This document provides an overview of the palm oil market in Tanzania from the perspective of FELISA Ltd, a palm oil processing company. It discusses FELISA's operations, the enabling environment, and supporting services. Key points include:
- FELISA operates oil palm plantations and a processing facility in Kigoma, Tanzania and plans to expand outgrower schemes with local farmers.
- The policy environment and access to financing present challenges, though FELISA receives some tax benefits.
- FELISA sources most inputs and financing internally and engages in self-directed research and learning from other producers.
FairSmart Agri: Strengthening the Rice Industry in CambodiaEric Stryson
Cambodia is an economic success story after decades of conflict and political unrest. Since 1989, Cambodia has pursued market-oriented reforms and development, leading to some of the most drastic reductions of poverty in the region. Cambodia’s poverty rate fell from 52.2% in 2004 to 20.5% in 2011, vastly exceeding expectations.
According to the World Bank, this was due to better rice prices, better wages for both agricultural and urban workers, and improvements in health and education. However, the World Bank also noted that Cambodia’s poor, while no longer in poverty, remain susceptible to economic shocks.
Development of Cambodia's main industries—agriculture, garments, tourism and construction—led to a strong average growth rate of of 7.67% between 1994 and 2015. Cambodia's principal crop is rice, accounting for 15% of agricultural value added. 75% of Cambodia's cultivated land is used for rice.
Cambodian rice is some of the world’s best. Cambodian rice strains have won the “World’s Best Rice” award from the World Rice Conference three years running.
However, the sector faces competition from high-quality rice from Thailand and cheaper rice from Vietnam. Cambodia’s productivity is far below its competitors: Vietnam can grow about 10-11 tons per hectare, while Cambodia’s average hovers around 3-5 tons.
The GLP uses real-world field projects to hone the practical skills needed to manage diverse teams in unfamiliar situations. Through meetings with government, community and business leaders, and through frank and open discussions amongst themselves, participants learn to navigate conflicting and contradictory views to transform concepts and theories into realities on the ground.
Post Harvest Solutions for Cambodia's Rice FarmersEric Stryson
The Cambodian economy is heavily dependent on rice farming, which accounts for nearly 1/3 of its total agricultural production and utilises 80 percent of cultivated land. In 2012, only 200,000 tons of paddy, out of 9.3 million tons produced, were officially exported.
Cambodian rice was awarded Best Rice of the Year in 2012 and 2013 at the Rice Trader World Rice Conference. There is high potential for surplus paddy to be processed into quality milled rice for export which would increase the value of harvests to farmers and to contribute to the government’s target: to increase rice exports to 1 million tons by 2015.
The current fragmented rice value chain encourages informal exports of unprocessed paddy to Vietnam and Thailand and a loss of value for the economy. Traditional methods of drying and storage prevent farmers from selling their produce at a higher price during the off season when most millers have 30-40 percent idle capacity. A more consistent supply of quality paddy is needed throughout the year.
To address these issues, 25 executives from BASF and from 17 nationalities travelled to Phnom Penh and Battambang to explore the opportunities to strengthen the post-harvest value chain in the rice sector in Cambodia. After meeting key stakeholders, a compelling new social business was proposed to provide farming communities with professional post-harvest services, quality agricultural inputs and training.
This offers an attractive and timely opportunity for investors with an interest in agriculture and wishing to support financially viable businesses with far-reaching social impacts. The new business is projected to yield an attractive return on investment and benefit farming communities and the Cambodian economy.
FairSmart Agri: Strengthening the Rice Industry in CambodiaEric Stryson
Cambodia is an economic success story after decades of conflict and political unrest. Since 1989, Cambodia has pursued market-oriented reforms and development, leading to some of the most drastic reductions of poverty in the region. Cambodia’s poverty rate fell from 52.2% in 2004 to 20.5% in 2011, vastly exceeding expectations.
According to the World Bank, this was due to better rice prices, better wages for both agricultural and urban workers, and improvements in health and education. However, the World Bank also noted that Cambodia’s poor, while no longer in poverty, remain susceptible to economic shocks.
Development of Cambodia's main industries—agriculture, garments, tourism and construction—led to a strong average growth rate of of 7.67% between 1994 and 2015. Cambodia's principal crop is rice, accounting for 15% of agricultural value added. 75% of Cambodia's cultivated land is used for rice.
Cambodian rice is some of the world’s best. Cambodian rice strains have won the “World’s Best Rice” award from the World Rice Conference three years running.
