This is one of 280 summaries describing key outputs from the projects run by DFID’s 10-year Renewable Natural Resources Research Strategy (RNRRS) programmes.
Rapid urbanisation and globalisation have opened up a world of opportunities for smallholder
farmers who supply fresh produce. Yet big supermarket chains have high food-safety, quality and
agricultural-practice standards, which present both technical and financial challenges. Partners in
Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe and the UK have come up with a cost-effective and sustainable
management and control system that allows fruit and vegetable smallholders to meet the stringent
requirements of high-value EU retail markets. Either a farmers’ organisation or an exporter acts as
the primary marketing organisation, ensuring that all growers involved are complying with the
requirements. In the process, farmers and cooperative organisations strengthen their ability to
negotiate with buyers, suppliers, banks and service providers. Although developed for fresh fruits
and vegetables, the system could readily be adapted for other crops, livestock or aquaculture.
The CD has the following information for this output: Description, Validation, Current Situation, Environmental Impact. Attached PDF (9 pp.) taken from the CD.