Research Articles (Agricultural Economics, Extension and Rural Development)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://hdl.handle.net/2263/1745

This collection contains some of the full text peer-reviewed/ refereed articles published by researchers from the Department of Agricultural Economics Extension and Rural Development

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Evaluation of food insecurity and child malnutrition among rural and urban farm households in Nigeria
Ibrahim, Hussain Kobe (Taylor and Francis, 2026)
This study examines the relationship between food insecurity and multidimensional child malnutrition using panel data from Nigeria’s General Household Surveys. Employing a correlated random-effects logistic model, the analysis captures time-invariant household heterogeneity and urban–rural differences. The results showed that asset poverty and emergency coping strategies were associated with stunting and underweight in rural areas, while poor dietary diversity was associated with wasting. Asset poverty and poor diet diversity were associated with child overweight in urban settings, revealing a food insecurity–overweight paradox. High food expenditure and reliance on emergency coping strategies emerge as covariates of individual-level double burden malnutrition.
On smallholder crop productivity and on-farm entrepreneurship : empirical evidence from Ndumo-B and Makhathini irrigation schemes, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Wale, Edilegnaw; Mkuna, Eliaza (Elsevier, 2025-06)
This study was conducted to examine the presence and empirical validity of the link between on-farm entrepreneurship and crop productivity in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. A sample of 221 smallholder farmers was drawn from Ndumo-B and Makhathini Irrigation Schemes, Jozini Local Municipality. Principal component analysis was employed to estimate a continuum proxy for on-farm entrepreneurship. Gross margin analysis, Cobb-Douglas production analysis, and the one-limit Tobit model were used to analyze the link between crop productivity and on-farm entrepreneurship. Compared to independent irrigators with better entrepreneurial attributes, scheme irrigators were found to have the lowest levels of entrepreneurial competency, followed closely by community gardeners. Due to the freedom they enjoy in making their own decisions, independent irrigators were more entrepreneurial, unlike scheme irrigators, where decisions are made collectively, free-riding behaviour is rampant, and incentive challenges are prevalent. The productivity of cabbages was found to increase at an increasing rate as farmer entrepreneurship increased. The study recommends that future training focus not only on entrepreneurial skills but also on entrepreneurial mindset and collective marketing of agricultural products. Future on-farm entrepreneurial development pathways should be planned, accounting for the heterogeneity and complexity of their farming systems.
They know each other, but do they trust each other? Social capital and selected beneficiaries of community-based development projects : a lab-in-the-field in rural Zimbabwe
Belard , Amandine; Farolfi, Stefano; Jourdain, Damien; Manyanga, Mark; Pedzisa, Tarisayi; Willinger, Marc (Elsevier, 2025-12)
Community-based development (CBD) projects have long emphasized a bottom-up approach. For CBD initiatives to succeed, communities must harness their social capital, organize themselves, and actively engage in development processes. While CBD proponents highlight the promotion of social capital through community-based projects, critics argue that their effectiveness relies on pre-existing levels of trust, trustworthiness, and community interactions. To contribute to this debate, we investigate the selection bias regarding social capital induced by the recruitment strategy of an NGO in Zimbabwe. We look at differences between selected beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries in terms of pro-social behaviors, measured by incentivized games, and in terms of social networks. We also use this information to test whether being part of the same networks translates into increased trust, altruistic behaviors, and willingness to participate in collective action. Our study, conducted in 2022 in the rural district of Murehwa, Zimbabwe, comprised a survey and lab-in-the-field experiments (trust game, public good game, dictator game) involving 341 subjects. Findings showed that selected beneficiaries exhibit higher network density than non-beneficiaries. However, except for a partial experimental measure of trustworthiness, we observed no significant differences in prosocial behavior between the two groups before project implementation. The results suggest that although selected beneficiaries are more socially connected, they do not exhibit higher prosocial behaviors. These findings shed light on the common selection process used by development agencies and the inherent bias they introduce. To address this bias, development agencies should reconsider recruitment strategies that prioritize existing social ties, as they may unintentionally exclude less-connected community members. Instead, they should explore alternative selection approaches, such as the use of field data to ensure inclusiveness. Additionally, integrating trust-building activities at the beginning of projects could enhance cooperation among participants.
