Alliance Bioversity CIAT Working and Discussion Papers

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/106992

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The dynamic nature of community gardens through history: A literature review
(Working Paper, 2024-03) Salters, Miranda; Gonsalves, Julian; Monville-Oro, Emilita; Santos-Anunciado, Ma. Shiela; Hunter, Danny
Around the globe, rapid urbanization has created challenges in ensuring access to nutritious and affordable food, as well as protecting green spaces (Guitart et al., 2012). Community gardens have emerged as dynamic spaces that address these issues while offering promising outlooks for the future of food security and sustainable urban development (Burt et al., 2020; Guitart et al., 2012). Since their inception, community gardens have undergone significant evolution. Today, they are regarded as epicenters for building community capacity, inspiring sustainable food systems, and facilitating social empowerment. However, community and allotment gardens originated as mitigation strategies during times of crisis, rather than as innovative, sustainable solutions for enhancing urban and peri-urban landscapes (Birky, 2009). This literature review aims to highlight the importance of community gardens in urban and peri-urban spaces by examining their roles in food sovereignty, community empowerment, social protection mechanisms, and humanitarian work. It does so by analyzing the literature on the origins, development, and current status of community gardens worldwide.
Etude de cas sur l’alimentation scolaire : Bénin.
(Working Paper, 2024-09) Amoussa Hounkpatin, Waliou; Fanou Fogny, Nadia; Bodjrenou, Sam; Koukou, Elie; Sossou, Cyrus; Assogba, Elvire; Houndolo, Melina; Tossou, Wilfried; Boyiako, Bernadette; Ainin, Abiola; Saroumi, Yvon
Demand and supply of nutritious foods in rural Ethiopia: A choice experiment with consumers and vendors
(Working Paper, 2024-12) Onyango, Kevin; Wanyama, Rosina; Maina, Kevin; Teferi, Ermias; Lundy, Mark; Chege, Christine Kiria
Usability testing and assessment of the Agro-Climatic Bulletin in Vietnam
(Working Paper, 2024-12-04) Van, Lam Luong; Giraldo Mendez, Diana; Giles, James; Nguyen, Huong Mai; Le, Tam Thi; Swaans, Kees
This info note provides insights into the application of Human-Centred Design (HCD) in enhancing Agro-climatic Bulletin within the CGIAR Asian Mega-Deltas initiative. Since 2023, the HCD approach has been implemented in the Mekong River Delta, Vietnam, through direct engagement with farmers as end users. Key tools such as user personas, journey mapping, and usability testing have been employed to refine and improve the ACB. As part of a series, this info note highlights key results and lessons learned from applying HCD. Each note focuses on a specific tool within the process, providing practical insights for future applications.
Recommendations for enhancing IPCC technical guidance on assessing climate impacts and adaptation
(Working Paper, 2024-11) Njuguna, Lucy; Rosenstock, Todd; Nowak, Andreea
At its 60th plenary session, the IPCC agreed to revise and update the 1994 technical guidelines for assessing climate impacts and adaptation. This working paper examines a potential approach for revising and advancing the guidelines, outlining key aspects that need to be considered and a potential framework for organizing the content.
Measuring the effectiveness of adaptation investments across a project portfolio
(Working Paper, 2024-11) Njuguna, Lucy; Rosenstock, Todd
As climate change adaptation becomes a key focus of programs and projects, donors and fund managers must assess the overall impact of their investments through robust "adaptation tracking" mechanisms. This involves monitoring, evaluating, and communicating progress but is hindered by challenges such as defining adaptation success, selecting suitable indicators, and attributing outcomes to specific investments. Additional obstacles include data limitations, resource and capacity constraints, integration with existing systems, and ensuring equity and inclusivity. The dynamic nature of climate risks and the complexity of aggregating diverse, context-specific data across portfolios further complicate systematic evaluation efforts. This working paper outlines key recommendations for the design of portfolio-level tracing systems, based on a review of selected funds and organizations.
