Agricultural Value Chain Development and Commodity Market Access Services

DDI provides sustained value chain development and improvement to smallholder farmers’ groups and cooperatives, with access to the range of services necessary for enhancing agricultural products as they move from farm/producer to final consumer. DDI also assists CBOs, farmers cooperatives and producer groups, to increase their members’ incomes through efficient product marketing.

At DDI, our core mission is to propel the growth and prosperity of smallholder farmers and cooperatives by providing comprehensive Agricultural Value Chain Development and Commodity Market Access Services. We believe in empowering communities through efficient product marketing and sustained value chain enhancement, ensuring agricultural products traverse from farm to consumer seamlessly.

FAQs about DDI's Agricultural Value Chain Development and Commodity Market Access Services

What specific services does DDI provide to smallholder farmers and cooperatives?

DDI offers a range of services, including but not limited to:

Value Chain Enhancement: We work closely with farmers’ groups and cooperatives to improve every stage of the agricultural value chain.
Market Access Support: Facilitating access to markets and helping in product marketing to ensure optimal returns for the farmers.
Capacity Building: Providing essential training and support to enhance farming techniques, business skills, and financial management.

How does DDI contribute to increasing farmers' incomes?

DDI achieves this by empowering farmers with the tools and knowledge needed to enhance their productivity, streamline their processes, and access lucrative markets. Through collaborations with organizations like USADF, we’ve witnessed remarkable success stories of income growth for the communities we serve.

How does DDI ensure sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural practices?

At DDI, sustainability is at the core of our initiatives. We promote eco-friendly farming practices, including organic farming methods, efficient water use, and waste reduction. Our goal is to ensure that agricultural development goes hand in hand with environmental stewardship.

What types of training programs does DDI provide to farmers and cooperatives?

DDI offers a diverse range of training programs tailored to the needs of farmers and cooperatives. These may include workshops on modern farming techniques, financial literacy, quality control, and market trends. Our aim is to equip agricultural communities with the knowledge and skills necessary for long-term success

How does DDI address challenges related to access to credit for smallholder farmers?

Access to credit is crucial for the growth of smallholder farmers. DDI collaborates with financial institutions and government bodies to facilitate credit access for farmers. We also provide guidance on financial management, helping farmers build creditworthiness and access the funds needed for investment and expansion.

Can individual farmers benefit from DDI's programs, or is the focus primarily on cooperatives?

DDI’s programs are designed to benefit both individual farmers and cooperatives. We recognize the diversity of agricultural structures and work towards empowering farmers at all levels. Whether you are a smallholder farmer or part of a cooperative, our services are tailored to meet your specific needs.

Some Success Stories

Women Farmers Advancement Network (WOFAN)

USADF’s grant of $207,620 empowered WOFAN to expand their rice production and processing capacity, resulting in increased revenue, diversification into value-added products, and international recognition.

Smallholder Farmers’ Resilience in the BAYG States Through USAID’s Rural Resilience Activity

Amidst 2022’s devastating floods, 299 smallholder farmers in the BAYG States, supported by the USAID-funded Rural Resilience Activity by Mercy Corps and DDI, found hope through innovative agric insurance by Pula Advisors. Swift payouts in 2023 not only aided their recovery but instilled renewed resilience and trust in facing climate challenges.

Gaskiya Dairy Farmers Cooperative Association (GDFCA)

A $115,644 grant transformed GDFCA’s dairy production, improving product quality, generating employment, and addressing challenges faced by Fulani women in marketing their milk.

SMART Skills lead to value addition and improved profitability

Mallama Hawwa’u Abdullahi, a 59-year-old mother and entrepreneur from Huda Village, Kebbi State, experienced a remarkable transformation through SMART skills training, particularly in Marketing Basics, her groundnut oil business saw a 300% increase in weekly profits. Now owning machinery, a house, and sponsoring grandchildren in school, Hawwa’u’s journey showcases the profound impact of the project on empowering individuals and fostering community growth.

Tondi Gada Women Multi-Purpose Cooperative Association (TGWMCA)

With a USADF grant of $113,000 and support from DDI, TGWMCA increased rice production, diversified into certified seed production, and secured additional funding, making a significant impact on their community.

Dankwalli Cluster Rice Farmers Cooperative Association (DCRFCA)

Supported by a $115,082.01 Enterprise Expansion Grant from USADF, DCRFCA’s transformational journey led to a 6000% growth in revenue, expansion of cultivation capacity, and diversification into certified seed production, benefiting the entire region.

Call-to-Action

Join us in making a lasting impact on agricultural communities. Support DDI’s mission to empower smallholder farmers and cooperatives for sustainable growth. Contact us today to explore partnership opportunities and contribute to the agricultural development that transforms lives and communities. Together, we can create a future where agriculture is a catalyst for prosperity.