IFDC Annual Report 2014 | Page 13

Improve Efficiency of Input Markets In Nigeria, IFDC implemented the GES-TAP pilot program, reaching more than 500,000 farmers. The technology improves the speed and veracity of information collected about subsidy-registered farmers. It permits farmers to redeem their voucher without an internet connection by using a “TAP” card. In a project in Burundi, IFDC supported the National Subsidized Fertilizer Program, enabling nearly 650,000 (twice the target) to access fertilizers. Improve Management Capability and Profitability of Farm Enterprises The Kyrgyz Agro-Input Enterprise Development (KAED) Follow-On project demonstrated increased productivity and profitability of livestock farming through improved feed production and rations, animal health and breed quality. To support the productivity of the livestock sector, the KAED Follow-On project launched the first privately-run Animal Reproduction Biotechnology Center in the Kyrgyz Republic. The USAID-supported Biotechnology Center will introduce modern semen production technology to produce improved genetic material for artificial insemination to help livestock farmers improve breed quality. Three KAED-sponsored consultants provided assistance in several areas: care and feeding of cattle, marketing plans for more widespread use of artificial insemination and environmental compliance. The project concluded in 2014. Strengthen and Support Robust Output Markets The pan-African 2SCALE project is collaborating with more than 265,000 farmers in nine subSaharan African countries. The project completed its “brokering phase” by establishing 53 key viable PPPs, each with multiple value chain supporters (microfinance institutions, agro-input suppliers, etc.). Large lead firm partners include Heineken and Friesland Campina in Nigeria, Agrico in Kenya and East West Seed International in several countries. African principal firms include AACE Foods in Nigeria, GUTS Agro in Ethiopia, PROSEMA in Mali and Nile Breweries in Uganda. As of December 2014, 77 business support services (BSSs) and 199 coaches supported the agribusiness clusters, which engage all actors needed to incubate profitable commodity-based value chains. Analyze, Inform and Influence Policy Reform The African Union (AU) requested IFDC to prepare a background paper on fertilizer policy in Africa to inform the AU’s 2014 meetings. At the 10th AU-Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) Partnership Platform meeting, IFDC contributed to the CAADP agenda for the next 10 years of continental, regional and national policy implementation. Some recommendations from the background paper contributed to resolutions adopted in the Malabo Declaration on Accelerated Agricultural Growth and Transformation for Shared Prosperity and Improved Livelihoods. In addition, IFDC conducted country fertilizer assessments in 12 USAID FTF sub-Saharan African countries (Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, Senegal, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia) under USAID funding. These reports estimate the fertilizer required to achieve the agricultural growth objectives articulated in these countries’ investment plans and identify key challenges in the supply of the expected increase in fertilizer use. They also provide a range of policy options and reforms to improve value chain efficiency, reduce fertilizer costs and enhance productivity through improved technology adoption. 11 | 2014 ANNUAL REPORT