Alliance Research Lever 8: Performance, Innovation and Strategic Analysis for Impact
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Item El Análisis Cualitativo Comparado (QCA): Una herramienta para entender fenómenos complejos en las ciencias sociales(Brief, 2025-03-01) Garcia, Maria Alejandra; Urbani, IlariaThis Learning Note introduces Comparative Qualitative Analysis (QCA), a hybrid method combining qualitative depth with quantitative logic to explore complex causality in social phenomena. Originating from sociology and comparative politics, QCA is particularly suited for small and medium sample sizes. It uses set theory and Boolean algebra to identify necessary and sufficient conditions that explain a given outcome, recognizing the principle of equifinality and asymmetric causality. The Note outlines the steps of QCA and presents a case study on citizen participation in hydropower resettlement processes in the Global South. The method's relevance for governance, public policy, and multidimensional sustainability issues is emphasized, positioning QCA as a valuable tool for both theoretical insight and practical application. Espanol Esta Nota de Aprendizaje presenta el Análisis Cualitativo Comparado (QCA), un método híbrido que combina la profundidad cualitativa con la lógica cuantitativa para explorar la causalidad compleja en fenómenos sociales. Originado en la sociología y la política comparada, el QCA es especialmente útil para muestras pequeñas o medianas. Utiliza teoría de conjuntos y álgebra booleana para identificar condiciones necesarias y suficientes que explican un resultado determinado, reconociendo el principio de equifinalidad y la causalidad asimétrica. La Nota describe las etapas del QCA y presenta un estudio de caso sobre la participación ciudadana en procesos de reasentamiento por hidroeléctricas en el Sur Global. Se destaca la utilidad del método para el análisis de gobernanza, políticas públicas y sostenibilidad multidimensional, posicionándolo como una herramienta valiosa tanto para el análisis teórico como práctico.Item From deficiency to demand: Consumer preferences for zinc-biofortified rice in Colombia(Journal Article, 2025-05-01) Oswalt, Sara; Durand-Morat, Alvaro; Rivera, Tatiana; Gallego, Sonia; Andrade, Robert; McFadden, Brandon; Bonatti, MichelleUndernourishment caused by micronutrient deficiencies (hidden hunger) remains a critical global challenge affecting billions worldwide. Approximately 25 % of the population in Colombia has inadequate zinc intake. Biofortification of staple crops, such as rice, offers a promising solution to address this problem. However, changes in the physical and culinary attributes due to biofortification may hinder consumer acceptance and limit the benefits of this approach. This study assesses the impact of zinc fortification, information, and consumer nutrition knowledge on consumers' willingness to pay (WTP) for rice in Cartagena, Colombia. We used a non-hypothetical experimental auction including 400 consumers. The results indicate that, without labelling and information treatment, zinc-biofortified rice is priced equal to premium-quality rice, and at an 18.8 % premium relative to standard-quality rice, highlighting that the high zinc content did not affect rice quality. Labelling results in an increase in WTP for both zinc-biofortified and premium-quality rice but not for standard-quality rice. Information about the benefits of zinc and the problems of zinc deficiency increases the WTP for zinc-biofortified rice by 8.2 % premium relative to premium-quality rice and a 43.8 % premium relative to standard-quality rice, which was reinforced by participants' nutrition knowledge. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to address malnutrition effectively, suggesting the implementation of targeted educational initiatives to enhance consumer acceptance, as well as the rice industry and retailers hoping to produce and market biofortified staple crops.Item Citizen science informs demand-driven breeding of opportunity crops(Journal Article, 2025-05-13) Voss, Rachel C.; De Sousa, Kaue; N'Danikou, Sognigbé; Shango, Abdul; Aglinglo, Lys Amavi; Laporte, Marie-Angelique; Legba, Eric C.; Houdegbe, Aristide Carlos; Diarra, Danfing dit Youssouf; Dolo, Aminata; Sidibe, Amadou; Ouedraogo, Colette Ouidyam; Coulibaly, Harouna; Achigan-Dako, Enoch G.; Kileo, Aishi; Malulu, Dickson; Matumbo, Zamira; Dinssa, Fekadu; van Heerwaarden, Joost; Van Etten, Jacob; Riar, Amritbir; van Zonneveld, MaartenItem Colombian universities incorporate PlaSA Colombia as a pedagogical tool to promote food system education among young people(Case Study, 2025-05-08) Rankin, Sara; Gonzalez, Carlos; Castillo, JohanaThe Alliance-developed PlaSA Colombia platform enhances education on food systems through interactive, data-driven learning experiences, making complex concepts more