Partnering with Food Processors to Tackle Sourcing Challenges and Strengthen Farmers’ Livelihoods

Though this learning brief explore how partnering with food processors can strengthen smallholder farmers’ livelihoods while addressing critical sourcing challenges in food systems.

Drawing on insights from the Alliance for Inclusive and Nutritious Food Processing (AINFP) program, implemented by TechnoServe in partnership with USAID and Partners in Food Solutions, this brief examines how small and medium-sized food processors across East and Southern Africa are adapting their sourcing models. It shows that while processors often face challenges related to unreliable supply, inconsistent quality, and limited volumes, strategic investments in smallholder sourcing can help address these constraints while expanding economic opportunities for farmers.

The findings demonstrate that when processors invest in activities such as training farmers, improving access to inputs, establishing contracts, and strengthening aggregation models, they can increase the reliability and quality of their raw material supply while supporting higher productivity and incomes for smallholder farmers. This “win-win” approach strengthens supply chains, builds more reliable market linkages, and contributes to more inclusive and resilient food systems.

Download the full learning brief to explore insights and recommendations for donors, policymakers, and development partners to design programs that strengthen smallholder sourcing models and support both business growth and farmer livelihoods.