The Importance of Small-Scale Farmers
Small-scale farmers are the backbone of the global food system, accounting for approximately 70% of the world’s agricultural production. They are the primary producers of staple crops, such as maize, wheat, and rice, and are responsible for feeding millions of people around the world. Despite their importance, small-scale farmers face numerous challenges, including limited access to markets, inadequate infrastructure, and lack of technical assistance. Key challenges faced by small-scale farmers: + Limited access to markets and finance + Inadequate infrastructure, such as roads and storage facilities + Lack of technical assistance and training + Climate change and environmental degradation
The Role of IFAD in Supporting Small-Scale Farmers
The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that focuses on rural development and poverty reduction. IFAD provides financial and technical assistance to small-scale farmers, with a focus on sustainable agriculture and rural development. The organization’s work is guided by the principles of the Rome Declaration on World Food Security and Nutrition, which emphasizes the importance of rural development and the role of small-scale farmers in achieving food security. Key areas of IFAD’s work: + Providing financial assistance to small-scale farmers + Supporting sustainable agriculture practices + Promoting rural development and poverty reduction + Strengthening the capacity of small-scale farmers
The Call to Action
IFAD is urging global leaders at the UN Biodiversity Conference (CBD COP16) to direct greater focus and funding to small-scale farmers.
This commitment is part of our broader strategy to address the climate crisis and promote sustainable development.
The People-Focused Approach of IFAD
IFAD’s approach is centered around the needs and aspirations of rural communities and small-scale farmers. This approach is rooted in the understanding that these communities are the backbone of the global food system and are critical to addressing the climate crisis. IFAD’s focus on rural communities and small-scale farmers is reflected in its strategic priorities, which include:
- Supporting the development of rural infrastructure and services
- Promoting sustainable agriculture and agroecology
- Enhancing the resilience of rural communities to climate change
- Improving access to markets and finance for rural producers
- Lack of access to credit and financial services
- Limited access to insurance and risk management tools
- Limited access to technology and digital platforms
- Limited access to markets and trade opportunities
- Limited access to training and capacity building
- Policy frameworks: Governments can create policies that promote sustainable agriculture, such as subsidies for organic farming or incentives for agroforestry. Institutional capacity: Strengthening institutions, such as extension services and market information systems, can help farmers access information and markets.
The Importance of Nature-Based Solutions
IFAD recognizes the critical role that nature-based solutions play in addressing the climate crisis.
This is particularly true for small-scale farmers, who rely on the ecosystem services provided by their crops and livestock to sustain their livelihoods.
The Importance of Preserving Biodiversity
Biodiversity loss is a pressing global issue that affects not only the environment but also human well-being.
Donor countries must step up their support to address the critical needs of small-scale farmers.
However, they lack access to essential services such as credit, insurance, and technology. Donor countries have a critical role to play in supporting these farmers.
The Current State of Donor Support
Donor countries have been providing support to agricultural development for decades, but the current level of support is insufficient. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), donor countries have been providing only 4-6% of total official development assistance (ODA) to agricultural development over the last decade. This is a concerning trend, as small-scale farmers are the backbone of many developing countries’ agricultural sectors.
Key Challenges Facing Small-Scale Farmers
These challenges hinder small-scale farmers’ ability to produce and sell their crops, leading to poverty and food insecurity.
The Role of Donor Countries
Donor countries have a critical role to play in supporting small-scale farmers. They can provide financial support, technical assistance, and capacity building to help farmers access the services they need.
The Biodiversity Finance Gap: A Growing Concern
The biodiversity finance gap refers to the significant shortfall in funding required to address the pressing issue of biodiversity loss. This gap is estimated to be around US$700 billion per year, highlighting the urgent need for increased investment in conservation efforts.
The Current State of Biodiversity Finance
Currently, the global community is facing a severe shortage of funds dedicated to biodiversity conservation. The lack of sufficient funding hinders the implementation of effective conservation strategies, leading to a decline in biodiversity and ecosystem services.
The event will focus on the importance of enabling environments for sustainable agri-food systems, and how to create an enabling environment for sustainable agri-food systems.
The Importance of Enabling Environments for Sustainable Agri-Food Systems
Enabling environments are crucial for sustainable agri-food systems. These environments encompass a range of factors, including policies, institutions, and infrastructure that support the production, processing, and distribution of food. A well-functioning enabling environment can facilitate the adoption of sustainable practices, improve food security, and enhance the livelihoods of farmers and rural communities.
