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Action Learning Exchange (ALE) 2026: strengthening alliances to accelerate Africa’s transition towards competitive, integrated and sustainable agri-food systems
On 10–11 March 2026 in London, COLEAD participated in the Action Learning Exchange (ALE) 2026, a workshop organised by FCDO, AGRA and Frontier Intelligences. The event brought together public and private stakeholders around a shared objective: accelerating Africa’s transition towards competitive, integrated and sustainable agri-food systems.Four key priorities emerged from the discussions: developing local value addition to move beyond raw commodity exports, advancing trade integration through the effective implementation of the AfCFTA, strengthening sustainable partnerships between African producers and international markets, and adopting innovative solutions such as artificial intelligence, drones and climate-resilient seeds.
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Enhanced dialogue with Latin American embassies on EU regulations : highlighting upcoming challenges for agri-food exports
On March 18th AGRINFO had a meeting with the Embassies of the Latin American Countries in Brussels. The meeting took place at the Argentinean official residence, with welcome words delivered by the Ambassador Fernando Iglesias. Representatives from 13 embassies, Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Panama, Paraguay, Peru and Uruguay attended the event.This was a valuable opportunity to exchange in person on EU regulatory developments that will be implemented in the near future and that could have an impact on exports from these countries to the European Union. Among the topics covered were EU pesticide MRLs , mineral oil hydrocarbons, packaging, and antimicrobials in food-producing animals.This meeting fully aligns with AGRINFO’s mission: to support European Union partners in low- and middle-income countries in anticipating regulatory changes that may affect their agri-food exports. By facilitating this type of direct exchange between European institutions and international partners, AGRINFO helps strengthen mutual understanding of regulatory challenges and prepares stakeholders for the necessary adaptations.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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Strengthening dialogue with African embassies on EU regulations: highlighting upcoming challenges for agri-food exports
As part of the AGRINFO programme, COLEAD organised a dynamic exchange with African embassies in Brussels on 17 March 2026 on key regulatory issues affecting the agri-food trade “Update on Key EU Regulations for African Agri-food Exports”.AGRINFO aims to support low- and middle-income countries, in anticipating and preparing for all changes to EU rules.The event, bringing together 12 African embassies, gave in-depth insights into policy areas such as pesticide residues, mineral oil hydrocarbons, the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive, the EU Deforestation Regulation, packaging, and antimicrobials used in food-producing animals.The participation, engagement, and positive feedback from attendees contributed to the success of the event and highlighted the relevance of this work for diplomatic stakeholders in Brussels.In her opening remarks, the Ambassador of South Africa emphasised that engagement with COLEAD–AGRINFO experts was valuable in strengthening understanding of evolving EU trade and regulatory dynamics and their implications for African countries.A similar event for French-speaking African countries is foreseen in April 2026 (date to be confirmed).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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CPM-20 in Rome: contributing to global phytosanitary discussions
From 9 to 13 March 2026, COLEAD participated in the 20th Session of the Commission on Phytosanitary Measures (CPM), held at FAO headquarters in Rome. The event brought together the global phytosanitary community to discuss plant health, international standards, innovation, and safe trade.On 10 March, during the poster session, Thomas Lopes presented research carried out by COLEAD’s Research & Innovation Brokerage team on hot water phytosanitary treatment for controlling fruit flies in West African mango exports. This contribution is part of the FFM Plus programme, which support the development of sustainable agri-food systems and access to international markets.While hot water treatment is effective for fruit fly control, current protocols are not suitable for commercial sea-freight export of West African mangoes, particularly Kent and Keitt, due to heat damage that compromises fruit quality during transport and shelf life. Further research and validation under commercial conditions are needed before it can be recommended as a reliable phytosanitary solution.COLEAD also organised a side event bringing together ACP countries, the European Union, STDF representatives, IPPC experts and partners. This event provided an opportunity for informal exchanges and networking among key stakeholders in the sector.Discussions focused on the role of public-private dialogue in addressing phytosanitary challenges, as well as on presenting COLEAD’s ongoing initiatives, also implemented under the FFM Plus and AGRINFO programmes. They offered a space for exchanging perspectives among stakeholders.Through these contributions, COLEAD actively supported dialogue, innovation and collaboration for stronger phytosanitary systems and safer international trade.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; and by the AGRINFO programme, implemented by COLEAD and funded by the European Union (EU). 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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Launch of a new MOOC dedicated to helping agri-entrepreneurs adapt to climate change
