The second phase of the STOSAR II Project introduces Value Chains as a new strategic component. This addition aims to strengthen regional capacity for a climate-relevant, productive, inclusive, and sustainable transformation of agriculture and food systems in Sub-Saharan Africa.
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) defines agrifood systems as the full set of activities and actors involved in bringing food from “farm to fork” meaning from production and processing to trade, consumption, and waste management. Agrifood systems also include non-food products that sustain livelihoods, as well as the economic, social, and environmental dynamics that shape them.
Transforming agrifood systems is essential for progress across the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It means not only increasing agricultural productivity, but also improving nutrition, advancing environmental sustainability, creating inclusive economic opportunities, and reducing inequalities. The United Nations has identified food systems as one of six critical transitions needed to accelerate achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
This component strengthens the capacity of agricultural institutions, producers, and private sector actors to innovate and collaborate. It promotes sustainable practices including agro-ecological approaches, while building stronger, more inclusive supply chains. The emphasis is on developing regional initiatives that deepen investments and trade in selected value chains, namely: horticulture (coffee, citrus, avocados, bananas); livestock (beef, goats, poultry) and cereals (maize).
This component will strengthen the capacity of the SADC Member States to:
- Expand regional production, agro processing/ value-addition capabilities and boost intra-regional trade. Increase the operational capacity of regional and national producers’ organizations and agricultural industrial associations.
- Develop inclusive, climate-smart supply chains that promote agro-ecological practices and reduce carbon footprints and foster environmental responsibility.
- Mobilize private sector and green investments into targeted value chains
STOSAR II Key Activities (2024–2028)
- Conduct Value Chain Analysis (VCA) for prioritized chains and develop Sector Development Plans to guide National Agricultural Investment Plans.
- Assess and strengthen the capacity of industry associations and farmer organizations to scale up agro-ecological practices, improve market access, and facilitate trade.
- Raise awareness among stakeholders on transboundary pests and diseases (TBP&Ds).
- Identify and promote innovative, investment-driven, agro-ecological solutions to address TBP&D challenges.
- Facilitate investment matchmaking and promote private sector engagement, including green investments in regional trade.
Partnerships and Collaborations
The Value Chains component will be delivered through strong partnerships with:
- SADC Member State Ministries of Agriculture
- SADC Secretariat: Directorate of Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources (FANR) and the Industrial Development and Trade Directorate (IDT)
- Private sector actors and industry associations
- Impact investors, financial institutions, and development partners
- National research and innovation organizations
The Value Chains component complements the other thematic focus areas of the STOSAR II Project by addressing gaps in production, processing and trade. Together, these components contribute to the project’s overarching goal of fostering climate-relevant, productive, inclusive, and sustainable agrifood systems across the SADC region. By strengthening institutions, deepening regional integration and creating opportunities for farmers, industry, and the private sector, Value Chains reinforces the broader outputs of STOSAR II and advances the implementation of the SADC Regional Agricultural Policy (RAP).