The first Agri-ProFocus mission, set up at the request of the Netherlands embassy in June, has been very successful. 15 organisations talked about the added value of the network  and are very much in favor of using an Agri-Hub to exchange expertise and create new opportunities for cooperation. SNV will now act as coordinating agency and start the preparations. SNV, WUR/KIT and Agri-ProFocus will work together closely to develop plans and make an inventory of potential members. In the autumn all members will meet in Benin to agree on a programme for 2012.

Partnerships between NGOs and private companies are a important focus in the new Agri-Hub. Participants agreed that new opportunities should be created in this area and that local and Dutch private companies have an important role to play in stimulating farmer entrepreneurship. It was also emphasised that the Agri-Hub should not be seen as a new network or programme. Instead it is an opportunity for NGOs, knowledge institutes and private companies to  exchange knowledge and strengthen existing programmes.

Some themes that will be looked at in the next months are:

1. Improving the cooperation between farmers and industrial buyers to allow for a stable supply of agricultural products.
2. Improving participatory decision making on the local level, to ensure that producers have a stake in decisions on agriculture and rural development.
3. Improving financial services for farmers, including insurance and credit supply.
4. To allow for a good exchange of expertise between members to improve value chains, specifically in cashew, cotton and mais.

There will be a specific focus on the water sector and on food security. Gender will also be looked at.

The economy of Benin  is growing at a rate of approximately 5% a year. The agricultural sector, specifically the production of cotton, is largely responsible for this growth.