Very few Rwandan horticulture exporters are able to comply with the international standards required to access the global markets that would provide them with higher margins and opportunities.
IMSAR partnered with Control Union, a globally renowned testing and compliance company, to establish a cadre of independent national consultants that could assist exporters with pre-audit and audit services. By accessing pre-audit services delivered locally by national consultants, exporters are improving their capacity to comply with the audit required to obtain certifications. The availability of local consultants also reduces the cost associated with international consultants, making the certification process more accessible and affordable.
This brief describes the approach, results achieved and lessons learnt from this collaboration.