IWMI Reports

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An analysis of the water, energy, food and ecosystem (WEFE) nexus for Nepal
(Report, 2024-12-30) Pokharel, B. K.; Nepal, Santosh; Baral, S.; Gauchan, D.; Karki, S.; Pandey, V. P.; Vaidya, A.; Aryal, Anil; Baral, T.; Devkota, S.; Dhakal, M.; Gnawali, K.; K. C., Sumitra; Khadka, Manohara; Mishra, Anuj; Neupane, Nilhari; Ojha, R.; Pandey, P. R.; Pradhan, M.; Shrestha, Shisher; Tachamo, R. D.; Timsina, K.; Buchy, Marlene; Gentle, P.; Gyawali, D.; Paudyal, B. R.; Pradhan, M. S.; Thapa, B. R.
This position paper advocates for the integration of the water, energy, food and ecosystem (WEFE) nexus approach into Nepal’s policy and planning processes. By doing so, it aspires to foster a development trajectory that is sustainable, inclusive, equitable and responsive to the needs of all citizens, particularly the vulnerable and marginalized groups, against a backdrop of accelerating climate change and resource interdependencies. The main contents of the paper are summarized below. Understanding the WEFE nexus: The WEFE nexus represents a holistic approach to managing interconnected natural resources essential for human well-being and environmental sustainability. This approach involves the management of water, energy, food and ecosystems in an integrated manner to enhance security and efficiency across these sectors. It aims to increase resource efficiency, minimize trade-offs, bolster synergies and improve governance, keeping in view the interdependencies of these sectors. It emphasizes a shift from a focus on particular resources to a systems perspective that prioritizes comprehensive resource security and environmental protection. It advocates for people-centric solutions that are driven by demand-led technological and market innovations. Nexus thinking is essential to balance competing interests in the water, energy and food sectors while maintaining ecosystem health. In Nepal’s context, the integration of the political and social dimensions of the WEFE nexus determines who controls and accesses natural resources. The WEFE nexus approach, integrated with gender equality and social inclusion (GESI) and livelihood considerations, is vital to supporting the economically poor and socially marginalized sections in Nepal who are reliant on natural resources. Importance of the WEFE nexus approach in Nepal: In Nepal, the concept of the WEFE nexus is in its developmental stage but is highly pertinent due to worrying trends that are adversely affecting human well-being and the environment. Nepal faces varied challenges, including water scarcity, unpredictable and extreme environmental events and rising demand for energy and food, all of which underscore the need for a strategic and integrated approach to resource management. This paper argues that the WEFE nexus approach is imperative for Nepal, for several reasons. These include the interconnectedness of resource systems and recognizing and managing the interdependencies among water, energy, food and ecosystems; Nepal’s climate change vulnerabilities and enhancing resilience against climate-induced risks; global commitments in alignment with international obligations and sustainable development goals (SDGs); resource governance and achieving equitable and efficient resource management; and cross-sectoral climate impacts, and hence the need to address the comprehensive effects of climate change on resources. Essentially, the WEFE nexus needs to be promoted in national policies, plans and strategies to ensure sustainable development. Purpose and rationale of this position paper: This position paper seeks to provide a roadmap for all stakeholders, including policymakers, researchers, and international development partners, by (i) offering a critical overview of the WEFE nexus approach; (ii) proposing a practical WEFE framework tailored for Nepal, considering GESI and livelihood perspectives; and (iii) suggesting strategies for improved governance through enhanced coordination and collaboration between different sectors, thereby optimizing resource use and conserving ecosystems. Nepal’s political, economic and social context: Nepal’s transition to a federal polity has introduced and accompanied a number of significant shifts in the socio-economic context that impact the WEFE sectors. These shifts include demographic, social and economic changes; urbanization; migration; and societal challenges such as youth unemployment, gender inequality and social exclusion. These elements form the backdrop against which the WEFE sectors operate, emphasizing the need for a nuanced understanding of their interconnections and effects. WEFE policies and institutional context in Nepal: For Nepal to effectively implement the WEFE nexus approach, there is a need for improved policy coherence, inter-sectoral collaboration mainly between the WEFE sectors and a commitment by all stakeholders to integrating GESI considerations in their activities. Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders, including policymakers, development partners and the community at large. The recognition of the WEFE nexus within Nepal’s policy and legal frameworks is an ongoing process. Despite policy commitments and some progress in integrated approaches, varied challenges persist due to fragmentation and compartmentalization of the management of natural resources and disconnected policies in water, energy, food and forest resources. The lack of synergy, collaboration and adequate investment further complicates the execution of nexus-oriented programs.
