of Menaka, where it will support local farmers in developing a small-scale camel-milk processing facility. (Mozambique) Building Commodity Value Chains and Market Linkages for Farmers’ Associations (UNJP/MOZ/093/UNJ, LTU: AGS/2008-2011). The overall objective of the project was to enhance rural livelihoods by increasing the amount of maize and beans/peas purchased by WFP directly from small-holders‘ organizations in Mozambique. The project aimed also to add value to small-holders‘ production through the provision of storage facilities, managed directly by producers or by POs. Besides, to improve post-harvest handling, technical assistance was provided for the implementation of quality monitoring procedures by targeted POs. This improved the capacity of smallholders to access other markets and obtain higher prices in the long- term, as well as enhance farmers' organizational capacity. (Mozambique) Boosting agricultural production and market linkages for small-holder farmers to counter soaring food prices (GCP/MOZ/099/EC, LTU: AGP/2009-2011). The overarching impact of the project was to enhance the food security and livelihood of 30 000 farmers (150 000 people) in rural poor agricultural communities in order to buffer the effects of soaring food prices. This was accomplished through the increased local seed production by producers’ associations through the private sector in the provinces of Maputo, Gaza, Tete, Manica, Zambezia, and Nampula. (Mozambique) Promotion of Youth Employment (UNJP/MOZ/094/UNJ, LTU: ESW/2008-2011). This project promoted decent employment, rural economic activities, and access to market. Eight youth farmers‘ associations were created in the Sofala province and they were trained in horticulture and livestock skills. (Niger) Promotion de la Coopération Décentralisée entre Niger et l`Italie dans le Domaine de l`Élevage et des Industries Animales (GCP /NER/044/ITA, LTU : AGA/2005-2011). This project contributed to strengthening the capacities of national and local actors, including POs, women groups and NGOs by providing training in different livestock production-related activities. 42. 42 (Niger) Intensification de l’Agriculture par le Renforcement des Boutiques d’Intrants Coopératives (GCP /NER/047/MUL, LTU: OEKR /2008-2011 and GCP/NER/042/EC, LTU: OEKR/2009-2011). The overall objective of this project was to enhance the food security of vulnerable populations by improving crop yields (millet and sorghum and market garden crops) through the controlled use of fertilizers. The project‘s strategy was to raise awareness of POs on the importance and relevance of fertilizer control groups, to consolidate the network of cooperative input shops already widely adopted in the country and to support POs in coordinating the process of group orders for fertilizer and seed inputs. (Rwanda) Projet de gestion intégrée de lutte contre les maladies et ravageurs du riz par la méthode de champs-écoles (TCP/RWA/3203, LTU: AGP/2009-2011). The specific objectives were: to contribute to increased rice productivity and environmental protection through the promotion of integrated management approaches to fight against diseases and rice‘s pest); ensuring collaboration and coordination improved nationally with ISAR (search result) and extension services; strengthening the capacity of rice farmers in managing their production and in solving problems they might encounter. (Senegal) Projet d`Appui aux Organisations de Producteurs pour la Valorisation des Filières Porteuses (Kaolack Fatick, et Louga) (GTFS/SEN/060/ITA, LTU: TCSF/2008-2012). The general objective of this project is to contribute to the reduction of poverty in some rural communities located in the Kaolack, Fatick and Louga regions in Senegal, by supporting the establishment of poles of excellence, self-managed at local level and geared towards the exploitation of promising sectors. To this end, the project endeavors to strengthen the capacities of POs and other non state-owned support structures, with a focus on women members, in value chain management, and to increase the participation of POs in the project‘s coordination. (Sierra Leone) Food Security through Commercialization of Agriculture (FSCA) project (GTFS/SIL/028/ITA, LTU: TCSF/2008-2012). The objective of this project is to increase on a sustainable basis FOs‘ agricultural productivity in Sierra Leone. To this end, the project supports existing FOs in order to improve production and marketing, but also aims to establish new groups through support to existing and emerging ―market clusters‖ at the village level, as well as to strengthen various existing farmers‘ networks at the district level, such as FFS/ Agricultural Business Unit (ABU) networks and federations, women‘s cooperatives and associations. The outcomes will be achieved by: (i) supporting existing and emerging ―market clusters‖ at the village level consisting of FFS, Agricultural Business Units (ABUs), cooperative branches and other FBOs and associations, as well as strengthening existing farmer networks; and (ii) identifying value addition and diversification opportunities, supporting producers and processors to respond to markets, addressing constraints in and establishing linkages along the value chain, and facilitating access to required inputs and support services. It is envisaged to strengthen/create a total of approximately six hundred groups in the two districts. (Sierra Leone) Seed enterprise enhancement and development (seed) project in Sierra Leone (GCP /SIL/032/GER, LTU: AGP/2009-2012). The objective is to improve the livelihoods of small farmers through transformation of selected Agricultural Business Units(ABUs)/FFS in Bonthe and Tonkolili districts into viable business enterprises for the production and marketing of the staple food and other profitable farm products. The project targets men and women farmers in existing or newly established FBOs, whose members are associated with FFS/ABU groups. (Sierra Leone) Support to the Implementation of the National Agriculture Response Program (NARP) (GCP/SIL/034/EC, LTU: AGS/2009-2011) The NARP was developed by the MoA in order to increase food access and production, building on the ongoing community programs of the Operation Feed the Nation (OFTN), Sierra Leone‘s NFSP. Its agricultural production component consists essentially in the provision of support to FFS and ABUs, facilitating their evolution in Agricultural Business Centers (ABCs). The project supports in at least seven districts, the 43. 43 establishment of 105 new ABCs and supports the MoA in assisting and mentoring the entire network of 195 ABCs. (Somalia) Improve livelihoods of the fishing, pastoral and agro pastoral communities, women groups and association members in Iskushuban district, Bari region of Puntland (GCP /SOM/043/SPA, LTU: TCEO/2010-2012). The project aims to contribute to the establishment of sustainable and equitable livelihoods in the coastal communities through improved fish handling, marketing and processing. Moreover, the project aims to enhance food security and nutritional status through protection of livestock assets, improved agricultural production, marketing, and processing/preservation. It is expected that Somali pastoralists, agro- pastoralists and fisheries communities residing in selected areas of Iskushuban district of Puntland and their local authorities, fisheries, veterinary and agriculture associations, CBOs and NGOs will benefit from the project. FAO has been working in partnership with local NGOs, and Private Veterinary Associations participating in the Agriculture and Livestock cluster to protect the productive assets upon which pastoralists and agro-pastoralists are dependent, to limit destitution, improve food security and ensure survival amongst at-risk pastoralist communities. (Somalia) Livelihood support for agro pastoral communities in humanitarian emergency and acute food and livelihood crises in South Central Somalia (OSRO/SOM/106/CHS, LTU: TCEO/2011-2012). The agro pastoral and riverine populations in southern Somalia who predominantly rely on rainfall for subsistence farming have suffered from a significant decline of the Deyr 2010 cereal crop production. The number of people in crisis increased by almost 70% in these areas and currently stands at 440,000 people, of which 76% farmers are from agro pastoral livelihoods. To improve household (HH) food security FAO will purchase farm inputs including quality seed through the network of seed producers associations and distribute to the vulnerable farmers who lost production in the last season, as well as target priority livestock diseases of economic importance that threaten the livelihoods of pastoral and agro-pastoral HH. The Cash for Work serves as an income generating activity and provides a threefold advantage to the producers: providing of ready cash for the households, increasing food accessibility while providing a safety net for future shocks. The 30 water catchments (total of 90,000M³) to be rehabilitated will be identified through consultations with the community leaders, elders and relief committees. (Somalia) Protecting pastoral community livelihood assets in South Central Somalia and enhancing the community capacity to cope with shock through an integrated approach (OSRO/SOM/107/CHS, LTU: TCEO/2011-2012). The project aims to contribute to stabilizing food access and nutrition of people in crisis (including IDPs) through provision of emergency livelihoods support. FAO will implement the mass treatments and vaccination campaigns targeting some close to 400,000 animals owned by 10,000 HH through regional professional veterinary organizations. Vet teams will mobilize the communities to water/ grazing points, collect epidemiological data and keep records of treatments/ vaccinations in the daily treatment forms. (Sudan) Strengthening community based institutions for participatory peace building, conflict resolution and recovery planning in Darfur (UNJP/SUD/066/DPF, LTU: TCEO/2010- 2011). FAO provided support in order to strengthen native leadership structures in participatory conflict prevention, peace building and conflict resolution in the targeted communities by facilitating and assisting community initiatives in the regulation of access and utilization of natural resources by diverse communities with differing livelihoods strategies in the targeted areas. (Sudan) Sustainable Food Security through Community-Based Livelihood Development and Water Harvesting: Jonglei and Upper Nile States, South Sudan (GCP /SUD/068/CAN, LTU: TCEO/2011-2014). The main objective of the project is to improvecommunity stability and food security forwomen, men, youth and children living in Jonglei and Upper Nile State, two of the most food-insecure and conflict affected states in south Sudan. In this context, the intermediate objective consists of reduced conflict incidents disrupting food security activities and increased resilience and ability among targeted households of Jonglei and Upper Nile to produce food for self-consumption 44. 44 and the market while diversifying and increasing their incomes. The beneficiaries are: farmers, herders and fishermen, who shall benefit from extension services designed to improve their production and productivity or those who may form FFS. Support to Community-based seed production and supply system development in Southern Sudan (OSRO/SUD/817/FRA, LTU: AGP/2008-2010) Background The project aimed to increase domestic food production, thus improve food security and livelihoods by increasing availability of locally produced quality seeds and planting materials of staple food crops in five states of Southern Sudan. Non existence of a functioning formal seed sector and/or absence of a well organized seed production program in South Sudan necessitated sourcing of seeds from outside the country for FAO emergency response. Over the past five years efforts have been made by FAO, in collaboration with other partners, to source seeds of locally adapted crop varieties through seed recollection program. The recollection program registered some success with a few limitations on the quality and volume of seeds recollected. To partly address the obstacles limiting the volume and quality of recollected seed, FAO initiated the community-based seed production and supply program in 2007 working with farmers‘ groups and associations which aimed at empowering the local farmers to produce quality seed for own use and existing and expanding markets. Innovative elements for POs and cooperatives Farmer Field School: the FFS participatory approach provided the best opportunity to the seed growers in sharing experiences and learning from one another. It facilitated faster adoption of some good practices such as row/ recommended spacing and sole planting; rouging of disease plants and off-types. Jab planters: The tool was introduced to farmers‘ groups to facilitate good planting practices like row planting ensuring proper distribution of seeds/crops in the field. Group vs. individuals: Two approaches were used in producing seeds. It clearly emerged that individual seed production fields were better managed than group fields and good harvest were reported from individuals. Future production should focus at promoting individual approach in production while focusing on group in collective storage and marketing only. Seed recollection and seed fair: The community seed production was initiated to meet FAO‘s seed requirement for its emergency response. Initiative like seed recollection from farmers‘ groups and seed fairs using voucher system provide market outlets for farmers‘ groups to market their produce. Farmers found locally produced quality seeds were better adapted to the local ecology which increased demand for locally produced seeds. New varieties: Introduction of improved varieties of groundnut (Serenut 4&5), beans (K 132) cassava (TME 14, Abey Ife) to farmers‘ groups/association attracted great interest from the farmers. The varieties are now well adapted to the local ecology and spread widely to other parts of South Sudan. Impacts of the POs and cooperatives on livelihood The initiation of the community-seed production and supply with farmers‘ groups/associations significantly contributed to the reduction of seed importation while improving access and availability of quality seed within the project locations. Sale of seeds is an important source of income for members of farmers‘ groups/association involved in seed multiplication and supply. Over 300,000 US dollars were used to procure seed from the seed grower through seed fair (89,600) and seed recollection programs (>220,000). This became an important incentive to seed growers to produce seed for their own use as well as targeted short term markets. 45. 45 Members of the farmers‘ groups/associations involved in the seed fair and seed recollection program reinvested their income in expansion of land for seed bulking. Members of farmers association adopted better agronomic practices like row planting and integrated pest control practices as well improved post harvest management of field produce. Farmers also learnt the importance of roughing and observing isolation by distance and/or barriers such as forest in their seed bulking. Isolation by time of planting was well demonstrated by Yabongo Farmer Group (YFG) in Western Equatoria State. The FFS is a much more conducive environment for farmers‘ learning and experiences sharing. Other members of community not in the farmers‘ groups also befitted from the learning. General success factors Labor shortage: Seed production comes with addition labor demand at household level which limits expansion of production fields beyond two acres per farmer. Supporting farmers to access credits would help members of farmers‘ association address labor constraints at farm level. Technology for seed processing and packaging: In order for farmers‘ groups to evolve into formal seed dealers, their capacity to produce high quality seeds meeting the required standards of good quality seeds, they require appropriate technology to process seeds for the market. Storage: Appropriate storage facilities for the farmers‘ groups to store farm produces including seeds remain limited. Problems remaining to be resolved Strengthening and out-scaling community seed storage: Seed storage and marketing by Seed Growers Association at county level need to be supported. Up scaling Seed and Input Trade Fairs: FAO should adapt this approach in emergency seed response to ensure beneficiary farmers‘ access locally adopted seeds of high quality. Strengthening seed quality monitoring: Seed quality is an important component for creating effective market demand. To obtain quality seed, an efficient monitoring unit needs to be put in place. This requires that extension field staff capacity to be built, and they are facilitated to do effective monitoring seed production activities, hence good quality seed. Improving access to credit and other services: For the members of the seed growers‘ association to have sufficient capacity to produce seeds that meets the needs of farming population in south Sudan, it is critical for the seed growers to microfinance institutions in order to access resources to increase their production and productivity Linking seed growers to private seed sector: In the event that private seed companies emerge in southern Sudan within the nearby future, there is need to link the seed growers/ associations to private investor in contractual agreements. (Tanzania) Food systems development in Tanzania (GCP/URT/132/GER), LTU: AGS/2010- 2012). The objective of the project is to strengthen the capacities of public and private organizations and food chain actors to coordinate, plan and support food chain and business development of the rice, maize, edible oil and red meat sub sectors in the Southern Highlands of Tanzania. The project outputs focus on the identification of sub-sector specific strategies and priorities; building capacities of public-private sector coordination; promotion of best practices for new market mechanisms; strengthening food-chain innovation capacities and identify strategies to improve the utilization of agro-processing facilities. The project is collaborating in developing strategic development/extension strategies and work plans for the Tanzanian Edible Oil Seed Association (TEOSA) and the Tanzanian Livestock and Meat Traders Association (TALIMETA). (Tanzania) Advisory services capacity development in support of food security in Tanzania (GCP/URT/133/GER, LTU: AGS/2010-2012). The overall objective is to enhance the capacities of advisory service providers and farmers in farm management and marketing to better respond to 46. 46 market opportunities. It is expected to contribute to government restructuring efforts of the extension service by orienting them towards the market and making changes to its content, function and structure. The outputs are: to empower farmer groups, and enhance farmers‘ leadership capacity to organize, train and advise other famers in farming as a business. (Tanzania) Policy support on rural employment and decent work towards equitable and sustainable livelihoods under conditions of climate change, Tanzania component (FMM/GLO/007/MUL). The members of the Tanzania Federation of Cooperatives (TFC) and Cooperatives Union of Zanzibar (CUZA) attended a workshop in the JFFLS methodology in order to strengthen the Institutions capacities to address rural youth employment and food security. A total of thirteen cooperatives (eleven from Mainland and two from Zamzibar, with a total of twenty- five participants) were trained. (Uganda) Karamoja livelihood agro pastoralist opportunities-KALAPASO UGA/002/BEL, LTU: AGP/2010-2011; OSRO/UGA/906/SPA, LTU: AGP/2009-2010, OSRO/UGA/908/SWI, LTU: AGP/2009-2010). The main objectives of the project were to improve the food, income security and resilience capacity of agro-pastoralist communities in Karamoja. The FFS approach has been progressively adapted to the specific context of Karamoja by several FSAL cluster members. The core principal of the FFS approach (learning by doing) is the heart of the program, but applied in a holistic way including the following components: community animal health workers (CAHWs), agriculture production, productive rural infrastructure (i.e., water harvest management) and Village Savings & Loans Associations (VSLA). (Uganda) Partnership between WFP and FAO for Purchase for Progress in Northern Uganda (OSRO/UGA/005/WFP, LTU: TCEO/2010-2011). FAO and WFP signed an Agreement for fifteen months to support the implementation of the Purchase for Progress (P4P) initiative. P4P aims to strengthen smallholders‘ capacity to produce quality agricultural produce that meets market standards in order to increase their economic opportunities and income through improving post- harvest handling/processing, marketing infrastructure (storage facilities), and support linkages to finance services, and develop market access opportunities. The approach has been to use FFS networks as the main entry point. The project aimed at strengthening FFS network institutional, post-harvest and marketing capacities to help them become strong marketing entities able to seize market opportunities with WFP P4P and any other private traders. Partnership between WFP and FAO for Purchase for Progress in Northern Uganda (OSRO/UGA/005/WFP, LTU: TCEO/2010-2011) Innovative elements for POs and cooperatives Previously FAO approach has been implementation of season-long training to enable small-scale farmers to: increase agriculture production and productivity; enhance technical knowledge and decision making capacity; adopt a commercial approach to farming, develop a saving and investment culture through Village Saving & Loan schemes; reinforce coping mechanisms to hazards and risks of disasters by diversifying their sources of income (Community-based Disaster Risk Management). After completion of the curriculum, FFS are encouraged to subscribe to the FFS networks of their sub-county. FFS networks are an informal federation of a number of FFS with a common interest within well defined geographical boundaries. The FFS networks had not received the required capacity building to make them take advantage of the opportunities available. The P4P project was conceived to fill these gaps by addressing capacity gaps in leadership and institutional development; post 47. 47 harvest handling and marketing of surplus produce. Impacts of the POs and cooperatives on livelihood Physical and natural capital (access to land, water, etc): Equipped ten existing storage facilities with four moisture meters and 140 pellets which help in improvement of quality of produce. Five FFS networks have been allocated government land on permission from the District Local Government to construct storage facilities and offices proposed under this project. Financial capital (access to credit, new and increased incomes, diversification, etc.) One FFS network linked up with private credit firm Express Enterprise Uganda Ltd. and accessed 1.6 million Uganda shillings for their collective marketing activities in October 2011. Another FFS network received conditional grant of Uganda shilling 30million from private business firm called ―Olam Company Ltd‖ for bulking sesame by December 2010. They have a financial request of Uganda shillings 60 million for the year 2011 already approved by the same company. Mobilized the FFS networks members to take advantage of marketing opportunities: in second season 2010 a total of 532MT of maize was produced by 22 FFS networks. 6 FFS Network mobilized and bulked about 150MT (150,756kg) of beans, obtained Uganda shilling 97 million (97,627,500) in September 2011 from the sales of 111MT (111,366kg), 7 FFS Networked mobilized and bulked about 87MT (87,369kg) of white maize by September 2011, obtained Uganda shilling 52 million (52,621,000/=) from the sales. 2 FFS Networks produced and sold 558MT (558,740kg) metric tons of soybean and earned Uganda shilling 587,621,950 in September 2011. 2 FFS Network mobilized and bulked 15MT of groundnuts (15,080kg) by September 2011, obtained Uganda shillings 12,318,750 of the total sales of 9.375MT. Human (knowledge, skill, information, etc.) and social capital (networks...) Capacity building in institutional development, leadership, post harvest handling, and financial management, marketing and marketing information were conducted for 30 FFS networks. There is improvement in record management indicated by Network production data, marketing records and inventory. An improvement in negotiation skills exhibited by the most FFS network engaging private companies such as AK Oils and Fats Co. Ltd, Mt. Meru Co. Ltd, Victoria Seeds Co Ltd, Olam Co. Ltd, Financial banking institutions among others for contract farming and credit access Information network is enhanced not only within a FFS Network but among most adjacent FFS Networks on marketing. Signs of cohesion among FFS in a sub county are as well emerging under most FFS Networks for example through bulking of produce from different FFS groups. Post harvest handling knowledge and skills is emerging through adapted technologies which improve quality and shelves lives e.g. use of rectangular cribs and local method for testing moisture and understanding quality requirements for grains. Food security. Building a viable institution which is able to run on its own. Competitiveness in production capacity which means increased production for market and as well as for food. Storage and quality assurance to increase shelf life and quality enhancement reduces wastage during the harvest period. 48. 48 Emphasis on quality of seeds and improved production agronomy to boost yields and minimize losses during and after production were made. General success factors Internal factors: the business models (objective, strategy) and its model of governance (communication, trust, transparency and accountability, participation in decision making) The FFS network business builds quality control, bulk purchases and product sales; and strong client relationship. The bulking process depicts its strength from assessment of production potential, quality requirement knowledge, prevailing market prices and market forecasts. The Network provides these services through data collection process, training and bulking. Meanwhile, market information are regularly obtained through the Information Board Managers which are linked to a company ―AgriNet Uganda Ltd.