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Vocational training as a lever for sustainable change - Mission to Kenya and Tanzania for the 'E-learning Africa 2025' Forum
At COLEAD, partnership is not an option: it is a cornerstone of our work and our impact. It shapes our approach, guides our interventions and drives a strategy for systemic change. This strong choice reflects a commitment to shared governance, equitable cooperation and a shared vision of sustainable development, and is an essential lever for maximising the impact of our actions on the ground, particularly in the area of vocational training.Kenya and Tanzania: a mission to strengthen skills and innovationFrom 28 April to 9 May, COLEAD's Training Department, represented by Laura Wauters and Simotwo Zainabu, is on a mission to Kenya and Tanzania. This mission is part of the Fit For Market+ (FFM+) programme and aims to deepen training partnerships, promote the use of our Training Management System (TMS) and gather feedback from the field to improve our training tools.Mission objectives:Discuss with local partners current training activities and prospects for future initiatives, in particular around competency frameworks and e-learning academies.Lead working sessions in Nairobi to strengthen internal and partner capacity around TMS and skills frameworks.Consolidate collaboration with local training centres and identify new partners in line with FFM+ priorities.Promote the COLEAD e-learning platform at the eLearning Africa 2025 forum.Identify trends and networking opportunities in digital education.Organise meetings between COLEAD members in both countries to discuss developments in vocational education and training.Discuss COLEAD's training perspectives with the European Union Delegations in Kenya and Tanzania.COLEAD at the eLearning Africa 2025 ForumCOLEAD will participate as a panelist at the eLearning Africa 2025 Forum in Dar es Salaam, in the session entitled 'Innovations in Sustainable Agriculture and Green Skills Development'.The session will explore how digital learning can strengthen the green skills of Africa's agricultural workforce, supporting the transition to more sustainable and climate-resilient practices. COLEAD will share its experience in designing and delivering digital training for the horticulture sector, highlighting innovations that promote inclusive growth and improved environmental sustainability.A springboard for innovation and visibilityBeyond panel participation, the eLearning Africa 2025 Forum is a strategic platform for:Networking with digital education stakeholdersSharing best practices in capacity buildingIdentifying trends and opportunities for collaborationRaising the visibility of COLEAD's educational approaches and e-learning tools on the continent.Through this initiative, COLEAD reaffirms its role as a catalyst for innovation and skills development in support of sustainable and inclusive agriculture in Africa.Cette activité est soutenue par le programme Fit For Market Plus (FFM+), mis en œuvre par le COLEAD dans le cadre de la coopération au développement entre l’Organisation des États d’Afrique, des Caraïbes et du Pacifique (OEACP) et l’Union européenne. Cette publication bénéficie du soutien financier de l’UE et de l’OEACP. Son contenu relève de la seule responsabilité du COLEAD et ne peut en aucun cas être considéré comme reflétant la position de l’UE ou de l’OEACP.
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Empowering women-led businesses - Spotlight on marketing and branding. Insights from three women entrepreneurs from Nigeria, the Bahamas and Trinidad and Tobago
As part of UN Women and COLEAD's South-South Series - Empowering and Growing Women-led Businesses - a special session on effective marketing and branding strategies was held on 9 April 2025. This series of virtual meetings aims to strengthen women's entrepreneurial capacities through experience sharing, skills development, market access and networking.Inspiring entrepreneurs and tangible experiencesThree businesswomen - from Nigeria, the Bahamas and Trinidad and Tobago - shared their innovative approaches to building strong brands, using digital tools and creating real connections with their customers. Their contributions highlightedThe importance of sensory branding and user experience in an increasingly digital environment,The value of personal storytelling in establishing credibility and building a loyal community,The critical role of mentorship in supporting and raising the profile of women entrepreneurs,The use of e-commerce and content marketing strategies tailored to small businesses.A global audience and practical resourcesThe session attracted strong international interest, with 601 registrations. Participants had access to practical resources, training tools and the session recording - available in English and in French. .Access to the session highlights: a concise summary of the key discussions, along with useful resources and information on upcoming training opportunities.This activity is supported by the Fit For Market Plus (FFM+) programme, implemented by COLEAD within the Framework of Development Cooperation between the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) and the European Union. This publication receives financial support from the European Union and the OACPS. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of COLEAD and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the European Union or the OACPS.