Performance assessment of agroecology in Attapeu, Lao PDR
(Report, 2024-12-30) Douangsavanh, Somphasith; Xaydala, Viengxay; Chanthalath, Ammala; Dubois, Mark
Co-design and implementation of Index Based Flood Insurance (IBFI) in flood proofing communities of Mazabuka District, southern Zambia
(Report, 2024-12-30) Umer, Yakob; Makungwe, Mirriam; Amarnath, Giriraj; Jacobs-Mata, Inga; Banda, N.; Njoroge, M.
The Magoye River, a vital resource for communities in Zambia's Southern Province, has a history of seasonal flooding with severe consequences. During the rainy season, the river often overflows, inundating surrounding areas and causing widespread crop and infrastructure damages. Factors such as deforestation and climate change exacerbate this natural phenomenon, leading to loss of lives, displacement, and destruction of infrastructure, farmlands, and livelihoods. An innovative insurance solution has been developed to address these challenges, compensating affected communities for losses incurred during flood events. The CGIAR Initiative on Diversification in East and Southern Africa, Ukama-Ustawi (UU), identified the bundling of climate insurance as an innovative climate risk management solution for smallholder farmers in Southern and Eastern Africa. This innovation involved mapping flood-prone agricultural areas near the river, ensuring tailored support for those most vulnerable. The innovation was aimed to mitigate the financial risks associated with recurrent flooding by providing timely insurance payouts to farmers while promoting climate resilience. The International Water Management Institute (IWMI) in collaboration with Agriculture and Climate Risk Enterprise (ACRE Africa) and Professional Insurance Company piloted the Index Based Flood Insurance (IBFI) among smallholder farmers residing along the Magoye River, Mazabuka District, Southern Province, Zambia. IWMI has developed the IBFI concept in South Asia covering India and Bangladesh using an integrated approach of combining flood model and earth observation data to flood proofing among vulnerable populations (Amarnath et al. 2024). A similar concept was scaled out for IBFI product covering three villages at the lower Magoye Catchment and first of its kind in Zambia. To build trust and enhance resilience within affected communities, a robust flood index insurance product that is flexible, transparent, and closely aligned with ground-level realities was developed. It minimizes spatial, temporal as well as design-related basis risks, ensuring payouts accurately reflect actual losses. During the development of the IBFI product, the experts from the Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA), Ministry of Agriculture, Department of Community Development, Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU) in co-designing and implementing with the pilot villages. The IBFI pilot was conducted for the 2024-2025 rainy season in the Mogoye Catchment, Southern Province, Zambia. The product targets 250 households in the Magoye Catchment of Zambia's Southern Province. Coverage focuses on flood risk, measured via in-situ gauges and satellitemonitored flood depth along the Magoye River. Insurance applies to individual pixels along the river, with each participating farmer receiving about K 1786 equivalent to about USD 64 as the sum insured. The 150-day cover period (November 1, 2024 – March 30, 2025) uses a 10-day observation period for flood events. Payouts are tiered based on flood depth percentiles: minor flooding (80th percentile trigger, 25% coverage), moderate (85th percentile, 50% coverage), major (95th percentile, 75% coverage), and catastrophic (99th percentile, 100% coverage). In summary, the IBFI pilot represents a vital step forward in addressing the twin challenges of climate change and poverty. Its success could herald a transformative approach to flood risk management, offering a lifeline to vulnerable farmers and contributing to sustainable development in the region. Through innovation and collaboration, this initiative underscores the potential of insurance-based solutions in building climate resilience and securing livelihoods.
