Economics and Impact Assessment (EcIA)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/110271

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SE4RL: piloting alternative models of solarization
(Presentation, 2024-08-08) Kuriachen, Philip
Solar energy for rural livelihoods has pilot tested solar irrigation enterprises as an alternative pathway for agriculture solarization. The project has field tested three models in Bihar, Eastern UP and Jharkhand which were tailored to local socio-ecological and agrarian conditions. Solar irrigation as a micro-enterprise was tested in Bihar with the objective of catalysing buyer friendly water markets. Solar irrigation enterprises have generated approximately cumulative revenue of 0.5 million rupees while reducing irrigation expenditure of water buyers by 80,000 rupees. In Jharkhand, to address the unique challenges of inadequate access to affordable power limiting irrigation and subsequently agriculture expansion, we pilot tested the feasibility of Farmer producer companies as irrigation service providers. The FPC model has shown better performance on key parameters like irrigation coverage and capacity utilization vis-à-vis PM-KUSUM and community lift irrigation schemes under JOHAR. In UP, working with Oorja SE4RL field tested the sensitivity of irrigation service fee on capacity utilization and revenues from irrigation sales. The field experiment reduced irrigation fee from Rs 4 to Rs 2 per cubic metre leading to a 7% increase in revenue and doubling of irrigation sales for Oorja. The pilots indicate that solar irrigation enterprises are a viable alternative to conventional strategy of promoting individual SIPs with large capital subsidies.
The business or financial models for solar irrigation pumps: unveiling Interconnections, advantages, and trade-offs
(Presentation, 2024-08-08) Mutum, Lamnganbi; Kuriachen, Philip; Taneja, Garima; M. P. M. Deepa; Sikka, Alok; Ringler, C.
In pursuit of underscoring the need for a nexus-driven approach in upcoming ventures to effectively manage limited resources, a comprehensive study was undertaken in the Indo-Gangetic plains to assess business and financial models. This exploration delved into four distinct models through intensive Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), totaling 3-4 sessions per model. Notably, the models were interconnected utilizing fuzzy cognitive mapping to visually depict their intricate interdependencies. In conclusion, the SIP model through the PM-KUSUM Scheme proves to be most suitable for large-scale farmers in regions lacking groundwater markets. Conversely, the Guarantee Fund Model provides customized solutions tailored for medium and small-scale farmers. In Bihar, Models SBIG and SBII are notably beneficial for marginal farmers managing small, fragmented land holdings. Moreover, ensuring gender inclusivity in these models underscores the importance of advocating capacity-building strategies, thereby enhancing their efficacy and ensuring equitable benefits for all beneficiaries.
Lessons from implementation models in Bangladesh
(Presentation, 2024-08-08) Mitra, Archisman
Diesel dependency creates energy insecurity and puts a financial burden on the country. To improve energy security, protect farmers from fuel price shocks and also reduce emissions from diesel usage, Bangladesh Government is promoting the implementation and use of solar irrigation pumps (SIPs). The study encountered three solar irrigation models as: (a) Free-for- Service (b) Individual Ownership model and (c) Community managed models in the country. Among these, the Free-for-Service model exhibited multiple benefits as this is funded by Infrastructure Development Company Limited (IDCOL) a private company and is widely used among farmers of Bangladesh and it accounts for the ease of investment and financial viability of the system installed. Ultimately no single model fits all locations and they have to be context-specific and determined by the objectives.
Review of fisheries and aquaculture policies in Ghana: technical brief
(Brief, 2024-09-30) Mapedza, Everisto; Buisson, Marie-Charlotte; Zane, Giulia; Appiah, Sarah; Asmah, R.; Ahiah, L.; Mensah, E.
Using rapid game design in Zambia
(Video, 2024-05-14) International Water Management Institute
In the context of the Lower Kafue Basin, RGD offers a novel and engaging approach to multistakeholder dialogue by harnessing the power of gamification of complex issues. The game designing process unravels waterscape and landscape issues through interactive stakeholder experiences that encourage inclusive collaboration, problem-solving and empathy while breaking down sectoral barriers and fostering understanding between stakeholders about common concerns.
Sustainable aquaculture in northern Ghana
(Video, 2024-08-05) International Water Management Institute
Explore the first successful tilapia harvest in Ghana's Nansoni community under the CGIAR Aquatic Foods initiative. See how local youths boost their incomes and plan for future cycles through sustainable aquaculture.