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COLEAD's gender strategy plan in action: example of a training of trainers course to strengthen local capacities
Gender equality is central to sustainable development and a key pillar of COLEAD's mission. Particularly in the African, Caribbean and Pacific countries where the organisation works through the FFM+ programme, women play a crucial role in agriculture and the rural economy. However, they face many barriers to their economic participation. COLEAD is committed to removing these barriers and promoting women's economic empowerment as a lever for inclusive and sustainable growth.A gender mainstreaming strategy at all levelsCOLEAD's Gender Action Plan provides a structured framework for achieving this goal. It is based on four key areas:Ensuring equitable participation of women and men in agricultural value chains.Strengthening the capacity of women entrepreneurs and agricultural producers to access sustainable economic opportunities.Facilitating women's access to markets, finance and support services for economic empowerment.Systematically integrate a gender perspective into assessments, training and technical interventions to ensure that they meet the different needs of women and men.This action plan is part of the broader Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which aim to build inclusive and resilient agricultural systems.Training of trainers to strengthen local capacityFrom 27 March to 25 April, COLEAD organised a training of trainers on gender mainstreaming as part of FFM+ programme. The training brought together 19 participants from 11 countries in Africa and the Caribbean, all involved in promoting gender equality in the agri-food sector.The session, facilitated by Antonia Caramba-Coker and Kerry Kyd (gender experts) with pedagogical support from Ernest Muzukutwa, aimed to equip participants with technical and pedagogical skills to design, facilitate and evaluate gender training in line with COLEAD's Gender Strategy 2024-2027.Feedback highlighted the practical and directly applicable nature of the training, which was seen as a lever for changing professional practices in the countries represented.A structuring tool to support changeCOLEAD's Sustainability Self-Assessment System complements this approach. It provides a framework for agribusinesses to make progress in integrating best practices - including gender equality - into their management. By answering simple questions, operators can progressively improve their performance, meet market demands and demonstrate compliance with expected standards.By implementing its gender strategy plan through concrete actions such as training of trainers, COLEAD confirms its commitment to working towards a more inclusive, equitable and sustainable agriculture. Thanks to the support of the FFM+ programme, skills are disseminated at the local level for greater impact on the ground.This activity is supported by the Fit For Market Plus (FFM+) programme, implemented by COLEAD within the Framework of Development Cooperation between the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) and the European Union. This publication receives financial support from the European Union and the OACPS. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of COLEAD and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the European Union or the OACPS.
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Moroccan International Agricultural Exhibition (SIAM) 2025: COLEAD mobilised to provide insights on EU regulatory developments and strengthen ties with African and European agri-food professionals
From 22 to 25 April 2025, COLEAD took part—for the second consecutive year—in the Moroccan International Agricultural Exhibition (SIAM) in Meknes, at the invitation of the European Union Delegation (EUD). This mission aimed to promote the AGRINFO programme, funded by the EU, along with digital resources developed by COLEAD through the Fit for Market Plus (FFM+) programme.Explaining regulatory changes in the European UnionIngrid Morvan, expert from COLEAD’s Regulations and Standards Department, led two sessions at SIAM titled “Exporting to the EU: adapting to changes in European regulations.” These presentations allowed participants to:Discover the AGRINFO.eu platform, an accessible online regulatory monitoring tool tailored for stakeholders in the agri-food chain across 142 EU partner countries;Gain insight into upcoming EU regulatory changes, especially regarding pesticide residue limits, food packaging, and antimicrobial use, with a focus on impacts for fruit and vegetables, animal products (aquaculture and honey), and processed goods;Learn about key features of the platform, including keyword or