accessible and engaging. Integrated into curricula at Pontificia Universidad Javeriana and ICESI University, the platform has improved students’ and educators’ capacity to analyze sustainability challenges. Over 190 participants engaged in experiential learning activities, fostering critical thinking and informed decision-making on food choices. Institutional adoption and expansion plans demonstrate its scalability, while interdisciplinary collaboration has strengthened its impact, making PlaSA Colombia a replicable model for transforming food systems education.Item PestDisPlace transforms pest and disease monitoring with collaborative (or community) surveillance and genomic analysis(Case Study, 2025-05-08) Cuellar, Wilmer; Rodriguez, Rafael.The Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT-developed platform, PestDisPlace, is transforming pest and disease monitoring by providing real-time community tracking and genomic analysis, enabling rapid-response strategies in the Global South. PestDisPlace has helped successfully track Cassava Witches’ Broom Disease (CWBD) outbreaks in Brazil and French Guiana and is currently used in Ecuador to for preemtive monitoring and early warning of Fusarium TR4. These devastating diseases pose high phytosanitary risks and exacerbate food insecurity. PestDisPlace has informed policy, improved early warning systems, and contributed to climate-driven pest research, and agricultural workers’ capacities, which are being applied for more effective disease management.Item Identifying critical incentives for scaling out the adoption of agroecological practices–a systematic review of Peruvian cacao value chains(Journal Article, 2025-05-02) Mockshell, Jonathan; Omulo, Godfrey; Asante-Addo, Collins; Nielsen Ritter, Thea; Quintero, Marcela; Remans, RoselineThe growing global importance of agroecology highlights the pivotal role public and private sectors play in providing incentives and investments to catalyze behavioural changes and transform food systems. However, limited research exists on incentives for scaling agroecological practices in cacao value chains. This study employed a systematic review approach, focusing on Peruvian cacao sector, to explore incentives promoting agroecological practices and their sustainability outcomes. Findings reveal that within Peru’s cacao value chains, non-market incentives constitute the majority (36%), followed by regulatory measures (25%), market-based incentives (22%), and cross-compliance incentives (17%). Main providers of incentives include certification bodies, community-based organizations, and international funding organizations. Effective incentives include sustainability standards, market support subsidies, in-kind rewards, and agroecological schemes that support the adoption of practices such as intercropping, nature conservation for carbon sequestration, and the use of green and animal manure. These incentives have significantly improved sustainability outcomes: economic (39%), environmental (33%), and social (28%). However, limited use of cross-compliance incentives and modest emphasis on social outcomes highlight the need for policy instruments targeting the adoption of agroecological practices within cacao sector. This study provides insights for policymakers, development agencies, and private-sector to design effective incentives for advancing agroecological transitions in Peru and beyond.Item Sacrificing leisure for clean energy fuel: A decomposition analysis of time poverty(Journal Article, 2025-04-08) Martey, Edward; Etwire, Prince M.; Mockshell, Jonathan; Asante‐Addo, CollinsGiven the extended hours demanded by the labour market and the health risks posed by pollution from nonrenewable energy sources, the question of whether households are willing to prioritise clean energy over leisure remains unresolved. This study addresses this gap by investigating the impact of time constraints, encompassing both paid and unpaid work, on the Multidimensional Energy Poverty Index (MEPI) using data from the seventh round of the Ghana Living Standards Survey (GLSS 7). Our findings indicate that households experiencing time constraints are more inclined to adopt clean energy fuels. A decomposition analysis of time constraints reveals that while those stemming from paid work encourage the adoption of clean energy fuels, those associated with unpaid work hinder it. This suggests that households prioritise clean energy when faced with time pressures related to paid employment. Our results hold across various estimation methods and withstand robustness checks using different time and energy poverty metrics. The adverse impact of time constraints on energy poverty is particularly pronounced in rural areas, male‐headed households and communities with accessible roads. We posit that household income serves as a key mechanism through which time