‖ that connects the networks to national market price and market deals through mobile phones SMS services. The management of the business comprising of the FFS representatives, Working Committees and the Executive committee meet regularly to decide and take actions required for the business. Plans are shared on the network business and all the projections to create trust. The model involves the FFS linking to production, market and service providers through elected representatives, which form organs for operations called the working committee led by the executives of the FFS networks. The FFS together form the Annual General Assembly which is the supreme body of the FFS network. Review meetings and accountabilities are shared regularly at the committee meetings and the final accountability is presented before the Annual General Meeting (AGM) periodically either bi-annual or annually. The whole structure of the business is built on trust the AGM have in their elected representatives. Factors related to the alliances/linkages between POs/cooperatives and key stakeholders: The FFS networks are currently affiliated to the NGO implementing partner that is providing them with trainings and skills and the sub county local government. It is still effective although this is temporal it has created strong cohesion within the jurisdiction of the Implementing partners. External factors: the institutional frame into which the POs/cooperatives are inserted (e.g. national policy for rural professional organizations, etc.) and the services from which it benefited (material, human and financial supports) FFS networks fits within the framework of Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies (SACCO) being promoted by Government of Uganda. The SACCOs are affiliated to Uganda Cooperative Savings and Credit Union Limited as a national body registered under Uganda Cooperative Societies status of 1991 and Uganda Cooperative Regulations of 1992. Problems remaining to be resolved Business management skills are still limited especially on profit sharing and commissions. The FFS network in most cases fails to realize the commission they intend to earn and charging service fee on the product bulked and subsequently meet only the operating expenses. Full confidence for the collective marketing is not yet built while most FFS express fear of security of their produce during the waiting time. Most FFS want financial transaction security for the produce to be bulked which FFS Networks lack. Most FFS Networks lack storage facilities, marketing points which they often hire is on periodic basis hence increasing operational costs if they have to keep their storage equipment which sometimes are bulky. Operational fund is still limited for sustainability of the FFS networks. Network is a voluntary federation of the FFS which subscribe on annual basis. However, this source of funds cannot sustain FFS network increased activities in a year. 49. 49 The management of the FFS Network business are not necessarily technical people and in most cases have only basic education. This is most probably the most limiting factors in making the FFS network realizing profitable operation. Lack of legal framework for operating business at FFS network is yet another challenge which is pressing the FFS Network business operation and the probable sustainability. Key recommendations What elements of this project which were beneficial for POs and cooperatives can be replicated and adapted in other contexts? Post harvest handling skills were very important in creating knowledge and skills on handling losses after production. It was appreciated that most products from the FFS lack competitive advantage affecting their returns. The emphasis created if comprehensively handled in other projects can be very support. Deliberate market linkage efforts the project emphasized were very instrumental in creating an attitude of collective marketing. This aspect if carefully adapted to the marketing through creation of effective marketing facilities can tremendously improve group marketing. What lessons can we learn from this case, especially from the relationships or partnerships with social, political and economic actors? Collective marketing has great influence on strengthening social cohesion and partnership within community. The collective property ownership empowers the members to have voice and command for attention by relevant authorities. The operation of the FFS Network Business exposes the community production potential which has a marked influence on the economic potential of sub counties. This has a high potential to expose the government‘s National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS) program an aspect of Higher Level Farmers Association. The approaches being made to companies and banking institutions has given a new dimensions to recognition of farming communities in participating in marketing decisions and orientation to improving service to farming communities. Economically, the groups which sold together realized they sold at fairly better prices than the adjacent communities in the same location and the cash which entered the community can be traced Which measures can be recommended to authorities (policy makers, donors, other decision-makers) to make possible, better value and multiply such initiatives on behalf of POs/cooperatives? Initiatives which can promote collective marketing to overcome attitudes against bulking and attract bulking operations such as grants to support bulking operations, stores and storage equipment. Management capacity improvement programs to be strengthened especially by providing specific business management training and monitoring. Contractual arrangement to be provided in policy form and implementation levels to promote specific commodities of high potential within identified communities Financial securities may be required at appropriate levels of business operations of FFS Networks to promote quality assurance. Post harvest handling technologies must comprehensively be handled to realign orientation towards timely marketing. Fairly longer period (approximately 4 seasons) are more appropriate for this capacity building program. (Zimbabwe) Conservation Agriculture (CA)/Farmers Unions Project: Enhancing and Stabilizing Agricultural Productivity for Communal Farmers through Advanced Land Use 50. 50 and Management Practices (OSRO/ZIM/806/EC, LTU: AGP/2008-2011). This project contributed to reducing poverty and improving communal farmers' livelihoods in Zimbabwe by enhancing agricultural productivity. Learning from past experiences in the country, the project focused strongly on extension and private sector involvement, and on strengthening the institutional capacity of Farmers’ Unions to support contract farming. Asia and the Pacific Regional Under the All ACP Support Program on Agricultural Commodities, Including Cotton (AAACP Program) (GCP/INT/045/EC, LTU: EST/2007-2011), FAO Trade and Markets Division (EST) and FAO Rural Infra-structure and Agro-industries Division (AGS), in collaboration with FAO Sub- regional Office for the Pacific Islands and national MoAs, provided technical assistance to farmers and FOs in order to enhance their participation in fruit and vegetable value chains and provide high quality professional services to their members. Moreover the following organizations have been supported: Samoa Farmers Association (Samoa), Natures Way Cooperative (Fiji), Farm Support Association (Vanuatu) and Kastom Gaden Association (Solomon Islands). An Inclusive Business Model approach has been developed to enable FO‘s to appraise how they were doing or not doing business, interacted with buyers and agro-processors, and identified upgrading strategies to improve market linkages. In the second phase, AGS supported, by direct funding and technical assistance the above mentioned individual associations to implement the up-grading strategies. Areas of technical support included training in modern production technologies, production of seedlings, strategic plan development, marketing and post-harvest handlings and facilitation of growers-buyers meetings. The assistance provided contributed to strengthen the organizational capacities of FOs to better define their respective roles and contributed to an improved understanding of buyers‘ requirements. The final aim was to market higher volumes of fresh produce and provide income to farmers and contribute to the sustainability of FOs. Collaborative, sub-regional, environmental animal health management initiative for enhanced smallholder production in South-East Asia (Second Phase of GCP /PHI/050/ITA) (GCP /RAS/244/ITA, LTU: FAORAP/2009-2011). The project was implemented in Cambodia, Lao and the Philippines, to promote an interdisciplinary, holistic approach to animal health management. The aims were: enhanced, environmentally-friendly forms of livestock production (including: integrated animal disease management, improved animal husbandry, farm management practices and balanced use of natural resources to reduce disease transmission risks from animal to animal and animal to human). National institutes and institutions were the immediate beneficiaries. Targeted final beneficiaries involve rural, smallholders' livestock communities, livestock producers’ associations and consumers. Enhancing Agricultural Competitiveness of Rural Households in Greater Mekong Sub- region (GCP /RAS/217/IFA, LTU: FAORAP, 2007-2012). The objective of the program is to improve agricultural competitiveness of rural households in the context of a regionally integrated Greater Mekong Sub-region, by promoting, fair models for contract farming. Farmers are assisted to form producers’ groups and receive training on technical and commercial matters, including entrepreneurship and marketing aspects. To enhance group co-operation, farmers are also trained in group interaction and trust-building, through a facilitation program. In particular, women farmers are encouraged to assume responsibilities. Besides, to enhance co-operation among the commodity chain actors, the program actively encourages suppliers, collectors and contractor representatives to interact in formal and informal networks. Pesticide Risk Reduction in South East Asia (GCP/RAS/229/SWE, LTU: AGP/2007-2013). The major objective of this Program was and remains to assist member countries in the Greater Mekong Sub-region (Cambodia, China PR, Lao PDR and Vietnam) to develop the capacity to implement National Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Program and to reduce the risks 51. 51 associated with the distribution and use of agro-chemicals. The Program supported farmer training, with fortified pesticide risk reduction curriculum, and making optimal use of the FFS approach. IPM and FFS graduates often organize themselves into Clubs or other POs (For further information on this FAO Program, see website: www.vegetableipmasia.org ). National (Afghanistan) Small Farmer Livelihoods and Income Enhancement in Baghlan Province (GCP /AFG/053/GER, LTU: AGS/2008-2011). The overall objective of the project was to increase small farmers‘ income levels in the Baghlan province by strengthening FOs and promoting value chain integration. (Afghanistan) Consultancy Services for Poultry Subcomponent of Horticulture & Livestock Project (UTF /AFG/051/AFG, LTU: AGA/2009-2011) was one of the components of the World Bank funded integrated Horticulture and Livestock Project (HLP) in Afghanistan. The focus was on small scale poultry production and was predominantly designed for vulnerable rural women. The objectives of the project were to: enhance poultry productivity, stimulate production, and to develop and strengthen the national poultry production strategy as an effective tool for providing economic opportunities and empowerment of women. To this end, 25,000 female poultry farmers have been trained and organized into approximately 400 village poultry production groups (VPPGs). Consultancy Services for Poultry Subcomponent of Horticulture & Livestock Project (UTF /AFG/051/AFG, LTU: AGA/2009-2011) Innovative elements for POs and cooperatives All the beneficiaries selected were allocated to groups that are called Village Poultry Producer Groups (VPPG), each group with its own Village Group Leader (VGL). The VGLs were trained in vaccination of poultry, keeping of simple records, dealing with minor poultry disease diagnosis and treatment, marketing of eggs, etc. In seven districts where the project commenced in 2009, 20 primary poultry cooperatives were established on a trial basis with the ordinary members of the VPPGs and the VGLs being the members. These cooperatives received additional training to solve their own problems as good as possible. Impacts of the POs and cooperatives on livelihood The 13,000 beneficiaries enrolled in the project produced 23.2 million eggs and 105.6 MTs of chicken meat at a value of US$2.5 Million and US$ 465,031. Out of the total eggs produced, about 35% were consumed by the beneficiaries‘ families. 250 poultry trainers, 505 Village Group Leaders, 25,000 rural women, 35 national counter parts and Veterinary Field Unit members were trained by the project on improved practice of poultry management. Furthermore, 505 Village Poultry Producer Groups (VPPGs) and 20 Primary Poultry Cooperatives were formed during the project period under the process of Social Mobilization. General success factors A house to house survey covering 2,410 beneficiaries enrolled in 2009, revealed that during the first cycle of the production (one year in lay), a beneficiary family obtained a profit of 7,528Af (US $167.29) from the 15 pullets supplied by project. Some beneficiaries of the project already commenced establishing small scale commercial layer units (50 to 150 layers.) 52. 52 Problems remaining to be resolved The social mobilization of the beneficiaries into VPPGs and capacity building of beneficiaries (training) is suitable for replication and adaptation in other contexts. By grouping women beneficiaries into POs like the VPPG, rural vulnerable women are getting an opportunity to discuss also various general other issues which is an important benefit in a patriarchal society like Afghanistan. The 15 layer model contributes enormously towards the livelihood, food security, enhancement of socio-economic standards and rising of nutritional standards of the women beneficiary families. Perhaps a next step should be the establishment of small-scale commercial layer farming. Broiler farming is less suitable at present conditions because it requires a fully integrated approach with the components of parent stock rearing and hatchery operation, feed milling, processing and marketing. (Afghanistan) Support to household food security, nutrition and livelihoods in Afghanistan (GCP/AFG/050/GER, LTU: AGN/2008-2011). The project aimed to build on the achievements of a previous project (GCP/AFG/039/GER, LTU: AGN/ 2005-2007) focusing on strengthening women‘s technical skills which can help them improve household food availability and income (e.g. food processing). This project assisted women in organizing themselves in order to better access credit and markets. (Afghanistan) Variety and Seed Industry Development Project (GCP /AFG/045/EC - Phase II of GCP /AFG/018/EC, LTU: AGP/2007-2011). This project was developed in line with the reconstruction plan for Afghanistan, and aimed at supporting a private sector seed and planting materials industry. The specific objective was to bring farmers together to build national FOs, building upon the achievements and lessons of a previous EC-funded and FAO-implemented project (GCP /AFG/018/EC, LTU: AGP/ 2003-2006). By the end of 2011, this project facilitated the establishment of up to 98 small-scale private seed enterprises in 28 of the 34 provinces of Afghanistan. These became the sole providers of certified seed in the country with a total output of 30.0000 tons wheat seed in 2011 and earning an average profit margin of about 18%. The enterprises have also begun diversifying into other crops including different types of vegetables and food legumes. All the enterprises are paying fees and belong to the Afghanistan National Seed Association (ANSOR), an independent institution governed by a Board of Directors. As the country gradually moves from the conditions of relief to development, the critical challenge of creating a true market in which farmers can afford and are willing to pay the full price of certified seed remains. It is hoped that recent regulatory reforms in terms of adoption of a national seed policy and enactment of a seed law will help create the right environment for sustainable development of the seed sector in which the community-based enterprises will continue to play an active role. (Bangladesh) Food Security through enhanced agricultural production diversified sources of income, value addition and marketing in Bangladesh (GTFS/BGD/041/ITA, LTU: AGS/2010- 2014). This project aims to reduce rural poverty and household food insecurity on a sustainable basis through enhanced agricultural production, diversified sources of income, creation of value addition and marketing. This overall goal is consistent with the overall goal of the Bangladesh PRSP and the Millennium Development Goal (MDG). Go Local Outreach program. FAO Sub-regional Office for the Pacific Islands (FAOSAP) has been supporting the Island Food Community of Pohnpei (IFCP) in documenting and reinvigorating interest and knowledge on traditional local food crops. This is to address rapid changing diets which are moving away from traditional food sources and resulting in knowledge loss as well as high incidence on nutrition related chronic diseases. It involves community education, distribution of seedlings and planting materials, cooking classes, promotional activities in the media, etc. Initially focused on the main island of Pohnpei, the outreach activities in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) have now spread to all three states of FSM, also Kosrae, Chuuk and Yap, reaching over 2000 people in face-to-face encounters through community workshops and school 53. 53 visits. Moreover, FAOSAP conducted training for FOs in organic certification for Papua New Guinea, Cook Island, Niue, Fiji, Samoa and Vanuatu. (Nepal) Support to mitigate the negative effects of high food prices on local rural populations in ten districts in the Eastern, Central Mid-Western and Far-Western regions of Nepal (GCP /NEP/065/EC, LTU: AGP/2009-2011). The FAO component of this FAO/WFP joint program targeted the improvement of livelihoods through the provision of quality inputs (seeds and fertilizers) and technical training of farmers and cooperatives. For the latter, the project was implementing an extensive training and capacity building program in all project districts to support beneficiary farming families and cooperatives in applying more suitable and productive farming practices, as well as the Government in enhancing its extension capacity. (Nepal) Support to National IPM Program in Nepal: Consolidation, Up-scaling and Institutionalization Phase II (UTF/NEP/059/NEP, LTU: AGP/2008-2013). The major focus is to assist the National IPM Program in developing and testing the methodologies and procedures for the intensification and institutionalization of IPM. Emphasis has been placed on providing quality education to farmers, strengthening in-service and pre-service training in IPM and FFS methodologies, validating and spreading successful IPM technologies, increasing agricultural production, reinforcing participatory institutional arrangements, fostering gender sensitive and social inclusion strategies, empowering FFS farmers to organize themselves in groups/cooperatives and promoting organized marketing of safer IPM products. Moreover, mechanisms for good governance, transparency and accountability were introduced. As part of collaborative support, the National IPM Program has also been providing technical support to EUFF Project (GCP /NEP/065/EC, LTU: AGPS/2009-2011) in designing the FFS and Training of FFS Facilitators programs included in the project as the capacity building component of targeted beneficiaries and support providers of project districts. (Pakistan) Community LADDERS (Learning and Action for Demand Driven Extension and Rural Services) (UTF/PAK/096/PAK, LTU: OEKR/2005–2011). The project was designed to provide technical assistance to the IFAD sponsored Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Community Development Program (CDP). Its overall objective was to institutionalize a collaborative and demand-driven approach to the provision of extension and other rural services in support of community development. The project aimed to i) create a critical mass of self-reliant community groups, cluster organizations and non-governmental organizations that are able to identify needs and development opportunities, and access services on behalf of their members; and ii) build an understanding of demand-driven development process among public and non-public service providers as well as improve collaboration among different actors in response to community needs and demands. (Samoa) Capacity building in organic farming and processing of organically certified and Fair Trade labeled agricultural produce for local and export niche markets (TCP/SAM/3203, LTU: AGS/2009-2011). FAO supported the capacity building of the Women in Business Development Inc. organization. This project also supported: the development of the growing organic industry in Samoa, facilitated the training and nurturing of organic farmers and processors in Samoa, which gained organic and fair trade certification to international standards. This project enabled an environment where these farmers can export their products to available niche markets. It improved the capacities of these small rural farmers and involved them in marketing their products to niche markets overseas. (Timor Leste) Post crisis rehabilitation of food security and livelihoods of most vulnerable population in the district of Baucau, Timor-Leste – Phase 2 (OSRO/TIM/902/SPA, LTU: AGP/2009-2011). This project carried activities to support food security, improved livelihoods and nutrition status amongst the most vulnerable communities located in the Seisal River basin in the Baucau sub-district. At the same time, it added new components (i.e. nutrition education, processing and utilization of local food, school garden) as well as the rehabilitation of small scale community irrigation schemes, to the current ongoing relief operations with special emphasis on the most vulnerable target groups such as children and women. 54. 54 (Vietnam) Capacity building for the food inspection system in Vietnam and Food Safety Information, Education and Communication (OPFMAC) - ONE UN-2 (UNJP/VIE/042/UNJ and UNJP/VIE/043/UNJ, LTU: AGN/2009-2011). The FAO component of this joint program involved support to POs and cooperatives in improving their business efficiency and competitiveness, through the development and dissemination of a Computerized Cooperative Management and Member Information System (MIS), as well as improving their market linkages. (Vietnam) Market-Oriented Agro forestry to Reduce Poverty in Quang Nam Province (GCP /VIE/035/ITA, LTU: FAORAP/2008-2011). The objective of this project - follow-up phase of another project (GCP /VIE/027/ITA, LTU: FAORAP/2004-2007) - was to develop sustainable, market- oriented agro-forestry systems. In this context, the project promotes the establishment of producer-marketing groups and linkages between farmers and markets, including continued support to Cam Ha Cooperative, formed under the first phase of the intervention. (Vietnam) Strengthening Capacities to Enhance Coordinated and Integrated Disaster Risk Reduction Actions and Adaptation to Climate Change in Agriculture in the Northern Mountain Regions of Viet Nam - One Plan II (UNJP/VIE/037/UNJ, LTU: NRC/2009-2011). The objective was to strengthen the institutional systems and processes for disaster risk reduction and preparedness in order to strengthen resilience to the impact of climate change. The project activities at the local level targeted farmers’ groups and reinforced the importance of involving vulnerable poor farmers, ethnic groups, as identified by the community members themselves using local criteria of poverty and food security status. (Vietnam) Capacity building and policy reform for pesticide risk reduction in Vietnam - One UN-2 initiative (UNJP/VIE/041/UNJ, LTU: AGP/2009-2011). FAO supported farmers’ groups and farming communities to address pesticide risk reduction through training on Integrated Pest Management/Pesticide Risk Reduction and promotion of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP). IPM- FFS graduates, and their organizations, now produce higher quality fresh fruits and vegetables, free from residues of hazardous pesticides, which are then marketed through National Food Safety Program. Europe and Central Asia Regional Development Assistance to Farmers in Remote Areas of Montenegro and Kosovo (GCP /RER/019/LUX, LTU: AGA/2009-2011 Phase II). The main objective of the second phase of this project was to consolidate successful farmers’ groups, associations and cooperatives registered during the first phase of the project (2006-2008). This aimed at supporting them to provide services and benefits to their members and wider rural communities. Moreover, registered farmers’ unions were supported to expand their representation. Latin America and the Caribbean Regional Under the All ACP Support Program on Agricultural Commodities, Including Cotton (AAACP Program) (GCP/INT/045/EC, LTU: EST/2007-2011), FAO Rural Infra-structure and Agro- industries Division (AGS) and FAO Trade and Markets Division (EST), in collaboration with FAO Sub Regional Office for the Caribbean (FAOSLC) and FAO Representations in the countries, gave support to Caribbean farmers and FOs to enhance their participation in roots and tubers value chains. A two pronged approach to support the sector was taken, which consists, on the one 55. 