Publication

This working paper describes factors which make the situation of small farms precarious, such as globalization, unfair competition and the spread of HIV/AIDS. The report underlines the need for a concerted effort by governments, NGOs and the private sector to create a more equitable and enabling economic environment for small farmers. As possible interventions, the author suggests effective marketing organizations, targeted agricultural research and extension, revamping financial systems to meet small farm credit needs, improved risk management policies, better education and training, and where all else fails, targeted safety net programs.