Participatory Guarantee Systems in Tanzania: Locally Focused Quality Assurance Systems

Abstract

Participatory Guarantee Systems (PGSs) are alternative certification schemes for organic products, built on trust and social networks, and intended for local markets. In contrast to third party export-oriented certification schemes, farmers working with PGSs are directly involved in the implementation of the system. Farmer-to-farmer peer-review is also an essential feature, built on equality and knowledge-sharing between the inspector and the inspected. The Maendeleo Group was one of the first organisation of farmers in Tanzania to implement a PGS and receive permission to use the East Africa Organic Mark on their produce.