Using rapid game design for Zambia’s lower Kafue Basin challenges
(Blog Post, 2024-05-14) Siangulub, F.; Mapedza, Everisto; Buisson, Marie-Charlotte; Lankford, B.; Besa, K.; Worther, V.; Ikasaya, S.; Astello, M.; Muke, B.; Kabaso, R.; Kaluba, M.; Ngambi, F.; Kasoma, W. P.
Quick gains or long-term futures?: context matters for how young people in Ghana view aquaculture
(Blog Post, 2024-12-19) Arulingam, Indika; Appiah, Sarah; Joshi, Deepa; Buisson, Marie-Charlotte
Aquaculture in small reservoirs in Ghana’s North-East Region: the IWMI-led initiative is turning local dams into sources of growth and development
(News Item, 2024-08-06) Zane, Giulia; Appiah, Sarah; Buisson; Marie-Charlotte; Ahiah, L.; Mensah, E.; Asmah, R.
Africa agriculture transformation scorecard: performance and lessons
(Brief, 2024-12-30) Matchaya, Greenwell C.; Kasoma-Pele, Winnie; Samikwa, D.
The Malabo Declaration on accelerated agricultural growth and transformation for shared prosperity and improved livelihoods is a set of goals that were adopted by Heads of State and Government of the African Union in 2014 in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea (AUC 2014). To translate the seven Malabo commitments into results, a call for action was made by the Heads of State and Governments, by calling upon the AU Commission and the NEPAD Planning and Coordinating Agency, in collaboration with partners, to initiate a review process to be conducted on a biennial basis starting 2017, with an objective of tracking, measuring, and reporting progress towards achieving the Malabo Declaration commitments by 2025. Four Biennial Reviews (BR) have been conducted—the inaugural BR in 2017, the second BR in 2019, the third BR in 2021, and the most recent BR concluded in 2023. This brief outlines the performance of the SADC region and its Member States in advancing the seven Malabo Declaration commitments mentioned earlier, based on the BR4 report. This brief also details the SADC region’s challenges and lessons learned from the review processes. Additionally, it reviews policy and programmatic changes in the SADC region influenced by insights from the inaugural BR1 in 2017 (AUC 2018), BR2 in 2019 (AUC 2020), BR3 in 2021 (AUC 2022), and BR4 in 2023 (AUC 2024) in line with Matchaya et al. (2021). The brief concludes by highlighting necessary policy actions that the 16 SADC countries (Angola, Botswana, Comoros, Democratic Republic of Congo, Eswatini, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe) would have to take to achieve the Malabo Declaration’s targets by 2025. A key recommendation from the analysis indicates the need for developing robust M&E and data systems to improve data quality and strengthen the evidence base for agricultural-based economic transformation. This is also the time to strengthen M&E systems as post-Malabo strategies are being developed. To guarantee seamless monitoring, the SADC Member States should ensure that all key BR indicators are featured in their future NAIPs.
Does financial inclusion enhance farmers' resilience to climate change? Evidence from rural Ethiopia
(Journal Article, 2024-11) Negera, M.; Alemu, T.; Hagos, Fitsum; Haileslassie, Amare
Financial inclusion is recognized as a vital driver of sustainable development and serves as a fundamental pillar of climate action. It is crucial to enhance the climate resilience of smallholder farmers in the face of severe and unpredictable climate shocks, which disproportionately affect them. However, the level of financial inclusion in Ethiopia remains low, and its impact on the climate resilience of smallholder farmers has not been thoroughly examined using rigorous model and comprehensive dataset. This study investigates the impact of financial inclusion on the climate resilience of rural households, using a large data set from the Ethiopian Socio-Economic Survey. The principal component analysis was applied to construct a climate resilience index. The financial inclusion was measured using an index that encompasses three dimensions: penetration, availability, and usage. In order to address the endogenous nature of financial inclusion, an instrumental variable approach was employed, using the distance to the nearest financial institution and religion as instrumental variables. The results demonstrated a positive and significant impact of financial inclusion on the climate resilience of rural households. Therefore, the government should strengthen the provision of essential financial and related infrastructures in rural Ethiopia to improve access to financial products and services. Furthermore, it is essential for policymakers to initiate and implement financial sector reforms that ensure the availability of affordable and tailored financial services. These reforms should also prioritize the development of climate-resilient agricultural finance, thereby contributing to the achievement of climate action goal of sustainable development.
