Agrodealer Strengthening Program
Sierra Leone
Overview
The Agrodealer Strengthening Program (2011-2013), funded by the government of Sierra Leone through the Global Agricultural Food and Security Program, aimed to promote the transformation of Sierra Leone’s fragmented and informal input distribution system into a more efficient, commercially viable input supply infrastructure operated by the private sector. As part of an implementing consortium with the International Fund for Agricultural Development, CNFA developed an agrodealer network to provide a one-stop shop for smallholder farmers to access improved inputs, services, and output marketing. The program was implemented in the District of Bombali and enhanced agricultural productivity, increased rural incomes, and improved household food security.
Impact
- 15 newly trained and certified agrodealers
- $240,000 leveraged in trade credit through a credit guarantee facility
- Estimated 10,000 smallholder farmers with increased yields through better access to inputs and services
- Estimated 20% increase in household revenues
Approach
- Developed a private network of agrodealers by establishing one-stop-shops
- Provided business management and technical training to agrodealers
- Built and strengthened private sector associations that supply agricultural inputs
- Improved access to finance through a credit guarantee facility and matching grants program
- Fostered a commercialization enabling environment by advocating for agrodealer involvement in national agricultural sector strategies and implementations.
