CGIAR Initiative on Agroecology

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/117909

Part of the CGIAR Action Area on Systems Transformation

Primary CGIAR impact area: Environmental health and biodiversity

https://www.cgiar.org/initiative/31-transformational-agroecology-across-food-land-and-water-systems/

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Now showing 1 - 20 of 517

Heterogenous correlates of mechanization use and rural livelihoods in Zimbabwe: a quantile regression analysis
(Journal Article, 2025-01) Ngoma, Hambulo; Mukamuri, Billy; Silva, João Vasco; Baudron, Frédéric
The drive to mechanize and modernize African agriculture is in high gear, making the need for empirical evidence to guide mechanization investments critical. This paper assesses the heterogenous and distributional correlates of using mechanization and rural livelihoods in Chegutu and Zvimba districts of Zimbabwe, where a private sector company had the largest sales of different machinery across the country between 2019 and 2021. We used a quantile regression estimator and measured livelihoods using farm and household revenues. Based on survey data from 988 randomly selected households, we found that adoption was associated with rising land/labor ratio, market access and wealth. The use of mechanization was associated with a median annual increase of USD 262 in revenue with a wide range from USD 103 at the 25th percentile to USD 2,900 at the 95th percentile per year. The largest revenue gains were associated with post-harvest and irrigation equipment use, and in the upper percentiles of the revenue distribution. These findings call for (i) wealth agnostic promotional efforts to ensure equitable mechanization benefits, (ii) better targeting of mechanization types to farmer needs, and (iii) concerted efforts to strengthen mechanization service provision models.
Building climate resilience: Agroecology in the dry corridor
(Brief, 2025-02) Muller, Lolita; Steward, Peter; Rosenstock, Todd
KEY MESSAGES - The integration of agroecological practices stands out as a promising strategy to enhance resilience against climate hazards. - Agroecological practices such as mulch, crop residues, shaded trees and living barriers increase climate resilience by increasing soil moisture or decreasing soil temperature and erosion. - While agroecological practices may require initial investments, they are not an economic burden for smallholders. - This analysis leads to several actionable recommendations for policymakers and stakeholders including investing in farmer education on agroecology and providing financial support for the initial transition period.
Key insights from a community-based solar water pumping system in southern Laos. [In Lao]
(Brief, 2024-08-30) Pavelic, Paul; Sinavong, P.; Phompackdee, S.; Sinavong, S.
Key insights from a community-based solar water pumping system in southern Laos
(Brief, 2024-08-30) Pavelic, Paul; Sinavong, P.; Phompackdee, S.; Sinavong, S.
Harnessing the power of citizen science for agroecological transitions: The case of the One Million Voices of Agroecology Initiative and Digital Platform
(Journal Article, 2025-01-31) Fuchs, Lisa Elena; van Dien, Lily Cannell; Mondardini, Maria Rosa Rosy; Penunia, Ma Estrella Esther; Baguilat, Irish; Larrea Macías, Sergio Iván; Souza, Marcelo Soares; Formighieri, Eduardo Fernandes; Gonçalves, Murilo Gelain; Westphalen, Rodrigo B.; Pimentel, Vitória; Ricci, Fabio; Levina, Daria; Geck, Matthias
The One Million Voices (OMV) citizen science initiative aimed to harness the power of citizen science to support agroecological transitions globally. Its goal was to co-develop a citizen science platform that enables farmers, producer organizations, and consumers around the world to participate in agroecology movements, support agroecology adoption, and contribute to the co-creation and sharing of knowledge on the performance of agroecology. The OMV initiative used a facilitated co-design process that involved a global review, regional partnerships, and structured dialogues in four regions of the world, and a collective prioritization process to develop the scope and features of the emerging platform. Following the recommendation of the global review to build on existing networks, the project team partnered with Agroecology Map to develop the OMV of Agroecology platform. The key research question addressed by the platform is: What agroecological practices are being implemented around the world, with what effects, and by whom? Its main functions include the participatory mapping of innovative on-farm and off-farm agroecological practices, their characterization, and their evaluation. Users can also connect with each other, consult maps listing locations and practices, and access personalized summary data analyses. The data provide scientific evidence on the geographic spread and application of agroecology, preferences of agroecology actors, and context-specific performance assessments. Herein, we demonstrate how a global co-created citizen science process can be structured and leveraged in a transdisciplinary way. The OMV platform’s contribution to strengthening and shaping agroecological transitions worldwide will depend on decisive, broad, and diverse participation.