A place in the sun: farmers’ co-benefits from solar irrigation in Bangladesh
(Journal Article, 2024-12) Buisson, Marie-Charlotte; Mitra, Archisman; Hounsa, T.; Habib, Md. A.; Mukherji, Aditi
Solar irrigation pumps (SIPs) are gradually replacing diesel pumps in relatively water-intensive agricultural production systems and geographies to reduce carbon emissions from food systems. However, beyond its climate change mitigation potential and fulfillment of Nationally Determined Contributions commitments, the adoption of solar irrigation also has direct co-benefits for farmers. Taking the case of Bangladesh and anchored on primary data collected among solar and diesel pump users, this article analyses the role access to solar irrigation has on household and farm-level outcomes. The propensity score matching and inverse probability matching approaches identify a positive effect of SIP access on food security and profitability from dry-season paddy for adopters. Different transmission channels are explored to explain these co-benefits. Lower costs of irrigation and labor are identified as the strongest pathways. This analysis strengthens the case for investments toward the solarization of agriculture in developing countries where it delivers significant development co-benefits in addition to climate change mitigation benefits. The valuation of the farmers’ co-benefits, along with global climate mitigation impacts, also highlights the potential role of such programs toward climate justice.
Improving policy coherence in food, land, and water systems to advance sustainable development in India: a case study of Odisha
(Report, 2024-11-19) Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW); International Water Management Institute (IWMI)
Food, land, and water (FLW) systems are closely interlinked; actions in one system often impact the others. Enhancing the sustainability of these interconnected systems is crucial for advancing food security, sustainable livelihoods, rural development, environmental health, and climate resilience. Recognising these interlinkages, India is making significant policy efforts to achieve environmental, economic, and social well-being (PIB 2024a). However, the complexity and evolving nature of these interlinkages necessitate coherent policy efforts (CEEW and IWMI 2023). Policy coherence involves improving institutional coordination, leveraging policy synergies, and addressing trade-offs. It also entails enabling the convergence of resources and ensuring flexibility and adaptability to changes. Policy coherence promotes the inclusion of vulnerable groups, thereby advancing social inclusion and economic empowerment (CEEW and IWMI 2023). Therefore, it is critical for advancing national goals and unlocking opportunities to achieve global sustainable development targets. This report is part of a larger study examining policy coherence with regards to FLW systems in India at both the national and sub-national levels. The national-level study was guided by the National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog, the apex public policy think-tank of the Government of India. The study yielded three important findings. First, it identified the most relevant national policies within the FLW policy landscape. Second, it highlighted the best practices and key lessons for achieving policy coherence across these policies. Third, it underscored the importance of implementing policy coherence in FLW systems at the state level, which is an important governance level for policy implementation. To drive meaningful progress at the sub-national level, it is essential to ensure policy coherence that aligns sub-national targets with broader national and global goals, such as the SDGs (UNSSC 2022, OECD n.d.a). Odisha is known for its emphasis on scientific, evidence-based policymaking, sustainable development, and convergent efforts. This study aims to better understand state-specific best practices and key lessons for improving policy coherence among Odisha’s most relevant policies on FLW systems. The study also offers actionable recommendations for enhancing policy coherence.
Designing a multi-stakeholder platform to manage the Lower Kafue Basin in Zambia
(Brief, 2024-09-30) Siangulube, Freddie Sayi; Mapedza, Everisto; Buisson, Marie-Charlotte; Ng'ambi, Florence
In Kumaon, water’s not under the bridge
(Newsletter, 2024-11-06) Bhattacharjee, Suchiradipta; Taneja, Garima
How self-help groups are empowering women amid out-migration: the groups are providing rural women with skills training leading to improved incomes as well as a greater say in local decision-making structures
(Blog Post, 2024-10-16) Taneja, Garima; Bhattacharjee, Suchiradipta; Dikshit, Manya
Out-migration is a prominent trend in Pithoragarh district in the state of Uttarakhand. Young and educated men are increasingly migrating to other states seeking better employment opportunities. Young women are left with the children and the elders to look after the home and the farm.
