About Us

In 2017, the USAID-FUNDED ADVANCE II project initiated the development of zonal and regional OB networks as part of a strategy to ensure the project’s achievements with OBs and outgrowers would be sustained after the end of the project period. The OB networks serve as business associations that promote the interests of OBs, offer networking among OBs, provide business linkages, and advocate for their members.

By 2019, the project had facilitated the development of 18 zonal and 3 regional networks, of which 10 zonal and 3 regional networks are now part of the current Global Food Security Strategy (GFSS)[1] zone of influence. The OB networks have become the main forum for trade with key buyers and processors, a center for resources, learning and advocacy, and increased service delivery to smallholder farmers. In addition, they have been a focal point for response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Some of the core functions of the networks include:

·  Influence policy process and decision makers at the local and national level

·  Reduce cost of agricultural inputs through bulk purchases and organize collective marketing to realize economics of scale

·  Scout for markets, organize, and participate in trade missions to explore business opportunities

·  Work to lower the risk profiles of the network and individual businesses to attract investors

·  Provide information, mentorship, and business linkages to members

·  Perform any other actions or activities that will promote the interests of the networks and their members.

Some of the core functions of the networks include:

• Influence policy process and decision makers at the local and national level

• Reduce cost of agricultural inputs through bulk purchases and organize collective marketing to realize economics of scale

• Scout for markets, organize, and participate in trade missions to explore business opportunities

• Work to lower the risk profiles of the network and individual businesses to attract investors

• Provide information, mentorship, and business linkages to members

• Perform any other actions or activities that will promote the interests of the networks and their members.