Charting a transformational course toward a safe and just future : the Earth Commission's contribution
Rockstrom, Johan; Denton, Fatima; Norstrom, Albert V.; Abrams, Jesse F.; Alam, Lubna; McKay, David I. Armstrong; Bai, Xuemei; Bala, Govindasamy; Boulton, Chris; Broadgate, Wendy J.; Bunn, Stuart E.; Buxton, Joshua E.; Cardenas, Juan Camilo; Ylla-Catala, Raimon C.; DeClerck, Fabrice; Davis, Natalie; Dennis, Donovan P.; Diamond, Miriam L.; Folke, Carl; Gotangco Gonzales, Charlotte Kendra; Graells, Georgia; Gupta, Joyeeta; Hasan, Syezlin; Jacobson, Lisa; Lade, Steven J.; Lenton, Timothy M.; Loriani, Sina; Ludwig, Cornelia; Marquet, Pablo A.; Moyo, Qondi; Mukherji, Aditi; Nakicenovic, Nebojsa; Obura, David; Oki, Taikan; Ospina, Daniel; Pena, Maria Fernanda; Pereira, Laura M.; Popp, Alexander; Riahi, Keywan; ;; Rojas, Maria del Mar; Sarkar, Anindita; Shalin, Anna; Stewart-Koster, Ben; Su, Bo; Sumaila, Rashid; Tharammal, Thejna; Van Vliet, Luc; Van Vuuren, Detlef; Verburg, Peter; Wang, Zhanyun; Winkelmann, Ricarda; Xiao, Cunde; Zimm, Caroline (Wiley, 2026-06)
Humans are now operating well outside the planetary conditions under which social and economic development has been possible. A precondition for securing equitable access to this prosperity is to safeguard the stability of the Earth system. The situation is urgent—we need a swift and profound shift in direction—a collective transformation. In response, the Earth Commission has developed a science-based framework that integrates biophysical limits with justice considerations, aiming to enable human wellbeing for all. The Earth Commission's first assessment showed that multiple safe and just Earth system boundaries have already been transgressed, threatening the resilience of the planet and the well-being of billions. This paper outlines the vision and scientific strategy for the Earth Commission's second phase (2024–2027), which focuses on advancing this framework and translating it into actionable budgets and exploring transformation pathways toward a safe and just future. Key components include expanding the safe and just boundary assessment to currently under-assessed Earth system processes (e.g., novel entities and ocean change), integrating justice more deeply into the framework, modeling interactions between boundaries and tipping points, and developing practical approaches to cross-scale translation and transformation. Special attention is given to the structural inequalities and power dynamics that shape both environmental degradation and our capacity to act. Through coordinated research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and stakeholder engagement, the Earth Commission seeks to provide knowledge to guide collective efforts toward transforming to a safe and just space for both people and the planet. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY : People around the world are already feeling the effects of a planet under pressure-from climate change and biodiversity loss to rising inequality. Scientists are warning that we are pushing Earth's life-support systems beyond their safe limits, putting both nature and human well-being at serious risk. In response, the Earth Commission has created a new science-based framework that brings together environmental limits and fairness. This helps define what a “safe and just” future looks like-one where the planet remains stable, and the well-being of all people is promoted. The next phase of work focuses on improving our understanding of under-explored threats like pollution and novel types of pollution, deepening the role of justice in our analysis, and identifying fair ways to share responsibility for staying within Earth's limits. It also looks at how big changes to systems like energy and food can help move us toward a safe and just future. The goal is to support faster, fairer action that protects both people and the planet.
Exploring the governance of wicked problems : insights from South Africa's Breede Valley urban food system
Milhorance, Carolina; Bourblanc, Magalie; Mercandalli, Sara (Routledge, 2026)
Urban food insecurity is increasingly framed as a wicked problem, yet governance responses often rely on normative ideals of coordination and participation, overlooking how historical dispossession, market dependence, and informal authority constrain adaptive action. This article examines food system governance in Breede Valley Municipality, a South African secondary city marked by decentralization without devolution and structural fragmentation. Using the governance capabilities framework – reflexivity, responsiveness, resilience, revitalization, and rescaling – and drawing on semi-structured interviews and document analysis, the study explores how governance capabilities are shaped by unequal access to land and water, entrenched agribusiness interests, and contested decision-making spaces. The findings extend the governance capabilities approach by emphasizing its political, relational, and context-dependent nature. The study contributes to wicked problem governance debates by reframing capabilities as relational and political practices shaped by historical dispossession, coalition dynamics, and institutional legacies, and showing that capabilities emerge not from institutional design alone.
Economic efficiency and stage-level loss elasticity of the maize (Zea mays L.) postharvest system in Zambia
Mutale, Bornwell; Mukokanwa, Namakau (Informa UK Limited (trading as Taylor and Francis Group), 2026)
Understanding how postharvest losses (PHL) respond to economic and production dynamics across value chain stages is critical for targeted interventions. This study estimates stage-level loss elasticities in Zambia’s maize (Zea mays L.) postharvest system using a 23-year dataset (2000–2022) across six value chain stages: harvesting and field drying, further drying, threshing and shelling, transport from the field, household level storage, and transport to the market. An Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) error correction framework is employed to estimate short- and long-run PHL dynamics guided by five hypotheses: yield-induced efficiency, price-driven loss mitigation, development-path loss modulation, production shock transmission, and a structural break associated with the 2008 global food price crisis. Findings show marked heterogeneity across stages; Income growth reduces losses in mechanizable stages (e.g. threshing/shelling: β = −0.525, p < 0.001) but increases losses in market-exposed stages (e.g. transport to market: β = 0.615, p < 0.001), revealing a structural divergence between mechanization gains and commercialization challenges. In the short-run, production shocks significantly exacerbate losses (elasticity = 0.801, p < 0.001), indicating binding capacity constraints. Counterfactual simulations indicate that a 5% PHL reduction would save about 19,059 tonnes annually (∼USD 4.57 million), with cumulative caloric recovery sufficient to feed approximately 2.8 million people. These findings challenge uniform intervention approaches and highlight the need for stage-specific, economically informed investment strategies.