CGIAR Initiative on Agroecology: Technical report on the types, availability, quantities and spatial distribution of organic resources in Kiambu and Makueni Counties
(Report, 2024-12-30) Kuria, Anne; Wamaitha, Mercy; Mwangi, Victor; Onyango, Kevin; Bolo, Peter; Wanyama, Rosina; Adoyo, Beatrice; Fuchs, Lisa Elena; Korir, Hezekiah; Lelei, David; Awiti, Alex
Organic resources are a critical entry point for fostering agroecological transitions. They contribute to soil health, nutrient cycling, and biodiversity conservation, enhancing agricultural sustainability and resilience. Three primary sources are animal manure, crop residues, and purpose-produced organic resources from agroforestry. A systematic mapping initiative focused on these sources holds immense potential to facilitate informed decision-making, optimize resource utilization, and promote adopting agroecological practices across Kenya ALLs. We propose a systematic mapping of organic resources within agricultural landscapes, emphasizing animal manure, crop residues, and purpose-produced organic resources from agroforestry. This technical report presents results from a survey that was undertaken to identify and quantify the spatial distribution of organic resources that exist within the entire Kiambu and Makueni counties. Specific objectives: 1. To characterize the socio-economic profiles of communities in Kiambu and Makueni Counties. 2. To analyze the types and composition of organic resources, including their volumes, frequency of production, availability, uses, benefits, reasons for use, potential substitutes, outsourcing and purchasing costs, as well as sales and income generation. 3. To identify the challenges, opportunities, and solutions related to organic resource utilization, including implemented and unimplemented solutions and the barriers to their implementation. 4. To assess the existing skills of the Kiambu and Makueni county populations related to organic resource management, identify skill gaps, and determine training needs.
Cost-benefit analysis of agroecological interventions in green leafy vegetable business models in Kiambu County, Kenya
(Report, 2024-12) Onyango, Kevin; Ndiwa, Aurillia Manjella; Bolo, Peter; Wanyama, Rosina; Chege, Christine
There is a global consensus that agroecology is a sustainable approach for agriculture and food system transformation. This is largely through harnessing nature’s resources while minimizing adverse environmental effects and improving connectivity, knowledge co-creation and inclusive relationships among food system actors. However, there is limited evidence on whether this approach is economically viable, especially for the majority of low-income value chain actors like smallholder farmers. This study therefore sought to assess the costs and benefits of integrating selected agroecological innovations in green leafy vegetable (GLV) value chains in Kiambu County, Kenya. The study focused on three GLV business models with potential for agroecological transition – one input based and two output based models. The agroecological interventions assessed include a physical expansion of agribusiness enterprises to increase production capacity and diversity, introduction of out-grower model for increased organic input production, adoption of a participatory guarantee system (PGS) for food quality assurance, adoption of collective organic production and marketing for food safety, and improved linkages among value chain actors through communication, coordination and knowledge sharing. The study applied a cost-benefit analysis (CBA) in the assessment. Net Present Value (NPV), Internal Rate of Return (IRR), and the Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR) were applied as the evaluation criteria for the economic CBA. Additionally, thematic analysis was used to assess the social and environmental costs and benefits of the interventions in the three business models. At farm level, the results show a positive NPV across all the three models ranging from USD 130 to USD 1554, an IRR of 85% to 220%, and a BCR of 2.0 to 3.1. Similarly, at business level, the results show a positive NPV ranging from USD 320 to USD 9,684, an IRR of 24% to 29% and a BCR of 1.0-1.9. However, farm-level interventions have a shorter payback period compared to business level interventions. This shows that agroecology is economically viable at both farm and business levels. Results from the qualitative assessment also show perceived positive social and environmental outcomes of the selected interventions, implying that integration of agroecological interventions in food value chains has the potential to contribute positively to the overall food system transformation.