55 hand, in supporting the Caribbean Farmers’ Network (CaFAN) and associated organizations to participate effectively in rapidly changing markets and provide high quality professional services to their members. On the other hand, it supported national FOs (Jamaica, Grenada, Barbados, Guyana and St Vincent) to improve the supply of roots and tubers to existing markets and enable farmers to capture a higher share of the market value from their produces. Promoting CARIFORUM/CARICOM7 Food Security (GTFS/RLA/141/ITA, LTU: ESA/2003-2011). The general objective of this regional program was to improve food security in CARIFORUM states8, by improving the policy environment contributing to better trade and market opportunities and by up-grading non-traditional commodities value chain and building capacities among POs in the region: in Belize (Cayo Pepper Group and the San Carlos Cooperative), Jamaica (Clarendon Ackee Association, St Elizebeth Ackee Association, St Catherine Ackee Association), Dominica (Nature Island Pineapple Producers Association), St Lucia (Bellevue Farmers Cooperative, Black Bay Farmers Association, Grace Farmers Group, Banse Farmers Group), Barbados (Barbados Agriculture Society). The main purpose was to strengthen the capacity of FOs to improve the competitiveness and technical support was provided to strengthen the production, post-harvest, processing and marketing operations. Market information access and the capacity to use it, promoting familiarity with market and trade regulations and the ability to meet these requirements were also provided. In collaboration with the EU AAACP program, CaFAN started a blog as well as a radio talk back show (―Eat Caribbean‖) on relevant agribusiness, food security, value chain and business model related topics http://www.cafanvaluechains.podbean.com. FOs improved the productivity and the consistency of the production, reduced post-harvest losses and enhanced the quality and safety of the produces. The strategic prioritization and capacity building activities resulted in an increased membership rate and a professionalized and transparent image. It participated to create value along the chain which benefitted to the members of these food insecure communities to pursue and sustain improved livelihood practices. This resulted in reducing their food insecurity. At policy level, the Regional Food & Nutrition Security Policy for the Caribbean was endorsed which ensured that the role of small farmers in food and nutrition security was captured. Moreover, the project developed a brief on value chain and an analysis of the Enabling Environment for Value Chains. A highlight of the project was the choice of CARICOM to involve CaFAN to be the representative of smallholders‘ farmers. Fortalecimiento de Organizaciones Indígenas y Apoyo al Rescate de Productos Tradicionales en Zonas Altoandinas de Bolivia, Ecuador y Perú (GCP /RLA/163/NZE, LTU: FAORLC/2007-2011). The main objective of this project was to enhance the food security of families belonging to indigenous communities, through the institutional strengthening of indigenous organizations and the valorization of traditional products. Mejora de la seguridad alimentaria mediante el fortalecimiento de agrocadenas seleccionadas con un enfoque empresarial en El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras y Nicaragua (GTFS/RLA/176/ITA, LTU: AGS/2010-2014). The main objective of this regional project is the improvement of food security in four countries in Central America (El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua), through improved marketing of agricultural products, as well as improved efficiency and equity of selected agro-chains. The project applies two main strategies: i) strengthening the managerial and administrative capacity of POs, as well as training in financial services, extension and marketing; and ii) Promotion of productive alliances within the selected 7 CARIFORUM/CARICOM – Caribbean Forum of African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) States /Caribbean Community. 8 Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Saint Kitts & Nevis, Saint Lucia, St Vincent & Grenadines, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago. 56. 56 chains, prioritizing the marketing channels which allow a better aggregation of value for the farmers and their organizations. Programa de apoyo a la agricultura familiar campesina en Perú, Bolivia y Ecuador para mejorar la disponibilidad, el acceso y el uso de semilla de calidad en las zonas Alto Andinas (GCP /RLA/183/SPA, LTU: FAORLC/2010-2013). This project seeks to improve food security in the high Andean peasant family farming communities in Peru, Bolivia and Ecuador by increasing yield and production of tubers and grains in areas planted with seed quality. This will increase food availability in the region with native products and increase revenue from users and producers of quality seed. National (Argentina) Buenas Prácticas Agrícolas y Organización Comunitaria para la Generación de Ingresos y Acceso a Mercados de la Agricultura Familiar (TCP/ARG/3104, LTU: AGP/2008- 2011). The overall objective of this project is to contribute to food security of smallholder farming in Argentina, through the promotion and implementation of GAP and the involvement of FOs in community development actions. (Bolivia) The rescue of cattle from flooded grazing areas and care of livestock (OSRO/BOL/001/CHA, LTU: AGA/2010-2011). The main objective of this project was to reduce the imminent mortality of thousands of animals owned by small farmers in flooded areas, in order to preserve the main protein source for those families, food security and employment. Moreover, flood-related animal diseases were also prevented. The project was implemented by the Emergency Unit of the FAO Bolivia in coordination with the Contingence Unit of the Ministry of Rural Development and Land, the Civil Defense, the National Service for Animal and Vegetal Health (SENASAG), the Agricultural services Agency (SEDAGs), the Departmental Prefecture and the farmers‘ associations in municipalities and provinces. (Bolivia) Promoción de la gestión de riesgo climático y reducción de la vulnerabilidad para fortalecer la producción agrícola sostenible en regiones seleccionadas de Bolivia (OSRO/BOL/902/IT, LTU: NRC/2010-2011). This project contributed to the reduction of the vulnerability of local population and to maintain food security through the support of agricultural production, environmental risk mitigation and the establishment of early warning systems at local and national levels. The beneficiaries were 7 000 families from remote rural subsistence farming communities (3 500) and breeder communities (3 500), with the lowest quintile of Human Development Index and characterized by high prevalence of infant malnutrition and poverty. (Brazil) The Santa Catarina rural competitiveness project was implemented by FAO and the World Bank. It represents an interesting example of the application of EX-ACT at watershed level. It aimed at increasing the competitiveness of Family Agricultural Producer Organizations (FAPOs) on two fronts: (i) finance capital and related technical assistance to FAPOs to encourage technological innovation and diversification, raise productivity, and broaden market access; and (ii) bolster provision of needed complementary public goods and services (e.g. infrastructure, certification, sanitary, legal and environmental regulatory compliance). For more information about this project please see: http://www.fao.org/tc/tcs/exact/ex-act-applications/onrojects/brazil/en/?no_cache=1 (El Salvador) Fortalecimiento del liderazgo y acciones de concertación de las organizaciones a nivel nacional para el desarrollo agropecuario rural (TCP/ELS/3301 Baby 02,LTU: TCSP-ESW 2010/2011). This project provided a space for national consultation, which contributes to the development of the livestock sector, involving programs, strategies, policies and government plans, directed to small scale farmers and cooperatives. Moreover, the project strengthened the leadership and organizational development of the National Rural Women Table, 57. 57 with regards to livestock and farming, through its consolidation and development as a partner for MAG and other government agencies. (Guatemala) Apoyo a la formación de grupos y organizaciones de desarrollo local (Departamento de San Marcos y Municipio del suroeste de Huehuetenango - Guatemala) (GDCP/GUA/001/SPA, LTU: NRC/2007-2011). The project's objective was to contribute to the consolidation of social organizations and to foster sustainable management of natural resources together with the local economy. The direct beneficiaries were 1000 families, groups of agricultural producers and rural organizations. The project target population was defined as 1,000 families‘ members of PO present in sixteen different municipalities. The project was co-executed by nine POs. Apoyo a la formación de grupos y organizaciones de desarrollo local (Departamento de San Marcos y Municipio del suroeste de Huehuetenango - Guatemala) (GDCP/GUA/001/SPA, LTU: NRC/2007-2011) Innovative elements for POs and cooperatives Among project's success factors the following are listed: The development of a strategy and a methodology to work with POs. Field work did not start from scratch since the knowledge and experience of the promoters was available. The rapid positive response of participating families to the proposed interventions. The project was implemented through the local staff of MoA – MAGA. Many complementary initiatives through institutional partners. Continuity in the project staff: the same technical team from start to end. Impacts of the POs and cooperatives on livelihood The participation to project activities reached a total of 3.827 families in 89 communities, with 73% of women. Through training processes the project raised technical and managerial capacity of some 80 board of directors, 8 coordinators and 116 technicians of 10 PO on different topics as sustainable agriculture, agriculture and social organization. This resulted in the implementation of activities with integrated approach and a working logic, drawing on the local resources and inputs available at farm level and generating improved know how, learning processes and organizational management. General success factors The project generated a number of lessons about working with local organizations: The feasibility and effectiveness of voluntary technical promoters whereby both men and women spare their time (without payment), to provide training and technical assistance to family members of the POs; Partnerships through letters of agreement, which was the instrument that allowed the transfer of resources and responsibilities to the POs; Institutional alliances and coordination were key elements in project implementation that eventually resulted highly beneficial for the participating households. Problems remaining to be resolved Organization and strengthening of PO are long processes while donors funded projects are by nature too short to achieve sustainable results. It is important to ensure that national level government funded programs provide continuous support. 58. 58 Key recommendations Capacity building of POs should not just be pursued through training. Empowerment and sharing operational and managerial responsibilities through letter of agreements is a good strategy for rapid growth. (Guatemala) Strengthening Environmental Governance in the Face of Climate Risks in Guatemala (UNJP/GUA/015/SPA, LTU: NRC/2008-2012). The project aims to develop environmental governance mechanisms to strengthen the capacity for adaptation to climate change in Guatemala, especially for the most vulnerable. To this end, the strengthening and involvement of local organizations for natural resource management, including POs, is a key area of support. Strengthening Environmental Governance in the Face of Climate Risks in Guatemala (UNJP/GUA/015/SPA, LTU: NRC/2008-2012) Innovative elements for POs and cooperatives Thirty-six first and second level Community Development Councils (COCODEs) and community organizations (associations, cooperatives and agro-committees) were strengthened by profiling and management (with emphasis on natural resources management for climate change adaptation in agriculture). As a result, the COCODEs proposed 19 natural resources management projects to municipal corporations at the Municipal Development Council (COMUDE) level. From this process, each municipality prepared a draft for integrated municipal investment for 2012 to be presented at the Departmental Development Council (CODEDE) of Baja Verapaz. Creation of a network of 100 community level agricultural promoters pioneers in demonstrating management experiences of natural resources management (soil, forest and water) for adaptation to climate change. These promoters will influence decision-making in their communities on the importance for municipal authorities to consider agro-investment initiatives. Establishment of a Participatory Hydro-Forest Round Table with the participation of the Community Development Committees (COCODEs) to manage natural resources in the Dry Corridor. From this initiative derive the hydro - forest policy of the Baja Verapaz Department, as well as that of three other municipalities. Conformation of the Inter-institutional Round Table for Coordination and Cooperation, which includes the participation of the Association of Municipalities (Mancovalle), the Ministry of Planning and Programming of the Presidency (SEGEPLAN) and municipalities, the Plan International and GiZ. The results of this initiative are 6 Municipal Plans for Development defined through a highly participatory process, including the participation of the Municipal Development Councils (COMUDEs). This process has led to the establishment of monitoring committees (social audit) for the implementation of municipal development plans, ensuring the use of planning by incoming municipal governments. Impacts of the POs and cooperatives on livelihood Human capital: training and capacity development of 100 agricultural promoters contributed to form new leaders with skills in sustainable and productive management of natural resources, encouraging topics such as gender and ethnic diversity. This training created the conditions for strengthening organizational structures (cooperatives and micro-management committees), as in the case of San Miguel Chicaj. Social Capital: The strengthening of COCODEs (community) on project profiling and management increased the capabilities of the community to interact with the municipality in an orderly and efficient manner. This process also improved the links between the COCODEs and the cooperatives with the COMUDE (municipal) and eventually, to the CODEDE (departmental). 59. 59 Financial capital: The strengthening of community organizations calls for better organization in the areas of agricultural production and access to larger markets (departmental market). The development of water management plans and the formulation of investment projects in collaboration with community leaders will allow small producers to increase and diversify production even for export crops (for example, with irrigation investment studies for French green beans). The promotion of human, social and financial capital calls for the development, of a sustainability culture aimed at minimizing social ills such as clientelism and paternalism. Natural capital: Through the establishment of agro-forestry systems and implementation of the Participatory Hydro-Forest Round Table to discuss issues related to forest management, improvement of the quality of the ecosystem as a regulator of the water cycle and moisture as well as quality and soil fertility, with impacts on household production. Physical capital: A participatory and ordered management of water resources through the implementation of integrated water management plans will improve the access and use to the resource in an adequate and safe manner. General success factors Time and resources investment for building trust with local communities and local institutions, as well as reinforcing their links resulted fundamental. The ―learning by doing‖ methodology proved fundamental to change the attitude of people, encouraging the adoption of institutional innovation. The coordination tables for planning activities were effective in bringing together the efforts and ideas of local actors with minimum resources and active participation in the decision making process, facilitating the acceptance of decisions by communities. Problems remaining to be resolved It is fundamental to increase the human and social capital of communities on sustainable management of natural resources with elements of food security, land management and conservation to ensure their involvement in decision making processes at the community, municipal and departmental levels. The political transition in departments and municipalities makes any progress achieved so far vulnerable to the loss of continuity. In this regard, time and resources are being dedicated to candidate Mayors on informing and raising awareness on the achievements and challenges in the context of environmental vulnerability to climate change and food security. Key recommendations It is recommended for projects to consider a minimum of 3 years in order to guarantee some sustainability of actions and innovations introduced. This is specially so for areas where a change in authorities will take place, since it is fundamental to include incoming local authorities in the process. Considering gender and ethnicity approaches is fundamental since project inception. In Mesoamerica, the Mayan cosmology plays an important role in determining aspects of natural resources management (balance and harmony with Mother Nature), especially when working in the implementation of programs related to the climate change adaptation through productive and sustainable management of natural resources. The management of incentives with policies and principles of self-management are key to the development of families and vulnerable communities and that of sustainable actions. (Guatemala) Ventana Tematica: Gobernabilidad economica – Fondo ODM - Fortaleciendo Capacidades con el Pueblo Mam para la Gobernabilidad Económica en Agua y 60. 60 Saneamiento (UNJP/GUA/018/SPA, LTU: FAOSLM/2009-2011). This project assisted local government and civil society in the participatory formulation of water policies and norms for irrigation, training as well water users associations with the purpose of improved production and watershed protection. This was done in order to strengthen the capacity of the Association of Communities of the Naranjo River (MANCUERNA), especially the Mam Indigenous People to achieve efficient and sustainable services. (Haiti) Emergency support to activating communication networks for cholera prevention in isolated rural farming communities affected by the cholera outbreak - (OSRO/HAI/101/CHA, LTU: TCEO/2011). This project aimed to provide assistance to farmers working in cholera affected regions of the country to ensure their well being and to support food security in this time of crisis. The project targeted over 400 000 rural farming families, including 1.5 million women to prevent the further spread of cholera through agriculture. The project worked closely with Haitian institutions (MARNDR, MSPP, CNSA, etc), NGO partners, rural communication networks, farmers associations and other CBOs. (Honduras) Proyecto piloto para el fortalecimiento de la agricultura urbana y peri-urbana (APU) y de la seguridad alimentaria en el Distrito Central (Tegucigalpa y Comayagüela) y alrededores (TCP/HON/3203, LTU: AGP/2009-2011). The overall objective was to contribute to the food security of the population in extreme poverty, from peri-urban areas of the Central District of the Department of Francisco Morazan, through human capital development, strengthening the production, marketing and processing horticultural products, and improving family income. Urban and peri-urban project teams, leaders of organizations, technical institutions and NGOs that support community organizations were trained. (Jamaica) Strengthening Jamaica’s Food Security Programme (GCP /JAM/018/EC, LTU: AGAP/2009-2011). The overall objective of this project was to reduce poverty and enhance food security for vulnerable groups through improved availability of safe, affordable, nutritious food for the rural population and urban poor. The project provided technical training and capacity building in livestock production including nutrition, artificial insemination, animal health and record keeping. Moreover the project offered training in group dynamics, communication and governance for the leadership of the Jamaica Goat Farmers Association. (Nicaragua) Strengthen the productivity of small farmers’ associations (GCP /NIC/035/EC, LTU: TCEO/2009-2011). The project has worked with thirty-six cooperatives and POs, which have been identified in cooperation with the Territorial Committees. In addition to the distribution of improved seeds and other inputs, this emergency project has improved the storage/stockpiling capacity of farmers and their organizations, through investment in productive infrastructure and strengthened their organizational and marketing capacity through training and technical assistance. (Panama) Apoyo a la implementación del Programa Huertos Familiares, Escolares y Comunitarios (TCP/PAN/3302, LTU: NRL/2011-2012).The objective of this project is to improve the production and consumption of safe and nutritious foods, food security and family income of poor families through family gardens. Using the methodology of Centers of Capacity Building and Demonstration (CDC), groups of farmers are trained in good horticultural production practices, processing and food conservation, organizational skills, food security and marketing. (Panama) Ventana Tematica: desarrollo y sector privado – Fondo ODM – Red de oportunidades empresariales para familias pobres (UNJP/PAN/006/SPA, LTU/FAOSLM – 2010/2012). The objective of the project is to strengthen the ―micro-business‖ capacities in rural areas, starting with interest groups, which later develop into groups of small entrepreneurs, who receive advice, technical assistance and training. Using participatory methods, groups of micro- entrepreneurs will identify, evaluate and implement different business possibilities. 61. 61 Near East Regional Borlaug Global Rust Initiative (BGRI). FAO Regional Office for the Near East (FAORNE) is involved in this initiative established in 2005. It overarching objective is to reduce the world‘s vulnerability to stem, yellow, and leaf rusts of wheat and facilitate the evolution of a sustainable international system to contain the threat of wheat rusts. The initiative supported a number of activities, all involving FOs, in the affected Near East countries (Yemen, Iran, Sudan, Egypt, Jordan, and Syria). These activities aimed at controlling the disease and focusing on surveillance, race identification and varietal testing. Regional Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Program in the Middle Eastern Countries TF Component: Food Security) (GTFS/REM/070/ITA, LTU: AGP/ 2004-2013). The project aims to improve food security in targeted areas of the participating countries and territories (Algeria, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, Palestinian Territories, Syria, Tunisia) through a community based IPM and sustainable production intensification approach, aiming to reduce and possibly eliminate chemical pesticide related risks for health and environment and facilitating better access to high value crop markets. Improving IPM products‘ access to markets is one fundamental activity of the project in order to incentivize IPM farmers adoption and to make it self-sustainable Regional Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Program in the Near East (GTFS/REM/070/ITA, LTU: AGP/ 2004-2013) Innovative elements for POs and cooperatives The implementation of the IPM approach in the targeted areas has generated a common reduction of the production costs accompanied by yields increase in some cases. Moreover, having reduced the chemical pesticides utilization by 70% on average, the contribution to the production of safer food has been relevant. At the same time, trough trainings, workshops, seminars, field visits and dissemination of information material, the project has raised the awareness on safer food and IPM products of both Institutions and consumer/farmers communities. As a result an IPM labels has been developed by the Syrian MoA while in Egypt, Jordan, Iran and Palestinian Territories the institutions took different actions meant to support and strengthen the IPM producers. From the consumers‘ point of view, different surveys conducted in the target areas have demonstrated the positive attitude towards IPM products and the consumers‘ availability to spend up to 5% more for safer products. Finally the farmers involved by the projects could benefit of multiple interventions implemented at Regional level to tackle pest related emergencies (like Tuta Absoluta or Wheat Rust) having the chance to preserve more their production, and consequent revenue, if compared to farmers applying traditional practices Impacts of the POs and cooperatives on livelihood Reduction of the production costs (up to 25-30% in some cases) combined with general yield increase. Raised awareness on safer food added values among farmers and consumers communities and institutions. Resulting availability of consumers to pay up to 5% more for IPM products. Support to successful farmers marketing initiatives (i.e. Egyptian strawberry growers who, thanks to the FFS input and to their proactive attitude, are now able to produce and sell, also internationally (around 1 million plantlets to Lybia and Tunisia 62. 62 per season), strawberry runners for the very first time in the country obtaining also contracts by the local governorates. Generally farmers from the target areas got an income increase up to 30%). Creation of an IPM Marketing Group in Iran. Iranian stakeholders (i.e. farmers, consumers, and other related representatives from the public and private sector) were invited to form the IPM Group of Iran in early 2010. More than 100 members have now joined (each contributing a membership fee of about $100) to cover initial administrative costs. The group is now working on a trust based approach towards establishing hybrid form of farmers‘ and consumers‘ cooperatives. In January 2011 the Municipality of Teheran has allocated to the IPM Group a shop space inside one of the public fruit and vegetable markets in the north of Tehran. IRIPP (Iranian Research Institute for Plant Protection) has also a consumer cooperative store and, from the beginning of February 2011, shelf space has been allocated to IPM Group to promote IPM products. Sales data from both locations have been analyzed by a Marketing Consultant of the Project, as part of a ―Marketing Study for Improving Market Access‖. The Study is now available on the Project website. Sustainable Institutionalization. The project keeps encouraging farmers to move towards semi- and self-financed IPM/FFS. However, In many cases, MOA and/or NGOs initiated and financed their own IPM/FFS programs with GTFS/REM/070/ITA technical support. Jordan, Syria, Iran and the Palestinian Territories officially moved on the institutionalization of the IPM/FFS program within their respective MOA. In Jordan, National Center for Agricultural Research and Extension (NCARE) decided to establish a new Participatory Extension Unit to sustain the working of the FFS and the participatory approaches, with the support of the FAO RIPM Project. Finally, the Moroccan Government is presently implementing a program to empower and develop the agricultural sector and farmers‘ communities. The program named ―Plan Maroc Vert‖ is divided in two pillars and, one of them, the second called ―agriculture solidaile‖, foreseen the implementation of participatory activities like the IPM/FFS to boost farmers‘ training. Consequently the project is having further relevant support and commitment by the country pertinent Institutions and the institutionalization of the FFS activities is considered a common agreed target. General success factors The main success factors have been the Institution involvement in supporting IPM and FFS initiatives and the farmers‘ commitment and response. Problems remaining to be resolved Unfortunately, the creation of farmers/producers cooperatives or associations is extremely restricted in the project target areas due to legal, social and cultural opposition to it. Except for the Iranian case and some embryonic initiative in Jordan and Syria, for the time being, the farmers are mainly relying on individual initiatives to market their products. Key recommendations It would be advisable, to try to replicate the Iranian IPM Group experience in other member countries (especially among the recently acquired members from Maghreb) and to further strengthen the Institutional support to IPM marketing initiatives (creation of labels, certifications, incentives, etc). National (Iran) Monitoring, prevention and control of Aflatoxin contamination in Iranian pistachio nuts - Phase II of TCP/IRA/3104 (TCP/IRA/3202, LTU: AGN/2010-2011) The outcome of this project was to strengthen the national program of aflatoxin prevention in pistachio nuts based on an improved understanding of the factors influencing aflatoxin contamination levels at all stages of production, harvesting, handling, storage and distribution of pistachios. A specific component of the project includes an analysis of the role of POs and cooperatives in supporting pistachio 63. 