The article connects decent job creation with trade readiness, showing how inclusive agricultural systems improve both livelihoods and market competitiveness. When farmers, especially women and youth, gain access to training, finance, and markets, they not only increase income but also produce higher-quality goods that meet international standards. This integration of development and trade supports Canadian businesses seeking reliable, ethical suppliers.
In Nigeria, the focus is on addressing deep gender and youth disparities in agriculture. Through a co-created approach, the initiative strengthens grain value chains while tackling social and structural barriers that limit women’s and youth’s access to resources. The effort aims to shift power dynamics in agriculture while improving productivity, market access, and job creation at scale.
In Honduras, the work responds to climate volatility that threatens livelihoods in the Dry Corridor. By promoting climate-resilient practices, circular agri-food technologies, and stronger market systems, the initiative offers farmers sustainable alternatives to migration. Improved coffee and cacao production also supports ethical supply chains important to Canadian importers.
In the Philippines, the focus is on smallholder cacao farmers in Mindanao, where poverty remains high despite strong production potential. Through partnerships that link farmers, enterprises, cooperatives, and investors, the initiative strengthens market access, builds investment readiness, and supports sustainable business growth, with a strong emphasis on women and youth employment.
The blog concludes that real partnerships are complex but essential. Co-creation may take longer initially, but it leads to stronger ownership, faster implementation, and more durable results. By building functional ecosystems rather than isolated projects, these partnerships deliver lasting economic opportunity, resilient supply chains, and mutual benefits for communities abroad and businesses in Canada.