Un plan paso a paso para integrar el conocimiento adquirido en la parcela digital y diplomados en los programas académicos.
(Working Paper, 2024-12-20) Lizarazo, Miguel; Ramos, Gresia Dalal; Bonilla, Melissa; Munoz, Luis Armando; Jimenez, Daniel Ricardo
The digital transformation of the agricultural sector in Latin America has driven the adoption of innovative technologies, including IoT, artificial intelligence, and remote sensing. However, in Guatemala, small and medium-sized producers face challenges in accessing and applying these technological tools to their production systems. To address this gap, the Bioversity-CIAT Alliance, in collaboration with the Centro Universitario de Oriente (CUNORI)-USAC and other stakeholders, developed the Digital Plot. This serves as an open space for experimentation with agricultural technologies. This is complemented by diplomas in digital topics to build the capacity of teachers and enable them to integrate digital tools and technologies into their classes. While these initiatives represent a significant step towards curriculum updates, achieving deep systemic changes requires strengthened collaboration of multiple actors. This will ensure that education and research effectively address the real needs of producers. This implies a constant commitment to updating curricula and seeking innovative solutions that address the challenges of the food system. Leveraging the Human-Centered Design approach, this report analyzes CUNORI's experience in teacher training and the integration of digital innovations into the agronomy curriculum. This experience represents a crucial step towards transforming higher agricultural education and can serve as a valuable reference for other institutions in the region. It also drives the development of networks of actors in the country's innovation and knowledge systems, promoting the adoption of digital technologies and the co-creation of context-specific solutions.
Collection, conservation and evaluation of priority indigenous vegetables in Sri Lanka
(Working Paper, 2024-12-15) Jeewani, D.G.C.; Balasooriya, B.G.R.C.; Kondasinghe, K.M.C.L.; Danwatta, A.S.J.; Hunter, Danny; Borelli, Teresa
A diverse range of underutilized vegetables and leafy greens in Sri Lanka were identified for collection, conservation, and genetic improvement. Within the framework of the CGIAR Initiative on Fruit and Vegetables for Sustainable Healthy Diets (FRESH) in Sri Lanka, in 2023 the Plant Genetic Resources Centre, Sri Lanka (PGRC) prioritized ten crops for exploration, characterization and ex situ conservation. The list included vegetables such as sword bean, sponge gourd, snake gourd, winged bean and moringa, as well as leafy greens such as Amaranthus spp., fame flower, balloon plant, sickle pod and vegetable hummingbird. The first phase of activities detailed in this report, and which ran from January to March 2024, resulted in the collection of 502 germplasm samples gathered via exploration missions across Sri Lanka. During the second phase, lasting from April to December 2024, 414 germplasm samples were multiplied while the detailed characterization of 240 samples was undertaken. One hundred and forty-three (143) seed samples were conserved in the genebank while 271 are still being processed prior to seed bank conservation. Germplasm characterization will continue in 2025. In addition, vegetatively propagated germplasm samples were conserved in the PGRC field genebank which was upgraded by establishing a rain fed irrigation system using project funds. Overall, efforts under FRESH contribute to the conservation and utilization of Sri Lanka's indigenous vegetable diversity, facilitating future agricultural research and development initiatives, vegetable availability and the country's food security.