HS code search, update subscriptions, and the “Ask AGRINFO” functionality for tailored support.The sessions were also an opportunity to showcase other COLEAD digital tools, such as interactive dashboards, the technical e-library, the e-learning platform, the crop protection database, and the thematic exchange sessions hosted on agrinnovators.org.Strengthening regional and partnership synergiesSIAM 2025 provided a valuable setting to connect with COLEAD partner-beneficiaries, establish new relationships, and better understand current needs and constraints faced by stakeholders—particularly around packaging, logistics, and agri-food processing equipment. Fruitful exchanges took place with producers, exporters, and institutions from West and Central Africa, the Maghreb, and Europe. Morocco is increasingly positioning itself as a strategic trade hub between sub-Saharan Africa, Europe, and Latin America. The country is investing in major infrastructure, including a new port scheduled for 2028, two secure maritime corridors, and a motorway already connecting Guerguarat to Agadir, which together are expected to significantly enhance trade flow and connectivity.Engaging with Moroccan professionalsThe mission also provided insight into the structure of Morocco’s agri-food ecosystem, which includes institutions such as the National Office for Food Safety (ONSSA), Morocco Foodex, and COMADER—an umbrella inter-professional association comprising 13 industry organisations. These include groups focused on fruit and vegetables (FIFEL), red fruit (AMPFR), citrus (Maroc Citrus), organic products (Maroc Bio), honey (FIMAP), olives (Interprolive), cereals (FIAC), milk, meat, and sugar. These inter-professional bodies play a key role in regulatory monitoring for their members, making the AGRINFO platform particularly relevant. The retail sector was also present and engaged during the show.Next steps and follow-up actionsPlanned follow-up actions include:Sharing presentations with the EUD and relevant partners;Coordinating a thematic event and/or webinar with institutions such as Foodex, Customs, and COMADER;Sharing useful contacts and technical information with FFM+ partners;Maintaining active communication around AGRINFO’s upcoming multi-country webinars.This mission clearly aligned with COLEAD’s vision: to support economic operators in building a more sustainable, better-connected, and climate-resilient agricultural sector, while navigating evolving regulatory and market dynamics.This activity is supported by the AGRINFO programme, implemented by COLEAD and funded by the European Union (EU). This publication receives financial support from the European Union. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of COLEAD and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the European Union.
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EU and GB approval changes (January-March 2025)
EU and GB approval changes COLEAD’s Regulation Monitoring covers both European Union (EU)and Great Britain (GB) approval changes. Note that EU approvals still apply in Northern Ireland. Great Britain is the mainland comprising England, Scotland and Wales. The European Commission (EC) has recently published changes to 31 plant protection product (PPP) approvals within the EU, 12 of which concern the extension of approval for PPPs important for ACP horticulture. In addition, the EC has recently notified the WTO of its intention not to renew the approval for the active substance flufenacet. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has recently published changes to 10 PPP approvals within GB, including the withdrawal or approval of the active substance metaflumizone, which is of importance for ACP horticulture. How will ACP producers/exporters be affected? Non-approval, withdrawal of approval or expiration of approval mean that EU/GB maximum residue levels (MRLs) are likely to be maintained or reduced to the limit of determination (LoD) which, in most cases, will mean that they cannot be used on crops for export to the EU/GB. COLEAD now compiles a dashboard of ACP countries impacted by the recent changes of approvals in the EU and GB. Check it out here . What should ACP producers/exporters do now? If you currently use dodemorph or flufenacet on crops destined for the EU market, or metaflumizone on crops for the GB market, you need to look for alternatives or ensure that current uses allow you to comply with the new MRLs (most likely at LoD), as soon as the change is communicated. If this is likely to cause you significant problems, and you fear being left without effective and available alternatives, please contact COLEAD at: network@colead.link . We will keep you informed as more information becomes available.