Innovative water management in irrigated rice fields: participatory demonstration approach to promoting alternate wetting and drying and tailwater harvesting in Ghana
(Report, 2024-12-30) Amankwaa-Yeboah, P.; Oke, Adebayo; Okyere, H.; Zemadim, Birhanu; Yeboah, S.; Adomako, J.; Ntedwah, A. A.; Offei, M. A.
This report highlights the implementation of Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) and tailwater harvesting technologies in Ghana, targeting sustainable rice production in the Northern and Ashanti regions. AWD, a water-saving irrigation method, and tailwater recovery systems were demonstrated to optimize water use, reduce environmental impacts, and improve farm productivity. The initiative included demonstration plots, capacity-building workshops for Agricultural Extension Agents (AEAs), and farmer engagement activities to promote adoption. AWD has been validated to save up to 30% of irrigation water without compromising rice yields, making it a viable strategy to conserve water resources, mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, and lower production costs. Tailwater harvesting complemented these efforts by facilitating water reuse, enabling year-round agricultural productivity and the cultivation of high-value crops like okra. This diversified farm output improved dietary diversity and household incomes while enhancing the resilience of rice-based farming systems. To ensure broad adoption, a participatory approach was central to the demonstrations. Farmer Field Days (FFD) were organized as key training and knowledge-sharing events, showcasing the application and benefits of AWD and tailwater recovery systems. These events, held on December 4, 2024, in Botanga (Northern Region) and December 6, 2024, in Potrikrom (Ashanti Region), engaged over 100 stakeholders. Participants included farmers, researchers, extension officers, agri-input suppliers, irrigation managers, and policymakers, emphasizing the collaborative efforts required to advance sustainable rice production. Farmers who attended the FFD events gained practical knowledge on implementing AWD and tailwater harvesting to mitigate water stress during critical crop growth stages and improve yields. The events sparked significant interest, with many farmers expressing readiness to adopt AWD and complementary practices, such as tied ridging, to address challenges like erratic rainfall and water scarcity. Additionally, the events facilitated partnerships between farmers, extension agents, and researchers, fostering a collaborative environment essential for scaling sustainable practices across more rice-growing communities.
Evaluation of capacity development activities of the CGIAR Initiative on NEXUS Gains in Nepal
(Report, 2024-12-30) Paudyal, B. R.; Chapagain, B.
A literature review of citizen science for hydrological monitoring - with specific focus on lessons learned in developing countries
(Report, 2024-12-30) Kwakye, E.; Barron, J.; Adusei-Gyamfi, J.; Atampugre, Gerald; Tilahun, Seifu A.
Citizen science has emerged as a significant approach to engage the public in scientific research, data collection, and environmental monitoring, around hydrology. This meta-review examines the scientific literature on the involvement of citizens, recruitment and training, spatiotemporal distribution of cases, methodologies or approaches, the precision of citizen science data with controlled measurements, data transfer and accessibility, usage of citizen science data, and who uses the data and equipment used in citizen science projects for hydrological monitoring. The systematic review identified 14 review papers published since 2015, summarising 492 case studies, with a concentration of evidence based on regions in high, upper, and low-middle-income countries. Key findings of this meta-review indicate substantial evidence of citizen participation in hydrological data collection, especially for water quality monitoring, and to a lesser degree, surface hydrology (e.g., streamflow and water levels) and aquatic biota. Measurement of physio-chemical parameters such as pH, temperature, turbidity, and dissolved nutrients, as well as biological indicators like E. coli in surface and groundwater were most frequently described. Some studies also addressed monitoring flooding, rainfall, water flow, and water levels. Successful citizen science programs were characterized by effective recruitmentof participants. Training was identified to be essential for high-quality data collection, enhance participants’ capacity, and build skills while adhering to established protocols. Most studies in the reviews focused on water quality monitoring and employed a range of technologies from basic test kits and manual water level or rain gauges to advanced sensors and social media tools. The type of technology used was found to significantly influence data quality and credibility, with more advanced equipment offering higher precision but requiring greater technical expertise. Ethical considerations were fundamental to the success of citizen science projects, ensuring transparency, consent, and mutual respect between researchers and participants. Addressing participants' concerns and obtaining ethical approval were crucial steps in maintaining ethical standards, but they were not always transparent in the reviewed literature. It was noted in several of the 14 reviews that most citizen science initiatives were researcher-designed, and much fewer examples exist in full co-design mode between scientists, project implementers, and the citizens and communities executing data collection. Notably, this meta-review found that most of the ‘lessons learned’ in scientific review papers focused on data collection. Emerging gaps identified from the 14 reviews include (i) limited quantitative assessments of the precision of citizen science data, (ii) inadequate documentation of ethical considerations and data ownership, and (iii) insufficient focus on data accessibility and post-project utilization of collected data by beneficiaries, iv) weak description on the process to enable co-creation of data collection protocols and methods. This meta-review highlights citizen science's potential to provide cost-effective and highquality hydrological data. However, it emphasizes the need for greater attention to ethical issues, particularly around data ownership and accessibility, and the need for advanced training. Addressing these gaps, especially in underrepresented regions, can significantly enhance global water resource management and support sustainable development goals.
