Examples

Examples of networks in the Agro-industry in Mauritius

The current reliance on intermediaries and distributors in the local agricultural sector generally excludes small, isolated and marginalized farmers from opportunities of market access and making fair gains from proceeds of their products. The three pilot networking projects identified try to address these constraints. The three pilot cases having been initiated and supported by a network of support institutions including AREU, FSC, AMB, SPWF, FARC, APEXHOM and the NPCC. Each project is mentored by a network facilitator who has been trained by a Commonwealth Secretariat consultant:

1. Network for marketing of vegetable products of Belle Mare and Trou d’Eau Douce

This project involves the creation of a marketing network with the participation of the cooperatives of Belle Mare and Trou d’Eau Douce. This network will act as a marketing channel for products produced in the region (onions, “bringelles” and “piments cabri”). The network is expected to increase market penetration, diversify markets and provide better prices for the products of the region.

2. Network for production and processing of “onion mars” in the South East

The networking project will empower farmers to move into higher value added activities through minimal processing, branding and marketing of “onion mars” and minimally processed “onion mars” products. The product will target both high end local markets and exports. This project is expected to improve the livelihood of marginalised farmers of the South east region (Grand Sable, Petit Sable, and Bamboux Virieux).

3. Network for export of litchis in the North

The project aims at building the capacity of the planters of the Litchis du Paradis Cooperative Society to tap high value markets and increase their individual profitability. This will be achieved by empowering the members of the cooperative to work together to tap opportunities in the value chain, address selling and marketing constraints and improve product quality.