Farmer Cooperation

Abstract

Farmer associations empower farmers, especially women. For example, women’s groups in Ecuador and Bolivia are able to gain leadership skills, pool machinery and negotiate better prices as they produce high-value crops, like dairy and vegetables. A group of organic farmers in India uses digital tools for planning, marketing and home delivery of produce. A group of Kenyan women have been able to solve their disagreements about pricing and labour contributions, and successfully sell banana flour. Young organic farmers in Belgium collaborate on seed production, knowledge sharing and market diversification. Farmer groups may need outside facilitation at first, but organization helps farmers to overcome challenges, improve livelihoods and build a more sustainable food system.