However, the sector faces competition from high-quality rice from Thailand and cheaper rice from Vietnam. Cambodia’s productivity is far below its competitors: Vietnam can grow about 10-11 tons per hectare, while Cambodia’s average hovers around 3-5 tons.
The GLP uses real-world field projects to hone the practical skills needed to manage diverse teams in unfamiliar situations. Through meetings with government, community and business leaders, and through frank and open discussions amongst themselves, participants learn to navigate conflicting and contradictory views to transform concepts and theories into realities on the ground.
Post Harvest Solutions for Cambodia's Rice FarmersEric Stryson
The Cambodian economy is heavily dependent on rice farming, which accounts for nearly 1/3 of its total agricultural production and utilises 80 percent of cultivated land. In 2012, only 200,000 tons of paddy, out of 9.3 million tons produced, were officially exported.
Cambodian rice was awarded Best Rice of the Year in 2012 and 2013 at the Rice Trader World Rice Conference. There is high potential for surplus paddy to be processed into quality milled rice for export which would increase the value of harvests to farmers and to contribute to the government’s target: to increase rice exports to 1 million tons by 2015.
The current fragmented rice value chain encourages informal exports of unprocessed paddy to Vietnam and Thailand and a loss of value for the economy. Traditional methods of drying and storage prevent farmers from selling their produce at a higher price during the off season when most millers have 30-40 percent idle capacity. A more consistent supply of quality paddy is needed throughout the year.
To address these issues, 25 executives from BASF and from 17 nationalities travelled to Phnom Penh and Battambang to explore the opportunities to strengthen the post-harvest value chain in the rice sector in Cambodia. After meeting key stakeholders, a compelling new social business was proposed to provide farming communities with professional post-harvest services, quality agricultural inputs and training.
This offers an attractive and timely opportunity for investors with an interest in agriculture and wishing to support financially viable businesses with far-reaching social impacts. The new business is projected to yield an attractive return on investment and benefit farming communities and the Cambodian economy.
Promoting agro-enterprises in the highlands of Ethiopia through improved inst...ILRI
Presentation by Berhanu Gebremedhin, Dirk Hoekstra and Azage Tegegne at the 28th triennial conference of the International association of Agricultural Economists (IAAE), Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil, 18-24 August 2012.
To provide the farmer with a package of inputs and services for optimum utilization of balanced primary nutrients; plant protection chemicals; water; seeds; post-harvest services; and to develop a genuine partnership with the farm.
It is an introduction to agribusiness which includes the short history of evolution of the agribusiness, its importance, scope or areas of agribusiness. It also includes the distinctive features of agribusiness management.
This is a group presentation on chapter 16 & 17 from text book of Agricultural Marketing course. It is prepared by group Elegant (VII).
Chapter 16: Market Information & Chapter 17:Standardization & Grading
Case Study - Transforming Livestock Markets in ZimbabwePMSD Roadmap
The Transforming Livestock Markets project helped to build relationships between vets, feed suppliers and marginalised farmers in Zimbabwe in order to improve productivity and so help to increase the incomes of poor cattle farmers.
FAO’s Regional Rice Initiative organized a study tour and workshop on “Knowledge exchange on the promotion of efficient rice farming practices, farmer field school curriculum development and value chains”, which was held in Yogyakarta, Indonesia at the end of September, 2016. I was asked to make a presentation in rice value chains in the region.
International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) in collaboration with the Ministry of Agricultural Development, Government of Nepal, and Institute for Integrated Development Studies (IIDS), and Federation of the Nepal Chambers of Commerce and Industries (FNCCI), organized a two day workshop on ‘Best Practices in Contract Farming: Challenges and Opportunities in Nepal’ on 10-11 February 2015 in Kathmandu, Nepal.
IFPRI is engaged in Policy Reform Initiative in Nepal with overall goal to reform agriculture sector for accelerating agricultural growth and enhancing farm incomes. In view of large number of smallholdings in Nepal, contract farming is envisaged as one of the strategies to increase their incomes by linking them with remunerative domestic and global markets. At present, contract farming in Nepal is at its infancy and needs to be popularized. This would require enabling polices and appropriate institutional arrangements. The main aim of the workshop is to learn lessons from the best practices in neighboring countries to address the multi-faceted challenges and opportunities in promoting and up scaling pro-smallholder contract farming in Nepal.
Promoting agro-enterprises in the highlands of Ethiopia through improved inst...ILRI
Presentation by Berhanu Gebremedhin, Dirk Hoekstra and Azage Tegegne at the 28th triennial conference of the International association of Agricultural Economists (IAAE), Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil, 18-24 August 2012.