Participatory scenario development on the future of maize - mixed systems in East and Southern Africa
(Report, 2024-12-30) Nkanyani, S.; Mwamakamba, S.; Zimba, N.
Recognizing the escalating pressures on the maize-mixed farming system in East and Southern Africa (ESA), the CGIAR Initiative on Diversification in East and Southern Africa convened a Regional Participatory Scenario Development Workshop through the collaborative efforts of the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) and its partners the Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources Policy Analysis Network (FANRPAN) and the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI). This strategic initiative brought together key stakeholders to cocreate plausible future scenarios, exploring pathways towards a more diversified and resilient agricultural landscape. The workshop facilitated a multi-stakeholder dialogue, acknowledging the multifaceted challenges facing the region. Participants identified a range of predictable trends, including socio-economic shifts, evolving environmental governance, technological advancements, and changing dietary patterns. Critically, the discussions moved beyond simply recognizing these trends to identifying key uncertainties that could profoundly reshape the future of the maize-mixed system. Through a dynamic group process, stakeholders developed detailed narratives for each scenario, weaving together potential future contexts shaped by climate change, technological innovation, policy decisions, economic forces, and societal values as well as other factors that shape the food systems as outlined in (Matchaya et al., 2023). IFPRI enriched these narratives by modeling the potential consequences of various choices and decisions within each scenario, providing valuable quantitative insights. The outputs of this scenario development process will form part of the comprehensive State of Region Report and a targeted Policy Brief. These publications will serve as crucial tools for raising awareness and stimulating dialogue among policymakers, decision-makers, and stakeholders across the ESA region. By providing a robust, evidence-based foundation for understanding potential future pathways, this initiative empowers stakeholders to develop proactive and adaptive strategies, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and food-secure future for the region.
CGIAR Food Systems Accelerator: agri-innovation report for East and Southern Africa - cohort 2
(Report, 2024-12-30) Nkosi, Mahlatse; Dlamini, Jerry; Birachi, E.; Dirwai, Tinashe; Giombini, V.; Ires, Idil; Mhlanga, B.; Munthali, J.; Njiru, A.; Nortje, Karen; Nowak, A.; Peterson, N.; Sewe, L.; Kamanda, Josey
The CGIAR Food Systems Accelerator Agri-Innovation Report for East and Southern Africa: Cohort 2 presents the outcomes of an initiative aimed at transforming agrifood systems across the region. This report documents the journey of ten agribusinesses selected for support under the Ukama Ustawi initiative, which promotes sustainable, climate-smart, and investment-ready agricultural innovations. Agriculture in East and Southern Africa (ESA) is at a crossroads, requiring scalable innovations to enhance productivity, resilience, and sustainability. Recognizing this need, the CGIAR Food Systems Accelerator provides targeted technical assistance to agribusinesses, focusing on Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA), Impact Measurement and Management (IMM), and Investment Readiness (IR). The initiative supports small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in agriculture to adopt sustainable practices, access financing, and expand their operations, ensuring long-term resilience and food security.