In March, the COLEAD Training Department launched a new Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) entitled “agri-entrepreneurs facing climate change: innovating, adapting, financing solutions.” This initiative reflects COLEAD’s commitment to strengthening the capacities of agri-food stakeholders in response to the growing challenges posed by climate change.Developed under the FFM+ programme, this course offers a practical perspective on how climate change affects agricultural businesses, with a focus on solutions that enable innovation, adaptation, and enhanced resilience of agri-food systems. It is designed for a broad international audience, including entrepreneurs, producers, consultants, agricultural support organisations, and young professionals interested in climate-smart agriculture.Building on the success of last year’s MOOC on packaging and labelling, this new course further demonstrates COLEAD’s commitment to expanding accessible digital learning tools and promoting knowledge sharing at a global level.By the end of the course, participants will be able to better understand the impacts of climate change on the horticultural sector in ACP countries, identify innovative solutions to strengthen farm resilience, and explore tools and financing mechanisms that support climate-smart projects. The MOOC will also highlight COLEAD’s digital platforms, including the e-learning platform and the Agrinnovators community, as spaces for collaboration and innovation.With this new training offer, COLEAD continues to support the transition towards a more resilient, innovative, and sustainable agri-food sector.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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Larry Holder, Novo Farms (Trinidad & Tobago) : from caribbean kitchens to global shelves: scaling local food innovation with novo farms
Standing at the intersection of Caribbean food culture and modern food innovation is Larry Holder, Public Relations Executive at Novo Farms, a fast-growing Trinidad and Tobago manufacturer reshaping how regional ingredients reach the world. With over 15 years’ experience in business development and a professional foundation in marketing and public relations, Larry is among a new generation of entrepreneurs and industry leaders positioning the Caribbean’s food identity on supermarket shelves across the globe.Novo Farms is the company behind LIFE, a consumer food brand that transforms traditional Caribbean dishes into ready-to-cook and ready-to-eat products, from callaloo, dhal and corn soup to sweet potato fries, chokas, and the beloved Trini “oil down.” Alongside frozen and instant meals, the company has introduced a beverage line that creatively repurposes leftover product material, reinforcing their commitment to sustainability.The company’s mission is to make Caribbean flavours more accessible to Caribbean nationals at home and abroad, while also inviting international consumers to taste and appreciate local food culture.Novo Farms operates to FDA and ISO standards, earning recognition for its innovation and environmental efforts. The company has taken part in trade missions across the Caribbean, the U.S. , Canada and England, strengthening its presence among diaspora markets, and is now working toward entry into Europe to reach even more Caribbean communities abroad.Larry Holder’s leadership style reflects a philosophy deeply rooted in empowerment. He advocates building strong internal teams by “training people well enough so they can leave, but treating them well enough so they choose to stay.” Staff development is not merely operational; it’s part of Novo’s growth model.This outlook extends beyond internal culture. Novo is developing partnerships with micro-entrepreneurs and small food companies across the region, offering technical support, product development guidance, business planning, and retail access. Larry sees this not just as an opportunity for collaboration, but as a pathway to regional food security, shared prosperity, and strengthening Caribbean-owned supply chains.While Larry’s work centres on strategy, branding, and advocacy for Novo Farms, he also maintains a strong personal connection to nature as an avid scuba diver. As the public voice of a company transforming traditional Caribbean dishes into convenient products and repurposing local ingredients, his role reflects a wider movement to bring regional flavours to international markets and expand the reach of Caribbean food culture.Larry Holder presented Novo Farms during the Caribbean Agrifood Business Session n°19, organised by IICA and COLEAD, and aimed at showcasing the innovations and successes of Caribbean farmer-led businesses and small and medium enterprises.If you are interested in this topic, join the Agrinnovators Forum.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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Linette Wawira (Kenya), “By focusing on quality and consistency, we were able to build trust and repeat business.”
Linette Wawira founded Jiwa Farm Export Limited in Kenya during the COVID-19 lockdown, the objective was straightforward: supply fresh, reliable produce to local households. What began as a small grocery initiative has since grown into a GLOBAL G.A.P.-certified agribusiness serving both local retailers and international markets.Jiwa Farm is now specialised in the production, processing, and export of fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs, including Asian vegetables, French beans, sugar snaps, butter nuts, and onions. From the outset, the company prioritised quality, consistency, and food safety, building trust with buyers and creating a strong foundation for growth.