To provide the farmer with a package of inputs and services for optimum utilization of balanced primary nutrients; plant protection chemicals; water; seeds; post-harvest services; and to develop a genuine partnership with the farm.
It is an introduction to agribusiness which includes the short history of evolution of the agribusiness, its importance, scope or areas of agribusiness. It also includes the distinctive features of agribusiness management.
This is a group presentation on chapter 16 & 17 from text book of Agricultural Marketing course. It is prepared by group Elegant (VII).
Chapter 16: Market Information & Chapter 17:Standardization & Grading
Case Study - Transforming Livestock Markets in ZimbabwePMSD Roadmap
The Transforming Livestock Markets project helped to build relationships between vets, feed suppliers and marginalised farmers in Zimbabwe in order to improve productivity and so help to increase the incomes of poor cattle farmers.
FAO’s Regional Rice Initiative organized a study tour and workshop on “Knowledge exchange on the promotion of efficient rice farming practices, farmer field school curriculum development and value chains”, which was held in Yogyakarta, Indonesia at the end of September, 2016. I was asked to make a presentation in rice value chains in the region.
International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) in collaboration with the Ministry of Agricultural Development, Government of Nepal, and Institute for Integrated Development Studies (IIDS), and Federation of the Nepal Chambers of Commerce and Industries (FNCCI), organized a two day workshop on ‘Best Practices in Contract Farming: Challenges and Opportunities in Nepal’ on 10-11 February 2015 in Kathmandu, Nepal.
IFPRI is engaged in Policy Reform Initiative in Nepal with overall goal to reform agriculture sector for accelerating agricultural growth and enhancing farm incomes. In view of large number of smallholdings in Nepal, contract farming is envisaged as one of the strategies to increase their incomes by linking them with remunerative domestic and global markets. At present, contract farming in Nepal is at its infancy and needs to be popularized. This would require enabling polices and appropriate institutional arrangements. The main aim of the workshop is to learn lessons from the best practices in neighboring countries to address the multi-faceted challenges and opportunities in promoting and up scaling pro-smallholder contract farming in Nepal.
Livestock markets and smallholders in sub-Saharan Africa: A reviewILRI
Presentation by Gebremedhin, B. and Hoekstra, D. to the 5th All Africa Conference on Animal Agriculture and the 18th Annual Meeting of the Ethiopian Society of Animal Production (ESAP), Addis Ababa, October 25-28, 2010.
Analysis of demand & supply Position of Liquid Milk and Processed Milk Products in North East Region
Study of backward & forward linkages including distribution channels
Analysis of Infrastructure and Organizational requirements for development of Dairy farming. This includes:-
- Identification of location & number of units
- Identification of HRD needs
- Identification of Preservation and Processing needs
- Identification of Regulatory Requirements
- Identification of Model project and Incentives
- Forward & Backward linkages
- Formulation & Implementation of food processing Projects
- Preparation of Marketing Plan
- Suggestions of Policies, Incentives & Schemes
- Suggestions on Mobilisation of NGOs
Step10: Communicating Evidence for Impact at Scale explains how to create the conditions for market actors involved in the PMSD process to promote change throughout the whole market system.
The step provides recommendations for facilitators to unlock and unleash market systems’ potential to disseminate new information, practices and technologies to large numbers of people.
Step 4: Empowering Marginalised Actors provides guidance on how to build the skills of actors who start from a point of marginalisation so that they can engage proactively with more powerful and market savvy actors.
Step 6 Training Materials - Facilitator GuidePMSD Roadmap
A set of guidance notes and session plans to help a facilitator lead a training workshop for practitioners on Participatory Market Mapping.
All materials required for the workshop are linked to from within the guide.
A set of slides that can be used alongside the Facilitator Guide to train practitioners in participatory market mapping.
The Facilitator Guide can be found at http://www.slideshare.net/pmsd-map/step6training-guide.
Step 8 Training Materials - Facilitator GuidePMSD Roadmap
A set of guidance notes and session plans to help a facilitator lead a training workshop for practitioners on Facilitating Change.
All materials required for the workshop are linked to from within the guide.
Step 8 Training Materials - Key Principles and Tips on SubsidiesPMSD Roadmap
A handout that should be used with the step 8 training materials, which can be found at http://www.slideshare.net/pmsd-map/step8training-guide
The handout should be used in the Smart subsidies session.
Print one copy per participant.