Farming for the future: Understanding factors enabling the adoption of diversified farming systems
(Journal Article, 2024-12-10) Sanchez-Bogado, Andrea Cecilia; Estrada-Carmona, Natalia; Beillouin, Damien; Chéron-Bessou, Cecile; Rapidel, Bruno; Jones, Sarah
Diversified farming practices offer a promising pathway to sustainable food production by providing economic, environmental, and social benefits to farmers and society. However, the factors influencing their adoption are poorly understood, hindering the development of effective promotion strategies. This study presents a comprehensive global meta-analysis of 154 peer-reviewed studies analysing factors influencing adoption. We examined the effects of 71 factors across nine key categories—biophysical context, farm management characteristics, farmers’ attitudes, political and institutional context (access to knowledge, land tenure, financial risk management), and five forms of capital (financial, human, natural, physical, and social)—on the adoption of ten diversified practices in 42 countries across five UN regions. Our results reveal that access to knowledge, social capital, and farmers’ attitudes are key enablers of adoption, surpassing financial, physical, human, and natural capital. Specifically, access to extension services, strong social networks, and perceived environmental benefits significantly correlate with adoption. Land ownership, household income, literacy levels, and shallow soils have smaller positive effects. The influence of these factors varies across practices and geographic contexts, highlighting the complex and multifaceted nature of adoption. These findings emphasize the need for holistic agricultural initiatives and policies to promote the adoption of sustainable practices. Strategies that build technical knowledge and social capital and that are tailored to local contexts, sociocultural norms, and market structures, considering farmers' perceptions and attitudes through codesign processes, are more likely to succeed. Adaptive and context-specific strategies are crucial for fostering the widespread adoption of diversified farming practices and a more sustainable agricultural future.
Exploring context-specific agroecological Integrated Soil Fertility Management (ISFM) strategies for enhanced sorghum productivity and livelihoods in Hwange District, Zimbabwe
(Report, 2024-12) Dube, Farayi; Magaisa, Alec; Dube, Thabani; Moyo, Martin
Climate change poses a significant challenge to Sub-Saharan Africa, with erratic rainfall patterns, prolonged droughts, and increased frequency of extreme weather events. These disruptions to agricultural production cycles exacerbate food shortages. Land degradation, driven by deforestation, overgrazing, and unsustainable farming practices, further diminishes soil fertility and reduces agricultural productivity. Agroecology offers a promising pathway towards more sustainable and resilient agricultural systems. ISFM, which synergistically combines organic fertilizers, mineral fertilizers, and improved germplasm, is seen as a pivotal entry point for transitioning smallholder farming systems in Africa towards agroecological production. This study aimed to assess the adoption levels of Integrated Soil Fertility Management (ISFM) practices among male and female sorghum farmers in Zimbabwe, analyze existing sorghum production systems, identify gender-based disparities in access to and utilization of ISFM technologies and inputs, and develop context-specific recommendations for enhancing sorghum productivity, ecosystem services, and livelihoods through agroecological ISFM strategies. The study was conducted in Hwange District, Zimbabwe, a semi-arid region reliant on rain-fed agriculture. Data collection involved in-depth interviews with selected farmers using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize quantitative data. This study provides snapshot on the current state of ISFM practices among smallholder farmers in Hwange District, Zimbabwe. The study revealed a mixed picture of ISFM adoption among sorghum farmers in Zimbabwe. While encouraging trends exist, such as the high adoption of improved varieties (76.20% for females and 78.50% for males) and the widespread use of intercropping (around 50% for both genders), several challenges hinder optimal ISFM implementation. A significant proportion of farmers utilize improved varieties and apply basal and top-dressing fertilizers, indicating a degree of adoption of input-based approaches. However, the application rates of these inputs are often suboptimal. Sorghum yields have exhibited significant variability and a decline over recent seasons, highlighting the vulnerability of production systems to climate shocks, such as the 2023/24 El Niño-induced drought. Over-reliance on crop production, particularly sorghum, exposes households to significant climate-related risks and limits livelihood diversification opportunities. Significant gender disparities exist in access to key agricultural assets, limiting women's ability to adopt and implement effective ISFM practices. While the overall gender disparities in the adoption of some practices are minimal, there are notable differences in access to resources and inputs, such as land, livestock, and agricultural machinery, which can significantly impact women's ability to adopt and benefit from ISFM practices. The study observed sub-optimal utilization of several key ISFM practices, including low rates of manure and fertilizer application, limited adoption of composting and mobile kraaling, and a slight decline in the use of intercropping and residue mulching. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to address the identified challenges and enhance the adoption and effectiveness of ISFM practices among sorghum farmers in Zimbabwe. To enhance the effectiveness of ISFM practices, it is crucial to address gender disparities by ensuring equitable access to resources, technology, and decision-making power for women farmers. This can be achieved through targeted interventions to improve women's access to critical agricultural assets. Furthermore, diversifying livelihoods through the adoption of agroforestry systems, promoting drought-resilient practices like drought-tolerant varieties and infield water harvesting, and supporting the development of local value-addition enterprises can enhance resilience and improve farmer incomes. To optimize ISFM practices, it is essential to encourage the adoption of labour-saving technologies such as direct seeders and rippers, promote microdosing techniques for fertilizer application, and enhance manure management practices by promoting composting and exploring alternative organic resources. Additionally, introducing composting education in schools can nurture a culture of composting among younger generations. Promoting and supporting the adoption of mobile kraaling technology through training programs and facilitating collective action among farmers can address labour constraints and improve soil health. Exploring alternative uses for crop residues, such as animal feed, while prioritizing their use for in-situ mulching, can also contribute to soil fertility improvement. Finally, providing farmers with guidance on selecting appropriate intercropping combinations based on soil type, climate conditions, and market demands, along with conducting practical training programs on the proper construction and utilization of basins and ripping techniques, emphasizing their benefits for water conservation and soil health, are crucial for optimizing the implementation of ISFM practices.
