Introduction
Agricultural cooperatives can play a crucial role in scaling production, improving quality, and negotiating better terms in export markets.
Cooperative Advantages
- Economies of Scale: Bulk production and bargaining power for inputs and outputs.
- Extension Services: Providing training, seed inputs, and quality control.
- Export Readiness: Meeting volume, consistency, and traceability demands
Current Gaps
- Governance Challenges: Weak leadership and accountability issues.
- Access to Finance: Limited credit and working capital.
Conclusion
Revitalizing and modernizing cooperatives will unlock broader farmer participation in high-value agricultural exports.