constraints influence energy poverty.Item Explorando los modelos de negocio para las transiciones agroecológicas en los cultivos de cacao y camu camu en Ucayali, Perú(Brief, 2025-04-01) Blanco, Maria; Mosquera, Leslie Estefany; De Los Rios, Rafael; Crisostomo, Diego; Díaz, César; Ritter, Thea; Ivanova, Yovita; Mockshell, Jonathan; Sanchez, Jose ChoyMensajes clave La transición agroecológica es una oportunidad estratégica para el desarrollo sostenible en Ucayali. Los productores de cacao y camu camu ofrecen productos de alta calidad, pero enfrentan barreras, como el acceso limitado a financiamiento, una infraestructura deficiente y costos elevados de certificación. Agroindustria y gastronomía valorizan la biodiversidad amazónica. Innovación, economía circular y conexiones con productores locales son claves para fortalecer la competitividad, impulsar el desarrollo regional y promover alimentos sostenibles. Las cooperativas y asociaciones son actores clave para conectar productores con mercados, financiamiento y prácticas sostenibles. Las políticas que refuercen su rol impulsarán la adopción de sistemas agroecológicos y beneficios sociales. Las inversiones público-privadas en riego, capacitación y tecnología, junto con incentivos como créditos accesibles, estrategias de biocomercio y pagos por servicios ambientales, impulsarán cadenas sostenibles. Promover la diversificación, las tecnologías ecoeficientes y los saberes ancestrales reduce los riesgos climáticos y mejora los ingresos. Los incentivos económicos y los programas especializados son esenciales para facilitar esta transición y garantizar un impacto sostenible en Ucayali.Item The state of food composition databases: Data attributes and FAIR data harmonization in the era of digital innovation(Journal Article, 2025-03-19) Brinkley, Sarah; Gallo Franco, Jenny Johana; Vásquez-Manjarrez, Natalia; Chaura, Julian; Quartey, Naa K. A.; Toulabi, Sarah B.; Odenkirk, Melanie T.; Jermendi, Eva; Laporte, Marie-Angelique; Lutterodt, Herman E.; Annan, Reginald A.; Barboza, Mariana; Amare, Endale; Srichamnong, Warangkana; Jaramillo-Botero, Andres; Kennedy, Gina; Bertoldo, Jaclyn; Prenni, Jessica E.; Rajasekharan, Maya; de la Parra, John; Ahmed, SelenaFood composition databases (FCDBs) are essential resources for characterizing, documenting, and advancing scientific understanding of food quality across the entire spectrum of edible biodiversity. This knowledge supports a wide range of applications with societal impact spanning the global food system. To maximize the utility of food composition data, FCDBs must adhere to criteria such as validated analytical methods, high-resolution metadata, and FAIR Data Principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable). However, complexity and variability in food data pose significant challenges to meeting these standards.Item Metadata schema for the GENNOVATE dataset and ways forward(Presentation, 2024-12-05) Kruseman, Gideon; Lopez, Diana E.; Muchiri, Caroline; Lecoutere, ElsIntroduction Why make qualitative data FAIR? Why make gender data FAIR? GENNOVATE The Process Overview of FAIR, curating data, using OIMS methodology (Open Ontology-Based Interoperable Information Asset Metadata Schema) The GENNOVATE Case Study Snapshot of Outputs Data model Metadata model OIMS metadata files & what to use them for Guidelines for making qualitative data FAIR (GENNOVATE as a case study)Item Incentives for agroecological transition in Ucayali, Peru: Resilient and inclusive systems(Video, 2025-01-29) Blanco Garcia, Maria Alejandra; Araujo De Lima, Silvia; Mosquera Escobar, Leslie Estefany; Ivanova, Yovita; Sanchez Choy Sanchez, Jose Gerardo; Varon Molina, Adriana Patricia; Marulanda Duran, Luis Alejandro; Mockshell, Jonathan YawThe Peruvian Amazon, one of the most biodiverse regions in the world, faces numerous interconnected challenges, including biodiversity loss and soil degradation. The Private Sector Incentives and Investments (PSii) project—implemented by the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, funded by the European Commission, and managed by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)—marks a significant step toward fostering sustainable and inclusive food systems. It operates under the CGIAR’s Agroecological Transitions Program for Building Resilient, Inclusive Agricultural and Food Systems (TRANSITIONS). The project aims to drive an agroecological transition within the Cacao value chain by generating data-driven insights and optimizing investment returns. These efforts seek to motivate public and private stakeholders to move beyond traditional “business as usual” practices and adopt agroecological production approaches, ultimately enhancing the environmental sustainability of Peru's food systems. To achieve its objectives, the project collaborates with various local and regional institutions, including the