2020 tested one of Tanager’s core values, agility. Beginning in February, our work and world was transformed by the COVID-19 pandemic. As the communities we serve faced unprecedented challenges to food systems and market access, Tanager pivoted to meet these new needs. We prioritized the safety of project participants and staff while continuing our mission of co-creating life-changing opportunities. Our funding partners stood with us. Our staff learned new and innovative ways of connecting with people to continue supporting the communities we serve. Our leadership reviewed our policies and procedures to ensure Tanager’s inclusivity and resilience. As we review this historic year, we are humbled by the response of our partners, staff, and communities where we work.
Engaging Farmer Producer Companies to Slow COVID-19 in India
Across India, Tanager works with Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) to improve the lives and livelihoods of smallholder farmers. Smallholder farmers – when brought together in an FPO or FPC – are better able to access training, increase productivity and profitability, negotiate with buyers, and access markets. FPOs and FPCs can also help farmers mitigate the effects of the pandemic.
IGNITE Shifts Training Tools & Data Collection to Virtual Delivery, Works with Local Service Providers
Tanager works at the intersection of agriculture, nutrition, and gender. The pandemic tested the resilience of food systems and women’s economic empowerment. The Impacting Gender & Nutrition through Innovative Technical Exchange in Agriculture (IGNITE) project works with Africa-based institutions – be they NGOs, businesses, or government entities – to incorporate gender sensitive and nutrition sensitive approaches into their ways of doing business. During COVID-19 the team pivoted from in-person to virtual trainings, using the tools developed under the IGNITE project to drive change and promote resilience within organizations.