Nairobi has launched sub-Saharan Africa’s first direct-to-consumer farmers’ market, enabling local farmers to sell fresh produce directly to shoppers. Open every Saturday at Rosslyn Square, the market features at least 30 participating farmers. This initiative, inspired by Italy’s Campagna Amica, aims to increase farmer profits while promoting sustainable agriculture and strengthening consumer relationships.
Nairobi has recently inaugurated the first direct-to-consumer farmer’s market in sub-Saharan Africa, providing Kenyan farmers an innovative outlet to sell their produce without intermediaries. This market, open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Rosslyn Square Shopping Centre, features at least 30 local farmers offering fresh produce sourced directly from their farms. By bypassing brokers, farmers can earn higher profits from their sales.
The initiative draws inspiration from the Campagna Amica model in Italy, renowned as Europe’s largest direct-to-consumer farm network. This market is a component of the broader Mediterranean and African Markets Initiative (MAMi), which receives funding from the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and support from organizations including the World Farmers Markets Coalition and CIHEAM Bari.
According to the Italian Embassy, this market not only aids farmers in connecting with consumers but also enhances their sales potential and income. The initiative emphasizes sustainable farming practices and fosters a stronger relationship between rural producers and urban consumers, marking a significant advancement towards establishing a comprehensive farmers’ network across Africa and the Mediterranean region.
The establishment of the farmer’s market in Nairobi addresses a pressing challenge faced by local farmers who traditionally rely on intermediaries (brokers) to sell their produce. This model often reduces farmers’ profit margins and limits their market access. The new direct-to-consumer model empowers farmers by allowing them to communicate directly with consumers, thereby enhancing transparency and economic viability. The project leverages successful strategies employed in Italy to develop sustainable farming and local food systems.
The launch of Nairobi’s first direct-to-consumer farmers’ market signifies a transformative step for Kenyan agriculture, empowering local farmers by enhancing their income potential and promoting sustainable practices. This initiative establishes a vital connection between rural producers and urban markets, further contributing to the development of a comprehensive farmers’ network in Africa. Overall, it represents a noteworthy advancement in agricultural marketing and food distribution within the sub-Saharan region.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