Mobilizing and supporting a community of practice for scaling sustainable water use in rice production in Ghana
(Report, 2024-12-30) Amankwaa-Yeboah, P.; Oke, Adebayo; Yeboah, S.; Zemadim, Birhanu; Okyere, H.; Akwasi, K.; Fati, A. A.; Cofie, Olufunke
Rice production is a significant user of global water resources, accounting for approximately 30% of the world's freshwater withdrawals. With the global population projected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, increasing pressure is being placed on the agricultural sector to reduce its water footprint. This report explores the potential of mobilizing and supporting a community of practice (CoP) to scale efficient water use practices in rice production, promoting sustainable agriculture water use and ensuring food security. A mixed-methods approach was used, combining workshops, focus group discussions, and field visits to mobilize farmers and introduce them to water-efficient irrigation technologies such as alternate wetting and drying (AWD) and tailwater harvesting. Several meetings were conducted at the community level to build a gradual reintegration process and cooperation among farmers interested in watersaving agriculture. Through the workshops, focus group discussions, and field visits, a total of 150 farmers were mobilized and introduced to water-efficient irrigation technologies in the Kumbungu, Ahafo Ano South East and Ahafo Ano South West Districts of Ghana, resulting in increased awareness for subsequent adoption of AWD and tailwater harvesting practices. The community-level meetings facilitated the reintegration and cooperation of farmers and other relevant stakeholders which is supposed to lead to the formation of a functional CoP with a shared vision for agricultural water management. The CoP is intended to become a platform for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and innovation among farmers, researchers, policymakers, and other stakeholders, promoting sustainable agriculture and food security in Ghana.
CGIAR Food Systems Accelerator: bootcamp report – Kenya
(Report, 2024-12-30) Nyauncho, E.; Mabele, Thato; Nguvi, C.; Kirimi, P.; Njiru-Mugo, A.; Nkosi, Mahlatse; Petersen, N.; Mugo, P.; Sewe, L.
The CGIAR Food Systems Accelerator (CFSA) Bootcamp, held in Nairobi, Kenya, from October 2–4, 2024, convened 40 agribusiness SMEs from Nairobi and surrounding counties, investors, and technical experts to equip businesses with tools for scaling climate-smart agriculture solutions. Organized under the Ukama Ustawi Initiative, the bootcamp aimed to bridge the gap between innovation, investment readiness, and sustainable food systems through a structured, three-day program. The bootcamp underscored the critical role of targeted support for agribusiness SMEs in East and Southern Africa, which often lack access to capital, expertise, and markets. By fostering collaborations between businesses, technical experts, and investors, the program positioned SMEs to drive climate resilience, food security, and economic growth. Unlike traditional accelerator programs, CFSA’s science-driven, climate-resilient, and gender-inclusive approach uniquely addresses the region’s challenges, ensuring agribusinesses are not just investment-ready but also equipped for long-term sustainability. Given the high demand for capacity-building initiatives of this nature, expanding the bootcamp model to additional African regions could provide more SMEs with the knowledge, networks, and financial linkages needed to scale impact-driven innovations. Ultimately, Africa’s agricultural transformation depends on empowering its agribusinesses with the resources necessary to build resilient, climate-smart, and socially inclusive food systems. The CFSA Bootcamp demonstrated how strategic investment in SMEs can catalyse sustainable agricultural development, positioning these enterprises as key players in tackling food insecurity and climate challenges. Looking ahead, scaling similar programs will be vital in ensuring a more robust and equitable agrifood system across the continent.