Step 8 Training Materials - Examples of Smart SubsidiesPMSD Roadmap
A handout that should be used with the step 8 training materials, which can be found at http://www.slideshare.net/pmsd-map/step8training-guide
The handout should be used in the Smart subsidies session.
Print one copy per participant.
Step 8 Training Materials - Facilitating effective forums handoutPMSD Roadmap
A handout that should be used with the step 8 training materials, which can be found at http://www.slideshare.net/pmsd-map/step8training-guide
The handout should be used in the Multi-Actor Forums and Market Opportunity Groups session.
Print one copy per participant.
Step 8 Training Materials - Market Opportunity Groups HandoutPMSD Roadmap
A handout that should be used with the step 8 training materials, which can be found at http://www.slideshare.net/pmsd-map/step8training-guide
The handout should be used in the Multi-Actor Forums and Market Opportunity Groups session.
Print one copy per participant.
Step 8 Training Materials - Multi Actor Forum handoutPMSD Roadmap
A handout that should be used with the step 8 training materials, which can be found at http://www.slideshare.net/pmsd-map/step8training-guide
The handout should be used in the Multi-Actor Forums and Market Opportunity Groups session.
Print one copy per participant.
A set of slides that can be used alongside the Facilitator Guide to train practitioners in facilitating change.
The Facilitator Guide can be found at http://www.slideshare.net/pmsd-map/step8training-guide.
In Step 5: Engaging Key Actors you will find guidance about how to develop and implement a strategy of engagement to convince market actors to join the process of participatory market system development.
This step helps you to really understand the actors that you want to engage, devise ‘hooks’ based on their incentives to attract them, and find ways to keep them interested even when things are not going to plan.
Last updated: 19/09/12
Step 7 Training Materials - Facilitator GuidePMSD Roadmap
A set of guidance notes and session plans to help a facilitator lead a training workshop for practitioners on Participatory Planning.
All materials required for the workshop are linked to from within the guide.
Step 7 Training Materials - Action Record ChartPMSD Roadmap
A chart to be used with the Step 7 training materials, which can be found here: http://www.slideshare.net/pmsd-map/step7training-guide.
The signs should be used for the Participatory Planning Demonstration session. Copy 7 versions onto flipchart paper.
A guide to take you through how to use the training materials for the PMSD Roadmap.
Includes a collection of all of the Top Facilitation Tips used in the training materials, which can be used to provide guidance when running the training sessions, and also as tips for the participants themselves.
Tips created by Lindsay Berresford.
Last updated 21/06/12
Attending a job Interview for B1 and B2 Englsih learnersErika906060
It is a sample of an interview for a business english class for pre-intermediate and intermediate english students with emphasis on the speking ability.
Remote sensing and monitoring are changing the mining industry for the better. These are providing innovative solutions to long-standing challenges. Those related to exploration, extraction, and overall environmental management by mining technology companies Odisha. These technologies make use of satellite imaging, aerial photography and sensors to collect data that might be inaccessible or from hazardous locations. With the use of this technology, mining operations are becoming increasingly efficient. Let us gain more insight into the key aspects associated with remote sensing and monitoring when it comes to mining.
Falcon stands out as a top-tier P2P Invoice Discounting platform in India, bridging esteemed blue-chip companies and eager investors. Our goal is to transform the investment landscape in India by establishing a comprehensive destination for borrowers and investors with diverse profiles and needs, all while minimizing risk. What sets Falcon apart is the elimination of intermediaries such as commercial banks and depository institutions, allowing investors to enjoy higher yields.
What are the main advantages of using HR recruiter services.pdfHumanResourceDimensi1
HR recruiter services offer top talents to companies according to their specific needs. They handle all recruitment tasks from job posting to onboarding and help companies concentrate on their business growth. With their expertise and years of experience, they streamline the hiring process and save time and resources for the company.
Premium MEAN Stack Development Solutions for Modern BusinessesSynapseIndia
Stay ahead of the curve with our premium MEAN Stack Development Solutions. Our expert developers utilize MongoDB, Express.js, AngularJS, and Node.js to create modern and responsive web applications. Trust us for cutting-edge solutions that drive your business growth and success.
Know more: https://www.synapseindia.com/technology/mean-stack-development-company.html
Business Valuation Principles for EntrepreneursBen Wann
This insightful presentation is designed to equip entrepreneurs with the essential knowledge and tools needed to accurately value their businesses. Understanding business valuation is crucial for making informed decisions, whether you're seeking investment, planning to sell, or simply want to gauge your company's worth.
