Nairobi has inaugurated the first direct-to-consumer farmers’ market in sub-Saharan Africa, allowing local farmers to sell fresh produce directly to consumers. Opening every Saturday, the market aims to enhance farmers’ incomes by eliminating brokers. Inspired by Italy’s Campagna Amica model and part of the Mediterranean and African Markets Initiative, the project promotes sustainable agriculture and urban-rural connections.
Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, has launched the first direct-to-consumer farmers’ market in sub-Saharan Africa, providing local farmers with a unique opportunity to sell their products without the involvement of middlemen. This innovative market, inaugurated on January 27 at Rosslyn Square Shopping Centre, will operate every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. local time, featuring around 30 local farmers offering fresh produce directly sourced from their farms.
By facilitating a direct sales model, farmers can significantly enhance their earnings by eliminating brokers from the sales process. This initiative is inspired by the successful Campagna Amica model from Italy, known as Europe’s largest direct-to-consumer farm network. It is part of the Mediterranean and African Markets Initiative (MAMi), which is supported by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs along with the World Farmers Markets Coalition and CIHEAM Bari, an agricultural organization.
The Italian Embassy emphasized the significance of this market, noting its role in connecting farmers with consumers, thus simplifying sales and boosting farmer incomes. Furthermore, the initiative encourages sustainable farming practices and fortifies the relationship between rural farmers and urban residents. The Embassy highlighted this development as a vital step towards establishing a broader network of farmers throughout Africa and the Mediterranean region.
The establishment of the farmers’ market in Nairobi marks a significant advancement in the agricultural sector within sub-Saharan Africa. By introducing a model that allows farmers to engage directly with consumers, this market not only enhances farmers’ economic viability but also positions Nairobi as a pioneer in direct-to-consumer agricultural sales. This initiative is also rooted in European practices, aiming to reinforce connections within the agricultural community and promote sustainability across regions.
In conclusion, the opening of Nairobi’s farmers’ market represents a crucial advancement for local agriculture, providing farmers with an equitable platform to sell their produce directly to consumers. This market not only promises to increase farmers’ incomes but also fosters sustainable farming practices while bridging the gap between rural and urban populations. Supported by international partnerships, this initiative paves the way for similar projects across Africa and the Mediterranean.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
