Strong farmer organizations, stronger future

Member-based farmer organizations are key partners to deliver effective programs on farm improvements, environmental protection, social compliance and well-being, and more. Not only do these organizations have a direct relationship with individual farmers and their communities, but they are also active in difficult-to-reach areas. A growing body of research shows that when farmers and their communities are involved in decision-making and take ownership of programs, there is a much higher success rate. Farmer organizations bring scale and reduced costs and provide a structure for crop improvement and joint investment. They allow farmers to negotiate from a position that would otherwise be beyond their reach. They can be strong partners with other supply chain actors and with the public sector. “When farmers are strong and organized, when we have income and investment, we solve problems. We take action on the most important challenges our communities face,” explains Chief Adam Tampuri, cashew farmer and Chair of Fairtrade Africa. Below are just a few cases of Fairtrade farmers’ organizations tackling the most serious problems faced by industry.

Related Subject(s): Economic and Social Development