PICOTEAM is a network-organisation with nodes in Africa, Latin America and Europe
that supports efforts to bring about change and innovations for sustainable development.
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Our Experiences
Project | Macadamia Innovation Platform - Strengthening Farmer Organisations |
Duration | 06.2003 - 12.2008 |
Country / Region | South Africa Vhembe District of the Limpopo Department of Agriculture |
Services delivered | In 2002, the Limpopo Department of Agriculture (LDA) mobilised rural orchard farmers to sell their commodities in an organised open market. Farmers felt the need to organise themselves. At the same time, Trade and Investment Limpopo (TIL) conducted a feasibility study for macadamia nuts production in the rural areas to support emerging farmers to get into the mainstream of economy. One experienced PEA facilitator from the Vhembe District was seconded to support the macadamia initiative in line with value chain approach. The process was guided by the following steps:
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Achievements | The facilitators from Limpopo Department of Agriculture (LDA) were responsible for the strengthening of the macadamia farmers to benefit from the opportunities indentified by TIL. Main impacts are:
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Partners | Trade Investment Limpopo Limpopo Department of Agriculture (LDA) Department of Trade and Industry Vhembe Macadamia Farmers Agricultural Co-operative New Co Mununzu Traditional Authorities Vhembe District Municipality – Local Economic Development (LED) Nice Class Consultant Limpopo Business Support Agency (LIBSA) Land Bank, Development Bank of South Africa (DBSA) & Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme (CASP) |
Funding Organisation | Trade Investment Limpopo Department of Trade and Industry Limpopo Department of Agriculture (LDA) |
PICOTEAM members involved | Michael Netshivhodza M. and Joe Ramaru |
Links / Publications | Netshivhodza, M. (2003). Strategic Plan for the Vhembe Macadamia Farmer Agricultural Cooperative. A report of the workshop held in Thohoyandou, June 2003. (Unpublished Report ) |