63 producers. Aspects related to their organization and structure, role and function, management support, and overall enhancement of economic viability of producers have been examined. This work was based on data collection and interviews with a key range of stakeholders – including the POs, export associations, chamber of commerce, cooperatives and large and small farmers. As the project focuses on aflatoxin reduction – the linkages with ensuring higher levels of quality and safety were examined. Gender issues and the role of extension services were also reviewed. (Mauritania) Mainstreaming Local Environmental Management in the Planning Process: Combating Desertification with integration of Income Generating Activities (UNJP/MAU/031/SPA, LTU: FAORNE/2008-2012). During 2008-2009, six cooperative groups have been supported to introduce vegetable gardening in their production activities. In the context of food security programs, FAO assisted the Government of Mauritania to build four multipurpose stores in the river areas. This has also contributed to the construction of seven multifunctional stores in South east (Aïoun and Nema). These stores allowed agricultural cooperatives‘ beneficiaries to market cereals during the lean season at remunerative prices. This operation had a double effect as it was also backed up by the project UNJP/MAU/033/SPA whereas the cooperatives accessed to microcredit in very favorable terms during the growing season. FAO developed a warehouse system in some sites and beneficiaries were trained in basic techniques on credit system/storage. The guarantee was the agricultural production kept in the storage rooms. (Marocco) Proyecto de Asistencia al Plan Nacional de Economia del Agua de Riego en Marruecos, proyecto piloto en el perímetro de Doukkala (GCP /MOR/033/SPA, LTU: NRL/2007-2011). The project aimed to increase performance and productivity of water in major irrigation schemes in Morocco. Through a pilot in the Doukkala perimeter representative, the project developed a consulting approach to irrigation water users that allows a better use of irrigation water, and reduced the negative impacts of irrigation practices on the environment. Professional organizations (water user associations, agricultural producers‘ associations, etc.) were also involved in the project. (Marocco) Renforcement des capacités institutionnelles pour le développement des produits de qualité de montagne - Cas du safran (TCP/MOR/3201, LTU: FOMD/2008-2011). This project aimed at developing the saffron‘s value chain and providing institution support, through the development of origin denomination and the inter-sectoral producers‘ organizations. (Saudi Arabia) Capacity Building in Integrated Plant Health Management (UTF/SAU/025/SAU, LTU: AGP/2007-2011). In the framework of this project, FAO Regional Office for the Near East provided training for pesticide dealers, traders and users, including the private sector, FOs and agricultural companies, on the use of biological control of date palm pests such as mites and scale insects. 64. 64 Amélioration des revenus des agriculteurs à travers la valorisation des catégories locales du blé dur (TCP/TUN/3201, LTU: AGP/2008-2010) Background The MoA in Tunisia requested support to FAO to build capacity at Ministry and at local levels (value chain and POs) with regard to the development of Geographical Indications (GIs) in order to acknowledge the food heritage in Tunisia and to add value to specific quality food products. A law on GIs existed since 1999 but decrees and the institutional arrangements to enforce recognition and protection of GIs were still missing. From producers and consumers perspectives, there was no knowledge and information about this type of scheme and label. Innovative elements for POs and cooperatives For POs, establishing and managing a GI is very innovative for various reasons: It represents a collective asset linked to a specific production area. This means it represent an incentive to collaborate and establish a territorial strategy, thus enhancing the creation or the development of organizations. The request for GI recognition/protection requires POs members to prepare a code of practice (including definition of the product, the link to origin, the production process, the delimitation area), this implies a participative approach, and often mediation to overcome possible conflicts that can emerge among producers with different characteristics and vision; such process can be difficult and time consuming but represent also a learning and trust building process, which allow better redistribution of benefits in the future. The official recognition of the GI and its production system generate an increase of producers’ self-esteem, which represents a major impact when relating to remote areas, under developed regions having traditional way of producing and living: their characteristics are indeed recognized as values, and this can enhance negotiation power of primary producers among the value chain. Impacts of the POs and cooperatives on livelihood With regard to human and social capital, the project trained producers and facilitators in the development of their GIs. In some cases he carried out marketing experimentation to allow producers to learn from concrete experience. Especially for the Grenade de Gabes IG, it was organized the export of a small volume of the fruits in the retailers market of Rungis, where was promoted the specific origin and characteristics of the product. Producers learnt about organizing traceability and controls and promotion of specific characteristics. In another case, the Noir de Thibar Lamb producers association, through his president, learnt to negotiate with the supermarket of Tunis, Carrefour, to sell their lambs at a better price and with specific advertising on the origin-linked quality. In other three pilot cases, producers association were supported in the elaboration of their code of practices with the expertise of three women experts in sociology, who contributed to facilitate dialogue between members. By dealing with a territorial asset, often the name of a region or locality, the local institutions are willing to support in the long run the GI initiatives, as there is a direct relation with the attractiveness of the area. General success factors The main success factor is related to the capacity of federation through a local name which has a strong identity component. This also facilitates the alliances at local level between private and public institutions, as well among private sector, as producers from other sectors can be interested in contributing to joint promotion of origin-linked products and services. Actually the external factors did not help as there was no specific legal status for such PO for GI, it was one of the recommendations of the project to establish a clear and flexible status for such PO. 65. 65 Problems remaining to be resolved Despite of the recommendations to improve the legislation (modification of the law to adapt to the international context; and an elaboration of a decree to clarify the role of PO in relation with GI and their status), the legal component did not meet these objectives, for lack of time and the crisis which has followed. Information to consumers and sensitization of producers on a large scale about the potential of GI products is still necessary. Key recommendations GI can be used as tool for rural development as long as producers are strongly involved to meet the objectives of the economic component (differentiation of the product and marketing, better access to the market and income etc.) and the public sector, at local and national can support the process to enhance the public goods component (preservation of heritage, landscape, food diversity, biodiversity etc.). The role of producers, their PO/cooperatives is crucial in the early stages, to define their strategy, lead the elaboration of the code of practice and their guarantee system (plan of control), so they apply the GI requirements, defend their product and develop an origin-linked strategy for their territory. Legislation and institutions should provide the good conditions to allow such approach. (Tunisia) Appui aux organisations agricoles professionnelles pour un meilleur encadrement aux éleveurs dans le cadre d`un nouveau partenariat public-privé (TCP/TUN/3302, LTU: AGA/2010-2012). The project aims to contribute to the improvement of animal production and income of farmers through better supervision by the professional agricultural organizations (as part of a new public-private partnership). (Tunisia) Assistance d’urgence pour la mise ne place de micro-entreprises agricoles pour les jeunes vulnérables et la formulation d’un programme à plus long terme pour la création d’emplois agricoles suite à la révolution nationale et à la crise libyenne (TCP/TUN/3303, LTU: ESW 2011-2012). The overall aim of the project is to support the creation of micro-enterprises in the agricultural sector for young vulnerable people. The project will train the beneficiaries using the Junior Farmer Field and Life Schools methodology (JFFLS) and will support national and local institutions to build their capacities in the field of employment and to develop a longer term program for job creation in the agricultural sector. Within the project an estimated number of ten associative groups of rural youth will be trained. (Tunisia) Engaging Tunisian Youth to Achieve the MDGs (UNJP/TUN/034/SPA, LTU: ESW/2009-2012). The overall objective of this joint program was to support Tunisia in its efforts to develop and enhance local capacities in migration-prone areas, through the creation of decent jobs for disadvantaged youth from rural areas with targeted labor market measures. To this end, the project will strengthen existing young groups or create new ones, supporting their involvement in community based local development initiatives. (Tunisia) FAO Regional Office for the Near East (FAORNE) supported for the creation of the first Tunisian Snail Producer Organization. Snail farming is new activity in Tunisia, but has a good potential for youth employment. The organization of producers in co-operative will help to better promote and organize the sector. 66. 66 Appui au développement et à la mise en place d’un système de contrôle des produits de qualité liée à l’origine (TCP/TUN/3202, LTU: AGN/2008-2010) Background In Tunisia, the government mainly invests in the intensification of wheat production in the high potential areas that is inter alia based on the use of modern varieties. However, the technological package used in fertile areas is not well adapted to the semi-arid context that prevails in many areas of the country. In these contexts, it has been observed that some farmers maintain the use of traditional durum wheat varieties that are more resistant to harsh agricultural conditions. In addition, these varieties are considered to have specific culinary quality and products processed out of grain of these varieties can obtain premium price on the national market. The project objective was to organize farmers to produce quality seed of the traditional varieties and to organize women to process and market products of these varieties. Innovative elements for POs and cooperatives Best cultivars to be used in these contexts were identified. Farmers trained in best practices for seed production. Women improved their processing skills of durum wheat. Market for farmer processed products based on traditional varieties studied and products promoted. Men and women farmers‘ organizations created and/or strengthened and were able to undertake the seed production activities, durum wheat processing, and marketing. Impacts of the POs and cooperatives on livelihood 5.2 T of good quality seeds of chili varieties have been produced and will be the basis for future seed production. About 100 producers have been trained in best seed production practices Women of the 3 communities trained in safe processing practices. Market opportunities for farmer processed products based on traditional varieties identified and products promoted during the National Tunisian Agriculture Fair In the 3 targeted communities, farmers were organized for seed production activities and women for wheat processing. Rules for the functioning of the groups established, planning of activities, establishment of a revolving fund. General success factors Market opportunities for farmer processed products based on traditional varieties at the national level High motivation of the beneficiaries by the objectives of the project. Existence of pre-established farmer organizations that could be strengthened Strong involvement of the ministry of agriculture Recruitment of a consultant dedicated to the strengthening of farmers based organization Problems remaining to be resolved Marketing channels still not well established in a sustainable manner for farmer processed products based on traditional varieties of durum wheat. Need to expand the initiative in order to reach a critical mass Absence of sources of good quality early generation seed for traditional durum wheat varieties. Lack of strong local leadership to lead the expansions of the results of the project. Key recommendations The lessons learned during this pilot project should be taken up by the Institut National des Grandes Cultures (INGC) to continue the support the communities and expand it to other ones. INGC should especially be involved in further testing of traditional varieties in marginal areas and the production of early generation seed of 67. 67 these varieties Future projects should focus on developing sustainable marketing channels for farmer processed products based on traditional varieties of durum wheat at the national and international level. In that perspective, opportunity to embark in geographic indication and/or organic labeling approaches should be explored. (West Bank and Gaza Strip) Immediate interventions to resume irrigated horticultural production and promote early recovery of agriculture sector in the Gaza Strip (OSRO/GAZ/901/QAC, LTU: AGP/2009-2011). The project aimed to help vulnerable farmers in areas most affected by the latest conflict (Alqarara, Alfukhari, Alsheikh Ijleen, Alshokeh, Alzaitoun and Betlahya) resume their irrigated vegetable production through tailored support, in time for the coming season. It also aimed to assist the general early recovery of the agriculture sector in Gaza, including support to cooperatives and community associations. (West Bank and Gaza Strip) FAO presently supports eighty-four women‘s associations (approximately 900 women farmers), jointly with the MoA, and the Ministries of Trade and Women‘s Affairs. Effective linkages have been facilitated between the associations and the market. Furthermore, since 2008, FAO has strengthened a partnership with the Ministry of Education and Ministry for Youth, and has facilitated the creation of sixteen rural youth associations. The introduction of agricultural skills in the Palestinian Authority Ministry of Youth has been introduced by FAO. It will be institutionalized to all the youth clubs through different interventions as requested by the Government through a unilateral agreement fund (For more information about this project, please see: http://www.fao.org/docrep/013/al807e/al807e00.pdf). Good practices and success cases with evidence of impact Support to successful farmers marketing initiatives (i.e. Egyptian strawberry growers who, thanks to the FFS input and to their proactive attitude, are now able to produce and sell also internationally (around 1 Million plantlets to Lybia and Tunisia per season). Strawberry runners for the very first time in the country obtaining also contracts by the local Governorates. Generally growers from the target areas had an income increase up to 30%. Sustainable Institutionalization. The project keeps encouraging farmers to move towards semi- and self-financed IPM/FFS. However, In many cases, MOA and/or NGOs initiated and financed their own IPM/FFS programs with GTFS/REM/070/ITA technical support. Jordan, Syria, Iran and the Palestinian Territories officially moved on the institutionalization of the IPM/FFS program within their respective MoA. In Jordan, NCARE decided to establish a new Participatory Extension Unit to sustain the working with the FFS and the participatory approaches, with the support of the FAO RIPM Project. Finally, the Moroccan Government is presently implementing a program to empower and develop the agricultural sector and farmers‘ communities. The program named ―Plan Maroc Vert‖ is divided in two pillars and, one of them, the second called ―agriculture solidaile‖, foreseen the implementation of participatory activities like the IPM/FFS to boost farmers‘ training. Consequently the project is having further relevant support and commitment by the country pertinent Institutions. The institutionalization of the FFS activities is considered a common agreed target. 68. 68 Forest users’ organizations Global/Cross-regional Forest Connect (FC)-Reducing Poverty by Linking Small and Medium Forest Enterprises (SMFEs) with each other through Associations, with National Forest Program (NFP) Processes, Markets and Service Providers (2007-2011). This action-research project sought to address the lack of ―connectedness‖ between forest associations and support structures in least developed countries. In particular, it aimed to ‗connect‘ SMFEs: (i) to NFP processes, (ii) to emerging markets by enhancing existing SMFE associations and; (iii) to service providers by strengthening their capacity to offer appropriate training and financial services. Coordinated jointly by FAO and IIED15, FC has helped the development of functional and stable information services and supported networks for SMFEs. More information about Forest Connect is available at http://www.fao.org/forestry/site/42297/en. Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade (APC-FLEGT) - Africa, Caribbean and Pacific: The ACP-FLEGT Support Program funded by the EU, assists forestry stakeholder groups in Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific to put the EU Action Plan on Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade (FLEGT) into practice by providing small grants for initiatives aimed at improving forest sector governance and by promoting information sharing among countries. Since its inception in 2009, the program has completed: four calls for proposals and is funding eighty- eight projects in thirty-one countries, including seventy-three projects in Africa, nine projects in Caribbean and six in Pacific countries. Three regional learning workshops in Fiji, Barbados and Burundi have highlighted the importance of improving forest governance and the support the program offers to countries. More recently, the program is focusing on supporting project implementation and coordination activities in countries where multiple projects are funded including Cameroon, Ghana, Democratic Republic of Congo, Liberia and Central Africa Republic. For more information, please see: http://www.fao.org/forestry/acp-flegt/en/ Growing Forest Partnerships (GFP) (2009 – 2011) is an initiative that aims to build up and support networks at local, national and international levels. Through this process, GFP sought to improve the connections between forests and other sectors. It aimed to ensure that global discussions about forests include the real and current challenges that forest-dependent people and local forest managers are facing, bringing the voices of local communities and indigenous peoples forward to influence decision-making. For more information about the GFP, please see: http://www.growingforestpartnerships.org/ The NFP Facility (2002 – 2012) was created as a response to intergovernmental dialogue and resolutions on forests, which have recognized the important role that national forest programs (NFP) play in addressing forest sector issues. It has supported developing countries to develop NFPs to lead and steer their forest policy development and implementation processes in a participatory and inter-sectoral way. The Facility has provided grants directly to stakeholders (the majority to civil society and local communities) in more than seventy partner countries to implement activities such as analysis and formulation of forest policies, capacity building through training, knowledge management, awareness rising, and information sharing and networking. These activities have been related to a wide range of issues, for example agro forestry, community forestry, desertification, non wood forest products, land use, trade, watershed management, etc. The Facility has also served as a comprehensive information service on NFPs worldwide which strengthens knowledge sharing and capacity development on the following issues: enhancing participation, collaborative conflict management and national financing strategies. For more information, please visit: http://www.nfp-facility.org/en/ Small-holder Forest Producer Associations in Developing Countries, SFPA Development Fund (2010-2013) To capitalize on governments' gradual recognition that small holder agro- 69. 69 forestry farmers´ active cooperation is required in policy making for sustainable forestry management, the SFPA Development Fund has been created with the general objective to support the establishment and functioning of smallholder farmers‘ own organizations in the forestry sector (both in timber and non-timber forest products in developing countries). The specific objective of SFPAs was to promote a sustainable management of family, community and Indigenous forests (across contexts where different rights prevail) to offer products and services to society. Smallholder agro forestry farmers will benefit from their participation in ecosystem services through their SFPAs. The program covers: Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, Mozambique, Nepal, Vietnam and Nicaragua. Africa Regional Mobilisation et Renforcement des Capacités des Petites et Moyennes Entreprises Impliquées dans les Filières des Produits Forestiers non Ligneux en Afrique Centrale (GCP /RAF/408/EC, LTU : FOEP/2007-2011). This regional project involved SMFEs, farmers’ groups and professional organizations of the non-wood forest products sector, in order to strengthen their organizational capacities, as well as their production, processing, commercialization and marketing skills. National (Benin) Appui à la promotion et à la valorisation de sept filières de produits forestiers non ligneux (PFNL) au Benin en vue de contribuer à la sécurité alimentaire (PCT/BEN/3305, FOEP/ 2011–2013). This project aims to improvement forest-based livelihoods and food security through the development of non-wood forest product enterprises. These enterprises will be developed using the Market Analysis and Development training methodology. (Burkina Faso) Projet d’Amélioration de la Gestion et de l’Exploitation Durable des PFNL (PAGED/PFNL) (GCP/BKF/053/LUX, LTU : FOEP/2010–2013). This project aims to enhance the institutional framework for managing and coordinating the use of NWFP and to improve internal markets for NTFPs. In addition, the project focused on building national capacities related to food security and income generation from NWFPs. The main beneficiaries are producers, processors, traders and their professional organizations, households, technical officers in the seven areas of intervention and the National Agency. Women were heavily involved in collection operations, preservation, processing and marketing and were also beneficiaries of the project. (Cameroon) CBSP Sustainable Community Based Management and Conservation of Mangrove Ecosystems in Cameroon - Project Preparation Grant (GCP /CMR/029/GFF, LTU: FOMC/ 2010-2011). To have in place planning, managing and monitoring capacities, institutional frameworks and consultative mechanisms for the long-term sustainability of the mangrove forest ecosystems and their biodiversity, the inclusive participation of communities and other key stakeholders were included. The consortium of implementing partners with wide range of experiences in various domains will enhance capacity- building of government counterparts, local NGOs, CBOs and local communities. (Kenya) The NFP Facility, in conjunction with the Swedish Family Forest Owners Association, smallholder tree growers are being supported to link nationally rather than have small groups isolated and scattered in the country. In this regard, proposals are being developed to strengthen western Kenya tree growers association to inspire others in Kisi, coast and central provinces to start the process of coalescing and linkage to markets and related policy processes. (Liberia) Community-based Forest Enterprise Development (CBED) - Development Forestry Sector Management Project (DFSMP) (UNTS/LIR/012/WBK, LTU: FOEP/2009-2011). This 70. 70 project supported the adoption of the Market Analysis and Development (MA&D) approach around two Protected Areas in order to enable the creation of ecologically, socially and financially sustainable community-based enterprises that center on wood and non-wood forest products. In addition, it aimed at implementing Forest Connect (FC) in Liberia in order to increase the level of connectedness of the SMFE sector to national forest programs, service providers and markets. For more information on FC please refer to the global section above). (Mali) Projet d`Appui à la Gestion participative des Ressources Forestière Centré sur les Produits Forestiers (GCP /MLI/018/CEH, LTU: FOMC /2007-2011). The project assisted the Government of Mali in promoting integrated and sustainable management of natural resources of the country, including the effective involvement of rural people and other respective stakeholders to better contribute to poverty reduction. Asia and the Pacific National (China Peoples' Republic) Supporting policy, legal and institutional frameworks for the reform of forest tenure in China’s collective forests and promoting knowledge exchange (GCP /CPR/038/EC, LTU: FOEP/2009-2012). This project supports the reform of forest tenure in China‘s collective forests through strengthening policies, laws and institutions responsible for the management of collective forests in six pilot provinces. The project also promoted the exchange of knowledge and experience on forest tenure reform both within China and with other countries. Working in six pilot provinces, the immediate beneficiaries are forest farmers’ cooperatives and individual small-scale forest farmers in sixteen pilot villages, comprising about 6 000 households. For more information about the project, please see: http://www.fao.org/forestry/tenure/china- reform/en/ Supporting policy, legal and institutional frameworks for the reform of forest tenure in China’s collective forests and promoting knowledge exchange (GCP /CPR/038/EC, LTU: FOEP/2009-2012) Background Collective forests account for 60% of China‘s forest land and can make a significant contribution to rural livelihoods. Recently, the Chinese government has promoted reform of the tenure system for collective forests, which focuses on devolving land-use rights and forest ownership in collective forest areas to individual households. This allows households to use collective forest lands and forests to generate income and improve their livelihoods. The current forest tenure reform will allocate 167 million ha of forest land to households, and about 500 million farmers are expected to benefit. Some 88.8 percent of total collective forests have already been transferred to individual households up to the end of 2010. In 2009, the Department of Policy and Legislation of the State Forestry Administration of China (SFA) and FAO started to implement a three-year project to support this important reform process, with funding from the European Commission. 