Tackling water scarcity through strengthening leadership. ABY: a test case for community-led water management
(News Item, 2024-09-29) Bhaduri, Tanmoy; Bhattacharjee, Suchiradipta; Taneja, Garima
Intra-African trade in virtual water: Trends and drivers
(Book Chapter, 2024-08-29) Matchaya, Greenwell; Odjo, Sunday; Collins, Julia
Increasing intra-African trade is expected to have a wide range of benefits, including contributing to increased economic growth, employment, and food security. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), launched in 2021, will have potentially significant impacts on economic output and incomes when fully implemented. A recent study suggests that AfCFTA implementation will drive substantial employment growth, generating more than 7 million new jobs in manufacturing, public services, trade, and other services (World Bank 2020). Bouët, Laborde, and Traoré (2022) estimate that an ambitious implementation of the AfCFTA, which eliminates tariffs and significantly reduces nontariff measures, would increase Africa’s gross domestic product (GDP) by 0.2 percent compared to baseline trends in the absence of the AfCFTA by 2035. Increased intra-African trade in agriculture could also contribute significantly to improving food security and nutrition, including by increasing dietary diversity, promoting food price stability, and boosting the availability of key micronutrients (Bonuedi, Kamasa, and Opeku 2020; Makochekanwa and Matchaya 2019; Odjo and Badiane 2018; Olivetti et al. 2023). A further potential benefit of increased intra-African trade is its contribution to environmental sustainability and efficient use of scarce natural resources. The impacts of trade on the environment are complex. Although trade expends resources and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, it could also contribute to sustainable resource use if it allows countries to specialize in production patterns according to their resource endowments and comparative advantage (Odjo, Traoré, and Zaki 2023). In the context of climate variability and water scarcity, trade could potentially help to minimize the negative impacts by moving commodities from areas with high water availability to water-scarce areas (Matchaya, Garcia, and Traoré 2023). This chapter reviews overall trends in intra-African agricultural trade and, to assess the contribution of this trade to sustainability, takes a close look at its potential to address issues of water scarcity and contribute to efficient use of water resources. The chapter examines intra African agricultural trade in virtual water—that is, the water content embedded in trade flows of agricultural products. Trade is most commonly measured in value terms, but the monetary value of a product does not always reflect the resources used to produce it. Trade flows expressed as virtual water trade (VWT) reflect both the specific water requirements of different crops and the varying crop yields obtained in different countries. Examining intra-African trade in virtual water terms and identifying the impact of countries’ resource endowments and water productivity levels on VWT helps us to assess the contribution of intra-African trade to addressing water stress and scarcity in African countries and contributing to more efficient water use.
Making ends meet in refugee camps: food distribution cycles, consumption and undernutrition
(Journal Article, 2024-10) Aubery, F.; Buisson, Marie-Charlotte
Years after the initial settlement, food aid remains an essential component of humanitarian assistance for protracted refugees in managed camps. From data collected among refugee households in three camps in southern Chad and an exogenous variation of time between the latest food distribution and households’ interviews, we draw the time path of household’s consumption. Consistent with the literature on intertemporal choices in high-income countries, refugee households experience an average decline of 1.1 to 1.5 percent per day in their daily caloric intake between distributions. The short-term nutritional status of children under five also responds to the distance from food aid distribution and confirms the existence of food distribution cycles. Our results suggest that households don’t smooth consumption during the interval of time between two distributions, and face regular and frequent cycles of food shortage resulting in detrimental consequences on children’s health.
Solar-powered irrigation in Nepal: implications for fossil fuel use and groundwater extraction
(Journal Article, 2024-07-12) Kafle, Kashi; Balasubramanya, Soumya; Stifel, D.; Khadka, Manohara
In recent years, use of solar-powered irrigation pumps (SIPs) has increased significantly in the agricultural plains (terai) of Nepal. Federal and local governments there have subsidized the pumps in an effort to expand irrigated agriculture using renewable energy. We use data from a cross-sectional survey of 656 farming households in the terai to examine how SIPs affect fossil fuel use and groundwater extraction. We find that most SIP users continued to use their fossil-fuel pumps, as very few completely replaced them with solar pumps. Farmers who received SIPs operated their irrigation pumps more hours than those who did not receive SIPs. Taken together, these findings suggest that groundwater use has increased, as SIP recipients ‘stack’ their pumps. We also find that solar pumps were more likely to be owned by richer households and those with better social networks than those who were poorer and had relative social disadvantage. As Nepal expands the use of solar pumps in agriculture, policy efforts may benefit from managing expectations about the carbon-mitigation potential of this technology, managing groundwater risks as SIP use expands, and making SIPs more inclusive.

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