Fortalecimiento de redes agroalimentarias en América Latina: Contribución de la Iniciativa AgriLAC Resiliente
(Working Paper, 2024-12) Quintero, Diana Katherine; Reyes, Byron; Lopera, Diana Carolina; Ordoñez, Juan Camilo
Reinforcing knowledge and business relationships among associated bean producers in Honduras: Endline Report (Preliminary result)
(Working Paper, 2024-12) Reyes, Byron; Espada, Andres; Ceballos Sierra, Federico; Colindres, Mirian; Wiegel, Jennifer
Conservation of indigenous vegetables in the Philippines: A scoping study
(Working Paper, 2023-07-31) Oraye, Claudette D.; de Chavez, Hidelisa D.; Aguilar, Catherine Hazel M.; Makiling, Florisa C.; Ladia, Villamor A. Jr.; Enicola, Elmer E.; Maghirang, Rodel G.; Anunciado, Ma. Shiela; Monville-Oro, Emilita; Gonsalves, Julian; Hunter, Danny; Borelli, Teresa; Mendonce, Sharon
Seasonality and inconsistent vegetable supplies due to the impacts of climate change (i.e., varying rainfall patterns and drought), are major factors contributing to the availability and affordability of vegetables. There is a need to increase access to a diverse range of high-quality, resilient, and nutritious species and cultivars that are aligned to consumer and farmers’ preferences. In addition, crop diversification can address the challenges brought on by seasonality, improve dietary diversity for better nutrition, and strengthen environmental resilience. There is growing interest in the Philippines on the promotion of indigenous vegetables (IVs) for food security and nutrition. IVs play a crucial role in food security, income generation, and food culture. Their adaptability, plasticity, and resilience to biotic and abiotic stresses provide farmers with the needed coping strategies to confront climate change. This study examines past and ongoing research and development initiatives, including agencies involved in research on IVs in the Philippines. Based on their assessed availability in national collections, their nutritional quality, cultural importance, adaptability and vulnerability, this review recommends focusing further efforts on nine priority IV species for collection and characterization, regeneration, evaluation, seed distribution and exchange. These species are: moringa (Moringa oleifera), birch flower (Broussonetia luzonica), gnetum (Gnetum gnemon), slender carpetweed (Glinus oppositifolius), bagbagkong (Telosma procumbens), cowpea (Vigna unguiculata subsp. unguiculata), rice bean (Vigna umbellata), jute mallow (Corchorus olitorius) and amaranths (Amaranthus spp.).
Integrating livestock climate adaptation and peacebuilding: The Climate Security Sensitivity Tool for Livestock Systems (CSSTxLS)
(Working Paper, 2024-12-20) Sarzana, Carolina; Singh, Radhika; Meddings, George; Belli, Anna; Chepngetich, Brenda; Sagliocco, Livia; Mutheu, Mary; Pacillo, Grazia
Climate change presents profound challenges for livestock-dependent communities, particularly in fragile and conflict-affected regions where environmental, social, and political pressures intersect. The Climate Security Sensitivity Tool for Livestock Systems (CSSTxLS) builds upon the Climate Security Sensitivity Tool (CSST) framework to provide a specialized approach for designing conflict-sensitive and peace-responsive climate adaptation interventions tailored to livestock systems. This working paper outlines the development and application of the CSSTxLS framework, which was shaped by the results of a collaborative workshop held in October 2024 at the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) campus in Nairobi, Kenya. The workshop brought together experts in climate adaptation, conflict resolution, and livestock systems to contextualize the CSST framework for livestock-based livelihoods. Using case studies from Turkana and Mandera counties in Kenya, the paper explores the interactions between conflict drivers – such as weak infrastructure, socio-economic vulnerabilities, and human hazards – and climate-peace mechanisms, including economic development, institutional strengthening, resource sustainability, trust-building, and resilience enhancement. It highlights the importance of local context and expert validation in designing effective interventions. Drawing on the workshop findings and broader literature on pastoralist livelihood transitions, this paper demonstrates how climate adaptation can mitigate conflict risks, enhance resilience, and foster peace. By integrating traditional knowledge, addressing power asymmetries, and prioritizing equitable resource distribution, the CSSTxLS provides a pathway for adaptive strategies that address climate challenges while contributing to sustainable peacebuilding in vulnerable regions.
