Reliable data is essential for understanding farmers’ challenges and identifying solutions that improve productivity, income, and food security. To improve the quality of information collected in the field, Sasakawa Africa Association (SAA) Mali, with support from The Nippon Foundation, organized a training session on Business Farming Model (BFM) data collection for government extension agents and Commodity Association Traders/Trainers (CATs).

Capacity building of CAT and state agents on Business Farming Model (BFM) data collection.

The training focused on improving the accuracy, consistency, and reliability of farm-level data on household characteristics, labor use, cultivated land, crop management practices, and agricultural production. Participants also strengthened their skills in data recording and quality assurance to support more effective program monitoring and advisory services.

Following the training, field agents collected information from 35 farmers across five centers. The data will help generate a clearer understanding of local farming systems and identify opportunities to improve farm productivity and profitability.

By analyzing factors such as crop combinations, land allocation, and production practices, the Business Farming Model approach supports evidence-based decision-making and enables more targeted advisory services for farmers. The information gathered will also contribute to improving program planning and resource allocation.

Participants from Post Harvest and Trade Centers (PHTCs) engaged in a training session on improving the accuracy and reliability of agricultural data for better.

 Through this initiative, SAA Mali is strengthening field-level data systems that support better agricultural advice, more informed decisions, and ultimately improved outcomes for farming households. The activity highlights the importance of quality data in advancing sustainable agricultural development and food security.