The world of search engine optimization (SEO) is buzzing with discussions after Google confirmed that around 2,500 leaked internal documents related to its Search feature are indeed authentic. The revelation has sparked significant concerns within the SEO community. The leaked documents were initially reported by SEO experts Rand Fishkin and Mike King, igniting widespread analysis and discourse. For More Info:- https://news.arihantwebtech.com/search-disrupted-googles-leaked-documents-rock-the-seo-world/
Memorandum Of Association Constitution of Company.pptseri bangash
www.seribangash.com
A Memorandum of Association (MOA) is a legal document that outlines the fundamental principles and objectives upon which a company operates. It serves as the company's charter or constitution and defines the scope of its activities. Here's a detailed note on the MOA:
Contents of Memorandum of Association:
Name Clause: This clause states the name of the company, which should end with words like "Limited" or "Ltd." for a public limited company and "Private Limited" or "Pvt. Ltd." for a private limited company.
https://seribangash.com/article-of-association-is-legal-doc-of-company/
Registered Office Clause: It specifies the location where the company's registered office is situated. This office is where all official communications and notices are sent.
Objective Clause: This clause delineates the main objectives for which the company is formed. It's important to define these objectives clearly, as the company cannot undertake activities beyond those mentioned in this clause.
www.seribangash.com
Liability Clause: It outlines the extent of liability of the company's members. In the case of companies limited by shares, the liability of members is limited to the amount unpaid on their shares. For companies limited by guarantee, members' liability is limited to the amount they undertake to contribute if the company is wound up.
https://seribangash.com/promotors-is-person-conceived-formation-company/
Capital Clause: This clause specifies the authorized capital of the company, i.e., the maximum amount of share capital the company is authorized to issue. It also mentions the division of this capital into shares and their respective nominal value.
Association Clause: It simply states that the subscribers wish to form a company and agree to become members of it, in accordance with the terms of the MOA.
Importance of Memorandum of Association:
Legal Requirement: The MOA is a legal requirement for the formation of a company. It must be filed with the Registrar of Companies during the incorporation process.
Constitutional Document: It serves as the company's constitutional document, defining its scope, powers, and limitations.
Protection of Members: It protects the interests of the company's members by clearly defining the objectives and limiting their liability.
External Communication: It provides clarity to external parties, such as investors, creditors, and regulatory authorities, regarding the company's objectives and powers.
https://seribangash.com/difference-public-and-private-company-law/
Binding Authority: The company and its members are bound by the provisions of the MOA. Any action taken beyond its scope may be considered ultra vires (beyond the powers) of the company and therefore void.
Amendment of MOA:
While the MOA lays down the company's fundamental principles, it is not entirely immutable. It can be amended, but only under specific circumstances and in compliance with legal procedures. Amendments typically require shareholder
RMD24 | Retail media: hoe zet je dit in als je geen AH of Unilever bent? Heid...BBPMedia1
Grote partijen zijn al een tijdje onderweg met retail media. Ondertussen worden in dit domein ook de kansen zichtbaar voor andere spelers in de markt. Maar met die kansen ontstaan ook vragen: Zelf retail media worden of erop adverteren? In welke fase van de funnel past het en hoe integreer je het in een mediaplan? Wat is nu precies het verschil met marketplaces en Programmatic ads? In dit half uur beslechten we de dilemma's en krijg je antwoorden op wanneer het voor jou tijd is om de volgende stap te zetten.
Taurus Zodiac Sign_ Personality Traits and Sign Dates.pptxmy Pandit
Explore the world of the Taurus zodiac sign. Learn about their stability, determination, and appreciation for beauty. Discover how Taureans' grounded nature and hardworking mindset define their unique personality.
Putting the SPARK into Virtual Training.pptxCynthia Clay
This 60-minute webinar, sponsored by Adobe, was delivered for the Training Mag Network. It explored the five elements of SPARK: Storytelling, Purpose, Action, Relationships, and Kudos. Knowing how to tell a well-structured story is key to building long-term memory. Stating a clear purpose that doesn't take away from the discovery learning process is critical. Ensuring that people move from theory to practical application is imperative. Creating strong social learning is the key to commitment and engagement. Validating and affirming participants' comments is the way to create a positive learning environment.
Accpac to QuickBooks Conversion Navigating the Transition with Online Account...PaulBryant58
This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to
effectively manage the convert Accpac to QuickBooks , with a particular focus on utilizing online accounting services to streamline the process.