71. 71 Innovative elements for POs and cooperatives The project aims at promoting more effective Forest Farmers‘ Cooperatives (FFCs) through strengthened policies, laws, regulations and institutional frameworks for FFCs, and improved capacity within local authorities and FFCs. To achieve this, case studies have been carried out and workshops held to assess the strengths, weaknesses and opportunities of existing FFCs; selected pilot FFCs and local government forestry agencies have received or will receive technical support and training; and policy guidelines on how to enhance implementation of the new national Law on Farmers‘ Cooperatives in collective forests will be produced. The project contributes in improving the implementation of forest tenure reform by developing Forest Farmer Cooperatives and supporting the regulation of forest ownership and land use rights trading in collective forests. These activities are facilitated by trainings focused on management capacity and service delivery for concrete financial benefits from sustainable forestry. Impacts of the POs and cooperatives on livelihood The skills of forest management including participatory forest management for Forest Farmer Cooperatives were improved through various trainings and practices which are expected to make it profitable for farmers to manage their forest land and to generate income from it. Up to now, the project has organized: 3 national workshops, 8 county-level workshops, 16 Village-level workshops, 2 pilot trainings on Participatory Forest Management, 1 Training Courses for cooperatives on Capacity Building, 16 village- level training courses on Participatory Approaches, with a total of 1132 participants (258 females, 874 males), among which, 334 trainees (58 females, 276 males), including provincial and county forest officers, cooperative leaders, members and other villagers. General success factors The political commitment of the State Forestry Administration; The close cooperation of the Forest Departments in pilot provinces, and of the Forest Bureaus in pilot counties; The participation of forest farmers and forest farmer cooperatives. Key recommendations The experience and lessons learnt from pilot villages could contribute to the national forest policy which will make more opportunities for the development of FFCs. Some follow-up activities could be implemented such as the dissemination of project outputs, and pilot application of key recommendations in other parts of China. The good practices and success case of the forest farmer cooperatives in China should be shared with other countries. (Mongolia) Capacity Building and Institutional Development for Participatory natural Resources Management and Conservation in Forest Areas of Mongolia (GCP /MON/002/NET, LTU: FAORAP/2007-2012). The project supported the Ministry of Nature and Environment of Mongolia to involve local communities in the sustainable management of Mongolian forests in order to reverse their degradation and contribute to poverty alleviation. Aiming at developing a model of local level forest ecosystem management that could be replicated to other forested areas in Mongolia, the project supported the establishment of functional local organizations for forest management in pilot sites. (Nepal) Technical Assistance Support for Leasehold Forest and Livestock Program (LFLDP) (GCP/NEP/062/FIN, LTU: RAPO/2009-2013). FAO has been providing technical assistance to the LFLDP since its inception in 1992, with the overall goal of reducing poverty through increased forest production and livestock, by allocating leasehold forestry plots and setting up leasehold forestry groups. At present there are all together 3,560 Leasehold Forest Leasehold Forest Users‘ 72. 72 Group (LHFUGs) and many of them have developed into village cooperatives. The main objective of this project is to support the building up of appropriate institutional and technical capacities at grassroots, district and central levels to support the institutionalization and scaling up of the leasehold forestry in the country. Key activities include the facilitation and support for the LHFUGs institutional development as entry points for poverty alleviation and environmental conservation, and their federation at cluster and district levels. (Philippines) Enhancing Natural Resources Management through Enterprise Development (GCP /PHI/055/NZE - LTU: FAORAP/2008-2011). The overall objective of this project is to enhance environmental management and develop livelihood opportunities for forest-dwelling communities through improved forest use. The intention is to build the capacity of forest organizations and other local institutions to develop financially viable, ecologically sound, and socio-culturally appropriate community enterprises. 73. 73 Fishers’ organizations Global/Cross-regional CopeMed II, Coordination to Support Fisheries Management in the Western and Central Mediterranean (GCP/INT/028/SPA, LTU: FIRM/2007-2012 and GCP/INT/006/EC, LTU: FIMF/2009-2010). The overall objective of CopeMed II is to maintain the sustainability of the ecosystem and of the marine fisheries, taking into account environmental, biological, economical, social and institutional issues, particularly through the promotion of scientific cooperation among the countries. Among its immediate objectives, the project aimes at strengthening the institutional capacity of the participating countries (Algeria, France, Italy, Libyan Arab Jamahiriya, Malta, Morocco, Spain and Tunisia) at the national level (supporting organizations and networks of fishery stakeholders, developing management strategies) and at sub-regional level (through improved cooperation between countries and with Regional Fisheries Organizations). Africa National (Madagascar) Urban and peri-urban integrated agriculture enhancement for food and nutrition security in Antananarivo (TCP/MAG/3301, LTU: AGN/2010-2012). This project provided technical support to low income urban and peri-urban households, through the establishment and strengthening of associative structures (cooperatives, associations). Participatory approaches to agricultural development were encouraged with a special emphasis on high-nutritional potential production strategies, such as horticulture and integrated fish farming. Asia and the Pacific National (Sri Lanka) Restoration and Improvement of Fish Landing Centers with Stakeholder Participation in Management (GCP/SRL/057/CAN, LTU: FIRO/2008-2011). This project rehabilitated fish landing centers in fifteen districts by strengthening the capacity of Ceylon Fishery Harbors Corporation to coordinate landing site rehabilitation and management and developing an institutional framework for community participation in fisheries landing site management. The fisheries cooperative societies were strengthened based on their needs for capacity development to enable them to carry on the responsibility of managing the infrastructures and facilities beyond the lifetime of the project. (Thailand) Certification for Small-scale Aquaculture in Thailand (TCP/THA/3202, LTU: FIRA/2009-2011). The specific outcome of this project was to establish methodologies for certification of aquaculture products from groups or clusters of small-scale aquaculture farmers, strengthening the capacities of government and non-government agencies, including FOs. (Vietnam) Integrated Management of Lagoon Activities in Thua Thien and Hue Provinces (GCP /VIE/029/ITA, LTU: FIPI/2005-2012). The main aim of this project, now entering its II phase, is to improve the livelihoods of people dependent on the lagoon system in Thua Thien Hue (Viet Nam) by promoting a participatory sustainable management of its hydro-biological resources. The 74. 74 establishment and organizational strengthening of fishers’ associations is supported, along with the development of community based co-management schemes. Latin America and the Caribbean Regional Diseño de un proyecto para el fortalecimiento y expansión de la transferencia tecnológica en acuicultura y pesca continental entre los países de América del Sur. (TCP/RLA/3208, comp. 1, LTU: FAOSLS/2009-2011). Through this project, FAO Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean (FAOSLS) strengthened technology transfer in aquaculture and inland fisheries among South American countries (Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru and Uruguay). All private, academic, public sector organizations and NGOs that were developing technology implementation initiatives in aquaculture and/or inland fisheries were involved as centers of technological knowledge development. Near East Regional The ArtFiMed Project, Développement Durable de la Pêche Artisanale Méditerranéenne au Maroc et en Tunisie (GCP /RAB/005/SPA, LTU: FIRF/2007-2011) was coordinated by the regional project ―Coordination to Support Fisheries Management in the Western and Central Mediterranean” (CopeMed Phase II). Its overall objective was to improve the livelihoods of target artisanal fisheries communities and enhance their integration in fisheries‘ management and coastal areas‘ development, inter alia, by strengthening fishers‘ cooperatives/associations in Morocco and Tunisia. National (Tunisia) Renforcement du rôle de la femme dans la filière pêche à pied de la palourde (TCP/TUN/3203, LTU: FIPM/2008-2011). The objective of this project was to support the Tunisian government to improve the livelihoods of rural women through a rationale and responsible use of the clam resource. This objective was achieved by strengthening extension and training programs, supporting the creation of active groups of women producers, and improving collection techniques and other technical aspects of clams‘ production. Emergency Support to Needy Fishermen in the Gaza Strip to Restore their Fishing Activities' (OSRO/GAZ/804/ITA, LTU: FIRA/2008-2010) Background The wild fisheries sector in the Gaza Strip, which employs over 3 000 people directly and approximately 500 workers indirectly, has been hardly hit by the introduction of a 3 nautical mile limit on the fishing zone by the Israeli authorities. This project sought to provide alternative livelihoods for some of them by pairing fishing families with farming families in the creation and operation of 90 small (120 m3) fish ponds, producing tilapia for the domestic market and household consumption. The project was managed by FAO and implemented through two small cooperatives in the south of Gaza: Al-Mawassi Agriculture Cooperative (Rafah) and the Cooperative Association for Agricultural Development (Khan Younis). 75. 75 Innovative elements for POs and cooperatives The partner organizations facilitated and monitored the implementation of the project, and acted as an essential link between FAO and the beneficiaries on the ground. The partners were charged with the selection of beneficiaries and verifying that the information submitted by the beneficiaries regarding their socio-economic situation was correct. The partners shared the responsibility of distributing inputs to beneficiaries and organizing the project training workshops. They also conducted follow-up visits and assisted beneficiaries with problems. The main innovation this project involved was the field of intervention: neither organization had any experience of aquaculture. They are now in a position to promote and facilitate such activities through the knowledge they gained. Additionally, the project formed linkages between farming and fishing families, whose livelihoods and lifestyles did not overlap much. Impacts of the POs and cooperatives on livelihood The main impact of the project was on the members of the two cooperatives. The aquaculture ponds will provide a long-term source of income of approximately NIS 6 500 (USD 1 700) per season for 180 beneficiaries and their families (in total approximately 1 170 persons). The ponds provide a viable alternative to sea fishing for fishing families, and the role of women in the fishing sector has been strengthened through their active role managing the aquaculture ponds. The alliance between farming and fishing family in the management of each pond was potentially a source of friction, but through careful support by the cooperatives and FAO it proved to be one of the project‘s strengths. Fishing families could bring their knowledge of fish marketing, while the farming families used the nutrient-rich water from the ponds to irrigate and fertilize vegetable crops. Through sharing both the products and the proceeds, the diet of both groups became richer as a result. Additionally, by forming such links the social capital of both groups was increased. The knowledge and skills gained by the beneficiaries – all of whom were classified as food insecure – will increase their resilience to future shocks. As well as experience in managing this new type of intervention, the cooperatives gained management experience from working with FAO, including their capacity to organise training sessions, select beneficiaries according to another institution‘s criteria, meet deadlines, monitor interventions and write reports. General success factors Forging close relations with the management of the cooperatives allowed this project to be a true partnership rather than simply a contractual relationship. Involving staff from the cooperatives in decision making gave them a sense of ownership in the project, and resulted in them contributing a high degree of extra effort when problems arose (the project faced delays caused by the Israeli blockade of Gaza, and there were several instances where entire ponds almost died off because of continuous electricity shortages preventing the aeration of the water). FAO also intervened when necessary to protect cooperative staff from any altercations with local authorities in order to sustain activities. Problems remaining to be resolved Although granted a no-cost extension, at 19 months the project was still too short to properly institutionalize a completely new activity in two small cooperatives. The FAO staff would have liked to work in more detail on certain technical issues (water quality management, fish diseases etc), and to have given more attention to capacity development in project cycle management. Additional activities such as food processing and marketing would also have increased the sustainability of the action. The political context in Gaza since 2007 presented difficult challenges for local cooperatives and FAO continues to provide support and neutrality regarding interactions on project activities with the local MoA. 76. 76 Key recommendations Strengthening local cooperatives was never a direct objective of this project, but a beneficial side-effect of working with them as implementing partners. The difference in size and capacity between FAO and a small rural cooperative is much greater than perhaps between other implementing partners (e.g. International and local NGOs), and sensitivity is required to ensure their genuine buy-in and ownership. A project with longer implementation period would lead to a stronger relationship between FAO and local cooperatives and include more capacity building activities for increased project impact. 77. 77 ies undertaken in 2011 - Global/cross-regional In the framework of the AAACP Program (GCP/INT/045/EC, LTU: EST/2007-2011), the Rural Infra-structure and Agro-industries Division (AGS) organized a workshop on The Business Model Approach for improving linkages between Producers Groups and Buyers, which was held in May 2011 in Rome. The workshop sought to discuss the way FOs were doing business, provide feedback on the methodology and discussions to improve the approach. It brought together services providers from Africa, the Caribbean and Pacific that work closely with FOs on institutional strengthening at the district level. Africa In Tanzania the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA) supported a workshop on JFFLS methodologies in order to strengthen the Institutional capacities of cooperatives and to consequently address rural youth employment and food security. The members of the Tanzania Federation of Cooperatives (TFC) and Cooperatives Union of Zanzibar (CUZA) attended this workshop in June. In Malawi in the framework of the Delivering As One - Promoting Rural Youth Employment and Empowerment (UNJP/MLW/034/EDF, LTU: ESW/2010 - 2011) and Policy support on rural employment and decent work towards equitable and sustainable livelihoods under conditions of climate change - Malawi component (FMM/GLO/007/MUL, LTU: EST/ 2011-2013) the National Smallholder Association of Malawi (NASFAM) and Farmers Union of Malawi (FUM) attended a workshop on the JFFLS methodology in October/November 2012. A total number of twenty-two cooperatives have been trained with a total number of forty-four participants. Under the AAACP Program (GCP/INT/045/EC, LTU: EST/2007-2011), the Rural Infra-structure and Agro- industries Division (AGS) organized the following regional networking activities: In collaboration with the East African Farmers Federation (EAFF) a workshop was held in February 2011 in Nairobi, Kenya bringing together representatives of national apex and district level associations from five East African countries. The objective of the training was to strengthen the capacity of national apex and district level FOs in three agribusiness topics which included, contract management, logistics and marketing. Action plans were developed for the dissemination of learning at the national level. In collaboration with FAO Regional Office for Africa (FAORAF) organized a cross-regional cassava learning workshop for Malawi and Zambia from the 18th to the 21th July 2011. Participants were members of farmers‘ organizations, extension officers and representatives of the various organizations involved in the cassava sector. The objective was to draw out lessons and compare the different approaches employed in cassava commercialization strategies and identify keys success factors and critical gaps. Discussions and recommendations were done on the following Activities undertaken in 2011 – Meetings held and regional networking activities supported 78. 78 themes: Organization and empowerment of farmer groups and processors; Business sector willingness to engage with small scale suppliers; Enabling business environment and supportive government policies; and Experience of market oriented local service providers to facilitate the business partnerships and oversee the implementation of technical activities. in collaboration with SACAU, a workshop was held 6th - 9th of September 2011 in Johannesburg bringing together representatives of national apex and district associations. The training was a follow-up to a regional stakeholder consultation held in 2008, which identified the need to professionalize FOs to engage more effectively with the agribusiness sector. The objective of the meeting was to strengthen the capacity of national apex and district level farmer organizations in three priority agribusiness topics for the region: marketing, contract management and negotiation, logistics and post-harvest handling. Actions plans were developed for the dissemination of learning at the national level. Asia and the Pacific FAO Sub-regional Office for Asia and the Pacific (FAORAP) has organized on 25th August 2011 in Bangkok (Thailand) a workshop on Strengthening Organic and GAP Certification and Accreditation. Under the Medium Term Collaboration Program with Farmers’ Organization in Asia and the Pacific Region (GCP/RAS/249/IFA, LTU: FAORAP/2009-2011), the following regional policy dialogues/workshops were undertaken: a) First sub-regional workshop on policies to support FOs in market linkages (Southeast Asia and China), 56 September 2011, FAORAP, Bangkok, Thailand. b) Second sub-regional workshop: policies to support FOs in climate change mitigation and adaptation (Southeast Asia plus China) 27 November -1 December, 2011, Pakse, Champasak, Lao PDR. c) Meetings of the National Farmers‘ Forum Advisory/Steering Committees in four countries (China, Indonesia, Philippines, Viet Nam) d) FOs participants from select countries supported to participate at FAO and IFAD technical meetings, workshops etc (such as that related to value chains and marketing for agricultural extension, information and communications, and food and nutrition). Under the MTCP Program the following have been implemented: a) Establishment of National Working Groups (NWGs) that deal with FOs in five countries (Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Philippines and Viet Nam). Through such bodies, national policy dialogues/forums have been undertaken in three countries (Indonesia, Philippines and Viet Nam) on relevant subjects of interest to the National Farmer Organizations (e.g. in Viet Nam the forums focused on prioritization regards problems/issues, research and capacity building). b) Mapping of Farmer Organizations in five countries (Cambodia, Lao PDR, Indonesia, Philippines and Viet Nam. In Nadi (Fiji) from 7-19 October 2011 the FAO/SPC Regional Scoping Workshop: Development of a Pacific Aquaculture Regional Cooperative Program took place in order to establish a Pacific aquaculture network (Micronesia Association for Sustainable Aquaculture).The regional scoping workshop hosted by the Ministry of Fisheries and Forests of the Government of Fiji was held over four days to discuss aquaculture in the Pacific. The workshop engaged the governments of PICTs and development partners active in the region in a dialogue to assess the needs and map out a coordinated strategy and actions for all major regional and international agencies and other relevant stakeholders working on aquaculture development in the region. The major output from the workshop was a draft Regional Aquaculture Strategy which contained the vision, guiding 79. 79 principles, and 6 major priority programs (i.e. biosecurity, capacity building, feasibility assessment, statistics and data, markets and trade, technology transfer and improvement). Under the AAACP Program (GCP/INT/045/EC, LTU: EST/2007-2011), the Rural Infra-structure and Agro-industries Division (AGS) organized a Final Lessons Learned workshop held on 24th to 28th of October 2011 in Nadi. The objective was to share the lessons learnt from the implementation of the project which aimed at strengthening FOs‘ business models from Samoa (SFA), Vanuatu (FSA) and the Solomon Islands (KGA). An overview of the business models, upgrading plans and priority activities implemented as well as the lessons learnt and recommendations from each organization were presented. The need to establish a regional farmer‘s network was highlighted based on regional exchanges that took place during the three years project. Europe and Central Asia In November 2011 preliminary informal meetings were held with Koy-Koop, Turkish umbrella organization of rural development and agricultural cooperatives, to discuss a project proposal submitted to the FAO-Turkey Partnership Program (FTPP) on ―Strengthening the socio-economic empowerment of women’s cooperatives working in the agro-rural sector in Turkey through a South- South cooperation program‖. The proposal is currently in the pipeline and it will be presented in the next session of the FTPP Steering Committee This proposal resulted from a request for assistance presented by Koy-Koop to FAO in 2011 for a number of Turkish women‘s cooperatives working in the agricultural and livestock sector. A first meeting with Koy-Koop was held in April 2011 in Ankara. Koy Koop brought to FAO‘s attention major problems faced by women‘s cooperatives in Turkey. However, as no formal needs assessment had been carried out, Koy Koop committed itself to undertake a preliminary needs assessment in the coming months. A follow-up meeting between FAO and Koy-Koop was held in October 2011 in Ankara and major findings of the completed needs assessment were discussed. Under the project Support to Fishery and Aquaculture Management in the Kyrgyz Republic (GCP/KYR/003/FIN, LTU: FIPX/2009-2011) a total of five fishers‘ associations has been established in the Kyrgyz Republic. Moreover, the following events were organized: Training workshop on establishing fishers‘ associations (Isyk-Kul, 16-19 March 2011) ; regional training workshop on fisheries co-management (Issyk-Kul, 18-19 May 2011); working groups workshop on the establishment of fish farmers‘ associations in Djety Oguz and Tup Districts in (Issyk-Kul, 28-29 April 2011); working groups workshop on the establishment of fishers associations in Toktogul and Ush-Terek Districts in Jalal-Abad Province (Ush-Terek, 20-21 December 2011. Latin America and the Caribbean Under the AAACP Program (GCP/INT/045/EC, LTU: EST/2007-2011) a) CaFAN in collaboration with the Rural Infra-structure and Agro-industries Division (AGS) organized a regional production and marketing coordination workshop in Guyana, 18-22 July 2011 co-funded by CARICOM, CTA and FAO, and a Value Chain training in collaboration with IICA. The achievements of the institutional strengthening of CAFAN as a regional marketing coordinator, service provider and representative of national farmer organizations, has been demonstrated by its recent ability to leverage additional support from other organizations. At FOs level, activities identified under the inclusive business models were implemented. It included appraising the financial viability of FOs, a series of training in improved production technologies, production planning, record keeping, marketing and post- harvest handling; final grower-buyers meetings were conducted. As a result, capacities of FOs 80. 