START-AFRICA

The START (Science Technology and Agricultural Resource Transformation) initiative is an online platform on which agricultural products produced in the Democratic Republic of Congo can be marketed nationally and internationally. The platform will connect large, medium and small farmers with traders and businesses while facilitating negotiations and financial exchange.

The START platform provides farmers with free information on sustainable agronomic practices as well as information and advice on high-yielding seeds; where to find them, how much they cost, the use of fertilizers and modern irrigation techniques and the benefits of applying these inputs. Information on pest and disease control systems as well as planting and harvesting periods, legal and financial advice is also available to all farmers and any other members registered on the platform.