Access to finance: Key for horticulture transformation
Horti-LIFE works with financial institutions to expand farmer's access to tailored loans needed to invest in agricultural technology and practices.
Abstract
HortiLIFE expanded smallholder farmers’ access to finance by partnering with four financial institutions to design tailored horticulture loan products backed by a Birr 48.1 million guarantee fund. Through Farmer Field Schools, banks gained confidence in horticulture’s profitability, enabling loans for inputs, irrigation, and improved practices. So far, 2,343 farmers accessed Birr 149.92 million, with a 98.3% repayment rate. Capacity building, gender-sensitive engagement, and loan-use monitoring strengthened performance. The model now operates in 67 woredas, demonstrating that horticulture finance provides a low-risk scalable approach that contributes to resilient smallholder livelihoods.
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