Farm management extension projects

The Division is currently involved in the implementation of technical assistance projects in Farm Management Extension in Africa, the Pacific and Caribbean regions and Central and Eastern Europe. A series of regional training materials have been produced in Farm Planning and Management for trainers of extension workers and farmer. Training manuals have been prepared for Africa, Asia, the Caribbean and Latin America. The Division has the capacity to provide technical support to countries for the formulation and implementation of capacity building projects that provide extension workers and farmers with the skills and competencies needed to increase their farm income by "farming for profit". Countries where support has been provided include Africa: Nigeria, Malawi, Zambia, Botswana; the Caribbean: Dominica, Barbados; the Pacific: Palau, Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, Cook Islands; CEE countries: Bulgaria.   

Livelihoods diversification projects

The Division is also involved in projects aimed at increasing farm incomes by diversifying into higher value products and linking farmers to markets. These projects are in support of efforts to improve household food security and access to food. Currently projects are being implemented in Malawi, Zambia, Burundi and Tanzania. Under these projects support is given to targeted communities to strengthen their market access opportunities and shift into value-added activities. Sub-sector approaches are used to select and analyse value chains that have the potential for economic growth and competitiveness and include large numbers of farmers. The analysis is complemented by appraisals of the support service system and the formulation of market solutions. The Division has the capacity to assist Governments in formulating policies and designing projects aimed at diversifying household livelihoods. Technical support is also available to conduct value chain appraisals, assess support service systems and develop and manage value chains. The Division is well placed to facilitate collaboration between the public and private sectors to promote on-farm diversification opportunities.

For information about project support for FAO, Please contact your local FAO representative or write to
AGS-registry@fao.org