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Looking back at fruit logistica 2026: key trends in sustainability, innovation and market opportunities
The COLEAD took part last February in the international trade fair Fruit Logistica as part of its FFM+ and AGRINFO programmes.At Fruit Logistica 2026, several structuring trends emerged, confirming the ongoing transformation of the fruit and vegetable sector. Sustainability, logistics, technological innovation and market dynamics are shaping current priorities.Sustainability remains central but is shifting towards concrete implementation. Stakeholders highlighted the complexity of existing frameworks and the need for clearer standards capable of demonstrating tangible results, particularly in terms of quality, loss reduction and resource efficiency. Regenerative agriculture is also gaining attention, although it remains a marginal approach.Logistics is becoming a strategic lever for competitiveness. Decarbonisation of transport, the development of rail solutions and cold chain management are key concerns. Real-time monitoring of transport conditions is increasingly essential to ensure quality and reduce losses.Plastic-free packaging solutions are expanding, driven by innovation and European regulatory requirements (PPWR). However, their large-scale adoption will depend on cost, technical performance and market acceptance.Artificial intelligence is emerging as an operational tool across the entire value chain: crop analysis, automated sorting, defect detection, flow management and risk anticipation. It helps improve quality, decision-making and operational reliability.From a market perspective, avocados continue to grow, but with increasing demands for consistent quality, supported by advanced control technologies. Meanwhile, blueberries are emerging as a major opportunity, particularly for some African countries, provided that quality, varieties, export timing and environmental requirements are well managed.Overall, Fruit Logistica 2026 highlights a sector in transition, where economic performance, technological innovation and operational sustainability are now closely interconnected.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; and by the AGRINFO programme, implemented by COLEAD and funded by the European Union (EU). 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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Sustainable management of organic waste: from training to action, an example from Burkina faso
Last December, COLEAD organised a training session in Bobo Dioulasso (Burkina Faso) focused on the sustainable management and valorisation of organic waste, as part of the Fit For Market Plus (FFM+) programme.The session aimed to enable participating partners to design and implement waste management plans tailored to their activities, while promoting environmentally friendly practices. Participants came from companies with diverse profiles (production, processing, quality, and agricultural advisory services).Combining theoretical input, group work, and a field visit to a composting site, the training provided practical skills to identify, analyse, and valorise organic waste, particularly through composting.Following the training, participants are now better equipped to structure waste management within their companies, contributing to reduced environmental impacts and the adoption of more sustainable practices.Participant feedback highlights the relevance and quality of the training, particularly praising the clarity of the content, the value of exchanges, and the expertise of the trainers.As a follow-up to this initiative, post-training support will be deployed to assist with the practical implementation of acquired knowledge, strengthen capacities, and promote the sustainable adoption of good practices.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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Empowering Agri-Food value chains through investment and technical support: Cajou Espoir’s Honey Project in Togo
Cajou Espoir SA, a leader in cashew processing in Togo, launched a pioneering honey production project. The initiative aimed at improving cashew yields through modern apiculture techniques, diversifying the company’s revenue streams and creating lasting economic opportunities for local communities. The project aimed to serve as a foundation for rolling out best beekeeping practices to the small producers with whom Cajou Espoir works.Recognizing the need for specialized expertise to attain the objectives, the company partnered with COLEAD (within the scope of the technical assistance collaboration agreement between EDFI MC -AgriFI and COLEAD). This collaboration aimed to address critical gaps in apiculture practices and unlock new economic opportunities.The technical collaboration between Cajou Espoir and COLEAD, active from November 2024 to December 2025, began with a comprehensive diagnostic assessment.The assessment revealed that Cajou Espoir’s apiculture practices faced significant challenges, including reliance on traditional methods, non-optimal hives, and limited technical knowledge. These constraints resulted in high colony losses and low productivity, highlighting the critical need for targeted intervention and capacity-building.Through EU funded AgriFI technical assistance, managed by EDFI MC, COLEAD worked closely with Cajou Espoir to refine the project’s objectives, shifting the focus from overly ambitious production targets to realistic, sustainable goals. Instead of pursuing large-scale EU honey exports, the strategy prioritized local and sub-regional markets, where demand is strong and market entry more feasible. This approach ensured alignment with Cajou Espoir’s operational capacity and long-term vision.A cornerstone of the project’s success was its practical, hands-on training program. COLEAD experts, supported by a complementary team of international and local honey specialists, established a "rucher école" (training apiary) and conducted four intensive training sessions. These sessions covered essential skills such as hive management, parasite control, and honey harvesting. Teams were also trained to produce standardized, high-quality hives, ensuring the project’s sustainability. To further support continuous learning, a WhatsApp group was created to facilitate real-time coaching and problem-solving during the project duration.This initiative ensured that Cajou Espoir’s team could access ongoing guidance, reinforcing their newfound skills and fostering greater autonomy. By the end of the project, the involved teams gained confidence and independence in managing the hives, reducing their reliance on external support.This project serves as a testament to the power of strategic partnerships in agrifood, demonstrating how targeted technical assistance, and the dedication of international and local experts - can diversify income, empower communities, and foster sustainable growth.As Cajou Espoir continues to integrate apiculture into its operations, this initiative highlights the transformative impact of collaboration. COLEAD experts extend their gratitude to Cajou Espoir’s leadership for their commitment. Together, they have shown how innovative partnerships can drive productivity, resilience, and economic opportunity in agricultural communities.About EDFI Management Company: EDFI Management Company (EDFI MC) is a multilaterally owned impact asset manager that delivers innovative development finance solutions. The company enables European DFIs, development banks, and private sector investors to increase the scale and impact of their work, focusing on business models, technologies, and geographies where other investors have not been able to operate at the desired scale.About Cajou Espoir: Cajou Espoir is Togo’s leading processor of raw cashew nuts, playing a crucial role in the country’s cashew value chain. With a focus on sustainable practices, the company is organic / fairtrade certified and is committed to supporting local communities and enhancing livelihoods.About COLEAD: COLEAD is a leading provider of technical assistance in sustainable agriculture, working with organizations worldwide to implement innovative and effective solutions for improved agricultural practices and rural development.
