Written by Marzia Pafumi, FAO 

Federations of tree growers and forest producers are on the rise in Africa. They help smallholders in dealing with tenure arrangements, accessing markets and financial services, getting quality extension and capacity development support. To be effective, they need to be able to access and share relevant information, but also to articulate members' views and dialogue with governments to influence policy formulation.

Written by the CCComDev team

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Association of Community Radio Broadcasters (AMARC) are launching a survey to map the work of its affiliates, community media networks and communication practitioners engaged in communication for rural development. 

Written by Joseba Imaz, World Rural Forum

Gains in political commitment around Family Farming were one of the most notable results of the International Year of Family Farming IYFF-2014. Not just because of reaping results in the form of numerous laws, programs and other specific public policy improvements, but also because of the spirit of collaboration and understanding generated among different entities, institutions and organizations.

Written by Francesco Diasio, AMARC and Mario Acunzo, FAO

From August 10^th to 14^th 2015, the 11th World Conference of AMARC will take place in Accra. Hosted by the Ghana Community Radio Network (GCRN), the conference will address the theme “Community Radio: reframing and reconciling a world of dualities” and will be an opportunity to celebrate community radio, while strengthening its capacity to thrive in Africa.

The Forum on Communication and Community Media for Sustainable Rural Development will be one of the official events on August 13, 2015.