Host community vulnerability analysis to strengthen anticipatory action in fragile settings: a case study of Mekelle, Tigray Region, Ethiopia
(Report, 2024-12-30) McTough, Mitchell; Zerihun, Z.; Tsfamariam, Z.; Ruckstuhl, Sandra
Navigating climate resilience in fragile settings: a retrospective analysis of the 2023 flood impacts, early warning, and response in Ethiopia’s Somali Region
(Report, 2024-12-30) Mabumbo, Decide; Nohayi, Ngowenani; Sanchez Ramirez, Juan Carlos; Dessalegn, Mengistu; Ruckstuhl, Sandra
The Fall 2023 floods in the Somali Region of Ethiopia caused widespread devastation, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations, including refugees, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and host communities. This case study, conducted by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) as part of the CGIAR Fragility, Conflict, and Migration (FCM) initiative, provides a detailed examination of the systemic factors that exacerbated the disaster's impacts. It evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of early warning systems and offers actionable recommendations to enhance disaster risk management (DRM) in the region. The analysis is based on rigorous desk research and in-depth interviews with key stakeholders, including government officials, humanitarian organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and development actors, both at the national and subnational levels.
Diagnostic study of the maize-based system in South and East Africa: pathways to sustainable intensification and diversification - a case study of Balaka and Nkhotakota districts in Malawi
(Report, 2024-12-30) Chavula, G.; Moses, P.
Diagnostic study of the maize-based farming system in South and East Africa: pathways to sustainable intensification and diversification - a case study of Makonde, Masvingo and Murehwa districts in Zimbabwe
(Report, 2024-12-30) Mugiyo, H.
Zimbabwean rainfed agriculture is vulnerable to climate change and rainfall variability shocks. Zimbabwe is vulnerable to supply disruptions and food shortages due to its heavy reliance on rainfed maize cultivation and its growing focus on maize, groundnuts, and horticulture. Zimbabwe's irrigation and rainfed maize production demonstrate the importance of irrigation infrastructure. Small-scale agriculture is the main occupation in Makonde, Masvingo, and Murehwa, Zimbabwe. An ideal smallholder farmer development policy should consider small-scale farming's socio-economic conditions and focus on efficiency, productivity, and transformation. Growing crops on marginal land with little rainfall requires irrigation technology. Nevertheless, comprehensive technologies must prioritise sustainability. Therefore, irrigated agriculture needs particular interventions. This study tested rainfed and irrigation systems for maize cultivation for longevity. It also identified intervention areas based on farmers' priorities, opportunities, and preferences. The study focused on Masvingo district, Murehwa, and Makonde in Mashonaland East and West to collect accurate agricultural production and intervention data. A comprehensive survey collected data on all irrigation projects in the three districts. Stratified random sampling included all small-scale farmers in selected districts. Focus group discussions (FGDs) with district farmers and key informants were structured. A group of knowledgeable farmers participated in focus group discussions. In all, 169 farmers from three districts were interviewed. Most farmers surveyed were from Masvingo (60), followed by Murehwa (58) and Makonde (51). Results showed mean land ownership size differences between the three districts. Murehwa and Masvingo have a maximum land ownership of 10 hectares (ha), while the minimum is 0.5 ha. Groundwater irrigation is done by 31% of farmers in the three districts using motor pumps. Manual pumps are used 10% in all three districts like other water-lifting methods. Farmers are adopting solar pumps as they switch to renewable energy due to electricity shortages. All three districts' farmers used sprinkler irrigation to apply water, with an average adoption rate of 39%. Many farmers interviewed were unhappy with water productivity for various reasons. These factors include high irrigation system costs, low crop prices, pump and transformer failures, and better irrigation equipment. Enhancing service maintenance and provision is a crucial productivity intervention. All districts' farmers use crop rotation and intercropping to adapt to climate change. AU-IDAWM pathways 1 and 2 must be implemented in the three districts for sustainable agricultural water management. Pathway 1 improves rain-fed farming water control and watershed management, while pathway 2 develops farmer-led irrigation systems. Zimbabwe's irrigation and rainfed maize production demonstrate the importance of irrigation infrastructure. Makonde, Masvingo, and Murehwa, Zimbabwe, rely on smallscale agriculture for subsistence. An ideal rural development policy should match small-scale farming's socio-economic conditions to boost efficiency, productivity, and transformation. Effective input supply systems, technology, infrastructure, and produce markets can boost small-scale agriculture productivity. In Zimbabwe's irrigated drylands, irrigation outperforms rainfed crop production, nitrogen use, and water efficiency. The irrigated drylands of Makonde, Masvingo, and Murehwa should adopt climate-smart practices because they boost crop productivity and economic benefits. High-efficiency water use can also achieve sustainable agricultural intensification. Masvingo, Murehwa, and Makonde have partially operational water user associations. The Water Users Association's internal regulations were disliked by 70% of Makonde farmers, 69% of Masvingo farmers, and 69% of Murehwa farmers. These regulations seemed ineffective and unresponsive to their needs. Effective input supply systems, technological advances, infrastructure development, and efficient produce markets can boost Zimbabwean small-scale agriculture productivity. In Zimbabwe's irrigated drylands, irrigation outperforms rainfed crop production, soil nutrient use, and water efficiency. The irrigated drylands of Makonde, Masvingo, and Murehwa should adopt climate-smart practices because they boost crop productivity and economic benefits. Sustainable agricultural intensification requires efficient water use and management.
