From Seed to Shelf: Value Chain Dynamics in Kenyan Horticulture (Presentation)

On October 5, 2005, David Knopp, Chief of Party for the Emerging Markets Group Kenya BDS project, presented “From Seed to Shelf: Value Chain Dynamics in Kenyan Horticulture." The presentation was the fifth installment of the Linking Small Firms to Competitiveness Strategies Breakfast Seminar Series sponsored by the USAID Microenterprise Development office.

Mr. Knopp presented a thorough explanation of the Kenya BDS project and how, using a value chain approach, it has affected the avocado market there. Mr. Knopp illustrated the commercial viability of the advances made to date, discussed the growing demand for stand-alone business development services as non-project players see their value, and noted remaining challenges, particularly the need to form producer groups and the advances necessary if Kenyan avocados are to meet EurepGap and organic standards.