IFDC emphasizes the private sector as a key factor in the development of productive and profitable agriculture. Farmers are, of course, part of private sector activity. To increase production, farmers rely on inputs distributed by the private sector and on marketing of their production through the agro-sector.
IFDC works to create and strengthen trade and producer associations and public-private partnerships. Association building not only facilitates communication, education and advocacy but also assists in technology transfer and the development of business skills. With IFDC-provided training in technical, business, extension, value-added and organizational skills, private sector agro-input dealers have proven to be very effective at transferring agro-business technology to thousands of farmers.
IFDC collaborates with the private sector, governments and other research and development organizations, combining resources and building synergies to remove obstacles to agricultural productivity, develop efficient markets and protect the environment.
Photo Caption and Credit:
Rob Groot (right), ESAFD director, in the field in Kenya. Photo by Philip Karuri