DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania — The World Food Programme (WFP)-led Farm to Market Alliance (FtMA) Phase II Programme, spanning 2022 to 2025 across six regions in Tanzania, has been a cornerstone in enhancing the resilience of smallholder farmers. This public-private, multi-stakeholder initiative has been meticulously evaluated, revealing its impact on inclusive markets and sustainable food systems.
The FtMA Programme, with its four pillars of Farmer Service Centre (FSC) network building, farmer productivity enhancement, market linkages, and digitalization, has sought to address the challenges faced by smallholder farmers, who cultivate the vast majority of Tanzania’s farmland.
The WFP report highlights the Programme’s effectiveness in improving access to markets and increasing income, crucial for tackling malnutrition, stunting, and poverty.
The evaluation, decentralized across the six regions, underscores the Programme’s public-private partnership model, which has been pivotal in mobilizing resources and expertise for agricultural development. Despite acknowledging challenges, the report emphasizes the need for continued investment in technology and infrastructure, as well as the strengthening of farmer cooperatives and climate change resilience in agricultural practices.
The Programme’s digitalization efforts have facilitated access to market information, financial services, and training, vital for farmer success. This success is poised to serve as a model for similar initiatives across Africa, aligning with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 objectives of inclusive growth and sustainable development.
As Tanzania progresses, the FtMA Programme is expected to evolve, building on the lessons learned to ensure smallholder farmers remain central to achieving food security and sustainable development.
The Programme’s evaluation provides a valuable insight into the potential of public-private partnerships in transforming agricultural landscapes and enhancing food security in Africa.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: reliefweb
Source: World Food Programme
