uBumi PGS Zambia Organic

“Participatory Guarantee Systems” (PGS) are locally focused quality assurance systems. They certify producers based on the active participation of stakeholders and are built on a foundation of trust, social networks, and knowledge exchange.

(IFOAM-Organics International)

PGS groups are guided by 6 basic elements:

Shared Vision

The members of the PGS share a common goal based on a shared need and collectively embrace the principles of PGS and organic agriculture

Trust

“integrity-based approach” – trust and integrity form the ethical basis of the system.

Horizontality

The group has a flat equitable organisational structure, it is developed and managed by peers and not by a top-heavy management structure. All are responsible, all are accountable

Transparency

The system is open to public, stakeholder and peer scrutiny at all levels.

Participatory

The members participate in the development and management of the process and procedures of the PGS which is “owned’ and controlled and determined by the collective.

Learning Process

The assessments and the site visit process focus on skills and knowledge exchange, both in traditional knowledge as well as innovations. Local knowledge and experience from fellow farmers that consider the specific characteristics of the soil, the climatic conditions and the market is particularly useful and relevant for all farmers in the group.