Ecosystem services in livestock farming: Integral valuation framework and field applications
(Working Paper, 2024-12) Florez, Jesus Fernando; Louhaichi, Mounir; Yigezu, Yigezu Atnafe; Abdrahmane, Wane; Hassan, Sawsan; Gonzalez Quintero, Ricardo; Notenbaert, An; Burkart, Stefan
This document presents a framework for evaluating the environmental, economic, and social dimensions of ecosystem services in livestock systems. Livestock plays a critical role in global food security and economies but also contributes to environmental challenges, including deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions. To address these issues, the Ecosystem Services Advisory Group, established under the One CGIAR Initiative on Livestock and Climate (L&C), seeks to promote sustainable livestock practices. Key ecosystem services highlighted in this framework include food and feed production, carbon sequestration, soil fertility enhancement, microclimatic regulation, biodiversity conservation, and emission reductions. The proposed integrated valuation strategy assesses ecological benefits, economic value, and social perceptions, aiming to support sustainable livestock management. Field applications in Colombia, Kenya, and Tunisia demonstrate the advantages of silvopastoral systems and improved pastures in boosting productivity, mitigating greenhouse gas emissions, and enhancing ecosystem resilience. The framework emphasizes the importance of balancing livestock production with environmental sustainability through innovative practices. Looking ahead, the initiative will focus on expanding evaluations across Latin America and Africa, refining methodologies, and strengthening stakeholder engagement to advance sustainable livestock farming on a global scale.
Evaluación de rendimiento y calidad nutricional de arroz biofortificado bajo un sistema de rotación con frijol
(Working Paper, 2024-12) Rendon, Natali; Guerrero, Crhistian
This study evaluated the impact of bean-rice crop rotation on rice yield and nutritional quality under different management treatments in the Zapatero village, Cartagena, Colombia. The experiment, conducted between May 2023 and January 2024, included Caupicor 50 beans and Fedearroz BioZn035 rice. Beans were selected for their nitrogen-fixing capacity and nutritional value, while rice was chosen for its biofortified zinc content and high yield potential. Six treatments were implemented under a randomized complete block design (RCBD) to evaluate parameters such as the number of harvested plants, 100-grain weight, yield, and zinc concentration in the grain. Results showed significant variations among treatments. The organo-mineral treatment achieved the highest yield and the greatest zinc accumulation. Bocashi improved grain weight, while the control treatment recorded the highest number of harvested plants. Soil analysis before and after the rotation showed a decrease in organic matter but improvements in pH, calcium levels, and cation exchange capacity, indicating an increase in soil fertility. These findings confirm that crop rotation with beans and organic amendments improves both soil health and rice productivity, as well as zinc accumulation in the grain. The study highlights the potential of sustainable practices to enhance agricultural productivity and food security in rural areas.
Cost benefit analysis of agroecological transition: A case of mango value chain in Kenya
(Working Paper, 2024-12-20) Ndiwa, Aurillia Manjella; Onyango, Kevin; Bolo, Peter; Wanyama, Rosina; Chege, Christine Kiria
Agroecology has been highlighted as a sustainable approach that could support food system transformation in many low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). However, there is limited evidence on the costs and benefits associated with agroecological transition. Moreover, existing evidence is only limited to farm level assessments, yet agroecology assessment needs to be done from a systems perspective. We conducted a cost benefit analysis associated with AE transition along two existing business models in the mango value chain in Makueni County, Kenya. At farm level, the agroecological interventions considered in the analysis include intercropping, activities related to reduced postharvest losses, and the use of organic inputs. At the business level, these interventions include physical expansion of the enterprises, product and market diversification and proper postharvest handling. Our findings show that the benefits associated with agroecological transition are significantly higher than the costs at both farm and business levels. At farm level the net present value (NPV) ranged between USD 300 and USD 400, a positive benefit cost ration (BCR) (>1) with a payback period of two years while the internal rate of return (IRR) ranged between 100% and 325%. At business level the NPV were above USD 10,000 with a positive IRR of between 15% and 37%, a BCR of >1 and a payback period of between three and four years. The results imply that agroecological transition is profitable both at farm and business level, although there is a waiting period which may be a barrier to many smallholder farmers and small businesses. Policy interventions to integrate agroecological approaches across key food value chains would promote sustainable food system transformation, especially in vulnerable contexts of LMIC. The social, health, and environmental benefits are also discussed.