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New partnership with the French Development Agency (AFD) : increased support for a more equitable, secure and sustainable horticultural sector in sub-Saharan Africa
COLEAD is pleased to announce new funding from the French Development Agency (AFD) to provide sustainable support to the horticultural sector in sub-Saharan Africa. This three-year project builds on the efforts of previous phases of the Fit for Market programme and aims to reduce poverty while improving food and nutrition security in the region.Supporting agripreneurs The specific objective of the project is to support smallholder farmers, farmer groups and small and medium enterprises to maintain and improve their access to national, regional and international horticultural markets. This will be achieved by equipping them with the skills, practices and safe and sustainable technologies needed to take advantage of new business opportunities.Three strategic pillars to maximise impactThe project is structured around three expected outcomes, each translated into concrete and targeted activities: Strengthening the capacity of horticultural operators : development projects will be co-designed with operators based on a support request mechanism and implemented through training, coaching, technical assistance and dissemination of updated resources on market requirements (SPS standards, environmental and social criteria, etc.). Support for professional organisations : producer organisations and support structures will also benefit from tailor-made development projects aimed at strengthening their role as technical and strategic intermediaries and improving their capacity to provide services in line with market developments. A participatory analysis will help to identify and prioritise the main barriers to exporting to the European Union : market intelligence activities will complement these efforts and provide valuable insights to support the dialogue between public authorities and private sector representatives.Geographical coverage targetedThis funding is exclusively dedicated to countries in sub-Saharan Africa, responding to a large number of requests for additional support already received through programmes such as FFM+. The final selection of countries to benefit from this new initiative will be confirmed at the start of the implementation phase.This new partnership with AFD is a great opportunity to consolidate the achievements of COLEAD and its partners in building a horticulture sector that is more inclusive, competitive and resilient to climate and economic challenges. We are excited to once again combine technical expertise and long-term vision to support agricultural value chains in Africa.This activity is supported by the Trade Capacity Building Program (TCBP), implemented by COLEAD, with financial support from the French Republic through the French Development Agency (AFD). This communication has been produced with the financial support of AFD. Its content is the sole responsibility of COLEAD and can in no way be taken to reflect the position of AFD.
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Patricia Zoundi Yao, entrepreneur and African champion of sustainable development, is an inspiration to us. What about you?
Patricia Zoundi Yao is a social entrepreneur, impact leader, and dedicated advocate for rural Africa. She is committed to fostering sustainable agriculture, a more inclusive economy, and the promotion of local value chains.At the crossroads of agriculture, technology, and social development Patricia Zoundi Yao is not just any entrepreneur. She embodies a new generation of changemakers in Africa, bridging the worlds of agribusiness, inclusive technology, and the empowerment of rural women. She is the founder of Canaan Land, an Ivorian social enterprise established in 2019, which she led for several years before handing over leadership to a new management team. She continues to champion its vision and values through her national and international commitments. Today, Canaan Land supports over 400 farmers—86% of whom are women—toward sustainable, traceable, and profitable agriculture.Beyond rhetoric, Patricia takes action on the ground: facilitating access to high-quality inputs, training in best agricultural practices (including organic and climate-smart farming), integrating farmers into local and international value chains, and supporting certification (notably Yum Gap). Her clear vision is to develop Africa from its villages.An entrepreneurial response to inequalityIn 2010, Patricia founded QuickCash, an inclusive fintech solution designed for rural areas. She later stepped away from the leadership of this company, as well as Digital Hub, to dedicate herself fully to her mission in the agricultural sector. This entrepreneurial experience marked the beginning of a broader commitment to providing tangible solutions for populations often excluded from economic hubs.Through her initiatives, she aims to give visibility to the invisible, integrate informal economies into the formal sector, and accelerate the economic empowerment of women, who are the backbone of Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.Canaan Land: a catalyst for agricultural transformationAt Canaan Land, agriculture is more than just an economic activity—it is a lever for public health, social justice, and environmental conservation. The company is committed to producing and distributing healthy fruits and vegetables grown in compliance with hygiene standards, biodiversity protection, and environmental sustainability. Traceability is central to the model, ensuring that end consumers have full knowledge of the origin, agricultural practices, and working conditions associated with each product.Canaan Land has positioned itself as a key player in agricultural modernization in Côte d’Ivoire. The company provides smallholder farmers with integrated support, including technical capacity building, access to quality inputs, the introduction of sustainable practices adapted to climate change, and assistance in complying with formal market standards. This holistic support model enables vulnerable farmers to integrate into structured economic circuits, securing their income, improving productivity, and strengthening resilience.Canaan