Background

The project aims to strengthen agribusiness networks and improve the livelihood of farmers by enhancing the capacity of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and related stakeholders. However, the project faced significant challenges in adhering to the bank’s compliance requirements and improving the technical and managerial capacities of the State Agricultural Marketing Board and Participating Financial Institutions (PFIs). With limited institutional capacity and a need for environmental and social safeguards, the project required comprehensive management, technical, and advisory support to ensure its successful execution and sustainability.

Our Approach

Primus Partners was engaged to provide end-to-end program management and technical support for the project. Our approach included:

1. Capacity Strengthening for FPOs
   We initiated targeted capacity-building initiatives to enhance the technical and managerial capacities of FPOs, ensuring their alignment with best agribusiness practices. This involved conducting Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) training to empower farmers with improved agricultural techniques.
2. ESMS Reports and Compliances
   We assisted the Project Society in preparing Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS) reports for subprojects, ensuring adherence to the bank’s environmental and social safeguards. Our team conducted due diligence, site visits, and drafted inspection reports to address environmental impact and social considerations, guaranteeing compliance throughout the project’s lifecycle.
3. Advisory Support to the State Agriculture Marketing Board and PFIs
   Our team facilitated training programs and workshops aimed at enhancing the technical and managerial capacities of key implementing agencies, including SAMB and PFIs. We also provided guidance on project management, transaction advisory services, and site-level innovations to ensure the smooth execution of project objectives.
4. Holistic Project Management
   We delivered comprehensive management and advisory support to the Project Society and implementing agencies, addressing challenges such as multiple compliance requirements and ensuring seamless coordination between stakeholders.

The Benefits

• Institutionalized the capacities of agribusiness institutions and strengthened FPOs for better value chain management.
• Enhanced the financial and technical abilities of FPOs and value chain operators, enabling them to access financial resources and improve market linkages.
• Improved agriculture value chain infrastructure for target horticulture crops, resulting in better resource allocation and sustainability.
• Ensured compliance with the bank’s environment and social safeguards, mitigating environmental risks and addressing social considerations for long-term project success.