Chamber of Commerce, the National Institute for Agricultural Innovation, and local cacao cooperatives. This video showcases the key milestones and the evolving landscape of agroecological transitions in Ucayali.Item Reimagining gender in food systems: A feminist perspective(Brief, 2025-02-01) Ambikapathi, Ramya; Urbani, IlariaGender dynamics in food systems research are often fragmented and inconsistently integrated across disciplines. This study applies a feminist lens to review 1,221 studies from low- and middle-income countries, assessing the use of five feminist principles. Findings reveal critical gaps, including limited attention to urban food systems, inconsistent gender definitions, and methodological shortcomings. To foster more inclusive research and policy, we propose integrating feminist approaches, strengthening collaborations, and addressing policy gaps with intersectional perspectives. This review highlights the need for a paradigm shift to ensure diverse voices shape food systems research and policy.Item Living labs for people in Kenya: Outcomes of participatory action research in Nandi County(Report, 2024-12) Reyes, Byron; Camilo, KarenThe Low Emission Food Systems Initiative (also known as Mitigate+) focused on three main aspects: reducing food systems (FS) emissions and the predicted consequences of climate change on future generations, sustainable development, and social equity. Through its work, the initiative ensured that civil society, multilateral, government, academic, and private sector actors in its four targeted countries (Colombia, Kenya, China, Viet-Nam) have the knowledge, information, and tools necessary to make robust evidence-based decisions as they confront challenges in FS discourse, policy development, and implementation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHGE) contributions. The initiative aimed to promote inclusive approaches for low-emission FS transformation using a framework denominated Living Labs for People (LL4P). This report focuses on the results of a process evaluation conducted on the LL4P approach, in Kenya. For this, key informants data and secondary data were used. The evaluation allowed us to identify the outcomes that have been achieved as a result of the Initiative, and highlighted that these align perfectly with the conceptualization of a LL4P, as one of the main outcomes was the establishment of the LL4P as a framework that is inclusive, appropriated (co-owned) by stakeholders, and autonomous. Further, the LL4P is fully operational in an autonomous way; it has a board that is inclusive towards gender and youth, and representative of the diverse set of stakeholders in the county; and in 2024, it was able to launch a call for innovations and identify six innovations to receive funding for scaling. The Initiative has contributed by facilitating a space for stakeholders to identify and scale new innovations, using funding that is managed by the LL4P.Item Comparative profitability of agroecological practices in Ethiopian wheat farming(Journal Article, 2025-01-30) Ng-Ang-A, Stanley Karanja; Ogutu, Sylvester Ochieng; Tibebe, Degefie; Akinyi, Devinia; Mockshell, JonathanIntroduction Agroecology is increasingly promoted as a pathway to sustainable food production, aiming to maximize natural resource use while minimizing external inputs with harmful environmental effects. Agroecological practices can enhance farm productivity while ensuring environmental sustainability. However, these practices often require higher initial investments compared to business-as-usual (BAU) practices, and their profitability and relative risks are not well studied. This research evaluates the profitability and risk of adopting agroecological practices among wheat farmers in Ethiopia. Methods We conducted a deterministic cost-benefit analysis (CBA) incorporating sensitivity and scenario analysis to evaluate the profitability and relative risks associated with three agroecological practices: certified wheat seed, optimal site-specific inorganic fertilizer application rates, and drainage of waterlogged soils. The analysis considered yield uncertainty, market price fluctuations, and implementation variability to provide robust insights for decision-making. Results The deterministic CBA revealed that among the three practices, the use of certified seeds was the most profitable, with a net present value (NPV) of US$ 2,531 ha –1 . This was followed by optimal site-specific inorganic fertilizer application, with an NPV of US$ 2,371 ha –1 . Drainage of waterlogged soils yielded the lowest profitability, with an NPV of US$ 2,099 ha –1 . Discussion The results indicate that certified seeds and optimal fertilizer rates offer higher financial returns, making them attractive investments for wheat farmers. However, profitability alone does not guarantee adoption. Other factors, including