Literature review on motivation and incentives for voluntary participation in citizen science projects
(Working Paper, 2024-12-01) Delfine, Maria; Muller, Anna; Manners, Rhys
Citizen science projects depend on the voluntary participation of individuals, whose motivations and engagement are shaped by a complex interplay of psychological, social and external factors. This literature review explores the diverse motivations driving initial and sustained participation in citizen science, drawing on theoretical frameworks such as Self-Determination Theory, Batson’s framework of community involvement and Schwartz’s Theory of Basic Values. Intrinsic motivations, including curiosity and the desire to learn, often dominate initial engagement, while sustained participation is influenced by a combination of collectivistic, egoistic, intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Incentives such as feedback, gamification and task relevance emerge as critical strategies for maintaining engagement. The review also highlights the demotivation factors and barriers, such as monotonous tasks and logistical challenges, that hinder participation.
The nexus between climate change, migration and social tensions in Zimbabwe
(Working Paper, 2024-12) Ndlovu, Sindiso; Maviza, Gracsious; Tarusarira, Joram; Caroli, Giulia; Mandlenkosi, Maphosa; Makanda, Joseph
In Zimbabwe, climate-induced changes in mobility and displacement patterns, coupled with preexisting socioeconomic factors, have reshaped the country’s security and development landscape, including risks to social cohesion, peace, and stability, particularly at the local level. However, national-level policy and operational responses to climate change have yet to adequately consider the peace and security elements embedded in these climate-induced disruptions. Understanding the complex interplay between climate, mobility, peace, and security is important for informing effective solutions that address the multifaceted nature of the adverse impacts of climate change.
The nexus between climate change, mobility and social tensions in Mozambique
(Working Paper, 2024-12) Ndlovu, Sindiso; Sax, Niklas ; Maviza, Gracsious; Caroli, Giulia; Makanda, Joseph
Mozambique faces substantial challenges due to its susceptibility to climate variability and change, exacerbated by its coastal location. This vulnerability contributes to a complex interplay between climate-induced impacts, mobility patterns, and escalating social tensions. This paper explores the possible dynamics of interaction between climate change and displacement and the resultant adverse impacts on social tensions and stability. It draws on an extensive literature review and can be used as a starting point for the design and planning of effective policy and operational responses across the Humanitarian-Development-Peace (HDP) nexus.
Gender dynamics in scaling and commercialization of improved forages in Uganda
(Working Paper, 2023-05-16) Lukuyu, Margaret; Sibiko, Kenneth W.; Notenbaert, An M. O.
Whereas planted forages are intended to enhance productivity and incomes in smallholder farms, improved livelihoods can be achieved and sustained only if they equally benefit women and men. This working paper is part of a larger study that assessed the gender dynamics in scaling and commercialization of improved forages in East Africa. Here we present results from Uganda based on data collected in December 2022 from gender-disaggregated Focus Group Discussions in Kiruhura and Ibanda Districts.
Cost-benefit analysis of agroecologically upgraded business models: A practitioner’s guide
(Working Paper, 2024-05) Narjes, Manuel; Gonzalez, Carolina; Charry, Andrés
AE-I’s WP3 work adheres to following logic: after identifying the challenges and potential for integrating agroecological principles into a particular business model (e.g., by applying the Holistic Business Model Assessment suite), an upgrading plan or new business model is co-designed. The next step consists of co-developing an investment case, which among others requires demonstrating the profitability of the upgraded/new business model. Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA) is at the core of investment appraisal and, in this guideline, will serve to assess the economic viability and competitiveness of upgrading business models through agroecological innovations.

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