Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP) Thematic Review: Agricultural Development and Food Security

Summary of publication

The 2019 Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP) Thematic Review focuses on agriculture, rural development and food security. Designed to facilitate collaborative learning, the Review provides insights into how NGOs are addressing development issues in this broad sector through ANCP-supported projects in Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR and Timor-Leste. The review also identifies opportunities for shared learning with a view to further strengthening development outcomes.

There are three key findings. Firstly, the agriculture and food security sector matters for the poor and the ANCP – poverty cannot be eradicated without improving rural livelihoods. Secondly, even the smallest projects are making an important difference. Finally, the extent and nature of market focus can be typified and considered more deliberately.

The Review also makes three recommendations: To focus on smallholders, engage with markets and help improve nutrition.