Project assistance completion report [: smallholder agricultural development]

The project, which was implemented by CARE, achieved all targets, except for seed farm multiplication targets which were added by amendment in 1984. However, the project's success in achieving its purpose of raising farmers' incomes is uncertain. Specifically, the project built new storage hangars and renovated old ones; constructed a farmer training center, houses, and offices; established a revolving credit fund and a seed farm; and provided training in storage techniques to farmer precooperatives in 20 villages in which there were warehouses. The seed activity, however, was hindered by difficulty in hiring staff, poor relations with the collaborating Congo Agricultural Research Center (ARC), and the fact that the ARC, which is located in a savannah climate, was unable to provide seeds appropriate to the project's forest climate. Although some progress was made, it was decided after a 7/85 evaluation to discontinue the seed component. The seed farm is now being used as an adjunct training facility for farmer groups. Apparently, a combination of weather and economic problems limited the project's impact on production and farm income. Drought completely destroyed one year's crop, and the resultant lack of seeds forced farmers to cut back on plantings the next. Another year, marketing presented a problem - the government had abolished its marketing parastatal and private traders did not have enough capital or vehicles to buy farm products. In the one year with both good rains and strong markets, farmers did receive prompt payment, but there is no evidence as to whether farm income increased. Also, although production seemed to increase for a small number of farmers (i.e., 60-70) who participated in an on-farm seed multiplication program during the last year of the project, this apparent increase may have simply resulted from larger planting. The project did show the farmers that they can expect better results, other factors cooperating, if they use project training and facilities to help increase production and marketing. Project activities have now been turned over to a governmental organization - Projet d'assistance aux Petits Agriculteurs (PAPAN). The two major lessons to be learned from the project are: (1) careful research is needed during design, as evidenced by the ARC's inability to provide appropriate seeds; and (2) cooperation from parastatals (e.g., the marketing agency) cannot be expected if they lack political importance, money to carry out their roles, or interest in the project's success.