International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)

HISTORY AND PRESENT STATUS

The aim of IFAD, as set out in its Agreement, is to mobilise additional financial resources from donors to be made available on concessional terms for agricultural development in developing member states. The Fund provides financing primarily for projects and programmes specifically designed to introduce, expand, or improve food production systems, and to strengthen related policies and institutions within the framework of national priorities and strategies.

South African membership was registered by the Treaty Section of the Office of Legal Affairs of the UN on 14 February 1997.

The main benefit that South Africa could derive from membership of IFAD, is access to low-interest loans for agricultural development. South Africa will also benefit from the procurement of South African goods and services for IFAD projects. Only members may tender for IFAD projects and South Africa, with its many resources and ideal location, would be a natural contender to participate in Sub-Saharan IFAD projects. South Africa will also have access to IFAD expertise and knowledge on the alleviation of poverty.

General discussions between IFAD and South Africa continue to ascertain areas of cooperation.

OTHER DEPARTMENTS AND COOPERATING ORGANISATIONS

Department of Agriculture