Land’s approach aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:SDG 1: No Poverty – by increasing rural farmers' income;SDG 2: Zero Hunger – through food security and sustainable agriculture;SDG 5: Gender Equality – by supporting a majority of women farmers;SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – by structuring rural economic opportunities;SDG 13: Climate Action – by integrating resilient and eco-friendly agricultural practices.This model is now inspiring other initiatives across the continent.A Pan-African voice and advocate for changeA recipient of the National Order of Merit and the Ivorian Excellence Award, Patricia is also an eTrade for Women Advocate for UNCTAD. She serves on several boards, including those in banking and institutions supporting the private sector. As President of the Movement of Small and Medium Enterprises (MPME), she actively works to create a more favorable environment for SME growth, particularly in agribusiness.She is also dedicated to building bridges between continents, as demonstrated by her recent mission to China, aimed at fostering technological and trade partnerships between Ivorian and Chinese SMEs.A vision for the futurePatricia Zoundi Yao embodies a bold vision: an agricultural world where even the smallest farmers can become successful entrepreneurs, drivers of economic development, and guardians of biodiversity.Through Canaan Land, she is paving a concrete path toward agricultural transformation based on autonomy, expertise, equity, and access to opportunities. Her work actively contributes to shaping fairer, more sustainable, and more humane food systems.With her leadership, a new Africa is emerging—greener, more inclusive, and more resilient.Patricia has joined COLEAD and UN Women in their South-South Series implemented through the FFM+ programme, an initiative aimed at strengthening women-led businesses by fostering collaboration, knowledge-sharing, skills development, market access, and networking opportunities. You can find valuable resources in the Agrinnovators entrepreneur community: https://agrinnovators.org/This activity is supported by the Fit For Market Plus (FFM+) programme, implemented by COLEAD within the Framework of Development Cooperation between the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) and the European Union. This publication receives financial support from the European Union and the OACPS. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of COLEAD and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the European Union or the OACPS.
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Anna Seck - From executive assistance to responsible entrepreneurship: a journey that inspires. What about you?
Mrs Anna Seck, based in Senegal, embodies a remarkable journey of determination, resilience and commitment to excellence. Married and the mother of three, her academic career was interrupted by marriage and her first pregnancy in her final year of secondary school. A brilliant student, she was unable to pursue higher university studies - a regret that lingers as she still aspires to one day to resume an academic path, a symbol of personal achievement.A non-linear journey, guided by willpowerAfter giving up on the idea of resuming her studies due to family commitments, Anna Seck turned to teaching in a private school, where she worked for six years before changing her career to IT. She then found her calling in the agri-food industry, joining a company as an executive assistant. She quickly exceeded the expectations of her role and took on responsibilities closely related to production management.In 2010, while continuing to work as an Executive Assistant, she became actively involved with certification bodies. Her increasing involvement in quality management led her to play a key role in SEPAM's GlobalG.A.P. certification in 2012 - a turning point in her career. Following the departure of the quality manager in 2015, she took over all documentation and led the certification renewal process. In the same year, she completed a COLEAD training course on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) as part of the PIP programme. This module was a catalyst: she decided to devote herself entirely to quality.Leadership and expertise Appointed Quality Manager in 2015, Mrs Seck strengthened her expertise through numerous trainings with COLEAD and other partners in areas such as hygiene, food safety, risk analysis, self-monitoring, sustainable biodiversity management and good agricultural practices.Under her leadership, SEPAM implemented key standards such as GRASP in 2017, Rainforest Alliance in 2019, and later SMETA and TESCO, thus increasing the company's credibility in international markets. Her responsibilities gradually expanded, and she eventually became SEPAM's QHSE Manager, also helping another branch of the company to become export ready.An entrepreneur committed to sustainable development In 2021, driven by her experience and vision for the future, Anna Seck founded her own company: St Esprit Import Export Service. This business aims to help local stakeholders adapt to the demands of the international market. She also plans to begin exporting fresh and processed products from Senegal to Europe, while further developing her skills in quality management and food safety. A model of resilience and growthAnna Seck's journey is a powerful source of inspiration. It shows that with perseverance, a strong commitment to continuous learning and a desire to make a positive contribution to her professional environment, one can overcome obstacles, overcome challenges and transform an entire sector.Her dream of one day pursuing higher university studies, even though she is already recognised as an expert in her field, is emblematic of her philosophy: never stop learning and always move forward.This activity is supported by the Fit For Market Plus (FFM+) programme, implemented by COLEAD within the Framework of Development Cooperation between the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) and the European Union. This publication receives financial support from the European Union and the OACPS. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of COLEAD and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the European Union or the OACPS.