Farmer and Extension Staff Training on Agroecological Farming Practices
(Report, 2024-08-19) Dube, Farayi; Magaisa, Alec; Moyo, Martin
This report documents the activities of a three-day farmer training program conducted in August 2024 in Hwange and Lupane districts of Zimbabwe, focusing on enhancing the adoption of agroecological farming practices among smallholder farmers. Recognizing the significant impact of climate change, soil degradation, and declining agricultural productivity on these semi-arid regions, the training aimed to: 1. Introduce the principles of agroecology 2. Provide practical demonstrations of key Integrated Soil Fertility Management (ISFM) practices including compost making and urea treatment of stover 3. Facilitate knowledge exchange and peer learning through interactive sessions and discussions among farmers and extension staff 4. Empower farmers with the knowledge and skills to adopt and adapt agroecological practices to their specific needs and conditions, ultimately enhancing agricultural productivity, improving food security, and enhancing their livelihoods The training program employed a participatory approach, combining theoretical presentations with practical demonstrations and interactive discussions. A total of 98 participants, including 15 extension staff and 83 farmers, were trained by ICRISAT Scientific officers. The training program employed a participatory approach, combining theoretical presentations with practical demonstrations and interactive discussions. A total of 98 participants, including 15 extension staff and 83 farmers, were trained by ICRISAT Scientific officers. Training activities included: 1. Introduction to agroecology, covering the 13 principles of agroecology, emphasizing their relevance to local farming systems. 2. Integrated Soil Fertility Management (ISFM) updates, providing an overview of the ongoing ISFM study that ICRISAT is undertaking on behalf of USAID in the districts and other relevant ISFM research initiatives. 3. Practical demonstrations consisting of hands-on training on compost making and urea treatment of stover, emphasizing proper techniques and safety precautions. The training proved highly valuable, with participants expressing increased confidence in implementing the learned practices. Key recommendations were to conducting regular follow-up training sessions such as farmer field schools, demonstration plots, and fairs.
The effectiveness of mobile kraals in soil fertility management and potential for soil health enhancement under semi-arid conditions in Zimbabwe
(Report, 2024-12) Moyo, Martin; Dube, Farayi; Magaisa, Alec; Mupeyiwa, Justin
The traditional way of applying manure which involves extraction of manure from fixed kraals for application in crop fields is ineffective and labour intensive. The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) implemented a research study in Matabeleland North, Masvingo, and Manicaland province to evaluate the effectiveness of mobile kraaling or direct soil fertilization on crop fields using cattle and goats. Whilst the mobile kraaling technology proved to be effective in enhancing crop productivity and soil biochemistry, it is not yet known to what extent it enhances soil microbial abundance, diversity, and functionality. Recommending or upscaling the mobile kraaling technology as an agroecological farming practice calls for further research to assess if it enhances soil health, which is a key principle in agroecology. This paper therefore aims to report the findings from the mobile kraaling study and to present the proposed next research actions validating it as an agroecological farming practice. We first outline the challenges that necessitated the mobile kraaling study, present the findings, and discuss possible future opportunities. The information on how the mobile kraaling technology impacts crop productivity, soil biochemistry, and soil health will inform decision-making, future research, and policy.
