OUR
Our programs address five barriers faced by rural farming communities: access to land, knowledge, inputs, markets and capital. Practical education, agricultural support and local innovation connect these pillars.
Our strategy
Five pillars for rural prosperity
Rural prosperity depends on more than a good harvest. Families need land they can cultivate, useful knowledge, suitable inputs, buyers and resources to invest. Our five pillars guide the design of agricultural and resilience programs.
01
Access to land
- The barrier :
Congo has extensive arable land, yet farming households may lack access to accessible plots. Some landowners do not depend on agriculture for their livelihood. Insecurity also displaces families, who may struggle to find land in host communities.
- Our response :
Mavuno negotiates with landowners to enable beneficiaries to cultivate. Technical expertise and our soil fertility laboratory help local partners identify land suited to the crops they choose.
02
Access to Knowledge
- The barrier :
Farmers may lack practical advice adapted to their soils, crops and local conditions.
- Our response :
Farmer field schools, demonstration plots and practical training help farmers test and apply improved practices. The Rural Development Center supports learning through experience.
03
Access to inputs
- The barrier :
Appropriate seeds, tools and other inputs may be unavailable or unaffordable, particularly after displacement or a crisis.
- Our response :
Agricultural support connects households with suitable inputs and guidance on their use, according to the needs and resources of each program.
04
Access to markets
- The barrier :
Producing more does not guarantee income when farmers lack buyers, market information or the means to maintain product quality.
- Our response :
Mavuno supports crop choices informed by demand, product quality, processing and connections between producers and buyers. Business coaching helps entrepreneurs plan viable agricultural activities.
05
Access to capital
- The barrier :
Limited savings and access to finance can prevent families from investing in production or developing a business.
- Our response :
Community savings and loan groups (AVEC/VSLA) help members pool savings, manage funds and finance income-generating activities under rules agreed by the group.
These pillars work together
Training has greater value when families can access land and inputs; production contributes to livelihoods when products can reach markets and income can support future investments.
Agriculture Development
We equip farmers with modern agricultural techniques, improved inputs and sustainable farming practices that increase productivity, strengthen resilience and improve household incomes.
Activities
- Climate-smart agriculture
- Farmer training
- Demonstration plots
- Improved seed systems
- Soil fertility management
Agribusiness Development
We help farmers and entrepreneurs move beyond production by building profitable agricultural enterprises and connecting them to markets.
Activities
- Value chain development
- Business coaching
- Market access
- Cooperative strengthening
- Financial literacy
Mavuno Academy
Mavuno Academy provides education and practical training that prepares young people to become leaders, professionals and entrepreneurs.
Activities
- Basic Education
- Nutrition training
- Agriculture training
- Veterinary training
- Agro-industry training
Livestock & Veterinary Services
We improve livestock production and animal health through training, veterinary support and modern husbandry practices.
Activities
- Veterinary services
- Animal health campaigns
- Poultry production
- Goat and cattle management
- Breeding improvement
Nutrition & Food Security
We promote healthy families and stronger communities through nutrition education and food security initiatives.
Activities
- Nutrition education
- Kitchen gardens
- Child nutrition programs
- Food security initiatives
- Community awareness
Entrepreneurship & Employment
We equip young people and community members with practical skills to start businesses, create jobs and increase household income.
- Business incubation
- Employment readiness
- Small business development
- Financial management
- Youth entrepreneurship
OUR APPROACH
Train. Produce. Multiply.
TRAIN
We develop the skills and knowledge of farmers, students, entrepreneurs and community leaders through practical, hands-on training.
PRODUCE
We demonstrate viable solutions through our Rural Development Center, agricultural enterprises and practical field projects.
MULTIPLY
Communities adopt and replicate successful practices, creating sustainable growth and lasting transformation.
RURAL DEVELOPMENT CENTER
A Living Laboratory for Sustainable Development
A place where farmers, students, entrepreneurs and communities learn, innovate and build sustainable livelihoods through practical experience.