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AGRINFO: Improved tools to track EU regulations and strategic outreach to Latin America
AGRINFO continues to keep its network informed of new and upcoming changes to EU Regulations. Use of the service is growing, and the clear and accessible explanations about new rules are receiving very positive feedback.Keeping up with new Regulations remains challenging for exporting countries, with large numbers of rule changes affecting all agri-food sectors, and covering multiple areas of law.Improvement of the AGRINFO.EU websiteIn response to feedback from users, several improvements to the AGRINFO website were made. Most importantly, the regular newsletter AGRINFO Update, as well as the records on changing Regulations, can now be viewed in Spanish and French. Portuguese translation will be added in the coming months.A new Publications tab makes additional AGRINFO resources more easily available. These include regulatory guides that give detailed explanations on compliance with some key new items of legislation. So far, guides are available on Upcoming EU Regulation on Mineral Oil Hydrocarbons in Food; rules on Exporting Honey to the European Union; and on Exporting fresh capsicum to the EU. Additional guides on the EU rules for organic production and labelling; aquaculture; and composite products are under development and will be available soon.A new Ongoing Consultations tab gives links to consultations that are currently open for feedback, making it easier for stakeholders to comment on proposed EU Regulatory changes that could impact trade.A landing page has been designed so that partner agencies and networks can add it to their own websites to link to the AGRINFO platform. Please contact us if you would like to access this facility (agrinfo@colead.link).Latin America OutreachDuring the first quarter of 2025, efforts have been particularly focused on increasing activities and outreach in Central and South America.On 21 March, the AGRINFO Team collaborated with the Embassy of Brazil in Brussels to host a webinar on the rules for exporting novel foods to the EU, with a focus on traditional foods from the Amazon. This was delivered with the support of the European Commission (DG SANTE) and the European Food Safety Authority, and attended by over 130 participants from Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.The AGRINFO programme was presented to staff at all EU Delegations in Latin America to raise awareness about the service, and to foster contact with other EU-funded initiatives in the region. The Team has also met with the Embassies of Argentina, Guatemala, Mexico, Panama, and Paraguay, and the PromPeru office in Madrid, and has held online meetings with several Central American organisations including the Secretaría de Integración Económica Centroamericana (SIECA) and the Consejo Agropecuario Centroamericano. This has generated considerable interest in the services that AGRINFO can provide, and its importance in helping to maintain and increase trade between this region and the European Union.As a follow-up to these preliminary contacts, the Embassy of Paraguay has already facilitated a meeting with the staff of the Ministry of Industry and Trade and will feature AGRINFO in its magazine for producers and traders in Madrid and Panama. Webinars are being organised for stakeholders in Panama, Paraguay and Colombia on topics of interest for their agri-food sectors, including on the EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive; other webinars are planned. There has also been a significant increase in the number of new subscribers from the region to the AGRINFO Update email newsletter. Feedback on the AGRINFO website and communication materials is always welcome: please feel free to contact us via the Ask AGRINFO facility.This activity is supported by the AGRINFO programme. The AGRINFO programme is implemented by COLEAD and funded by the European Union (EU). This communication has been produced with the financial support of the EU. Its contents are the sole responsibility of COLEAD and can under no circumstances be regarded as reflecting the position of the EU.