Co-designing technical innovations in the context of agroecological living landscapes
(Report, 2024-12) Triomphe, Bernard; Ouattara, Songdah Désiré; Kumar, Gopal; Fuchs, Lisa E.; Sanchez Choy, Jose; Piraux, Marc; Mannai, Amal; Telma, Sibanda; Sib, Ollo; Smith, B.; Vall, Eric; Maliappan, Sudharsan; Gaderwar, Pragya; Korir, Hezekiah; Bolo, Peter; Douangsavanh, S.; Dubois, Marc; Monserrate, Fredy; Tristan Febres, Maria; Kaoukou, Patrice; Rüdiger, Udo; Mhamed, Hatem Cheikh; Chimonyo, Vimbayi; Baudron, Frédéric
This report documents the processes, results, and key learnings from implementing co-design approaches for agroecological innovations across eight countries (Burkina Faso, India, Kenya, Laos, Peru, Senegal, Tunisia, and Zimbabwe) during 2023-2024, as part of Work Package 1 of the CGIAR Agroecology Initiative. The participating countries demonstrated significant diversity in their co-design approaches, reflecting different contexts, farming systems, and priorities. Several countries like Kenya and Zimbabwe implemented structured, multi-cycle processes with systematic stakeholder engagement, while others like Peru focused on specific value chains such as organic cacao production. The co-design process typically progressed through several key phases: preparatory work to establish foundations and relationships, stakeholder engagement and visioning to develop shared understanding and goals, collaborative technology identification and design, systematic trial establishment, robust monitoring and evaluation, knowledge exchange through field days and farmer-to-farmer learning, capacity building, and iterative refinement based on results and feedback. Stakeholder participation varied across countries but consistently involved farmers, international researchers, and extension services. Some countries achieved strong integration with national research organizations and private sector actors, though this remained a challenge in several locations. The process helped strengthen institutional collaboration and knowledge sharing between stakeholders while empowering farmers as active participants in innovation development. In Kenya, for example, the establishment of partnerships with farmer training centers as "host centers" created effective platforms for ongoing engagement and scaling. Across the initiative, countries tested approximately 30+ distinct technologies spanning various domains. These included innovations in soil health management, such as Zimbabwe's conservation agriculture practices and Tunisia's biochar applications; integrated pest management approaches like Kenya's plant-based biopesticides and Peru's organic disease management for cacao; water management technologies including India's solar irrigation systems; and crop-livestock integration methods demonstrated by Burkina Faso's dairy production innovations. The scale of implementation was significant, reaching 300-350 farmers (data from six countries only), though the intensity of engagement varied. Most countries implemented 1 or 2 experimental cycles during this period, with some achieving three cycles based on local growing seasons. Technology performance and adoption patterns showed strong context-dependency. Several technologies demonstrated significant potential for scaling, particularly where they aligned well with existing farming systems and provided clear economic benefits. Tunisia's forage intercropping systems showed marked improvements in soil health and animal nutrition, while Kenya's basic agroecological practices achieved widespread adoption through existing farmer networks. Burkina Faso's dairy management innovations demonstrated how integrated approaches could improve both productivity and resource efficiency. Several critical success factors for technology adoption were identified, including secure land tenure, access to adequate labor and resources, and strong institutional support systems. Common challenges included high initial investment costs, intensive labor requirements, and the need for technical knowledge and training. Gender dynamics played a significant role, with some technologies showing different adoption patterns between men and women farmers. Looking forward, the co-design experience generated valuable insights for future implementation. There is a clear need for standardized yet flexible methodological guidelines that maintain scientific rigor while allowing local adaptation. Future processes should better integrate activities across plot, farm, and landscape scales, while addressing multiple types of innovations including organizational and institutional ones. Enhanced mechanisms for inclusive participation, particularly of women farmers and diverse stakeholder groups, will be crucial for success. These results provide a strong foundation for refining and scaling these approaches through the upcoming Multifunctional Landscapes program. The experiences demonstrate that well-structured co-design approaches can generate both immediate benefits and longer-term transformative change in agricultural systems, particularly when supported by robust knowledge sharing platforms and communication systems. Success will require continued attention to both technical and social dimensions while maintaining flexibility to accommodate local contexts and emerging opportunities.