3. TRAINING MATERIALS: MODULE 2
Dairy Market Map for Western Nepal - Narrative
KEY
MARKET CHAIN ACTORS
Percentages: indicate current share of volume
Semi-commercial farmers (60,000-70,000): Average productivity very low i.e. approx 1
produced by farmers and channelled by
litre/day per cow (2.3 litres/day for buffalos). Due to poor genetics (breed), low quality
intermediaries
feedstuffs and health problems the milk quality is low further eroding their prices.
Arrows show flow of money from end markets to
Non-commercial farmers (250,000-300,000): They have at least 1 or 2 milking cows/
producers
buffalo but are either not producing adequate amount to sell or have not seen the
incentives to be linked with the market channels to sell their milk. Bold arrow: Dominant market channel
Cooperatives are the traditional point of milk collection. Dhading, Tanahu and Gorkha
Normal arrow: existent market channels
have relatively few; Chitwan has over 100 mostly formed by DDC to secure their supply.
Most have chilling facilities and some have technologies (though old) for pasteurization Dotted arrow: potential market channels
and minimal processing; however less than a third have any storage facilities.
Large-scale processors: Dairy Development Corporation is government-owned and the largest and most influential actor since 1969. It
dominates provision of chilling facilities, which has hampered private investment up to now. Private processors are now start ing to emerge and
even overshadow it.
SERVICES/INPUTS
All the services and input included in the Map have various levels of challenges in terms of outreach, affordability, appropriateness and quality.
Milk quality testing technologies: Services mostly embedded into cooperatives and/or large processors or dairies, but transparency and
impartiality is dubious. Intermediate technologies like lactometers are hard to find and not used properly when available.
Financial products: Current loans and insurance products are not suitable for small holder dairy farmers. Interest rates are relatively high and
repayment options are not conducive for dairy farmers (does not take into account their production cycle).
AI service: Weak or non-existent. Gorkha district has no AI service and semen is unavailable. Service providers are not well trained or equipped
for rural and remote locations resulting in low success rate and at times death of cow from infection.
Breeding stock and cattle purchase markets: Improved breeds of cattle come from India and there are stringent quarantine measures. Majority
of small-scale farmers rely on poor supply and low quality of breeding stock.
Fodder/ grass/ feed: Nutrition inputs are one of the key constraints to realising production potential. Lack of access to community forest is a
problem and other options require more labour and time. Feed is not affordable as most is procured outside the district. Know ledge on improved
grass cultivation is low and land to grow them scarce.
4. TRAINING MATERIALS: MODULE 2
Transport services: Labour for transporting milk to local market centres is scarce and/or expensive (partly due to migration). Large scale
processors use small trucks with milk cans rather than chilled tankers – further eroding milk quality.
Animal health advice and drugs (public and private): The key issues are: Lack of out-reach: lack of quality services; lack of resources for
service providers to upgrade their skills and knowledge. Traditional healers are currently an important but low -quality channel of advice for
marginalised farmers.
Dairy equipment and maintenance: As large processors expand their supply catchment areas there will be a need to ensure that local service
providers are available. Trained providers (electricians and metal-workers) are hard to find due to migration.
Info & knowledge (public and private; mass media and targeted communication and training): Mass media, such as radio, targets few
products at increasing the knowledge of small holder dairy farmers. From other sources, there is a lack of available knowled ge providers for
agro-vets, AI providers and other essential providers.
Embedded services: The majority of intermediary players are interested in improving bulking and chilling. Some processors have taken
additional steps by hiring professional agro-vets who provide technical advice at collection point. However, the service is paid by all milk
suppliers whether they ask for advice or not (cess deducted from every litre of milk). Processors are open to exploring new models as long as
they make business sense.
BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT
Agriculture policies Such as agriculture subsidies, import duties and quarantine laws look good in theory but create an unfavourable
environment for small holder dairy farmers in practice.
Fat- and protein-based pricing scheme: Promoted by DDC and given its governmental nature and size this scheme acquired a “quasi-policy”
status. However most farmers go down the route of low added value transactions where price is determined by volume.
Conflict has hit small holder farmers the hardest as there has been very low out-reach of government extension services to rural and remote
areas. Continued political unrest has resulted in frequent strikes and bandhs which force farmers to throw away their milk as they lack storage
facilities.
Weak governance has made this sector highly vulnerable to corruption, bribes and bureaucratic hassles e.g. on issues such as import of cattle
and semen. Decreasing access to community and leasehold forest for small holder dairy farmers is a further issue.
