Agriculture and Economic Development

We promote sustainable agricultural and economic development in rural and disadvantaged regions, such as Central Asia and Mozambique. Our focus is on empowering communities and individuals to enhance their economic self-sufficiency and build resilience against global challenges.

Our approach includes supporting smallholder farming families and micro-entrepreneurs by creating fair conditions and strengthening capacities in food security, quality standards, and certifications (such as Fairtrade and GlobalG.A.P.), particularly in Central Asia. We develop innovative and equitable value chains (e.g., for chili in Colombia, sesame and moringa in Mozambique, as well as marielle and melon in Central Asia) and enhance market access for smallholder farmers and entrepreneurs.

We also establish protected geographical indications, such as the traditionally dried apricot with kernel (Asht Apricot) in Tajikistan, white honey (At-Bashi White Honey) in Kyrgyzstan, and the cultivated apple (Almaty Aport Apple) in Kazakhstan. By supporting smallholders in forming their own cooperatives, we ensure product quality and successful marketing of these protected products. This strengthens local value creation, preserves traditional production methods, and improves the income of smallholder families.

Additionally, we support disadvantaged individuals, particularly young women and men, in their journey toward self-employment by providing capacity-building, business tools, and mentoring. This fosters inclusive economic growth in countries such as Tunisia, Tajikistan, Georgia, and Lebanon.