Diagnostic study of the maize-based system in South and East Africa: pathways to sustainable intensification and diversification - a case study of Chipata and Monze districts in Zambia
(Report, 2024-12-30) Mwale, M.
Efficient agricultural water management is key to improving crop-water productivity. Very few smallholder farmers in Zambia use irrigation as it is largely informal and applied to fruits and vegetables grown close to the water sources. Only 1% of the small holder farmers use irrigation for field crops and about 16% of them use it for fruits and vegetables (Ngoma, et.al, 2017). The International Water Management Institute (IWMI) conducted a household survey to understand agricultural water management practices used by smallholder farmers. The survey forms part of a larger initiative, Ukama Ustawi (UU), which seeks to support climate-resilient agricultural livelihoods and agribusiness ecosystems in 12 East and Southern African countries, Zambia inclusive to help millions of vulnerable smallholders’ transition from maize-mixed systems to sustainably intensified, diversified, and de-risked agrifood systems with a strong maize base. In Zambia, the survey was conducted in two districts, Chipata District of Eastern Province and Monze District of Southern Province. The study’s main objectives were to understand the sustainability of the maize-based rainfed and irrigation systems and to identify areas of intervention in the context of the key problems, opportunities, and farmers’ preferences.
Implementation manual for Gender Action Learning System. In Lao
(Report, 2024-12-30) Khounnouvong, B.; Keovongphet, K.; Douangsavanh, Somphasith; Chanthalath, Ammala; Xaydala, Viengxay
Diagnostic study of the maize-based system in South and East Africa: pathways to sustainable intensification and diversification - a case study of Nakuru and Makueni counties in Kenya
(Report, 2024-12-30) Kanda, E.
In Kenya, agriculture is mostly rainfed despite about 85% of the country being arid and semi-arid. The poor spatial and temporal distribution of rainfall makes rainfed agriculture a risky venture and makes the country susceptible to climate change and variability induced shocks. Furthermore, Kenya’s reliance on rainfed maize production in meeting its food needs and growing consolidation of production toward maize and dry beans has rendered the country increasingly vulnerable to supply disruptions and food shortages. Expansion of crop production to marginal lands that receive lower than normal rainfall requires investment in irrigation technologies. However, blanket one-size fits all technologies are not sustainable and therefore there is a need to design appropriate and fit-for purpose interventions in irrigated agriculture. This study aimed understanding the sustainability of the maize-based rainfed and irrigation system and identifying areas of intervention in the context of the key problems, opportunities, and farmers' preference. The counties considered were two contrasting agro-ecological zones i.e. Nakuru County (humid) and Makueni (Semi-arid) in order to obtain representative findings on agricultural production and range of interventions. Five out of six sub-counties were selected in Makueni County. In Nakuru, 23 wards out of 55 were eligible (based on irrigation suitability mapping and salinity levels) for selection and 8 wards were finally selected which covered 8 out of 11 sub-counties. 161 and 150 households in Makueni and Nakuru respectively were randomly selected for the study. Questionnaires were and Key informant interviews were adopted in the study. The findings indicated that most of the farmers use traditional irrigation methods (furrow, flood and basin) with only 38% and 23% in Nakuru and Makueni respectively using sprinkler and drip systems. Food security was ranked as the main driver for irrigation practise in the two counties. Most respondents (80%) were dissatisfied with their land productivity under a rainfed system in Makueni, while most (53%) were satisfied in Nakuru County. Although rainfed farmers are interested in starting irrigation, water scarcity is a limiting factor. Lack of extension services and training is another factor hindering irrigation practise. The assessment of the benefit-cost ratio (BCR) of the major crops indicated that only tomatoes in Makueni County are profitable in