WFP Deal to Benefit Farmers
AllAfrica -- August 17, 2012 -- Smallholder farmers are to gain immensely through an agreement signed between the United Nations' World Food Programme (WFP) and the National Food Reserve Agency (NFRA).The Memorandum of Understanding signed on Wednesday evening will enable farmers to participate in WFP's Purchase for Progress (P4P) initiative that helps farmers sell their crops at a fair price to WFP.
The Permanent Secretary Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Cooperatives, Mr Mohamed Muya said the agreement will ensure a reliable market of grain produced in the country that will contribute to improving income and livelihoods of Tanzanian farmers.
"This occasion avails us a moment to echo the efforts and the role being played by WFP as a strategic partner in implementing Kilimo Kwanza initiative by assuring a reliable market of grain produced in the country," he noted.
Over the last six months, WFP has purchased nearly 100, 000 metric tons of grain from NFRA, most of which is being delivered to humanitarian operations in South Sudan, Kenya and Somalia. WFP Country Director, Mr Richard Ragan said this marks a significant shift in the country's role as a regional grain trader.
"Since the NFRA provides a marketing outlet for farmers, this opens doors for small holder farmers. The MoU reinforces the value chain," he explained adding that the agreement is good for the overall economy and for the small farmers who make up 75 per cent of the workforce.
It is expected that up to 400, 000 metric tons of maize will be purchased by WFP between July 2011 and July 2014 from NFRA, quadrupling the market potential of small holder farmers in the country. Mr Ragan said P4P initiated in 2008 helps farmers sell their crops at a fair price, boost their income and create more secure futures, adding that through the initiateive, WFP reach over 10, 000 farmers each year.
The P4P identifies low-income farmers who have no bargaining power as they depend entirely on their harvest to feed their families, and helps them to become more competitive players in the market place.
Since P4P was initiated, farmers group as have supplied WFP with 10, 000 metric tons of maize and beans valued at US 3.7 million dollars.
The Initiative targets these farmers through associations which are often hindered by poor infrastructure, leaving them unable to reach markets. P4P has reached over 30 farmers groups in 10 regions in the country.
The Initiative also provides training to farmers including women farmers on leadership and good governance, basic business and warehouse management skills. Mr Ragan noted that giving women training, access to finance and a sense of ownership helps them to become decision markers in their communities.
Copyright Tanzania Daily News. Distributed by AllAfrica Global Media (allAfrica.com).
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