Project description

In Burkina Faso green beans are cultivated by small farmers and cooperatives. Part of the production is exported to European countries. In the past these exports were quite large (in 2000 and 2001 between 2,200 and 2,900 tons). Lately the export of beans has been declining, partially due to the strict regulations on the European market, in 2003 the total export of beans accounted for six hundred tons.

The project partners have set up a joint venture for the export of green beans to the European market. The joint venture will standardise the production of green beans by training selected farmers on crop management, the use of fertilisers and pesticides. Furthermore the joint venture will provide the farmers with planting materials, fertilisers, tools and an irrigation system. The functioning of a good cold chain is essential in the hot climate of Burkina Faso. The joint venture will invest in the development of transportation, cooling, storage, processing and packaging of the green beans. Furthermore training will be given to farmers and processors on the newest European Union regulations regarding hygiene, food and product safety (Eurepgap).