This paper focuses on specific experiences in Africa, involving small and medium farmers and agro-processors. The national and case-study approach adopted is related and complementary to the cross-cutting document on 'Agrifood processing' prepared by John Wilkinson. The objective of the paper is to scrutinize and illustrate the capacity of farmers-to-processors linkages in Africa to foster the effectiveness of agricultural growth for poverty reduction, make advantage of untapped sources of growth and generate pro-poor development through adequate institutions.