80 to coordinate marketing activities were strengthened and the consistency of the supply of roots and tubers to national and export markets were enhanced. b) Coming out of a Market/Buyer Tour to Fruit Logistaica, CAFAN developed networks with Comité de Liaison Europe-Afrique-Caraïbes-Pacifique (COLEACP) to develop a program to support Caribbean fresh produce farmer capacity strengthening to improve standards, food safety and marketing into the EU. CAFAN also participated in several exchanges and networking sessions at the international level including: CTA press briefing and roundtables at the CWA, CTA discussion in the EU, AAACP discussions (in the Pacific). c) AGS organized the Final Lessons Learnt workshop in collaboration with CaFAN, held on 29th to 31th of September 2011 in Barbados. The objective was to share the lessons learnt from the implementation of the three years project on strengthening business models of FOs from Jamaica (CPGC), Grenada (NEFO), Guyana (GAPA) and St. Vincent and the Grenadines (ECTAD). An overview of the business models, upgrading plans and priority activities implemented as well as the lessons learnt and recommendations at national level and at regional level with CaFAN were discussed. d) During the validation workshop in Barbados for the Regional Food and Nutrition Security Action Plan, CAFAN joined with other civil society and private sector groups to form the Caribbean Consortium of Civil Society Organizations to advocate for related issues at the policy development and implementation at the regional level. The Promoting CARIFORUM/CARICOM Food Security (GTFS/RLA/141/ITA, LTU: ESA/2003- 2011) held its‘ final regional workshop Lessons Learnt and Future Outlook Roundtable from the 3rd to 5th August 2011, in Trinidad and Tobago. The objective was the share the lessons learnt from the policy and value chain component of the project. The adoption of the value chain approach as the model for future policy formulation relating to food and nutrition security for the region was a major achievement. In respect of impact at the national level, the project stimulated a shift in thinking in national organizations (e.g. FOs, farmers, agribusiness, and ministries) toward adoption of value chain approach in the five countries in which value chain programs were implemented. CAFAN was a very active member of the CARICOM Technical Workshop Group on Regional Food and Nutrition Security advocating that small FOs should have a preeminent position in the Regional Food and Nutrition Security Plan and Regional Food and Nutrition Action Plan. They also were recognized by the Alliance and were present at the COTED when the action plan was adopted. Both documents have placed priority on the role of small farmers and their organizations in addressing food and nutrition issues. Workshop to design and start implementation of Family Farming Policies in Central America, Managua (Nicaragua), October 2011 with participation of organizations of the Regional Rural Dialog Program (PDRR), representatives of the Ministers´ Council of the Central American Agricultural Council (CAC) and representatives of the International Cooperation. The objective was to analyze existing experiences in Family Farming and to strengthen the dialog on policies for Family Farming between PDRR and the Technical Committee of CAC, in order to define concrete actions at national and regional level. The Council of Ministers of CAC had requested an Action Plan for Family Farming in Central America, which was prepared by SLM and RUTA, in consultation with the organizations participating in the PPRD. The PPRD approved the plan in March 2010 and the Council of Ministers of CAC in March 2011. In November 2011 the FAO Sub Regional Office for the Caribbean (FAOSLC) provided support to the Caribbean Network of Fisherfolk Organizations (CNFO) in the organization of the Fisheries4Fishers and Gladding Memorial Award activities, which brought together fishers leaders, fisheries researchers and policy makers during side meetings of the 64th Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institute Annual meeting (GCFI) including: national value chain lessons meetings, training programs on production, post harvest, marketing issues. 81. 81 1. Knowledge platforms for POs capacity development and software products Global / cross-regional The Contract Farming Resource Center has been established by FAO with the aim to offer a ―one-stop‖ site where information on contract farming is freely made available, thus responding to the growing demand for information and technical support on planning and implementing contract farming operations. http://www.fao.org/ag/ags/contract-farming/index_cf/en/ EasyPol, online resource material for policy making, is an FAO on-line, interactive multilingual repository of downloadable resource materials for capacity development in policy making for food, agriculture and rural development. Among the main topics, ―Institutional and Organizational Development‖ refers to the role and participation of civil society and private sector in decentralization and policy processes. http://www.fao.org/easypol/output/ The FAO Capacity Development Portal was launched in early 2008 with the aim to provide improved access to its institution building learning resources, training materials, and services of specific value to FOs, cooperatives and chambers of agriculture. http://www.fao.org/capacitydevelopment/en/ FAO Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) website provides countries and stakeholders with independent information on existing GAP programs, practices and standards to support sound decision making, such as: analytical inventories and studies on the technical content of existing GAP standards and codes, benefits and costs (based on specific case-studies), challenges, scope, drivers and incentives to adopt them; technical know-how and application of GAP at farm level; information on regulatory requirements. http://www.fao.org/prods/GAP/home/services_en.htm The FAO’s Participation Website contains tools and methodologies to support participation in project and policy design, implementation, and evaluation. The site continues to expand in terms of FAO documents (953), participatory approaches and methods (401) and newsletter subscribers. It also provides an expanding forum for sharing experiences as well as lessons learned from the practical application of participatory processes within projects or programs in different sectors. http://www.fao.org/participation/ Food, Agriculture and Decent Work is a joint FAO/ILO website, which includes a chapter on agricultural cooperatives and other membership-based organizations, such as financial cooperatives, which directly or indirectly offer opportunities for farm and non-farm rural and urban employment. As cooperatives and POs often unite business and social goals, they can provide effective mechanisms for their members to attain social objectives within their communities, including objectives related to the promotion of decent and fair employment. http://waicent.fao.org/test/fao-ilo_draft/en/cooporgs/cooporg.html The Inclusive Value Chains website provides resources on the many ways in which small farmers can be successfully included in value chains in Africa, the Caribbean and in the Pacific Activities undertaken in 2011 – Knowledge platforms for POs capacity development, software products and good practices databases 82. 82 (ACP) regions. It serves the dual purpose of firstly sharing information on key topics for inclusive value chains and secondly promoting networking and collaboration between regions on inclusive value chains. http://www.fao.org/ag/ags/ivc/en/ INPhO, the Information Network on Post-Harvest Operations was designed by FAO with the support and collaboration of the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Technische Zusammenarbeit (GTZ) and the French research centre Cirad. Its main objective is to increase the development of activities of the global post- harvest sector for tropical agricultural products for a better access to technical data and an exchange of information among the different post harvest actors. http://www.fao.org/inpho/ The Rural Finance Learning Centre provides access to self study guides for managers of agricultural cooperatives on the following topics: basic economics of an agricultural cooperative, crop collection and storage, managing transport, planning and supply services, making a budget, agricultural lending, savings and credit funds, interest rates, self-sufficiency, liquidity management, and marketing of financial services. The Rural Finance Learning Centre also includes a guidance manual for advisers and trainers about using these materials, as well as some ILO cooperative training materials. http://www.ruralfinance.org The Technologies for Agriculture website (TECA) is a platform on proven technologies for small producers that aim at improving access to information and knowledge sharing about proven technologies in order to enhance their adoption in agriculture, livestock, fisheries and forestry thus addressing food security, climate change, poverty alleviation and sustainable development. TECA originally a repository for proven technologies only, was transformed into a new interactive platform. In 2010, a field pilot was conducted to test the sharing of information and technologies on the new TECA platform with different rural users in East Africa through an exchange group and a new partnership for an exchange group on beekeeping and marketing was established with the International Federation of Beekeeping Associations (APIMONDIA). www.fao.org/teca The Virtual Extension and Research Communication Network (VERCON), a FAO conceptual model aims to improve, through strengthened research-extension linkages, the agricultural advisory services provided to farmers and in particular to resource poor farmers. At the moment, the network model has been adopted in Egypt (www.vercon.sci.eg/Vercon_en/vercon.asp) and Buthan (http://km.fao.org/vercon/vercon-experiences/vercon-bhutan/en/). Promoting Sustainable Banana Production and Trade through the Development of the World Banana Forum (MTF/GLO/308/MUL, LTU: EST/2011-2013) is the second phase of the World Banana Forum (a multi-stakeholder forum on sustainable banana production and trade) (MTF /GLO/242/UK, LTU: EST/2009-2010). For more information on the MSF Project and the World Banana Forum, visit: http://www.fao.org/economic/worldbananaforum Europe and Central Asia The FIN – Fisheries Information Network website (http://www.agrowebcee.net/awhu/fin/) was designed to function as a central portal of the sector within the frame of FAO Fisheries Information Network (FIN) of Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). Through this portal stakeholding organizations, enterprises and professionals can easily be reached by those who want to buy or sell fish and fish products, specialized capital equipment and production materials or seek sector related services, expertise and education. It promotes Aquaculture Producers, POs, Consultants and Institutes related to Aquaculture in Hungary. http://www.agrowebcee.net/awhu/fin/ Latin America and the Caribbean Eat Caribbean: CaFAN Value Chain Podcast : Radio Talkshow, Podcast and Weblog Promoting Sustainable Agribusiness Value Chains in the CARICOM/CARIFORUM http://cafanvaluechains.podbean.com/ 83. 83 Knowledge Platform for the Development of Central America and Mexico has been developed in close collaboration with FAO for learning and joint action between individuals, organizations and institutions, including POs, whose activities are directly linked with communication for development. http://www.comunicacionparaeldesarrollo.org/ Platicar stands for Agricultural and Rural Technology, Information and Communication Platform (in Spanish) and is a space for knowledge exchange between producers, extension officers and researches. The site is sustained by FAO and the Instituto Nacional de Innovación y Transferencia en Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA), a national institution devoted to agricultural technology transfer in Costa Rica. http://www.platicar.go.cr/ 2. Software products for FOs and Cooperatives CoopWorks9 is a financial and member management information system (MIS) for FOs and agriculture cooperatives. It is Open Source Software, available as a free download at http://sourceforge.net/projects/coopworks. EX-ACT (Ex Ante Appraisal Carbon-balance Tool) was jointly developed from three FAO divisions: TCS, TCI and ESA. It is aimed at providing ex-ante estimations of the impact of agriculture and forestry development projects on GHG emissions and carbon sequestration, indicating its effects on the carbon balance. http://www.fao.org/tc/exact/en/ The FAO-GTZ MicroBanking System for Windows (MBWin) is microfinance software to manage financial organizations client transactions in a comprehensive manner. MBWin has modules for current accounts, savings accounts, time deposits, share accounts and loan accounts that interface with the general ledger module (GL) and the contact information module (CIF). http://www.mbwin.net Rural Invest is an FAO developed free multilingual toolkit that comprises training courses, manuals and custom developed software which provides the necessary support to prepare successful rural development projects. It is applicable for any agency, project, organization or private investor managing funds for small and medium-scale agricultural and rural investments. http://www.fao.org/investment/ourrole/ruralinvest/en/ 3. Good practices databases As part of the recently approved FAO Medium Term Plan 2010-13, in 2010 additional good practices were identified and provided through these websites. Capacity Development Review of Good Practices currently undertaken by FAO Knowledge Exchange, Research and Extension Division (OEK) with the support and endorsement of the IDWG on Capacity Development http://www.fao.org/capacitydevelopment/good-practices/en/ 9 CoopWorks is the result of a partnership of the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Agriterra (Netherlands), KENFAP, the Ministry of Cooperative Development and Marketing (Kenya) and Kenya ICT Federation. 84. 84 SARD Initiative Good Practices Database is a collection of good practices of Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development (SARD) that have had a demonstrated impact at community level. It includes cases, lessons and successful stories documented through interviews and field assessments by the Initiative‘s stakeholders in Africa. http://www.fao.org/SARD/en/init/1574/2225/1846/index.html FAO Best Practices Website provides a series of summaries that introduce some best practices in FAO's areas of expertise. The practices have been divided by theme and generally they have been adopted successfully in more than one region and are interdisciplinary, reflecting the complex nature of the problems addressed. Institutional support and capacity building for cooperatives and POs have been considered as cross-cutting issues. http://www.fao.org/bestpractices/index_en.htm) 85. 85 Global/cross-regional One of the organizational outputs of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Department is: capacity of professional organizations of fishers, men and women, is strengthened especially in small-scale fisheries. Under this organizational output, a global review and assessment of the status of small- scale fisheries organizations will be undertaken in order to understand the strengths, weaknesses, best practices and their capacity development and information needs. The results of the global review will inform the design of a program to address those needs and would be pilot-tested in countries where there is already ongoing work related to small-scale fisheries. Africa In the context of FAO Regional Office for Africa (FAORAF) collaboration with FAO Investment Centre Division (TCI) and Agriculture and Development Economics Division (ESA) in a joint African Development Bank/ECOWAS study of Market and Policy Drivers of Growth in West Africa, FAO is supporting a diverse group of Ghana Poultry Sector Stakeholders and ROPPA to contribute their point of view, analysis and perspectives on challenges and opportunities to the agri-food system in West Africa. Latin America and the Caribbean Apoyo al Subprograma de Producción de Alimentos y Generación de Ingresos del Plan de Agricultura Familiar (UTF /ELS/011/ELS; LTU/ TCSF, 2011-2014) The objective of the project is that the participating families apply improved production systems and adopt good practices in food security, which will ensure an increase in food availability, Access, biological utilization and consumption. It is expected that in 2014, the project will have created or strengthened 200 POs, as well as 200 small rural enterprises. The project Mejora de la seguridad alimentaria mediante el fortalecimiento de agrocadenas seleccionadas con el enfoque empresarial en El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras y Nicaragua (GTFS/RLA/176/ITA, LTU : AGS/2011-2013) aims at building capacities of FOs to enhance the participation of stallholders‘ farmers in the selected value chains. It is foreseen that the collaboration between the Caribbean Network of Fisherfolk Organizations (CNFO) and FAO in the Caribbean will be further strengthened and that FAO will support the organization of the CNFO Fisheries4Fishers events and national and regional Caribbean Fisherfolk days in the 2012-2013 period. The FAO Western Central Atlantic Fishery Commission (WECAFC) has foreseen in its preliminary work plan 2012-2013 (to be approved in Panama, February 2012) (activity 2.1) to Strengthen the capacity of the Caribbean Network of Fishers Organizations (CNFO), national and primary fisherfolk organizations. The output expected is: competent fisherfolk representatives participating professionally in regional and national level fisheries management decision making processes. The Activities for 2012 – Projects 86. 86 funding of this activity should largely come from FAO Technical Cooperation Program (TCP) resources. The Sub-regional Office for the Caribbean (FAOSLC) is currently producing a Baseline Study on Existing Sustainable Practices, Models and Technologies used by farmers in Barbados and six countries of the OECS (Organization of Eastern Caribbean States), with the objective of collating information on sustainable agricultural practices at the community level. A regional consultation with relevant stakeholders, including farmer groups, is planned in the first half of 2012. The objective of the consultation is to identify interventions / best practices that could be validated in pilots set up in other farming communities of the region. Based on the needs identified, a TCP or Technical Cooperation Program Facility (TCPF) project is to be developed to support activities in participating countries, specifically to: i) provide training, inputs, facilities; i) Develop technical guides to promote sustainable technologies for crop production intensification; ii)Conduct sub regional campaign on sustainable crop production for small growers with national institutions, as follow up of regional workshop. Europe and Central Asia Project proposal on strengthening the socio-economic empowerment of women‘s cooperatives working in the agro-rural sector in Turkey through a South-South cooperation program will be submitted to the FAO-Turkey Partnership Program (FTPP). Subject to the approval, the project will be implemented from late 2012. The project consists in a South-South cooperation program between selected Turkish women‘s cooperatives and the well-known Indian Self-Employed Women’s Association (SEWA). SEWA has been chosen for its extensive experience on self- employment support to rural women through the organization of self-help groups, vocational trainings, micro-financing activities, education promotion, etc. It has become a model for many different countries in Africa, Middle East, Central Asia, South East Asia, etc. and it has demonstrated to be applicable in different contexts. Main outputs of the project will include: the delivery of a formal needs assessment of Turkish women‘s cooperatives and identification of specific regional constrains to effective cooperative enterprises; training of trainers in the identified needs; SEWA lessons adapted and applied in the Turkish context. 87. 87 Know The development of a Learning Module on ―Organization analysis and development‖ for FAO staff and collaborators is underway. It will cover the following themes: analysis of organizations and of their enabling environment, designing and implementing change, building and maintaining constructive partnerships and measuring change. The Knowledge and Capacity for Development (OEKC) and Gender, Equity and Rural Employment (ESW) Divisions are collaborating closely for the elaboration of this publication. Promoting Sustainable Banana Production and Trade through the Development of the World Banana Forum (MTF/GLO/308/MUL, LTU: EST/2011-2013). In 2012, the Working Group on Sustainable Production Systems established under the World Banana Forum will release a virtual library on best practices for banana production; the Working Group on Value Chain will publish several socio-economic studies on banana value chains and a global study on salary indicators in 14 exporting countries; finally, the Working Group on Labor Rights will present a proposal on Freedom of Association and Collective Bargaining and another one on Gender discrimination in the workplace and on hiring. Under the Medium Term Collaboration Program with Farmers’ Organization in Asia and the Pacific Region (GCP/RAS/249/IFA, LTU: FAORAP/2009-2011) the following will be published: a e-newsletter, policy briefs on select subjects, publications on lessons learnt, and research study findings Under the Support to Fishery and aquaculture management in the Kyrgyz Republic (GCP /KYR/003/FIN, LTU: FIP/2009-2012) a training manual on the establishment of fishers associations will be available early 2012. Os capacity ms f Activities for 2012 – Publications, issue papers and normative guidelines in support of Producers’ Organizations and cooperative development 88. 88 or O c Global/cross-regional Promoting Sustainable Banana Production and Trade through the Development of the World Banana Forum (MTF/GLO/308/MUL, LTU: EST/2011-2013). The Second Conference of the World Banana Forum will be held in Guayaquil, Ecuador (28-29 February 2012). This meeting will bring together representatives of producers‘ organizations, cooperatives, trade unions, trading companies, retailers, public agencies, governments, research institutions and CSOs. It will be a unique occasion for all the participants to meet each other, review the work accomplished for the WBF in the period 2009-2011 and decide on the work plan for the future. More info at the project‘s website: www.fao.org/wbf One of the organizational outputs of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Department is to strengthened national institutions and professional associations relevant to fisheries governance for improved performance and management, through effective and gender sensitive stakeholder participation, especially for small scale fisheries. Under this organizational output, a global review and assessment of the status of small-scale fisheries organizations would be undertaken in order to understand the strengths, weaknesses, best practices and their capacity development and information needs. The results of the global review will inform the design of a program to address those needs and would be pilot-tested in countries where there is already ongoing work related to small-scale fisheries. Asia and the Pacific Under the Medium Term Collaboration Program with Farmers’ Organization in Asia and the Pacific Region (GCP/RAS/249/IFA, LTU: FAORAP/2009-2011) the following activities are envisioned: national farmers‘ forum consultations, national farmers‘ forum steering committee meetings, and institutional profiling. Annex B Lead Technical Units Institution Building Competency Table Activities for 2012 – Activities for 2012 – Global and regional meetings to be held and networking activities to be supported 89. 89 FAO Strategic Objectives Area of Institution Building support LTU URs Examples of activities Relevant Core Functions Contact officer A. Sustainable intensification of crop production Support to smallholders seed enterprise development, including by establishing seed associations groups AGP A03G104A04G112 (AGP) Seed enterprise enhancement and development project in Sierra Leone: transformation of selected Agricultural Business Units (ABUs) /Farmer Field Schools into viable business enterprises (GCP /SIL/032/GER, 2009-2012) (AGP) Variety and Seed Industry Development Project (Phase II of GCP/AFG/018/EC, 2007-2011) (including establishment of seed associations) (AGP) strengthening and promoting the growth and development of smallholder seed enterprises for food security crops in Cameroon. (AGP) Multiplication and dissemination of improved and healthy rice, and early maturing millet, sorghum and maize varieties by seed producers‘ organizations D, e Guei, Gouantoueu (AGP) Enhancement of capacities for sustainable crop production intensification including through Farmer Field Schools (FFS) leading to group cooperation and contract farming agreements, and by establishing partnerships with POs AGP, TCE FAOSLC AGS A01G101 A01G102 A03G104 (AGP) Programme Sous-régional de Formation Participative en Gestion Intégrée de la Production et des Déprédateurs des Cultures a travers les Champs-écoles des Producteurs pour le Bénin, Burkina Faso, Mali et Sénégal (GCP /RAF/009/NET, 2001- 2011) (AGP/TCE) Contribution à l‘allégement de la flambée des prix des denrées alimentaires par l‘amélioration des capacités de production des associations exploitant les périmètres irrigués de l‘Imbo (GCP /BDI/028/EC, 2009- 2011) (AGP/TCE) Conservation Agriculture (CA)/Farmers Unions Project: Enhancing and Stabilizing Agricultural Productivity for Communal Farmers through Advanced Land Use and Management Practices (also by strengthening Farmers‘ Unions‘ institutional capacity to support contract farming) D, e, h Allara, Manuela (AGP); Settle, William (AGP) Lopez, Vyjayanthi (FAOSLC) Bammann, Heiko (AGS) Kelly, Siobhan (AGS) Annex A Lead Technical Units Institution Building Competency Table 90. 90 (OSRO/ZIM/806/EC, 2008-2011). (FAOSLC) Baseline Study on Existing Sustainable Practices, Models and Technologies used by farmers in Barbados and six countries of the OECS (Organization of Eastern Caribbean States), with the objective of collating information on sustainable agricultural practices at the community level. A regional consultation with relevant stakeholders, including farmer groups, is planned in the first half of 2012. The objective of the consultation is to identify interventions/best practices that could be validated in pilots set up in other farming communities of the region. Based on the needs identified, a TCP or TCPF project is to be developed to support activities in participating countries, specifically to: a. Provide training, inputs, facilities. b. Develop technical guides to promote sustainable technologies for crop production intensification. c. Conduct a sub-regional campaign on sustainable crop production for small growers with national institutions, as follow up of regional workshop. Under the technical guidance of AGS, the Guyana Agriculture Producers Association (GAPA) provided support to a national FO, Kuru Kururu Farmers‘ Crop and Livestock Association (KKFCL) to develop a business model and strategic action plan, as well as, organized several training workshops in production planning, crop records keeping, market extension, contract negotiation and post harvest handling. A member of the KKFCL participated in trade missions to Canada and Trinidad in May 8 – 14 and May 15-17, 2011 respectively. Support to the public and private sectors in the field of seed and seedlings production AGP A04N124 (AGP) National seeds and seedlings policy adopted and appropriate legislative and institutional framework developed in Lebanon - including support to smallholders seed and seedlings producers (TCP/LEB/3302, 2011-2012) D, e, f Muhammad, Dost (AGP/ FAORNE) 91. 