Feed the Future Mali Cereal Value Chain Monthly Report

The project focused on three main areas: agricultural productivity, markets and trade, and resilience of vulnerable communities and households. Agricultural Productivity in Irrigated and Dry Systems The project implemented several activities to improve agricultural productivity, including training sessions for farmers and the establishment of demonstration plots. In November 2016, a training session was held for 25 agents, including 3 women, on the production and conservation of vegetable seeds. The training focused on the production and conservation of vegetable seeds, and involved projects such as AVRDC, MCCAA, L4G, and AKF. The project also partnered with AGRICHEM to promote large-scale diffusion of improved technologies and best agricultural practices for off-season rice production. The collaboration aimed to train farmers in improved techniques and best practices for rice production, including the use of improved seeds, fertilizers, and plant protection products. Markets and Trade Expanded The project expanded markets and trade by facilitating access to finance for smallholder farmers. In November 2016, the project held a meeting with the FFSWE project to discuss joint activities to be carried out by the two projects. The meeting aimed to facilitate common beneficiary access to loans for agricultural inputs during the FY17 cropping season. The project also supported the development of a warehouse receipt mechanism for CVC cooperatives. During the reporting period, a total of 5 POs, including one OP and four millet/sorghum POs, received warehouse credit. Resilience of Vulnerable Communities and Households Increased The project aimed to increase the resilience of vulnerable communities and households by providing them with access to credit and other financial services. In December 2016, the project facilitated the access of 92,500 tons of millet and sorghum to commercial banks. The project also supported the development of a draft strategic and action plan to better structure and promote the commercialization of millet and sorghum. The plan aimed to increase the market share of CVC cooperatives and improve the quality of cereals. In conclusion, the Feed the Future Mali Cereal Value Chain project aimed to improve agricultural productivity, markets and trade, and the resilience of vulnerable communities and households. The project implemented several activities to achieve these goals, including training sessions, demonstration plots, and access to finance and credit.