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A year of action to support agricultural cooperatives/ companies in Africa: COLEAD and the Shared Interest Foundation reflect on a promising partnership
Between February 2024 and February 2025, COLEAD, in partnership with the Shared Interest Foundation (SIF), designed and implemented a capacity building programme for eight selected agricultural cooperatives / companies (coffee, cocoa, vegetables) in Rwanda, Uganda and Côte d'Ivoire.A four-part support approach The support pathway was structured around four key actions, tailored to the needs of each cooperative following an initial diagnostic assessment: Organisational and financial diagnostics : Each cooperative benefited from an analysis of its governance and financial management practices. This diagnostic helped to identify strengths, weaknesses and areas for improvement, and specific action plans were developed with the management teams. The process followed a harmonised methodology applied by local experts from both West and East Africa. Cooperative governance training : Targeted training sessions were conducted for over 60 members of the cooperative management teams. Topics included cooperative principles, internal management, job description writing, communication and conflict resolution. These sessions were followed by individual remote coaching Business and financial planning training : This phase strengthened the cooperatives' skills in budgeting, strategic planning, accounting documentation and reporting tools. A total of 45 participants were involved. Several cooperatives received guidance with regards to their business plans, strategic plans and operating accounts. Climate change awareness : At the end of the programme, bilingual (French/English) sessions enabled 23 agricultural leaders to gain a better understanding of the impact of climate change on key crops (coffee, cocoa, vegetables) and to identify agro-ecological solutions for adaptation. All participants appreciated the relevance of the content and expressed a desire to further strengthen their capacity to develop climate resilience projects.Tangible and transformative resultsThe support had a structuring effect on the eight partner cooperatives. Many improved or formalised their governance documents, management tools, internal procedures and member service strategies. Progress was made in document formalisation, financial risk management and income diversification.In addition, the collaboration strengthened cohesion among leadership and operational teams, fostering a more collaborative, inclusive (especially for youth and women), and innovative dynamic - with growing interest in digital tools and organic farming.A collaboration based on shared values and ISO 21001 quality standards The project relied on close coordination between the SIF and COLEAD teams, with fortnightly meetings and on-the-ground support from local experts. The pedagogical approach proved to be inclusive, flexible and adapted to the realities of the beneficiary organisations. It was also fully aligned with COLEAD's quality standards (ISO 21001).This strategic partnership clearly demonstrates the potential of high quality technical assistance to build a more professional, resilient and sustainable agricultural cooperative sector.Shared Interest Foundation was established in 2004 as a charitable subsidiary of Shared Interest Society. Its aim is to work with producers who need support to grow and be more sustainable, ultimately alleviating poverty by helping people to trade and earn a living. Founded in 1990, Shared Interest Society brings together a community of more than 12,000 people in the UK with the common goal of investing in a fairer world. They work hand in hand with communities where income opportunities may be limited and where businesses face increasing challenges. Shared Interest works cooperatively, funding Fair Trade enterprises in 45 countries. Most of these organisations support smallholder farmers who produce around a third of the world’s food but often struggle to feed their families.
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Closure of NExT Kenya: "Asante sana! Let's build on the programme's legacy together"
The closing workshop of the NExT Kenya (New Export Trade Kenya) programme took place in Nairobi on 28 March 2025, marking the end of a five-year journey to strengthen horticultural value chains in Kenya. Led by COLEAD and funded by the European Union to the tune of €5 million, the programme brought together a wide range of public and private partners to address key challenges in the sector, while laying the foundations for long-term transformation.A resilient programme in a turbulent contextLaunched in 2020, the programme unfolded in a highly volatile environment: the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine, new regulatory frameworks (such as the EU Green Deal) and climate disruption. Despite these challenges, NExT Kenya was able to adapt its interventions through an integrated and participatory approach. Notable results include: Increased market share of Kenyan fresh fruit and vegetables in European markets; Overall growth in horticultural export volumes, including to regional markets; Significant progress in food safety, social inclusion and environmental sustainability among supported enterprises; Long-term capacity building of local stakeholders, from public institutions to private operators.Key lessons for the future The programme has generated key lessons to strengthen the impact and sustainability of future initiatives:Participatory approaches and local ownership: Co-developing interventions with beneficiaries, especially SMEs and cooperatives, fostered strong engagement and relevance.Holistic value chain vision: Interventions spanned all levels - from national policy frameworks to on-farm practices.Building resilience: Combined solutions - including training, tools, policy dialogue and access to finance - helped address climate and market uncertainties.Engaging youth, women and marginalised groups: Involving these groups from the outset created powerful levers for more equitable growth.Networking and synergies: Multi-stakeholder platforms such as the National Standing Committee on Horticulture enabled sharing, innovation and strategic alignment.A committed public private partnershipDuring the workshop, COLEAD highlighted the exemplary commitment of its many partners, including:The Government of Kenya and its relevant agencies (KEPHIS, PCPB, KALRO, MINAGRI...),Professional and inter-professional organisations (KFC, FPEAK, FPC, ASOK...),Training institutions, service providers and cooperatives,Technical and financial partners, exporters, buyers and NGOs.A horticultural master plan for sustainable growth A major achievement was the identification of 122 bottlenecks along horticultural value chains. The analysis, conducted by the National Horticulture Standing Committee, will inform a Horticulture Master Plan - a strategic roadmap for the next decade. The aim is to double horticultural exports from KES 156 billion to over KES 300 billion within 10 years through better market management, simplified regulations, enhanced compliance with regulations in destination markets (e.g. SPS) and effective governance.What's next for NExT Kenya?The final workshop was not the end, but the beginning of a new chapter. The tools, networks and capacity that have been developed provide a strong foundation to move forward: Responding to evolving regulations (e.g. SPS) and market dynamics; Innovating to meet climate challenges; Consolidating inclusive and sustainable growth.COLEAD remains committed to working with sector stakeholders to make Kenyan horticulture a model of competitiveness, resilience and inclusion.