91 Support to the farmers, NGOs and public sector personnel on IPM/Field Farmers Schools in different countries of the region AGP (AGP) Capacity building and training of large number of farmers, NGOs and the personnel of the MoA of the project-participating countries through IPM/FFS approach, and training of farmers in special techniques for the management of insects and disease pests, important in IPM and successful cultivation of crops (GTFS/REM/007/ITA) D, e, f Kenmore, Peter (AGP) Promotion of FFS and group cooperation for urban and peri-urban horticulture development AGP, FAOSLS FAOSLC A01G102 Greener cities program (AGP) Proyecto piloto para el fortalecimiento de la agricultura urbana y peri-urbana y de la seguridad alimentaria en el Distrito Central (Tegucigalpa y Comayagüela) y alrededores (TCP/HON/3203, 2009-2011) (AGP) FAO/Belgium Partnership Programme 2008-2011 in the Field of Urban and peri Urban Agriculture (UPA) - Pôle Afrique: Projet d`appui au développement de l`horticulture urbaine et périurbaine au Burundi (FBPP/GLO/013/BEL, 2010-2013). (FAOSLC) Based on experiences during the conduct of the pilots in the communities, an article will be prepared for the Book on Family Farming with regard to policy recommendations to foster sustainable intensification of family farming in the Caribbean. D,e,f,h Hodder, Alison (AGP) Lopez, Vyjayanthi (FAOSLC) B. Increased sustainable livestock production Animal health AGAH B02G105 B02G106 B01G118 (AGAH) Development of Innovative Site-specific Integrated Animal Health Packages for the Rural Poor (GCP /RAF/444/IFA, 2009-2013) (AGAH) Pro-poor integrated packages to enhance policy and decision making against African Animal Diseases Burden in sub- Saharan Africa (GCP/RAF/442/IFA, 2009-2011) Recovery and Rehabilitation of Dairy Sector in Bekâa Valley and Hermel- Akkar Uplands (OSRO/LEB/901/UNJ, 2009-2012) E Mattioli, Raffaele (AGA) Rihani, Nacif (AGAP) Livestock production AGAS B01G104 (AGAS) Appui à l`amélioration de la gestion des ressources pastorals (TCP/CMR/3302, 2010-2012). E Battaglia, Daniela (AGA) 92. 92 Promotion of good agricultural practices for livestock farmers AGAS B01E2 (AGAS) Organization of on-farm training sessions for livestock farmers in an effort to increase production and productivity by the adoption of best management practices and the use of improved technology. (AGAP) Training and certification of over 30 livestock farmers and extension officers in Jamaica in reproductive techniques as a tool to improve productivity in goats and the development of a training video and manual on artificial insemination. (GCP/JAM/018/EC, 2009-2011). E Lazarus, Cedric (FAOSLC) C. Sustainable management and use of fisheries and aquaculture resources Support for the strengthening and effective functioning of livestock farmers organizations AGAS B01P2 Managerial and administrative training for the leadership of livestock FOs to build capacity in the core areas such as group dynamics, effective leadership and communication. E Lazarus, Cedric (FAOSLC) Institutional strengthening to promote animal health through the promotion of on-farm bio- security practices AGAH B02L2 Regional training workshop on bio- security for swine farms and development of bio-security protocols and recommendations for implementation (TCP/RLA/3306, 2011-2012) E Lazarus, Cedric (FAOSLC) Improvement of management and operation of fisheries infrastructure with organized stakeholders participation FIRO C05G107 (FIRO) Restoration and improvement of fishing landing centers with stakeholder participation in management (GCP/SRL/057/CAN, 2008-2011) E Hiromoto, Watanabe (FIPI); Siar, Susana (FIRO) Promotion of responsible small-scale fisheries and aquaculture development, including by engaging small producers in certification schemes FRA, FIPM, FIPI, LEGI C04G112 (FIRA) Certification for small-scale aquaculture in Thailand, including strengthen capacity of POs for certification of aquaculture products in domestic and international markets. (TCP/THA/3202, 2009- 2011) E Hiromoto, Watanabe (FIPI); Josupeit, Helga (FIPM) 93. 93 Improvement of community- based co- management by strengthening fisheries and aquaculture’s governance institutions, including FOs FIPI, FIPM, FIRF FAOSLCFAOSEC C02G116 (FIPI) Integrated management of Lagoon Activities in Thua Thien and Hue Provinces (GCP /VIE/029/ITA, 2006-2011): including supporting the establishment and organizational strengthening of fishers‘ associations, along with the development of community based co-management schemes. (FIRF) The ArtFiMed Project, Développement Durable de la Pêche Artisanale Méditerranéenne au Maroc et en Tunisie (GCP /RAB/005/SPA, 2007- 2011) (FAOSLC) Support to the Caribbean Network of Fisherfolk Organizations (CNFO) in the organization of the Fisheries4Fishers and Gladding Memorial Award activities, which brought together fishers leaders, fisheries researchers and policy makers during side meetings of the 64th Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institute (GCFI) annual meeting (Mexico, November 2011) (FAOSEC) Organization of various fisherfolk trainings and support to the establishment of fishers organizations in Kyrgyzstan under project Support to Fishery and Aquaculture Management in the Kyrgyz Republic (GCP/KYR/003/FIN, 2010 -2011) E Hiromoto, Watanabe (FIPI); Josupeit, Helga (FIPM); VanAnrooy, Raymon (FAOSLC); Siriwardena, Sunil (FAOSEC) D. Improved quality and safety of foods at all stages of the food chain Support to value chain stakeholders (including POs) in applying technologies, business practices and infrastructure systems to meet food quality and safety requirements, including support for specific quality schemes AGN, AGS, FIP, FOM, RAP D02G112 D04G117 D04P109 D04G105 (AGN) Promotion of Origin-Linked Quality Products program: assist member countries and stakeholders, including local FOs, in implementing systems regarding origin- linked specific quality and Geographical Indication (GI) labels. (AGN) Regional technical cooperation project on Origin-based and tradition- based quality of food products : Argentina, Brasil, Chile, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Perú (TCP/RLA/3211, 2009-2011) (FOMD/AGN) Renforcement des capacités institutionnelles pour le développement des produits de qualité de montagne – Cas du safran (TCP/MOR/3201, 2008-2011) D,e Clarke, Renata (AGN); Tartanac, Florance (AGS); Kahan, David (FAORAP); Sareen, Shashi (FAORAP) 94. 94 Strengthening of value chain stakeholders capacities (including POs) to implement Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and related official and voluntary standards AGP, AGN, OCE D04G114 (AGP/AGN) Developing training modules on food safety for use in Farmer Field School training FAO website on GAP : supporting national programs and cooperation between food safety services laboratories; research and extension services; exporter, POs and certifiers in implementing GAP (OCE) Facilitate multi-stakeholder policy dialogues with member countries, private sector and producers‘ organizations during FAO conference and governing bodies, regional conference and annual World Food Week. D,e Poisot, AnneSophie (AGP); Price, Thomas (OCE) E. Sustainable management of forests and trees Enhancement of capacities and enabling environment for small-scale forest enterprise development, including through the establishment of smallholder forest producer associations FOEP, FOMC FAOSLC E05G106 (FOEP) Collaborate in pilot-phase of joint initiative (Agricord/ NFP Facility) to support the establishment of ―Smallholder Forest Producer Associations in Developing countries‖ (FOEP) Community-based Forest Enterprise Development (CBED) - Development Forestry Sector Management Project (DFSMP) (UNTS/LIR/012/WBK, 2009-2011) (FOMC) Projet d`Appui à la Gestion participative des Ressources Forestière Centré sur la Faune et les Produits Forestiers (GCP/MLI/018/CEH, 2007-2011) . (FAOSLC) National Forest Programme Facility support to ten small loggers‘ associations in forestry-based communities to build up their technical capacity in forest management as well as to undertake community based enterprises to improve their livelihoods while aligning these initiatives with national forest management objectives and standards. A, b, c, d, e, f, g, h Grouwels, Sophie (FOEP) Eckelmann, Claus (FAOSLC) Support to national and international networks of small and medium forest enterprises FOEP E05G106 Forest Connect Program aiming to connect SMFEs to national forest programs, emerging markets (by supporting existing SMFE associations) and service providers http://www.fao.org/forestry/site/42297/en Coordination of the Growing Forest Partnerships initiative for FAO, operated through the NFP Facility Dialogue and alliance-building for locally controlled forestry http://www.growingforestpartnerships. org A, b, c, d, e, f, g, h Grouwels, Sophie (FOEP) 95. 95 Development of country capacities to develop inclusive policy, institutional and legal frameworks for sustainable community based forest management FOEP, FOMC FOM LEG E02G119 E03G108 E03G110 E05G106 (FOEP) Supporting policy, legal and institutional frameworks for the reform of forest tenure in China‘s collective forests and promoting knowledge exchange, including development of forest farmer cooperatives (GCP /CPR/038/EC, 2008-2012) http://www.fao.org/forestry/tenure/china-reform/en/ (FOMC) Integrated Natural Resources Management of the Fouta Djallon Highlands (EP /INT/503/GEF, 2009-2012). (FAOSLC) African Caribbean and Pacific Group of States ACP-Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade (FLEGT) Program support to the Forest Product Association (FPA) of Guyana in building capacity within the Guyanese forestry sector to meet FLEGT Due Diligence requirements. The FAO Country Office provide support toward the convening of two FLEGT/Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) Workshops for industry, civil society and government forestry stakeholders to have dialogue and increase awareness on FLEGT issues in January and August 2011 respectively. D,e, g Grouwels. Sophie (FOEP); Souvannavong, Oudara (FOMC); Eckelmann, Claus (FAOSLC); Simpson, Robert (FOEP) F. Sustainable management of land, water and genetic resources and improved responses to global environmental challenges affecting food and agriculture Support to enabling legal and policy environment for equitable land tenure, including training and technical assistance for farmers groups and associations NRL, LEGN, ESW F01G105 F04G102 (NRL/LEGN) Promoting the use of land and natural resources laws for equitable development (GCP/MOZ/096/NET, 2009-2012). (NRL, LEGN) Piloting Land Registration and Preliminary Land Management Intervention in Selected Part of Achham District (UNJP/NEP/066, 2010-2011 ; TCP/NEP/3301) (NRL) Apoyo para refuerzo institucional para una gestión descentralizada de los recursos naturales en Angola (TERRA) (GCP/ANG/045/SPA, 2010-2013) A, c,d, e,h. Vidal, Margret (LEGN); Groppo, Paolo (NRL); Sisto, Ilaria (ESW); MejiasMoreno, Patricia (NRL) 96. 96 Strengthening of water institutions (River basin, transboundary institutions, community based institutions, grassroots organizations) in agricultural water management and small- irrigation NRL, TCSF, TCEO F02A128 F02N126 (NRL) Projet pilote d‘économie et de valorisation de l‘eau d‘irrigation dans le périmètre des Doukkala (GCP/MOR/033/SPA, 2007-2011) (TCSF) Projet d`intensification agricole par la maîtrise de l`eau dans les Régions du Centre-Sud et du Centre-Ouest (GCP/BKF/049/SPA, 2007-2011); (TCSF) Programme Spéciale de Sécurité Alimentaire (PSSA) dans la région de Koulikoro (GCPS/MLI/029/SPA, 2007-2012) (TCSF) Projet de petite irrigation villageoise dans les régions de Mopti et de Gao (GCP/MLI/030/SPA, 2007- 2011) (TCSF) Projet de petite hydraulique pour la sécurité alimentaire dans les régions de Zinder et de Tahoua (GCP/SEN/059/SPA, 2008-2011) (NRL) Transboundary agro- ecosystem management program for the Kagera river basin (GCP /RAF/424/GFF, 2010-2014) (NRL) Development of water management in the Caza of Marjayoun (GDCP/LEB/001/ITA, 2011-2013) A,b,d,e,fh Burke, Jacob, (NRL); Faurès, Jean Marc (NRL); MejiasMoreno, Patricia (NRL); Bamba, Madhy (TCSF); Diallo, AmadouOury (TCIA); Bunning, Sally (NRL). Institutional strengthening of local stakeholders to participate in disaster risk management processes and climate change adaptation and mitigation, including seed relief and restoration NRC, NRL, TCEO F05G102 F05G103 (NRC) Strengthening Environmental Governance in the Face of Climate Risks in Guatemala (UNJP/GUA/015/SPA, 2008-2011) (NRC) Strengthening Capacities to Enhance Coordinated and Integrated Disaster Risk Reduction Actions and Adaptation to Climate Change in Agriculture in the Northern Mountain Regions of Viet Nam - One Plan II UNJP/VIE/037/UNJ (2009-2011) (NRC/TCEO) Promoción de la gestión de riesgo climático y reducción de la vulnerabilidad para fortalecer la producción agrícola sostenible en regiones seleccionadas de Bolivia (OSRO/BOL/902/IT, 2009- 2011) E, f, g, h Lindemann, Thomas (NRC); Amaral, Cristina (TCEO) Strengthening of local groups associations for natural resource management linked to sustainable agriculture NRC, FOMC NRL, OEKR F01L113 F01L119 F01P108 F06G105 (NRC) Apoyo a la formación de grupos y organizaciones de desarrollo local (Departamento de San Marcos y Municipio del suroeste de Huehuetenango - Guatemala) (GDCP/GUA/001/SPA, 2007-2011) (FAORAPO) Enhancing Natural Resources Management through Enterprise Development (GCP /PHI/055/NZE, 2008-2011) B, d, e, f, h Acunzo, Mario (OEKR) 97. 97 Support for pluralistic, demand led and market oriented research and extension, fostering POs involvement OEKR FO6G102 FO6G103 FO6G106 (OEKR) Investment assessment and investment strategies for agriculture research and extension systems and completed policy briefs on findings and recommendations. (OEKR) Ongoing projects on extension institutional reform, human resources development and support to agricultural innovation systems (OEKR) Virtual Extension and Research Communication Networks http://km.fao.org/vercon (OEKR) Technologies for Agriculture- TECA information and communication system for knowledge sharing of proven technologies for smallholders http://www.fao.org/teca/content/about-teca-2 A, b, d, h Blum, Magdalena (OEKR); May, Hani (OEKR); Nichterlein, Karin (OEKR) Design and implementation of communication for development strategies and services for natural resources management, climate change adaptation and food security OEKR FO6G105 (OEKR) Development of training modules, learning tools, and guidelines on application of communication for development in linking rural institutions and stakeholders (OEKR) Definition of a National Communication for Rural Development Policy in Togo (OEKR) Support to rural radio networks in Africa and Latin America (OEKR) Communication for Sustainable Development Initiative (CSDI) (GCP/INT/048/ITA, 2007 – 2011) A, b, d, e, f, g,h Hay, Hani (OEKR); Acunzo, Mario (OEKR); DelCastello, Riccardo (OEKR) G. Enabling environment for markets to improve livelihoods and rural development Supporting the integration of small farmers in value chains AGS, EST, FOM, AGNS G01G105 G01G106 G01G113 (AGS) All-ACP Support Program on Agricultural Commodities, Including Cotton (GCP/INT/045/EC, 2007- 2011) activities in the ACP (Africa, Caribbean and Pacific regions) (AGS) Value chain component of GTFS/RLA/141/ITA in five countries in the Caribbean region (AGS) Building Commodity Value Chains and Market Linkages for Farmers‘ Associations (UNJP/MOZ/093/UNJ, 2008-2011) E, f, h Kelly, Siobhan (AGS); Bammann, Heiko (AGS); Baker, Doyle (AGS); Morrison, Jamie (EST); Calpe, Conception (EST) ; Chang, Kaison (EST) 98. 98 Professionalization of FO’s to interact more effectively with the formal private sector AGS G01G113 G03G103 (AGS) Regional training workshops and national level support to business model upgrading of producer organizations in collaboration with regional and national FO‘s EU All ACP Agricultural Commodities Program activities in the Africa, Caribbean and Pacific regions (GCP/INT/045/EC, 2007-2011) Training Courses on Agribusiness management for FOs and Lessons learnt workshops for FOs in the ACP regions (2011) (GCP/INT/045/EC, 2007-2011) E, f, h Kelly, Siobhan (AGS) Bammann, Heiko (AGS); Baker, Doyle (AGS) Florence Tartanac (AGS) Development of small and medium-scale agro- processing enterprises (SMAEs) AGS FAOSLC G03G103 (AGS) Appui aux acteurs et leurs organisations pour le développement d‘unités semi industrielles de transformation agroalimentaire pour la réduction de la pauvreté et de l‘insécurité alimentaire (GCP/RAF/410/ITA, 2008-2012) (AGS) Agribusiness Support to Smallholders: commercially viable and mutually beneficial business models linking producers to SMAEs and institutional capacity to upscale and replicate linkage models (GCP /KEN/070/GER, 2010-2012) (AGS) Development of strategic development/extension strategies and work plans for the Tanzanian Edible Oil Seed Association (TEOSA) and the Tanzanian Livestock and Meat Traders Association (TALIMETA). (GCP/URT/132/GER, 2010-2012). (AGS) Empowerment of farmer groups and enhancing farmers leaders capacity to organize, train and advise other famers in farming as a business. GCP/URT/133/GER, 2010-2012). (FAOSLC) Strengthening the agro- processing capability of the River- Sallee Agro-processing group in Grenada by increasing production and improving the quality of snack food items produced and strengthened community group (TFD- 09/GRN/001, 2010-2011). E Bammann, Heiko (AGS); Baker, Doyle (AGS); Njie, Divine (AGS); Florence Tartanac (AGS) Doyle Baker (AGS) David Hitchcock (AGS) Kentish, Florita Eva (FAOSLC) 99. 99 Improvement of financial services and risk mitigation mechanisms for agribusiness, including capacity development for value chain financing AGS GO3G102 (AGS) Agricultural Value Chain Finance training course D, e,f,h Miller, Calvin (AGS) Support to POs in selecting and adopting voluntary standards and certification in environmentally and socially responsible agricultural production and trade EST G04G115 (EST) Series of manuals on regulations and certification for agricultural exports by region (EST) Manuals on Regulations and Certification for Agricultural Exports Portal on Voluntary Standards for Responsible Agricultural Production and Trade http://www.fao.org/economic/est/agricultural-market-analysis/standards- certification/portal-on-standards/en/ D,e,f Liu, Pascal (EST) Support to permanent space of assembly for participants representing the global banana supply-chain, including POs EST G04G115 (EST) Promoting Sustainable Banana Production and Trade through the Development of the World Banana Forum (MTF/GLO/308/MUL, 2011- 2013). http://www.fao.org/wbf/en/ D,f,h Liu, Pascal (EST); Lopez, Victor (EST) Improvement of POs access to analysis and policy recommendations for more effective participation in regional and international agricultural markets EST, FAORLC, FAOSLM, FAOSFS G04G102 G04L104 G04G106 G04A101 (FAORLC) Technical Documents published on FAO-RLC Website (EST) Analyses and guidelines on market and trade-related issues (country case studies, guidelines, workshops, publication of the State of Agricultural Commodity Markets) (EST) Commodity market information and analysis B,d,e Roca, Deodoro (FAOSLM); Morrison, Jamie (EST); Calpe, Concepcion (EST) 100. 100 Support to member countries in promoting group cooperation and rural institutions, including POs, to enhance sustainable employment generation and contribute to better governance and social dialogue (focusing on youth and women) ESW, AGS, EST, OCE G02G107 G02G107 G01G120 (ESW) Guidance document on how to address Rural Employment and Decent Work concerns in FAO country activities (NEPAD led with in-kind technical support from FAO/ESW support from TCI/TCSP and ILO) Issue Paper: Youth, Decent Employment and the Youth, Decent Employment and the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Program (CAADP) - NEPAD-FAO-ILO Partnership on Decent Employment for Rural Transformation (ESW) JFFLS/ strengthening of youth associations in several countries (TCE/ESW) Emergency support and group cooperation promotion towards employment generation for women and youth (OSRO/GAZ/010/NOR, 2010-2011). Country support for UNJPs on youth employment (UNJP/URT/136/UNJ, 2010-2011; UNJP/MLW/034/EDF, 2010-2011; UNJP/SUD/063/SPA, 2009-2011; UNJP/MOZ/094/UNJ, 2008-2011; UNJP/TUN/034/SPA, 2009-2012, TCP/TUN/3303, 2011-2012). B,d,e,f Ourabah Haddad, Nora, (ESW); Wobst, Peter (ESW); Seiffert, Bernd (ESW); JFFLS: Dalla Valle, Francesca (ESW); Djeddah, Carol (ESW); UNJPs for youth employment: Dalla Valle, Francesca (ESW); Djeddah, Carol (ESW); Wobst, Peter (ESW) Analysis and support to make innovation systems more gender responsive ESW, GFAR G01G120 Collection and documentation of good practices in gender and innovations. Conceptual analysis of gender and innovation systems. Participatory/case study research to document gender dimensions of innovation supply and demand and to identify main drivers and entry points for making innovations better serve the needs of women farmers. Capacity development activities with identified stakeholders involved in innovation research/delivery in countries. Participation in key advocacy initiatives targeting policy makers at international, regional and national level. D, f Ourabah Hadda, Nora (ESW) Osorio Martha (ESW); Mathieson, Kirsten (ESW). 101. 101 Support to organizational strengthening and policy making for producer organizations to inform gender- sensitive policies and to improve gender equality in leadership and decision- making. ESW Research and analysis to gain knowledge on women‘s participation and gender equality in POs. Collection of field data and lessons learned on constraints and enablers of women‘s participation in POs. Regional and national stakeholder workshops with participating POs, policy-makers and other relevant actors to establish a multi- stakeholder dialogue to inform gender-sensitive policies on rural organizations. D. f Ourabah Hadda, Nora (ESW) Bottaro, Mauro (ESW); Najros, Eliane (ESW) Facilitating access of rural youth to agricultural activities ESW Mapping of young farmers‘ organizations, FOs which are addressing youth issues and rural organization representing young farmer interests. Qualitative survey to identify challenges and opportunities specific to young women and men producers in rural areas; their level of representation and participation in organizations; and the factors of success and/or failure of youth entering into agriculture Three regional workshops in Africa, Asia and Latin America composed of young representatives of farmers‘ organizations. The workshops aim at providing young farmers with a space to express their aspirations, voice their concerns and provide recommendations for future policy action. D, f Ourabah Hadda, Nora ESW) Herbel, Denis (ESW) Goemans, Charlotte (ESW) Promotion of an integrated approach for institution building (IB) in rural areas in policy, programmes and strategy options ESW, AGS, TCI G01G120 (IDWG group on IB) Publication on ―Good practices in building agricultural and rural development institutions: how to empower small- scale producers and increase food security‖ (foreseen January 2012) (ESW) Advice on CAADP compacts, ARD strategies and policies (AGS) TCP/GAB/3202 Appui au renforcement des organisations professionnelles agricoles (OPA) D,f,h Ourabah Hadda, Nora (ESW) Herbel Denis (ESW) 102. 102 H. Improved food security and better nutrition Support to more effective intensification/ diversification of agricultural production and commercialization, by promoting group cooperation and building the capacities of FOs in marketing, farm management, post harvest management, value addition and participation in value chains. Strengthening the regional Caribbean Farmer Network AGS, TCSF, OEKR, ESA, TCI H01G104 H01G103 (TCSF/AGS) Food Security Through Commercialization of Agriculture projects (ESA) FAO/CARICOM/CARIFORUM Food Security Project - Phase II (GTFS/RLA/141/ITA, 2003-2011) D,e,f Florence Tartanac (AGS); Heiko Bammann (AGS): Gavotti, Stefano (TCSF); Croppenstedt, Andre (ESA) Support community development and mobilization to improve food security and nutritional well-being AGN, TCSF H03G110 H03G111 (AGN) Support to household food security, nutrition and livelihoods in Afghanistan (GCP /AFG/050/GER, 2008-2011) (AGN) Children, Food Security and (Mal)Nutrition in Angola (UNJP/ANG/044/SPA, 2010-2013) D,e,f Egal, Florence (AGND); Gavotti, Stefano (TCSF) Support to the reform process for a more inclusive and participative Committee on World Food Security (CSF), including representatives of small- scale POs and other CSOs ESA, OCE H02G104 POs can participate in CFS Plenary, and inter-sessional activities via Advisory Group Strengthens linkages/exchange between CFS and regional and country level multi-stakeholder bodies, including POs (OCE) Facilitate multi-stakeholder policy dialogues with member countries, private sector and producers‘ organizations during FAO conference and governing bodies, regional conference and annual World Food Week. F, h Mcguire, Mark (ESA); Thomas, Julian (ESA); Price, Thomas (OCE) 103. 103 I. Improved preparedness for, and effective response to, food and agricultural threats and emergencies Resumption of the agricultural production, in conflict and emergency situations through community- based seed supply, crop production and protection systems and in coordination with FOs AGP, TCEO, AGAH, ESW ‗ I03G101 I02G101 I02A102 I02G102 I02L102 I02N102 I03A102 I03G102 I03L102 I03N102 (AGP/TCEO) Conservation Agriculture (CA)/Farmers‘ Unions Project: Enhancing and Stabilizing Agricultural Productivity for Communal Farmers through Advanced Land Use and Management Practices (OSRO/ZIM/806/EC, 2009-2011). E, f, h Scaglia, Jean-Alexandre (TCEO); Amaral, Cristina (TCEO) Promotion of income- generating activities, food quality and safety, nutrition, home gardening and group cooperation to accompany the return of displaced persons TCEO, AGS, AGP I03G101 I02G101 I02A102 I02G102 I02L102 I02N102 I03A102 I03G102 I03L102 I03N102 (AGP/TCEO) Assistance agricole aux rapatriés récents, aux ménages vulnérabilisés par les perturbations climatiques et aux personnes déplacées dans les zones périurbaines touchées par la flambée des prix et l‘accès limité à la terre (OSRO/BDI/002/BEL, 2010-2011) E, f, h Scaglia, Jean-Alexandre (TCEO); Amaral, Cristina (TCEO) K. Gender equity in access to resources, goods, services and decision-making in the rural areas Promotion of gender equality through and within rural institutions, especially supporting youth and women to become organized active players ESW K01G105 K02G108 K03G107 (ESW) Increased synergies and knowledge sharing under the Joint Program on Knowledge Management and Gender – Dimitra Project (GCP /INT/810/BEL, 2002-2012) http://www.fao.org/dimitra/dimitra- database/en/ Training Module on Communicating Gender for Development and Guidelines for the Creation of Community Radio Listeners Clubs Guidelines for Integrating gender issues into UN Joint Programs for food security, agriculture and rural development B,d,e,f,h Sisto, Ilaria (ESW); Lambrou, Yanna (ESW); Najros, Eliane (ESW) 104. 