A workshop focused on agricultural value chains took place on September 23 in Sarh, Chad, bringing together producers, processors, traders, transporters, and institutional representatives. The event, organized by French Farmers and International Development (AFDI), is part of the Agro-Food Entrepreneurship Program (PEA), funded by the European Union and the French Development Agency (AFD). The program aims to sustainably and inclusively structure identified value chains in the strategic corridor.
The workshop's technical coordinator, Djamadjibeye Djasragnar, emphasized the importance of better structuring agricultural value chains, enabling work at local, provincial, national, and regional levels, as well as beyond borders, including export opportunities. The project focuses on structuring value chains from production to transformation and marketing, while supporting small and medium-sized enterprises. This approach considers the challenges faced at each stage of the value chain.
The workshop gathered various stakeholders, including producers, processors, traders, and transporters, as well as a representative from the Moyen-Chari Provincial Council. By bringing them together, the event aimed to identify difficulties encountered at each stage of the value chain and find common solutions. The workshop prioritized direct exchanges, with participants divided into working groups to identify constraints, share experiences, and propose improvement tracks.
The working groups' proposals were presented in plenary, leading to recommendations guiding the continuation of the PEA activities. Djasragnar called for frank and constructive exchanges, stressing the need for sustainable collaboration among value chain actors. He welcomed the presence of authorities and development partners, considering it a sign of the importance given to the economic and agricultural development of Moyen-Chari.
Through this workshop, AFDI aims to strengthen collective dynamics around agricultural value chains, promoting better articulation between production, transformation, transport, and marketing, while developing opportunities for local businesses and economic actors. The event allowed participants to engage in in-depth discussions, identifying challenges and potential solutions for the development of agricultural value chains in the province.
The AFDI's initiative seeks to support the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises, a crucial aspect of the program. By structuring value chains sustainably and inclusively, the project aims to have a positive impact on the local economy. The workshop's outcomes will inform the PEA's future activities, ensuring that the needs and concerns of various stakeholders are addressed.
The workshop's success relies on the continued collaboration of value chain actors, authorities, and development partners. By working together, stakeholders can address the challenges faced by the agricultural sector, unlocking its potential for growth and development. The AFDI's efforts to structure agricultural value chains in Sarh demonstrate its commitment to supporting Chad's economic and agricultural development.
Key points
- The workshop aimed to structure agricultural value chains sustainably and inclusively.
- The program focuses on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises.
- The event brought together various stakeholders to identify challenges and find common solutions.