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Structuring investment to accelerate local transformation: the ANEP Company example in Africa
As part of the Fit For Market Plus (FFM+) programme, COLEAD supported ANEP Company in structuring its financing request and developing an investor pitch deck, in support of an integrated project combining a packing facility and a pineapple processing unit.Beyond a simple formalisation exercise, the objective was clear: to strengthen the project’s economic credibility, maximise access to appropriate external financing, and support a value-creating local industrialisation pathway.The support enabled the consolidation of the business plan, aligning financial assumptions, commercial strategy and impact indicators, while clarifying the narrative for investors. A targeted mapping of financiers – banks, funds and public instruments – was carried out to identify the most relevant funding windows, in line with the project’s maturity and risk profile.COLEAD also supported the development of a structured and investor-ready pitch deck, highlighting the value proposition, business model, use of funds, team and expected impacts. This work enabled the initiation of initial concrete exchanges with investors and the activation of a credible financing pipeline.This intervention illustrates COLEAD’s growing role, here through FFM+, as an investment facilitator, operating at the interface between technical assistance, the economic structuring of enterprises and dialogue with financial actors. By strengthening project bankability and companies’ capacity to engage with financiers, COLEAD helps create the conditions for sustainable transformation of agri-food value chains.The next steps will focus on refining the financing plan based on feedback received, securing key operational prerequisites (offtake intentions, supplier quotations, guarantees), and prioritising the investors to be engaged, with a view to achieving a balanced mix of debt, grants and quasi-equity.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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Securing access to the eu organic market: COLEAD support to SPA-IMPEX/CI in Côte d’Ivoire
In Korhogo, Côte d’Ivoire, the COLEAD supported SPA-IMPEX/CI in achieving compliance with the European Union organic regulation, under the Fit For Market Plus (FFM+) programme. The objective was to secure and expand export opportunities for mango and processed banana products, while strengthening the company’s internal organisation and long-term credibility.The support focused on the full structuring of an operator group (OG) in line with EU Organic requirements. A comprehensive documentation system was established, including twelve operational procedures, governance documents (producer contracts, internal regulations, organisational chart), as well as traceability and monitoring tools (inspection sheets, activity registers, organic labels). A risk assessment and action plan were also developed to secure the system.An internal inspection campaign was carried out with eleven producers and the drying facility, validating producers for integration into the organic scheme. The COLEAD further supported SPA-IMPEX/CI in preparing for the external audit, in close coordination with the certification body ECOCERT, including scope definition, technical files and product and input inventories.Key results have been achieved. Organic certification was granted for the dried banana processing unit, with the initial audit confirming compliance. For mango, a complementary audit is planned following the resolution of a limited number of identified adjustments. SPA-IMPEX/CI now operates a fully functional system, with internal control, traceability and standardised governance in place.Beyond regulatory compliance, this support strengthens more sustainable production practices, including biodiversity protection, reduced input use and enhanced traceability, while reinforcing market credibility with European partners. It also lays the groundwork for scaling up organic mango exports from the 2026 season onwards.This intervention illustrates the COLEAD’s approach under FFM+: supporting operators at micro level, while enabling durable access to international markets through structured, credible and results-oriented compliance systems.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.