Future of Family Farming Report on IIED's work 2000-2005

Document begins: Future of Family Farming Report on IIED's work 2000-2005 Many governments in the Sahel are pursing radical agricultural reform. Policies to support modernisation of the sector and promote large scale commercial enterprises are seen as crucial to increasing agricultural productivity and reducing poverty. But will it work? Debate continues on the appropriateness and feasibility of this policy direction. Some fear it will increase poverty, while others claim that modernisation through foreign investment is the way forward. This is the final report of IIED's programme on the Future of Family Farming. This initiative contributed this discussion by providing case study material and enabling partners to debate these issues at local, national and international levels. The Future of Family Farming Agriculture is central to countries in West Africa. Over 70% of the population rely on farming for their livelihoods and it accounts for between 30 and 50% of gross national product. Family farming is the economic backbone of the region. But equally, it is crucial to the fabric of society; this livelihood system encompasses, social, cultural and spiritual values and benefits as well as food production. It provides the means for both social and economic production and reproduction. Understanding these ...