These guidelines have been prepared by IFOAM-Organics International as part of the
Global Policy Toolkit on Public Support to Organic Agriculture. This is a special adapted
version of a more complete report. It has been adapted to suit the needs and current
context of Sub-Saharan African countries. Country examples are chosen to reflect
situations that are most transposable to Sub-Saharan African contexts.
It makes political sense to support organic agriculture, as it contributes in many ways to
the welfare of society and to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. It is also an
infant economic sector with strong consumer demand and market potential.
Recognizing this, governments in all parts of the world have initiated public policies and
programs to support the organic sector. Such political support may be a result of
different political strategies and goals, such as tapping into export markets, or
addressing the issue of externalities in agriculture. Designing organic support policies
that will most effectively address those political goals and be adapted to the situation of
each country is a complex undertaking. These guidelines aim to assist policy makers and
advocates in their choice of appropriate policy measures.