Sierra Leone

Agrodealer Strengthening Programme

Overview:

The Agrodealer Strengthening Programme, funded by the government of Sierra Leone through the Global Agricultural Food and Security Programme, aimed to promote the transformation of the 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 (IFAD), 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.

Programme Approach:

• Develop a private network of agrodealers by establishing one-stop-shops;
• Provide business management and technical training to agrodealers;
• Build and strengthen private sector associations that supply agricultural inputs;
• Improve access to finance through a credit guarantee facility and matching grants programme;
• Foster a commercialization enabling environment by advocating for agrodealer involvement in national agricultural sector strategies and implementations.

Programme 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 of household revenues.