Linking Smallholder Farmers to Commercial Sector Activities: The Case of Eastern Africa with Special Attention to Niche Commodities

Abstract

Based on a number of fact-finding missions, years of R&D projects in the field, and participative interviews with major stakeholders, a blueprint for the development of small-scale enterprises based on broad stakeholder involvement is proposed. SWOT analysis defined major bottlenecks and the issues to be addressed. An enabling policy environment, multisectoral stakeholder involvement, and adequate investment seem to be key in fostering the desired outcomes. The proposed blueprint was developed in collaboration with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and highlights intervention strategies for niche commodities for increased income generation.