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Launch of the PASA-Côte d'Ivoire programme: A strong commitment to food safety and sustainable development in the Ivorian agricultural sector
The Food Safety Support Programme for the Republic of Côte d'Ivoire (PASA-Côte d'Ivoire) is funded by the European Union under the Support Programme for Sustainable Forestry and Agri-Food Systems (PASSAD). It is part of the Multi-Annual Indicative Programme (MIP) 2021-2027 for Côte d'Ivoire and also supports the objectives of the second phase of the National Agricultural Investment Programme (PNIA 2). The European Union Delegation (EUD) in Côte d'Ivoire has entrusted COLEAD with the implementation of this programme. PASA Côte d'Ivoire has now officially started to engage key national stakeholders and to prepare the first communications to potential partner beneficiaries.A programme at the heart of national priorities The overall objective of PASA-Côte d'Ivoire is to strengthen the contribution of the agri-food sector to the country's economic growth, food security and sustainable development. The programme focuses on improving the competitiveness, resilience, inclusiveness and sustainability of agri-food value chains. It aims to build the capacity of private sector actors - especially along two priority value chains - to manage and control the sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) quality of food, while helping them to adapt to evolving regulatory, commercial, social and environmental requirements. Three key outputs are expected : 1/An accessible system for acquiring SPS knowledge and skills for actors along the value chains. 2/ A concrete pilot implementation of the approach in two selected value chains. 3/A tangible improvement in the SPS quality and image of Ivorian agri-food products, supported by effective public-private dialogue.PASA-Côte d'Ivoire partner beneficiaries PASA-Côte d'Ivoire targets a wide range of potential partner beneficiaries:Private sector actors in the agri-food sector, such as MSMEs, agricultural cooperatives, livestock farmers, fishermen and smallholders.Service providers, including training centres, consultants, certification and standardisation bodies, multi-stakeholder platforms and Ivorian research institutions.Public institutions, starting with the competent authorities: DPVCQ, MINADER, DSV, MIRAH, the Food Safety Agency and LANADA.In addition, regional economic communities (ECOWAS, UEMOA), consumers and economic operators in Côte d'Ivoire and beyond are considered indirect beneficiaries of this transformative programme.A first highlight at SARA 2025SARA 2025, The Salon international de l'Agriculture et des Ressources Animales (SARA) in Abidjan, starting on 23 May 2025, will be a key opportunity to present PASA-Côte d'Ivoire to stakeholders. The programme will be presented at the stand of the European Union delegation and the COLEAD team will be present on 26 and 27 May to meet key stakeholders and prepare the next steps.Initial structuring measuresCOLEAD, the European Union Delegation and the Côte d'Ivoire-EU Strategic Partnership Coordination Unit have already taken concrete steps to launch the programme:Continued engagement between PASA-Côte d'Ivoire and the Ministries of Agriculture and Animal Resources, including the formalisation of cooperation through memoranda of understanding, the creation of steering and technical committees, and the designation of focal points.Finalise and submit COLEAD's methodology for selecting priority value chains, pending validation.Planning of participatory launch workshops scheduled for June.Developing a communication plan for PASA.Join us at SARA in May to learn more about PASA Côte d'Ivoire and meet the project team!For further information, please contact: victor.boro@colead.linkThis activity is implemented by COLEAD and supported by the Food Safety Support Programme for the Republic of Côte d'Ivoire (PASA-Côte d'Ivoire), funded by the European Union through the EU Delegation in Côte d'Ivoire. This communication has been produced with the financial support of the EU. Its contents are the sole responsibility of COLEAD and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the EU.