104 Support to member countries and institutions to analyze and address social and gender inequalities in agriculture and rural development ESW, LEG, ESA, TCI K03G107 K03G110 K04G101 FAO Database on gender and access to land, including institutional mechanisms http://www.fao.org/gender/landrights B, d Stloukal, Libor (ESW); Osorio Martha (ESW) Promotion of equity issues through the support of indigenous people worldwide ESW K0307 Development and implementation of FAO policy on indigenous people and close collaboration with NGOs and CSOs through a caucus. Representation of FAO‘s work on indigenous people at the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous people and other fora E Laub, Regina (ESW) Analysis and support to make innovation systems more gender responsive ESW, GFAR K03G107 Collection and documentation of good practices in gender and innovations. Conceptual analysis of gender and innovation systems. Participatory/case study research to document gender dimensions of innovation supply and demand and to identify main drivers and entry points for making innovations better serve the needs of women farmers. Capacity development activities with identified stakeholders involved in innovation research/delivery in countries. Participation in key advocacy initiatives targeting policy makers at international, regional and national level. E Ourabah Hadda, Nora (ESW) Osorio Martha (ESW) L. Increased and more effective public and private investment in agriculture and rural development Mainstream support to POs in investment programs and national institutions TCI L010002 L020004 Support to Investments programs/CAADP D Pozarny, Pamela (TCIA) 105. 105 Support to public and private sector organizations’ capacity to plan, implement and sustain investment operations for agribusiness, agro-industries and rural infrastructure development AGS L02G102 (AGS) Training and dissemination of lessons learned and best practices for agribusiness investment promotion, financing and risk management mechanisms The Rural Finance Learning Centre (http://www.ruralfinance.org) B,d,e,g Miller, Kevin (AGS) X. Effective collaboration with Member States and stakeholders Support local stakeholders to play in participatory and negotiated territorial development NRD NRC X02G162 (NRD/NRC) The Territorial Approach to Climate Change issues D,h Stephan, Jost (NRD) Capacity building of POs in policy analysis TCSP, TCI X02G105 TCSP Guidelines developed on Institutional Diagnosis of the MoA (draft) TCP/HAI/3202 Appui au Comité interministériel de l‘aménagement du territoire (CIAT) et aux collectivités locales dans la gestion des bassins versants Easypol : online resource materials for policy making http://www.fao.org/easypol/output/ FAO Partnerships Strategy with CSOs/NGOs and Private Sector D,h Bockel, Luis (TCSP) Facilitates the Core function of Capacity Development in FAO (of which Organizations are one of the three core dimensions) OEKC, ESW X02G101 12 Case studies (see Capacity Building Portal http://www.fao.org/capacitybuilding/good_practices.jsp) Capacity Assessment tool (light and full for assessing capacity at country or regional level in the context of a sectoral focus) http://intranet.fao.org/fao_communications/idwgcd/capacity_development_tools/ E Sally, Berman (OEKC); Stephen, Rudgard (OEKC) 106. 106 Promotion (1) cross-unit collaboration (2) sharing of knowledge and good practices and (3) partnerships in support of rural institutions through the IDWG on institution building ESW, AGS, OCE, all other IDWG members X02G143 Annual report on FAO‘s work in support of POs and Cooperatives As focal point, ESW represents FAO‘s work on institution building in meetings and events, including in the inter-agency Committee for the Promotion and Advancement of Cooperatives (COPAC) and the 2012 International Year of Cooperatives (YIC). Share knowledge through websites (e.g. CD Portal, ILO-FAO site). G, h Crowley, Eve (ESW); Price, Thomas (OCE); Ourabah Hadda, Nora (ESW) Hirsch, Carina (ESW); Tercelli, Ilaria (ESW) Mainstreaming coherent approaches in the area of organization development building on good practices and lessons learned OEKC, ESW Planning a series of seminars on organization development(OD) relevant for FAO interventions in countries and regions Development of a learning module on Organization analysis and development Strengthening the internal community of practices in OD building on the IDWG on IB E Rocchigiani, Mariagrazia (OEKC); Ourabah Hadda, Nora (ESW) Herbel, Denis (ESW) 107. 107 DG – Offices reporting to DG ODG Office of the Director-General ODGD Office of Director-General ODGX Administrative Support Unit DDK Deputy Director-General (Knowledge) DDKD Deputy Director-General (Knowledge) DDO Deputy Director-General (Operations) DDOD Deputy Director-General (Operations) AUD Office of the Inspector-General AUDD Office of the Inspector-General LEG Legal and Ethics Office LEGD Office of Legal Counsel LEGA General Legal Affairs Service LEGN Development Law Service OED Office of Evaluation OEDD Office of Evaluation OSP Office of Strategy, Planning and Resources Management OSPD Office of Strategy, Planning and Resources Management OEK Office of Knowledge Exchange, Research and Extension OEKD Office of Director OEKC Knowledge and Capacity for Development OEKM Knowledge Management and Library Services OEKP Publishing Policy and Support OEKR Research and Extension OCE Office of Corporate Communications and External Relations OCED Office of Corporate Communications and External Relations OCEM Media Relations OCEN UN System and Rome-based Collaboration OCEP Partnerships OCER Public Relations and Promotions OCEW World Food Day and Special Initiatives OSD Office of Support to Decentralization OSDD Office of Support to Decentralization CIO Chief Information Officer Division CIOD Chief Information Officer CIOE Office of Deputy Chief Information Officer CIOF Decentralized Offices CIOH Headquarters CIOK Knowledge Information Systems Annex A List of Units and Divisions’ Acronyms 108. 108 CIOO Operations Information Systems OSXD Special Fund for Redeployment and Separation Costs AG Agriculture and Consumer Protection Department AGD Office of Assistant Director-General AGDD Office of Assistant Director-General AGDM Food Chain Crisis Management Framework AGDP Program Coordination Unit AGA Animal Production and Health Division AGAD Office of Director AGAG Animal Genetic Resources Group AGAH Animal Health Service AGAL Livestock Information, Sector Analysis and Policy Branch AGAS Livestock Production Systems Group AGE Joint FAO/IAEA Division AGED Joint FAO/IAEA Division of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture AGN Nutrition and Consumer Protection Division AGND Office of Director AGP Plant Production and Protection Division AGPM Management AGS Rural Infrastructure and Agro-Industries Division AGSD Office of Director ES Economic and Social Development Department ESD Office of Assistant Director-General ESDD Office of Assistant Director-General ESDP Program Coordination Unit ESA Agricultural Development Economics Division ESAD Office of Director ESS Statistics Division ESSD Office of Director EST Trade and Markets Division ESTD Office of Director ESW Gender, Equity and Rural Employment Division ESWD Office of Director FI Fisheries and Aquaculture Department FID Office of Assistant Director-General FIDD Office of Assistant Director-General FIDF FishCode FIDP Program Coordination Unit FIP Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy and Economic Division FIPX Office of Director FIPI Policy, Economics and Institutions FIPM Products, Trade and Marketing FIPS Statistics and Information FIR Fisheries and Aquaculture Resources Use and Conservation Division FIRX Office of Director 109. 109 FIRA Aquaculture FIRF Marine and Inland Fisheries FIRO Fishing Operations and Technology FO Forestry Department FOD Office of Assistant Director-General FODD Office of Assistant Director-General FODP Program Coordination Unit FOE Forest Economics, Policy and Products Division FOED Office of Director FOEI Forest Products and Industries FOEL Forestry Communication and Liaison FOEP Forest Policy and Economics FOM Forest Assessment, Management and Conservation Division FOMD Office of Director FOMA Global Forest Assessment and Reporting FOMC Forest Conservation FOMR Forest Management NR Natural Resources Management and Environment Department NRD Office of Assistant Director-General NRDD Office of Assistant Director-General NRDC Secretariat, Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture NRC Climate, Energy and Tenure Division NRCD Office of Director NRL Land and Water Division NRLD Office of Director TC Technical Cooperation Department TCD Office of Assistant Director-General TCDD Office of Assistant Director-General TCDM Unit for Cooperation with Multilateral and Bilateral Agencies TCDP Program Coordination Unit TCE Emergency Operations and Rehabilitation Division TCED Office of Directory TCEO Emergency Operations Service - Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean TCER Rehabilitation and Humanitarian Policies Unit TCES Emergency Operations Service - Asia, Near East, Europe and Special Emergencies TCI Investment Centre Division TCID Office of Director TCIA Africa Service TCIN Near East, North Africa, Europe, Central and South Asia Service TCIO Latin America, the Caribbean, East Asia and the Pacific Service TCS Policy and Program Development Support Division TCSD Policy and Program Development Support Division TCSF Integrated Food Security Support Service TCSP Policy Assistance Support Service TCSR Operations and Resource Mobilization Service 110. 110 Annex A FAO Headquarters structure as for October 2011 111. 111 Farmers’ Organizations and Cooperatives Agricultural cooperatives: Paving the way for food security and rural development. FAO, IFAD, WFP. 2011. Pamphlet describing how FAO, IFAD and WFP work closely with agricultural cooperatives and will act as a driving force throughout the International Year of Cooperatives and beyond. http://typo3.fao.org/fileadmin/templates/gender/docs/YIC_coop_def2_web.pdf Building Networks for Market Access: Lessons Learned from the Rurla Knowledge Network (Rkn) Pilot Project for East Africa (Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania). Nyende, P. FAO. 2011. The original aim of the Rural Knowledge Network (RKN) was to make more information available, specifically about markets, to smallholder farmers. The core idea was to provide information to farmers and traders about current market prices in different markets around the country. Supporting small-scale farmers to access markets is highly recommended in East Africa and it should be a priority in all agricultural development programs in the region. This publication analyses the experiences from the RKN Pilot Project for East Africa and it describes the establishment of rural market access business networks and lessons learned. The key achievements of the project were the establishment of a commercial relationship between business operators; invention of a way to operate a market intelligence service commercially; demonstration of the commercial viability of information board manager business opportunity; testing of a knowledge management system for commercial operations in real life practice; development and testing of the operations of Transaction Security Services; overcoming of trade barriers with Cash- on-the-Bag financing; identifying factors that need to be addressed for scaling out the rural market access business networks service to reach commercially viable scales. http://www.fao.org/docrep/014/i2088e/i2088e00.pdf. How can the synergies between local government institutions and producer organizations be strengthened within the framework of an NRM/DRM agenda in the context of climate change? Llambi, L. and Lindemann, T. FAO. 2011. FAO. 2011. Small farmers find themselves in the front line of issues related to climate change; therefore, the adoption of modern sustainable agricultural practices requires reinforcing family and community institutions, resulting in the restoration of the Andean highlands and the prevention of hydro-meteorological emergencies. The traditional top-down process needs to encounter a bottom up approach, which develops and strengthens farmer organizations to empower poor smallholder farmers in order for them to be able to influence policy, budgetary decision-making and institutional processes. Rural POs and particularly farm organizations can play a decisive role in constructing governance structures at all levels of government. A first step is, therefore, facilitating their transition from subsistence farming to commercial agriculture, including access to dynamic markets to expand and diversify farmers‘ funding base to support strategic programs and enable their organizational long-term sustainability. http://www.fao.org/climatechange/25195-030fe220023354c69d8dd771728540356.pdf Palestinian women’s associations and agricultural value chains. Della Valle, F. FAO. 2011. FAO supports 84 women‘s associations in the WBGS (approximately 900 women farmers), jointly with the Ministry of Agriculture, Trade and Women‘s Affairs. FAO in Palestine has managed to empower the associations‘ members by providing them with the capacity to increase their Annex B 2011 Publications, issue papers, normative guidelines, policy briefs, workshop/conference proceeding in support of PO and cooperative development 112. 112 productivity, access to markets, and to increase social benefits through their participation in cooperative and collective work. This case study shows that women‘s associations have a much higher productive potential then individual women farmers and hence the promotion of their collective organization is conducive for an overall sustainable development. http://www.fao.org/docrep/013/al807e/al807e00.pdf Forest user organizations and cooperatives Forging linkages: the case of Forest Connect as a small-scale forest enterprise development network tool. Wagner, K., Grouwels, S. and Schweitzer Meins, L. FAO. 2011. This report was developed for the 2011 IUFRO Small Scale Forestry Conference held in Freiburg, Germany. The report reflects on Forest Connect as a tool for fostering intra- and inters- country linkages between those working on small forest enterprise development. The experiences of Forest Connect in Burkina Faso and in Nepal are specifically reflected upon in the report. http://www.fao.org/forestry/enterprises/forestconnect/en/ Growing Forest Partnerships in Guatemala. Schweitzer Meins, L., Grouwels, S. FAO. 2011. This report was developed for the 2011 IUFRO Small Scale Forestry Conference held in Freiburg, Germany. The report looks at how the Growing Forest Partnerships Program (GFP), which has been co-hosted by FAO, IUCN and IIED, has worked in Guatemala which has participated since 2009 as a pilot country of GFP. The GFP initiative aims to support partnerships and initiatives developed for and by forest dependent people, especially those most marginalized, and those who use, manage, or regulate forests. Guatemala provides an exemplary country-driven effort to improve financing for small-scale forestry, and has been working on four thematic work areas focused on generating positive economic, social and environmental impacts within the country, including i) Governance, ii) Development of a National Forest Finance Strategy, iii) Institutional strengthening, and iv) Capacity development. http://www.nfp-facility.org/58200/en/. Empowering communities through forest partnerships. Grouwels, S. and Schweitzer Meins. L. FAO. 2011. This briefing paper provides information about the importance of partnerships among the historically ‗voiceless‘ — local communities, indigenous people, smallholders and other often marginalized groups —for stimulating appropriate policy and financing solutions for those people using and managing forests every day. http://www.nfp-facility.org/26526-0e4c7fddb164530d01fade80c9a6e9e35.pdf Guide for sustainable small and medium enterprises in non-timber forest trade in Central Africa. Awono, A., Ingram, V. and Levang, P. CIFOR. 2011. Small and medium forest enterprises (SMFEs) based on non-timber forest products (NTFPs) contribute to poverty reduction for rural and urban people, and provide a diverse range of food, energy, medicines, materials and culturally important goods. These businesses can be promising avenues for economic development and resource conservation if they practice sustainable forest management. Moving SMFEs from opportunistic entrepreneurs to economically viable businesses, however, requires an enabling environment with laws and policies that promote legal access to the resource base and incentives for sound forest management. Many businesses need support to add value to the products they deal in and to manage the resources needed for effective forest and business management. This guide sets out the main issues and significant challenges, and suggests solutions and guidelines for viable NTFP based SMFEs. Government, non-governmental agencies and their business partners have important roles to play in developing this sector from its current vibrant, but largely informal and hidden status. This can be achieved by creating a more enabling, consistent and credible business and forest management framework of support, regulation and policy, that offers more and better opportunities to all those involved in the trade of getting a product from the forest to consumers. http://www.fao.org/docrep/014/am804e/am804e00.pdf 113. 113 ‘Working towards sustainable development through small forest enterprises’, contribution to the book: Forests for People. UNFF / Tudor Rose. Schweitzer Meins, L., Grouwels, S. and Matta, R. UNFF. 2011. This piece discussed the role of small enterprise development in sustainable development goals at country level and globally. The article is part of a publication published to celebrate the International Year of Forests, taking place in 2011. http://www.un.org/esa/forests/pdf/TudorRose.pdf ‘Mujeres y sostenibidad forestal’ contribution to the book: El bosque y yo. Mujeres Viajeras. 2011. The piece developed for this book examines how women play a key role in small forest enterprise development and in sustainable forest management. http://www.mujeresviajeras.com/?p=825 Fishers’ organizations Aquaculture farmer organizations and cluster management, Concepts and Experiences. Kassam, L., Subasinghe, R., and Phillips, M. FAO, 2011. Small-scale aquaculture producers in developing countries are facing new opportunities and challenges related to market liberalization, globalization and increasingly stringent quality and safety requirements for aquaculture products, making it harder for small scale producers to access markets. Collective action through participation in FOs can provide an effective mechanism to assist small-scale producers overcome these challenges and contribute to and influence modern market chains and trade. A range of FOs (such as farmer societies, cooperatives and community-based organizations) were examined in India and Thailand and potential opportunities for success such as cluster management and group certification were highlighted. Recent field experience shows that cluster management used to implement appropriate better management practices (BMPs) can be an effective tool for improving aquaculture governance and management in the small-scale farming sector, enabling farmers to work together, improve production, develop sufficient economies of scale and knowledge to participate in modern market chains, increase their ability to join certification schemes, improve their reliability of production and reduce risks such as disease. The experience of the National Centre for Sustainable Aquacultures farmer societies and clusters in Andhra Pradesh, India, shows the potential that cluster management has for benefiting small-scale aquaculture farmers. The publication presents factors associated with successful FOs and guiding principles for development organizations that wish to support aquaculture FOs in developing countries that were distilled from the literature and case studies, followed by a summary of challenges and opportunities for the development of small-scale aquaculture FOs. www.fao.org/docrep/014/i2275e/i2275e.pdf Experiences and lessons from the cleaner fishing harbors initiative in India. 2011. FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Circular 1068. Siar, S., Venkatesan, V., Krishnamurthy, B.N., and Sciortino, S. FAO, 2011. Most fishing harbors in India are not properly maintained due to lack of effective management and inadequate revenue collection. To address this problem, a technical cooperation project was implemented to build the technical knowledge and institutional capacity to upgrade fishing harbors to internationally accepted standards necessary for fish quality assurance. The project was implemented from March 2007 to December 2009 in Dhamara fishing harbor in Orissa State and Mangrol fishing harbor in Gujarat State using a combination of infrastructure upgrading and stakeholder participation in management. Stakeholder consultations were undertaken at the very start and during the course of project implementation to identify and analyze the various stakeholder groups (including fishers‘ organizations), taking note of their needs and capacity for management. This publication is intended to share the experiences and lessons from the project and provide an example of how fishing harbors may be upgraded to international standards of hygiene and fish quality assurance. It is intended for government officers in fisheries departments tasked with the supervision and management of fishing harbors and fish landing sites, as well as technical staff who are given the responsibility for designing and upgrading fishing harbors. http://www.fao.org/docrep/014/am432e/am432e.pdf 114. 114 Pesquerías en pequeña escala en los estados miembros de OLDEPESCA: Servicio de extensión y entrenamiento en Costa Rica, Ecuador, Perú y México. 2011. FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Circular 1046. FAO, 2011. The study presents the status of fisheries extension and training services in Costa Rica, Ecuador, Peru and Mexico. The document presents information on important aspects of the above services, such as public and private institutional support, institutional structure and legislation, content, materials, processes and service delivery, partnerships as well as gaps and constraints. The information provided by the fisheries administration from these four countries lead to conclusions and recommendations relevant for further analysis at a broader regional level. http://www.fao.org/docrep/014/i0997s/i0997s00.pdf 115. 115 , issue papers, normative Farmers’ Organizations and Cooperatives Formation en gestion d’entreprises associatives rurales en agroalimentaire, version adaptée pour l’Afrique Francophone. Tartanac F., Santacoloma, P., and Röttger, A. FAO. 2011. The purpose of this CD-ROM is to improve the skills of producer associations‘ leaders to better manage agro-enterprises. It is designed specifically for small and medium producers‘ associations. The CD includes four modules dedicated to the following topics: systems and food chains, the principles and organization of business associations, methods and planning tools for business associations and finally the post-harvest operations and marketing. A booklet of additional business management for small-scale agro-industries is also provided. This CD can be a valuable tool that can enhance the producers and technicians‘ skills to better respond to globalization and face the threat of increasing competition, but also to meet new market opportunities. The material is presented in PDF and Power Point. The CD is easy to use with different modes of access to documents. It is also possible to access sources and Internet links mentioned in the CD-ROM. http://www.fao.org/docrep/013/i1936f/i1936f00.htm Junior Farmer Field and Life Schools (JFFLS) Facilitator’s Guide – Training Modules. Various Authors. FAO 2011. The unique methodology and curriculum, provides a combination of agricultural, life and entrepreneurship skills in an experiential and participatory learning approach. Using the agricultural growing calendar as the context, boys and girls learned the importance of sustainable farming practices and the environment while developing related life lessons like teamwork, setting goals, groups associations and recognizing the importance of personal space for growth. The training modules have been effectively used to enhance/develop capacities of FOs, POs and cooperatives members to support them in addressing youth employment inclusiveness in their organizations in a youth and gender sensitive way. The facilitator guide include topic such as: Processing and conservation, Child labor prevention in agriculture, Land and property rights, Monitoring and Evaluation Toolkit for Junior Farmer Field and Life Schools (JFFLS). http://www.fao-ilo.org/fileadmin/user_upload/fao_ilo/pdf/JFFLSmodule_1_L03.pdf Self study and training for Members and Staff of Agricultural Cooperatives – A guidance manual for Advisers and Trainers, FAO, 2011. This manual offers guidance to field workers involved in advising and providing training for committee members and staff of primary agricultural co-operatives. The manual gives advice on how to plan and carry out training activities and discusses methods for assessing training needs. Alternative systems for organizing training in the field are described, with particular reference to the use of the self-study guides that are now downloadable from the Rural Finance Learning Centre. http://www.fao.org/fileadmin/templates/inpho/documents/Self_Study_and_Training_for_Members_and_Staff_of_Agricultural_Cooperatives.pdf Forest user organizations and cooperatives Annex C Technical learning resources of value to producers’ organizations and cooperatives 116. 116 Market Analysis and Development training toolkit. Lecup, I. FAO. 2011. Market Analysis and Development (MA&D) is a participatory training approach designed to assist local people in developing income-generating enterprises while conserving tree and forest resources. The MA&D training materials include a Manual, which has been designed to help project management teams plan the development of tree and forest product-based enterprises using MA&D. Additionally, Field Facilitator Guidelines (5 modules) have been developed to assist field facilitators and entrepreneurs in their implementation of the approach. The Map of the MA&D process provides a visual step-by-step overview of the training and enterprise development process, while the Brochure serves as a quick MA&D primer. http://www.fao.org/forestry/enterprises/73076/en/