Milk holidays: During flush periods large dairy processors often stop buying milk for a set number of days. Farmers have learned to live with this
practice but it has a negative impact on the efficiency of the whole system. Instead of evening-out seasonality peaks it discourages emerging
farmers from taking part in this sector, hampers value addition to extra supply (e.g. powdered milk, sweets and ice creams) and reinforces
national dependency on imports during dry seasons.
6. TRAINING MATERIALS: MODULE 2
Maize Market Map Narrative
Maize is one of the field crops most suitable for cultivation on char sandy-loam soils. Demand for maize is very strong in Bangladesh,
due to the growth of its use as feed-stuff in poultry, cattle and fishery production. Although nationally production has grown rapidly
from a very low base in the last ten years, it has still not reached anything like its full potential – with imports still making up 30 – 40 %
of the country‟s needs. Due to the dependency on imports, maize prices within Bangladesh are generally driven by international market
– where the current long-term trend along with other cereal crops is for sharply rising prices.
On the chars, maize cultivation is already practiced by larger land-owners, and produces good returns on investment. There appear to
be good opportunities for smaller farmers to benefit, provided critical constraints in the area of access to quality seeds, i nputs,
processing and storage can be addressed.
The market mapping study was conducted in Sadar and Fulchari upazilas, in Gaibandha district; an area that CLP [the NGO] has been
working in since 2007.
The most important issues identified by the study were:
• Huge potential for improvements in germination rates and yield – from better quality seeds (e.g. hybrid) and inputs. Constraints
are related to very weak seed supply chains.
• Maize drying (processing) is poor – due to a combination of high humidity, limited awareness of issues, and lack of drying facilities
(chatal / drying floors). This leads to problems with crop storage, risk of Aflatoxin contamination, wastage and ultimately lower
prices. The underlying problem is lack of knowledge and engrained traditional crop practices. Farmers also lack awareness of
price differentiation on the basis of quality by buyers.
• Lack of short-term storage facilities. This is a problem both on farm, and within the market chain (at haat / wholesalers) – and
leads to a temporary glut in the market around the rabi crop harvest in April. The problem is compounded by lack of finance to
enable farmers / wholesalers to retain crop on their property for longer.
• Crop insurance might protect farmers investments against extreme weather, flooding. But insurance providers do not have a
„presence‟ on the char, and awareness of the concept of insurance is very low. There may be an opportunity to embed insurance
with micro-finance agri-loans.
• Bargaining power. Individual farmers are vulnerable to cartel-behaviour by buyers – especially where selling points / options are
few. Farmer organisation, or farmer-organised markets on the chars may be a solution.
7. TRAINING MATERIALS: MODULE 2
Vision of sustainable outcomes
We envisage that the maize market system could work better for CLP households – providing an important livelihood diversification
option in future, if:
• There were effective affordable agri-services provision based on the chars. Agricultural service providers could offer quality seeds
and inputs, accurate information and advice (e.g. cultivation practices) to maize farmers for a small fee. The ASP would
intermediate with the mainland input suppliers (taking an appropriate margin).
• Farmers were organised informally on a small scale (10 – 20 households) – particularly for bulk purchasing and marketing of
produce. This might include informally organised special markets.
• Farmers had access to relevant financial services: seasonal loans, crop insurance which is provided by local micro -finance
organisations. The ASP might play a role as an agent in this.
Plausible intervention strategies
The type of activities that CLP [the NGO] needs to engage in, to achieve this, are:
• Technology innovation and improving farmer knowledge on cultivation techniques, proper use of inputs and post -harvest
processing – through demonstration / marketing of simple solutions
• Development (innovation) of the agri-services function – as a sustainable business (see agri-services market) or through „contract
farming‟ to ensure availability of quality inputs (seeds, fertilizer, micro- nutrients)
• Facilitation of small maize-producers‟ marketing groups to improve market linkages and get better prices.
• Ensuring the availability of appropriate agricultural facilities like irrigation and shelling facilities.
Recommendation: in 2008 Winrock International conducted a detailed study of the maize market system on the Kurigram-Gaibandha
and Bogra-Shirajganj chars. CLP should consult closely with Katalyst rural sectors division, to learn the lessons from subsequent
intervention strategies.
9. TRAINING MATERIALS: MODULE 2
Tanzania Palm Oil Narrative
BACKGROUND:
FELISA Ltd is based in Kigoma town on the shores of Lake Tanganyika in western Tanzania. The company cultivates oil palm tree s (Elaeis
guineensis) and processes fresh fruit bunches (FFB) to produce crude palm oil (CPO), an edible oil used for cooking, cosmetics and
pharmaceuticals. FELISA is presently 100% self-financing, funded by equity contributions from 24 (majority Belgian) shareholders.