irrigated conditions. Kales (under irrigation) and beans (under rainfed) were profitable in Nakuru. The low profitability of major crops includes high input costs and low yields. Profit margins drive agribusiness and therefore sustainability of farming systems. Maize farming was not profitable in the two counties though the BCR value is closer to 1.0 in Nakuru implying that minimal interventions can be introduced to enhance profitability of maize farming in Nakuru. These interventions can include subsidies on farm inputs, and extension support and training. Profitability of farming enterprises in Makueni seems to favour high-value crops (vegetables) under irrigated conditions. Diversification of food systems is important practise for sustainable agricultural production. Sustainable diversification and intensification is determined by diversity of farm characteristics such as farm size and land tenure. Most farmers in both Makueni and Nakuru own less than 5 ha of land. This affects the selection of crops to be grown. Farmers who own large tracts of land (>10 ha) prefer maize or other cereals to vegetables and vice versa. Most farmers have private land ownership and thus secure land tenure although some farmers are in communal land, especially in Makueni County. Most farmers in the two counties practise crop rotation and intercropping as climate change adaptation strategies. Adoption of AU-IDAWM pathways 1 (Improved water control and watershed management in rain-fed farming, and pathway 2 is to better understand the informal FLID systems (farmer-led irrigation development (FLID) and contextually support and expand the sector are two important aspects that need to be adopted in the two counties to realize sustainable agricultural water management.
Guidelines for developing a multi-stakeholder agriculture knowledge-hub for strengthening mixed farming systems in Nepal’s mid-hills
(Report, 2024-12-30) Koirala, Sanju; Khadka, Manohara; Neupane, Nilhari; K. C., Jibesh
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.
Enhancing flood resilience: a framework for flood risk management system evaluation
(Report, 2024-12-30) Herath, H. M. M.; Amarnath, Giriraj; Alahacoon, Niranga
Flood risk management faces significant challenges due to its societal, economic, and environmental impacts, which are exacerbated by climate change and its influence on extreme weather events and social dynamics. Recent policies and strategies emphasize flood resilience, shifting from traditional technical approaches to more adaptive, inclusive, and nature-based solutions that address the complex nature of flood risks. Evaluating the impact of flood management projects is essential for assessing their effectiveness in reducing vulnerabilities and enhancing resilience. However, definitions of flood resilience and the effectiveness of strategies remain contested. To address this gap, the research aims to develop a comprehensive framework for systematically evaluating flood resilience, providing guidance for future flood management efforts. The methodology involves conducting a thorough literature review to identify key criteria that link flood risk management, resilience, adaptive capacity, and governance, laying the foundation for the evaluation framework. Flood resilience views floods as opportunities for growth and innovation, fostering more robust, adaptable, and transformative systems that can cope with future uncertainties. Achieving flood resilience requires adaptive and collaborative governance, involving diverse stakeholders such as government agencies, local communities, and the private sector, across multiple scales. The eight parameters for assessing flood resilience focus on key aspects of flood risk governance. These include the capacity to implement diverse management strategies and maintain critical infrastructure, foster multiscale stakeholder collaboration, and involve local communities in decision-making. Other important parameters include flexibility in decision-making, legitimacy through coherent policies, effective risk assessments, resource mobilization, and continuous monitoring and evaluation. Together, these parameters ensure a comprehensive, adaptive, and inclusive approach to managing flood risks and promoting long-term resilience in the face of climate change.

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