Implementation manual for Gender Action Learning System. In Lao
(Report, 2024-12-30) Khounnouvong, B.; Keovongphet, K.; Douangsavanh, Somphasith; Chanthalath, Ammala; Xaydala, Viengxay
Agroecología para mejorar los sistemas alimentarios más allá del rendimiento
(News Item, 2024-10-30) Estrada Carmona, Natalia
Op-ed about Agroecology and its role in the 16th Conference of Parties of the Convention on Biological Diversity. Published in El Espectador, a national-wide newspaper in Colombia
CGIAR Initiative on Agroecology: Stakeholder inception workshop report on mapping organic resources in Kiambu and Makueni Counties
(Report, 2024-12-30) Awiti, Alex; Kuria, Anne; Onyango, Kevin; Korir, Hezekiah; Wanyama, Rosina; Bolo, Peter Omondi; Ndiwa, Aurillia; Sakha, Michael; Mbelwa, Machio; Adoyo, Beatrice; Anyango, Edith
Organic resources are a critical entry point for fostering agroecological transitions. They contribute to soil health, nutrient cycling, and biodiversity conservation, enhancing agricultural sustainability and resilience. Three primary sources are animal manure, crop residues, and purpose-produced organic resources from agroforestry. A systematic mapping initiative focused on these sources holds immense potential to facilitate informed decision-making, optimize resource utilization, and promote the adoption of agroecological practices across the Kenya ALLs. We propose systematically mapping organic resources within agricultural landscapes, emphasizing animal manure, crop residues, and purpose-produced organic resources from agroforestry. Following the submission of 2024 workplan and budget (AWPB) for the Agroecology Initiative project, the project received additional funding to map organic resources in Kiambu and Makueni. The ‘Mapping of organic resources for agroecological transition in Kenya agroecological living landscapes aimed to: i) identify and quantify the spatial distribution of organic resources derived from animal manure, crop residues, urban and municipal waste and purpose-produced agroforestry resources within agricultural landscapes; ii) co-develop innovative business models and value chains to facilitate value addition and scaling of access to organic resources by smallholder farmers, considering factors such as resource aggregation, distribution, and market linkages as well as identifying relevant policy levers and advocacy approaches to promote the use of organic resources to accelerate agroecological transition in smallholder farmers.
Agrobiodiversity Zones - Peru's flagship initiative at COP-16
(Blog Post, 2024-12-22) Ramirez, Marleni; Jones, Sarah; Estrada Carmona, Natalia; Quintana, Cristina; Fernandez, Elizabeth
At the COP16 on Biodiversity, last October in Cali, Colombia, Peru presented its in-situ/on farm agrobiodiversity conservation model during a prime-time side event titled “Agrobiodiversity Zones, Millenary agricultural conservation for Peru and world food security”, led by INIA, the Institute of Agrarian Innovation in the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation of Peru, MIDAGRI. This event presented the steps being taken by the government to officially recognize and support the silent effort of original people’s and rural communities in the conservation of the magnificent agrobiodiversity of Peru, fundamental for food security, climate change adaptation and sustainable development for the country and the world.
Can agroecology improve nature’s pulse?
(Blog Post, 2024-08-29) Estrada Carmona, Natalia; Kettle, Chris J.; Sanchez Bogado, Andrea Cecilia; Jones, Sarah; Urrea Benítez, José Luis; Gee, Eliot; Mattson, Sean
On the path to COP16: this entry in our perspective series focuses on agroecology and biodiversity as a central solution for sustainable agriculture.
