The term smallholders is commonly understood to describe individuals or families who manage and cultivate small plots of land, usually for subsistence purposes or local market sales. Yet, there is a growing and misleading notion that smallholders must operate entirely on their own, without any involvement from third parties such as industries or support organizations. This narrow interpretation can be detrimental, potentially undermining both the sustainability of their practices and their long-term livelihoods.
In practice, smallholders often depend on external collaboration and support to thrive. Key areas where assistance is crucial include access to markets, financial services, infrastructure, and technical guidance. One particularly important factor is the presence of off-takers or buyers who can consistently purchase their products. This market linkage is essential in ensuring that their production efforts translate into tangible economic benefits. Without dependable market access, even the most capable and hardworking smallholders may face difficulties in securing a stable income or scaling up their operations in a sustainable way.