Smallholder farmers are the unsung heroes of global food security. Here are some of the tools and resources they need to succeed.
Smallholder farmers are the unsung heroes of global food security. In the vast fields and modest plots that stretch across continents, they produce approximately a third of the world’s food and are therefore critically important to food security. In Africa, an estimated 33 million smallholder farms contributeup to 70% of the continent’s food supply, yet they receive the least financial support from climate finance agencies and remain among the most vulnerable and underserved populations.
Smallholder farmers face an array of challenges that hinder their productivity and well-being, from financial constraints, to limited market access, and inadequate knowledge about sustainable practices. Women, who constitute a substantial portion of the agricultural workforce, often bear the brunt of these hardships.
A multifaceted approach is essential to creating a sustainable and equitable future for smallholder farmers. Here are some of the best practices and approaches that can make a significant difference in their lives:
Financial support can be transformative, but lack of access to credit is a significant hindrance for smallholder farmers. Enabling farmers to invest in essential resources such as equipment, seeds, and fertilisers can have a major impact. By facilitating access to credit, smallholder farmers can pave the way for expanding their operations and increasing yields.
Education is the cornerstone of progress. Providing smallholder farmers with training in sustainable agricultural techniques is crucial. Adopting regenerative agriculture practices, which prioritise soil healthand ecological balance, is at the heart of this endeavour. Through workshops, seminars, and digital resources, farmers can be equipped with the knowledge they need to enhance productivity while preserving the environment.
In a rapidly digitising world, technology holds immense promise for smallholder farmers. However, its accessibility remains a challenge. Embracing software-based technologies that can be accessed through mobile phones can make them more affordable and widely available. AI-powered tools, predictive analytics, and machine learning algorithms empower farmers with insights into weather patterns, market trends, and pest outbreaks.
Sustainability is not just a buzzword but the key to the future. RegenZ champions regenerative agriculture, a holistic approach that rejuvenates soil health, reduces erosion and enhances crop yields. By embracing regenerative practices, smallholder farmers contribute to ecosystem restoration while securing their livelihoods for future generations.
Governments and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) play pivotal roles in transforming the landscape for smallholder farmers. NGOs collaborate directly with farmers, offering education, resources, and technologies to amplify their efforts.
Policies that promote access to credit, education, and regenerative practices are essential. Policymakers should consider:
The private sector is a critical partner in empowering smallholder farmers. Food and beverage companies, in particular, can substantially impact by promoting fair trade practices, providing education, and establishing sustainable supply chains. By fostering collaboration and knowledge transfer, these companies pave the way for a more inclusive agricultural sector.
As consumers, we should take time to inform ourselves about the origins of the food we purchase and support local producers to help smallholders stay in business.
Approaches that focus solely on one aspect of farming or offer short-term financial aid may fall short of creating lasting change. It is imperative to involve farmers in the decision-making process, consider cultural contexts, and ensure that technologies and interventions align with their unique needs.
Empowering smallholder farmers is not just a goal; it is a shared responsibility between governments, NGOs, businesses, and communities. By embracing holistic strategies encompassing education, financial support, sustainable practices, and technology, we can uplift smallholder farmers and cultivate a future of abundance, resilience, and food security.
Alex is Business Development Manager at RegenZ. He's inspired by the potential of regenerative farming and takes a special interest in the technology and products that are moving agriculture in a more sustainable direction.