Access to Agricultural Productivity and Markets

ACCESS TO PRODUCTIVITY AND MARKETS

JFS-RESET's integrated strategy goes beyond simple market access: it fosters a robust infrastructure that drives community-based agricultural productivity. The JOÃO AGRICULTOR distribution and retail network, developed and managed by RESET, is the central axis of this transformation—designed to become the backbone of the rural business ecosystem.

This network is based on cotton production, creating synergies and promoting local empowerment through a community-based franchise model with stores owned by small local entrepreneurs. JFS-RESET manages large-scale distribution and financing while communities gain autonomy through ownership and operation of the stores.

NEW MODEL FOR COMMUNITY STORES

This model represents a structural change: it moves away from a centralized system and towards a decentralized model, managed by local entrepreneurs. The stores have direct support from the JFS-RESET logistics center in Cuamba, and have online access to orders, door-to-door deliveries, and financial services.

This not only facilitates access to agricultural inputs, but also creates a distribution channel for local production. Currently, the JOÃO AGRICULTOR network has 12 active stores, and the plan is to expand it to serve nearly 700 communities.

INNOVATION WITH COMMUNITY AGENTS

These stores also integrate community sales agents, such as the “Eco-Warriors,” and apply an impact model with home delivery—delivering essential goods to the farmer's home without transportation costs, using the same trucks that collect the cotton. This program generated US$30,000 in purchases delivered directly to families in 2024 alone.

This model increases economic resilience in communities by strengthening the link between local production, retail, and consumption.

RESULTS AND IMPACT

• 12 active JOÃO AGRICULTOR stores in rural communities (2024)

• US$1.8 million in sales volume in these communities (2024)

• 100% of farmers use the stores to buy essential family goods, such as capulanas (54%), feminine hygiene products (41%) and school supplies (26%).

This system of stores represents a regenerative economic model, with a direct impact on poverty reduction, easier access to essential products, and inclusive economic development — placing communities at the center of the value chain.

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RESET is committed to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study is linked to several SDGs. The SDGs, also known as the Global Goals, were adopted by the United Nations in 2015 as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure that by 2030 all people enjoy peace and prosperity.