Abstract
This review paints a nuanced picture of community-based marketing initiatives (CBMIs) in Zimbabwe, Malawi, and South Africa, highlighting their potential to empower smallholder farmers and contribute to sustainable agriculture. Diverse organisational structures, from centralised models offering efficiency to decentralised ones fostering ownership, provide pathways to market access, fair prices, and reduced dependence on intermediaries. Initiatives like Mbare Musika Market, Blantyre Farmers Market, and Farm in the Veld exemplify this potential, connecting farmers directly to consumers and promoting sustainable practices. Beyond economics, CBMIs foster knowledge sharing, community engagement, and a sense of ownership. This collaborative spirit empowers not just individuals but entire communities. However, challenges like fluctuating demand and regulatory hurdles persist. The road ahead requires continued research, investment, and support, but the potential rewards—thriving farmers, resilient communities, and a flourishing food system—make it a pursuit worth striving for.
TopIntroduction
Smallholder farmers across Southern Africa, including Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Malawi, face significant challenges in achieving sustainable livelihoods. Limited access to resources, information, and infrastructure hinders their productivity, contributing to food insecurity and poverty (Gono, 2020; Dhillion & Moncur, 2023). Smallholder farmers globally lack the necessary information on climate change and capital to buy farming equipment and inputs, leading to decreased agricultural productivity, increased poverty, and food insecurity (Gono, 2020). Adopting sustainable agricultural practices is hindered by climate change, soil fertility depletion, and limited access to services and irrigation infrastructure (UNDP, 2023; Murendo et al., 2016). Climate change and soil degradation further exacerbate these issues (UNDP, 2023; Murendo et al., 2016). Additionally, small-scale farmers encounter barriers to access, efficiency, and affordability of agricultural information, marketing, and weaker government policies (Dhillion & Moncur, 2023). Promoting sustainable agriculture is essential to build resilience and improve the lives of smallholder farmers in the region. Therefore, exploring innovative solutions that address their specific needs and challenges becomes critical.
Local market initiatives, like farmers' markets and CSAs, tackle several critical issues. They make it easier for people to buy fresh, local food (USDA, 2023). In CSAs, communities directly support farms, sharing risks and rewards (USDA.b, 2023). These programs also benefit the environment by promoting sustainable farming practices (Growing Small Farms). These initiatives boost local economies by connecting consumers directly to producers (Health Food Access). They also improve public health by making healthy food more affordable and accessible (Health Food Access). By accepting government assistance and offering discounts, they can further address food insecurity and promote healthy eating habits (Health Food Access). In short, these community-based programs are key to improving food access, local economies, and public health.