FELISA has a 100 hectare oil palm plantation 75km from Kigoma town. They have recently obtained another 4,258 hectares of land 150km
from Kigoma, where they plan to also plant oil palm. A first crop of seedlings was planted in December 2005, and a second in January 2007.
Oil palm trees take four to five years to mature to fruition, and the production of CPO is planned to begin in 2009. FELISA also aims to
purchase FFB from local small-scale farmers as part of a proposed outgrower scheme. They calculate that a total of 500 hectares under lo cal
cultivation will meet demand once their own plantations bear fruit.
An influx of refugees from conflicts in Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo has placed great pressure in the Kigoma area, but this
trend is now reducing with repatriations. The refugee camps absorbed many natural resources regionally, as evidenced in mass deforestation
for firewood and a large reduction of water. Investment in western Tanzania, especially Kigoma region, is low, and there is sparse allocation
of funds in the agricultural sector. Many people in the region are subsistence farmers and, according to FELISA, do not notice economic
shocks as profoundly as those with stronger ties to the wider economy.
Crops are harvested and planted during the rainy seasons of October-January and March-June, and prices decline during these times of peak
production. During off-peak periods farmers owning palm oil harvest the few ripe FFB and prune and weed. Between January – February
farmers harvest maize and plant fast crops, such as beans and sunflower. The planting of palm oil trees takes place at the onset of the rainy
season because the oil palm requires much water. Although malaria is present all year, infection rates increase during these wet periods.
The company‟s initial strategic choice was to grow and process palm oil for biodiesel production for the domestic market, targeting the
national utility TANESCO back-up generators and possible transport fuel blending markets. However with the world market price of CPO
having risen sharply, from $0.25/litre in 2005 (when their first planting took place) to a high of US$1.35) in 2008, FELISA are considering
additional non-energy market options.
ENABLING ENVIRONMENT:
With respect to the Enabling Environment, FELISA have sought to influence the Ministry of Energy‟s biofuel policy so that they and other
domestic biodiesel producers can operate in a known environment when negotiating with foreign buyers. One call is for a polic y that
stipulates the blending ratio between biodiesel and fossil diesel used in Tanzania. Ideally this policy would also ensure that a certain
percentage of biodiesel is produced internally. Primary producers and processors have not made similar efforts to engage with the
10. TRAINING MATERIALS: MODULE 2
policymaking process. Contract enforcement issues have not affected any Kigoma-based actors, nor have bodies that monitor trade
standards. There are reported cases of product adulteration, with incidents of waste water being added to CPO (apparently by middlemen
who, in one case, paid farmers to bring waste water to be added to the oil). The effect has been that some buyers avoid Kigoma and now
purchase instead in Mbeya. While FELISA has not experienced corruption, employees recognise that any process that involves go vernment
officials can run the risk of delay due to institutional bureaucracy which may impact on the timely accessing of services. In registering their
new land, for example, FELISA had to wait close to an entire year for the process to be completed. This is due to the fact th at only one
person is authorised to make declarations about land and their services are in high demand. FELISA currently enjoys a five ye ar tax holiday,
along with a capital goods import duty exemption. Local farmers, however, are frequently levied to pay various taxes, including a tax for
goods going to market. Accessing loans or grants for agricultural and agri-related industries is difficult. Banks in particular perceive the
sector to be high-risk, and rarely provide loans, especially for perennial crops. FELISA have recently applied to Private Agricultural Sector
Support for assistance in obtaining a loan and, if successful, this should have positive knock-on effects for primary producers working with
FELISA.
SUPPORTING SERVICES
Of the Supporting Services, inputs and finance are sourced by FELISA themselves. All linkages are created and maintained by FELISA‟s own
efforts, although they have benefited from some outside influences, in particular training received from specialists from Cos ta Rica. Research
relating to market information is self-initiated, and lessons are learnt within the company from their exposure to the domestic and
international production markets. FELISA‟s proposed outgrower scheme, for example, bears some resemblance to the agreement be tween
Prokon, a German private company in Rukwa that sources its Jatropha from local farmers in the region. The Ministry of Agriculture sends
investors interested in palm oil production to FELISA, and one of the Directors is regularly invited to present at internati onal conferences.
FELISA regard themselves as a learning institution.