social and behavioral aspects, influence farmer decisions. Future research should integrate these dimensions to develop comprehensive strategies for promoting agroecological practices. Conclusion Adopting agroecological practices has clear economic benefits for Ethiopian wheat farmers, with certified seeds emerging as the most profitable option. These findings provide evidence for stakeholders to design targeted interventions that maximize returns while addressing barriers to adoption.Item Residuos a riqueza: Mejorando la salud del suelo con Bocashi en la Transición Agroecológica Ucayali(Video, 2024-12-18) Blanco Garcia, Maria Alejandra; Araujo De Lima, Silvia; Mosquera Escobar, Leslie Estefany; Varon Molina, Adriana Patricia; Marulanda Duran, Luis Alejandro; Mockshell, Jonathan YawEl Bocashi, un fertilizante orgánico rico en nutrientes ofrece una solución accesible y eficiente para mejorar la fertilidad del suelo. Elaborado mediante la fermentación de materiales secos de fácil obtención, este abono enriquece el suelo con nutrientes esenciales, estimula la actividad microbiana y favorece el desarrollo de bacterias y hongos beneficiosos que descomponen la materia orgánica. Como parte del componente de fortalecimiento de capacidades del proyecto Sector Privado, Incentivos e Inversiones (PSII), especialistas del Instituto Nacional de Innovación Agrícola (INIA) lideraron una formación teórico-práctica con productores de la cooperativa Colpa de Loros. En estas sesiones, los participantes aprendieron de manera práctica al preparar una pila demostrativa de Bokashi. Este video, producido por el proyecto Agroecological TRANSITIONS-PSII en Perú, muestra los pasos prácticos para la elaboración del Bokashi y subraya la importancia de una gestión integrada de la fertilidad del suelo como base para lograr prácticas agrícolas sostenibles. Palabras clave: Agroecología, fertilizantes orgánicos, salud del suelo, desarrollo de capacidades, agricultura sostenible, prácticas agroecológicas.Item Applying the Most Significant Change (MSC) methods: A case study using the Business Acceleration for Youth Project in Malawi(Brief, 2024-12) Mzumara, Grace; Ngige, Chris; Nkhambule, Emily; Sheriff, Ramadhan Kadammanja; Slane, DavidItem Agroecological TRANSITIONS for our future(Infographic, 2025-01-15) TRANSITIONS Program; Ricci, Fabio; Araujo De Lima, Silvia; Shelton, Sadie; Geck, Matthias; Wollenberg, Eva Karoline; Mockshell, Jonathan; Crossland, MaryThis infographic was produced by the 3 projects' managers and communication officers of the TRANSITIONS Program (Agroecological transition programme for building resilient and inclusive agricultural food systems) funded by the European Union and managed by IFAD. The TRANSITIONS program aims to identify, test and scale up highly effective catalyzers of agroecology-driven food system transformation by means of three key actions: Agroecological transitions are complex and can take multiple pathways! We can view them as a subway network... different stations and lines leading toward a UNIFIED GOAL: sustainable, resilient and healthy food, and agricultural systems. Follow the different lines to see where the TRANSITIONS program works and how it aims to foster agroecological conversion through specific milestones! 1. The development and implementation of holistic performance metrics for agriculture across scales 2. Inclusive digital resources to support climate resilient agroecological transitions 3. Innovative pathways for long-term incentives and private and public investmentItem CGIAR Agroecology Initiative Outcome Identification Workshop Makueni ALL(Report, 2024-09-30) Korir, Hezekiah; Ngige, Chris; Adoyo, Beatrice; Anyango, Edith; Onyango, Kevin; Bolo, Peter; Gumo, Pius; Njeri, Rhoda; Fuchs, Lisa ElenaSince 2023, the Agroecology Initiative has engaged with diverse stakeholders in Makueni ALL to co-design and implement innovative agroecological practices in three priority areas: soil, water, and integrated pest management. To assess the Initiative's impact on various food system actors, an outcome evidence workshop was held on September 3, 2024, at DNRC, Makueni. This workshop involved 35 participants from diverse sectors, including farmers, government officials, and the private sector, agro-input service providers, NGOs, implementing organizations.Item Accelerating innovativeness: The Alliance bean program & Pan African Bean Research Alliance (PABRA) accelerate innovation through recalling successes and identifying opportunities to expand and strengthen existing partnerships and innovations(Brief, 2024-10) Schutz, Tonja; Poulos, Allison; Sharkey, Rowan; Rubyogo, Jean Claude; Onyango, PatriciaItem Innovation inventory 2021: Bean program & Pabra at 25 prioritizing innovations and areas of growth(Brief, 2024-10) Schutz, Tonja; Poulos, Allison; Sharkey, Rowan; Rubyogo, Jean Claude; Onyango, Patricia