Training Initiative to Enhance the Efficiency of ETG's Maize and Soybean Supply Chains

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ETG, in collaboration with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) implemented a regional training program aimed at enhancing the efficiency of ETG's maize and soybean supply chains by improving the last mile distribution of inputs, the productivity, sustainability and the market linkage of smallholder farmers across Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, and Tanzania.

Launched in 2022, the initiative targets smallholder farmers involved in ETG’s maize and soybean supply chains. It focuses on improving agricultural practices, strengthening market linkages, and expanding access to quality agri-inputs and agri-tools such as fertilizers and knapsack sprayers through ETG’s Agri Inputs division. Implementation support is provided by the Empowering Farmers Foundation (EFF).

In addition to farmer training through village-based agens, the initiative supports agro dealers such as Muboto Agro, enabling them to extend services to underserved regions and improve access to inputs for rural farming communities, and farmer organisations.

Capacity building across the value chain

The program delivers structured training to multiple stakeholder groups critical to agricultural value chains:

• 150 village-based agents (VBAs) are trained to support local farmers through basic agronomic knowledge, farmer engagement, record keeping, farm business management, business planning, risk management and participate in the selling of agri-inputs and agri-tools to farmers around their areas.
• 150 agro dealers receive technical support in areas such as budgeting, planning, and business analytics to improve operational efficiency and expand service delivery in rural areas.
• 45 farmer organizations are trained on leadership and business basics, member relations, internal organizations & cash management, risk management and external engagement, business plan design, and how to operate more effectively as distribution and aggregation partners.

The program began with a Training of Trainers (ToT) delivered to 15 ETG agronomists, during which they were trained to deliver training to the target enterprises. Their inclusion ensures that internal capacity is built for sustained program delivery beyond its three-year term. This approach is also relevant for ETG, as it strengthens direct linkages with smallholder producers and target groups, supporting increased sales and the expansion of operations through training and support. IFC contributes technical expertise through its Agribusiness Leadership Program, providing content on sustainable agricultural practices, input optimization, and climate risk mitigation.

Progress in Zambia and expansion to additional markets

The first phase of the program began in Zambia. A recent progress update published by IFC details early outcomes, including improved farm planning, record keeping, and input utilization among participating farmers. Building on this success, the initiative was replicated in Malawi, and most recently expanded to Mozambique and Tanzania.  To access the report, click here.  In both Mozambique and Tanzania, a Training of Trainers (ToT) session was delivered by an IFC Master Trainer to 6 ETG agronomists, who are ready to provide training to village-based agents and farmer organizations, with plans to extend the reach to agro-dealers soon.