The advent of the FARM+ program marks a transformative leap towards sustainable agriculture and climate resilience across eight diverse nations. Funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and spearheaded by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), FARM+ is the second phase of the Financing Agrochemical Reduction and Management (FARM) initiative. This ambitious program aims to catalyze significant improvements in agricultural practices while mitigating the environmental challenges of conventional farming.
A Collaborative Effort for a Sustainable Future
FARM+ exemplifies international collaboration, engaging the expertise and resources of the African Development Bank Group, the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), UNDP, the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), and the UN Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). This second phase builds on the groundwork laid by FARM, which is led by UNEP and supported by the Global Green Knowledge Platform (GGKP).
The program will operate in Benin, Costa Rica, Egypt, The Gambia, Ghana, Mauritius, Mexico, Nepal, and Nigeria, partnering closely with governments, agricultural stakeholders, and local communities. The ultimate goal is to transition these nations from unsustainable agricultural practices to systems that not only sustain but regenerate productive landscapes.
Objectives and Focus Areas
The FARM+ program is grounded in a holistic approach to agriculture, focusing on:
- Policy and Regulatory Improvements FARM+ will support governments in developing and enforcing policies and regulations that encourage sustainable agricultural practices and reduce dependency on harmful agrochemicals. This policy overhaul will create a conducive environment for long-term change.
- Enhanced Financing and Investment Access By connecting farmers and stakeholders to innovative financing mechanisms, FARM+ aims to enable investment in sustainable agricultural technologies and practices. Increased access to funding will empower farmers to implement eco-friendly methods and improve their productivity.
- Technical Assistance and Sustainable Alternatives The program will provide on-the-ground technical assistance to farmers and introduce alternatives to conventional practices. These include nature-based solutions that improve soil health and reduce water and soil pollution, contributing to better climate adaptation.
- Supply Chain Transformation Strengthening agricultural supply chains is another critical objective. FARM+ will work to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and ensure that sustainable practices are integrated into every step of the supply chain, from production to market.
- Knowledge Sharing and Global Dissemination FARM+ will facilitate the exchange of knowledge and best practices globally. By leveraging platforms like the GGKP, the program aims to amplify its impact and provide a blueprint for sustainable agriculture worldwide.
Tackling Key Challenges
The FARM+ initiative is designed to address the pressing challenges of agriculture, including:
- Soil and Water Degradation: Unsustainable farming practices have left soils depleted and waterways polluted. FARM+ focuses on regenerative practices to reverse these trends.
- Climate Vulnerability: By promoting climate-resilient techniques, FARM+ aims to protect farmers from the adverse impacts of climate change, ensuring food security and economic stability.
- Dependency on Agrochemicals: FARM+ advocates for reducing reliance on agrochemicals by offering eco-friendly and sustainable alternatives.
A Vision for the Future
As FARM+ begins its implementation, it promises to be a game-changer for agriculture in the participating nations. By integrating environmental sustainability, economic viability, and community empowerment, the program is poised to create a ripple effect, inspiring similar initiatives globally.
Through collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to regeneration, FARM+ is paving the way for a brighter, more sustainable future for agriculture. The journey has just begun, but its potential to transform landscapes, communities, and livelihoods is boundless.