Agricultural Marketing in Developing Countries

This publication reviews the experiences of non-governmental and community-based organisations in agricultural marketing initiatives. Many NGOs target the rural poor, whose livelihoods are generally focused on primary agriculture or trade, processing and services linked to the agricultural sector. The ability of those rural communities to access remunerative markets is a critical determinant of incomes and well-being. This publication examines the evidence on NGO and CBO agricultural marketing interventions in sub-Saharan Africa and, to a lesser extent, other developing regions, concentrating principally on access to domestic markets. It highlights examples of best practice, explores the policy implications of those intervention strategies, and signals particular dilemmas or areas where further research is needed.

This is one of a series of publications that seeks to amplify the relationship between poverty, rural livelihoods and key policy areas. The publications are intended for a wide audience in developing country governments, donor agencies, research institutes and other organisations concerned with development or governance. They are intended to contribute to increased focus on poverty in development by informing and stimulating debate, policy and action amongst key players in the development process.