1. How does the network benefit your organisation?
The informal contact between members is useful for joint activities, such as the oilseed trajectory in Uganda.

2. Please give an example of a joint action, in which the APF network played a visible role.
The oilseed trajectory is an example of joint action. The follow-up of these kinds of trajectories within the APF network is mostly taking place on a meso-level, looking into gathering information, market research and seeking financing. PUM looks for micro-level follow-up, to offer to our senior experts. We hope APF would more closely oversee that country action plans are translated into concrete actions on the micro-level. Development activities are much more effective when synergy is created between micro and meso activities.

3. If you were in charge, what should the APF network look like in 5 years’ time?
Currently the members of the APF network are rather uniform, whereas a stronger diversity in the membership would enhance complementarity during trajectories. This would then lead to more collaboration between more partners (in a more multi-stakeholder setting). Thus in the coming years there would be more practical trajectories. In order for this to be successful, NGOs need to speed up their decision-making process in order to better connect with private sector players. At the same time the private sector may rush into action too quickly and the input of the NGOs may lead to a more balanced approach.

4. How will your organisation contribute to the APF network in the next 2 years?
Although PUM consultants are not structurally present in the countries, the local PUM organisation consists of local representatives. It is possible to put an expert in place within 2-3 months and use this opportunity more frequently. PUM wishes to increase its activities in the Agri-Hubs and more actively offer its knowledge and participation in joint trajectories. In this way APF members and their partners can benefit from the senior expertise from the Netherlands.

Contact: Alex Meerkerk

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