Multicriteria based priority mapping: charting agroecological pathways in India
(Report, 2024-12-30) Kumar, Gopal; Sikka, Alok; Behera, Abhijit; Malaiappan, Sudharsan
The report, titled "Multicriteria-Based Priority Mapping: Charting Agroecological Pathways in India," presents a comprehensive analysis aimed at addressing India’s dual challenges of achieving food security and ensuring environmental sustainability. India, with 18% of the global population and access to only 2.4% of the world’s land and 4% of renewable water resources, faces immense pressure to adopt resource-efficient and sustainable agricultural practices. This study employs a robust multi-criteria decision-making framework, integrating diverse datasets and stakeholder inputs, to guide the prioritization of agroecological interventions. Two distinct agroecological priority maps were developed in the study. The first map reflects the priorities of Agricultural System Actors and Stakeholders (ASAS), who focus on rainfed, low-productivity zones to minimize risks to food security. The second map incorporates the perspectives of agroecological advocates, who emphasize the restoration of environmentally degraded, high-input agricultural regions. Both maps integrate critical biophysical, climatic, and agricultural factors, including net primary productivity, fertilizer consumption, rainfall patterns, groundwater levels, and aridity indices, among others. These criteria were weighted using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), ensuring alignment with the specific objectives of each stakeholder group. The study’s findings highlight high-priority zones for agroecological practices that balance yield improvements and environmental restoration. Approximately 1.5% of agricultural land shows overlap in high-priority class between the two stakeholder groups, indicating consensus on some areas. However, the remaining land reveals significant tradeoffs between food security and environmental sustainability objectives, underscoring the complexity of harmonizing these goals. The maps provide insights into spatial prioritization, identifying key zones for targeted interventions, including regions prone to resource degradation and climate vulnerability. This report emphasizes the importance of participatory decision-making, dynamic policy formulation, and periodic updates to the agroecological priority maps. It advocates for enhancing stakeholder engagement through wider consultations and workshops, adopting advanced analytical techniques like Principal Component Analysis (PCA), and integrating new data layers to improve map precision. Furthermore, the study highlights the need for multilocation trials to validate the findings and tailor agroecological practices to diverse agro-climatic conditions. By aligning regional needs with national and global sustainability goals, the proposed methodology offers a pathway to scale agroecological practices effectively. The report concludes with recommendations to refine the priority maps, build capacity and awareness among stakeholders, and integrate findings into national policies and resource allocation strategies. These efforts aim to promote sustainable farming systems, ensuring food security for future generations while mitigating environmental degradation and enhancing resilience to climate variability. This pioneering approach to agroecological prioritization provides a replicable model for addressing similar challenges globally, emphasizing the need for contextual adaptation to local conditions.
Reporte de incentivos e inversiones del sector privado para una transición agroecológica en la región Ucayali
(Report, 2024-11-30) De Los Ríos Dantas, Augusto Rafael; Saavedra Barria, Tranquilino; Guillén Guevara, José; Transitions Program; Ivanova, Yovita; Mosquera Escobar, Leslie Estefany; Blanco Garcia, Maria Alejandra; Mockshell, Jonathan
El presente informe/reporte ha sido elaborado por Augusto Rafael De Los Ríos Dantas, de Ucayali Eco Plus EIRL, en el marco de su consultoría Evaluación de las necesidades de desarrollo de capacidades de los actores del sistema agroalimentario, para permitir las transiciones agroecológicas del sector privado en la Región de Ucayali, financiada por el proyecto PSii del programa de Transiciones Agroecológicas ‘TRANSITIONS’, y revisada por Yovita Ivanova, Leslie Mosquera, María Blanco y Jonathan Mockshell. El proyecto Incentivos e Inversiones del Sector Privado (PSii) contribuye al programa de Transiciones Agroecológicas TRANSITIONS y tiene como objetivo el desarrollo de estructuras de incentivos inclusivas para los actores de los sectores público y privado, así como la movilización de inversiones que apoyen las transiciones agroecológicas en múltiples niveles. Un ecosistema dinámico de los sectores público y privado plantea probablemente algunos retos, pero también ofrece nuevas oportunidades para acelerar las transiciones agroecológicas mediante la creación de incentivos y la movilización de inversiones, la aplicación de métricas transparentes y holísticas y el desarrollo de capacidades para contribuir a unos sistemas alimentarios más eficientes desde el punto de vista económico, más equitativos a nivel social y más respetuosos con el medio ambiente.
Farmer learning exchange visit on agroecological farming practices in Xiengkhouang, Lao PDR
(Report, 2024-12-30) Inphonephong, Souphalack; Chounlamountry, T.; Xaydala, Viengxay; Douangsavanh, Somphasith
The report documents a farmer learning exchange visit on agroecological farming practices in Xiengkhouang, Lao’s People Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), from 20–22 November 2024. It was organized by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI), under the CGIAR Initiative on Agroecology and the CGIAR Initiative on National Policies and Strategies. The visit was arranged in cooperation with the agroecology and safe food system transitions project’s implementing and commissioning team from the Department of Planning and Cooperation, the Department of Agricultural Land Management, the National Agriculture and Forestry Research Institute, the Provincial Agriculture and Forestry Office in Xiengkhouang, and CIRAD, the French Agricultural Research Centre for International Development.

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