"Integrated approach for sustainable horticulture in Côte d'Ivoire and the Netherlands"
RVO's Expertise Centre for Territorial Development realises sustainable territorial planning projects abroad, together with local stakeholders. These projects aim to stimulate the local economy and gain knowledge for the Netherlands. In Côte d'Ivoire, the Expertise Centre for Territorial Development works with the LNV Council (formerly the 'Agriculture Council') of the Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality. This cooperation aligns with the HortiNord programme. The programme identifies sustainable development opportunities for an old coffee and cocoa plantation.
Sustainable horticulture
Ben Kubbinga is the LNV councillor in the Dutch embassy in Côte d'Ivoire. He explains, "We enlisted the help of the Expertise Centre for Territorial Development. We needed their help mapping the area where we want to get started with the HortiNord programme. The area is about 200 hectares near the capital, Yamoussoukro. We want to start sustainable horticultural activities together with Dutch companies and local people."
Integrated approach
Côte d'Ivoire is one of 14 countries where this Combi Track programme is being established. Ben explains, "HortiNord is a strategic long-term programme focussing on trade and aid. It builds on the HortIvoire project that demonstrated the potential within the horticultural sector. We now aim to set up several projects with commercial Dutch players to get sustainable horticulture started in Côte d'Ivoire."
The team's added value
Ben goes on, "Thanks to the Expertise Centre for Territorial Development experts, we better understand what the Yamoussoukro District looks like. We know the locations with water sources and where we can apply which type of horticulture. Also, we have a better overview of the people living there and their needs and expectations. Gaining such an overall picture is crucial to setting up successful projects."
Foundation for the future
"The results of the team's study form the basis for Dutch and Ivorian parties to propose projects" concludes Ben. "We can ensure that the planned activities match the area's natural and social structure."
Would you like to know more about this project? Or learn about adopting a more integrated approach to the area where you want to invest?
Send an email to Maaike.snel@rvo.nl.
