The SPFS initially targeted limited numbers of small-scale farmers, showing them how to increase production and profits using low-cost technologies. Today, the SPFS helps governments replicate successful practices on a national scale. The SPFS also encourages investment in rural infrastructure, off-farm income generation, urban agriculture and safety nets.
Since 1995, US$770 million from donors and national governments have been invested in FAO-designed food security programmes.
The SPFS activities focus on 4 key areas:
- constraints analysis;
- crop intensification;
- diversification into short cycle animals; and
- water control.
Within FAO, the SPFS Management and Coordination Service (TCOS) coordinates, monitors and reports on all aspects of the SPFS. This includes:
- formulation and implementation of the programmes and projects;
- preparation and dissemination of technical documents and guidelines; and
- servicing the various committees that oversee the SPFS.
TCOS calls on the services of other FAO units and regional and subregional offices, to contribute to programme formulation and implementation.
Once a country enters the Programme, a technical support team is established, bringing together relevant representatives from various FAO units. The team follows all the SPFS activities in the country concerned, from the identification and formulation process to implementation and completion of activities.
