Project authorization for small agricultural tool production (CEDECO)

ECZ will conduct studies and field testing to develop improved basic handtools for use by small farmers in production of important staple food crops (notably, manioc and plantain). CEDECO"s production facility will be enlarged and modified for more efficient production, with particular emphasis on a metal workshop and a wood drying unit. Technical production improvements will be introduced at CEDECO through TA to the tool production staff and assembly line operation, and a demonstration farm will be established to demonstrate and test the tools produced. Finally, business management improvements will be introduced as well through short-term TA and training in such areas as financial management (budgeting, accounting, pricing, auditing), operations and administration, including purchasing and supply of raw materials, and advertising and marketing of produced tools.