Analysis of market structure, conduct and performance of underutilised crops in Mpumalanga, South Africa
Oloyede, Waliyat Olaide; Jordaan, Daniel (Informa UK Limited (trading as Taylor and Francis Group), 2026)
This study assessed the structure, conduct, and performance of underutilised crops, specifically Bambara groundnut, cowpeas, and orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) in Mpumalanga, South Africa. The research was conducted in 10 markets within the Ehlanzeni district. A three-stage sampling method was employed to collect data from 115 respondents. Results indicated that the markets for these crops were decentralised, reflecting perfect competition. The Lorenz curve showed that Bambara groundnut traders held more market power than those dealing with OFSP and cowpeas. Barriers to entry included a lack of owned capital, inadequate stock production, poor stall infrastructure, stock theft, limited crop promotion, insufficient storage facilities, and low crop prices. The findings also revealed that traders invested more and earned higher profits than farmers did, and that traders were more efficient. The study recommends promoting farmer and trader cooperatives to pool resources, improve bargaining power, and access better markets, as well as encourage value addition and agroprocessing by investing in local processing facilities to enhance the profitability of crops. Farmers should be encouraged to invest more to boost returns, and all barriers to entry should be removed to enable larger-scale operations.
Heterogeneity in quantity, scope and target connection in food sector firms’ reporting of sustainability indicators – examples from Sweden
Robling, Helena; Islamian, Kiana; Owusu-Sekyere , Enoch; Jonell, Malin; Hansson, Helena (Emerald, 2026-12)
PURPOSE : Monitoring sustainability in the food system is vital, yet the firms operating between production and consumption in the value chain are often overlooked; they constitute a “missing middle”. We investigate sustainability indicator quantity, scope and target connection among food sector firms and assess how these are influenced by firm characteristics, including size, sector and multinational affiliation. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH : We construct and use a panel data set of quantity, scope and target connection of reported sustainability indicators from 92 firms active in the Swedish food and beverage industry, wholesale and retail sector, from 2017 to 2021. We categorize sustainability indicators into topics and dimensions and employ random-effects Tobit estimation and censored quantile regression to explore heterogeneity among firms. FINDINGS : The findings reveal firm heterogeneity in sustainability indicator reporting. While almost 90% report emissions, “maintaining natural capital” and “economic enablers” are underreported sustainability dimensions. Net turnover and multinational affiliation are positively related to sustainability indicator reporting, while belonging to the wholesale sector is negatively related to reporting sustainability indicators for high and low quantiles. The share of target-connected sustainability indicators increases from 30% to 50% over the period. RESEARCH LIMITATIONS/IMPLICATIONS : Using sustainability reports as a source of data for sustainability efforts implies some limitations since all monitored indicators may not be disclosed in sustainability reports nor does monitoring indicators mean that sustainability objectives are met. We consider the act of monitoring, targeting and reporting on indicators as a key step for achieving such objectives, and the quantity, scope and alignment of indicators with specific targets are highlighted to ensure that the report is informative and effective and the data are trustworthy. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS : Our study can be useful for firms themselves, wishing to benchmark against similar firms and plan future monitoring and reporting efforts. For researchers and policymakers, our study can work as a transparent source of information on the contents sustainability reporting, a solid base for future research and policy impact evaluations. SOCIAL IMPLICATIONS : Food system sustainability is a topic of broad social relevance, affecting all levels of society from producers to consumers. This research provide insights into the sustainability efforts of an under-researched segment of the food system, and on how monitoring tools such as indicators can and should be used to speed up the progress toward sustainability. Further, we provide a basis for effective impact evaluation of legislation, which is important to tailor effective policy for a future sustainable food system. ORIGINALITY/VALUE : This is one of the first studies to collect a unique and detailed catalogue covering actual sustainability indicators used by the “missing middle” firms and illustrate their capacity to capture relevant dimensions, topics and targets. We highlight the heterogeneity in sustainability indicator reporting among firms and thereby provide a pre-Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive benchmark which is useful for efficient policy evaluation on the path towards sustainable food systems.
The Moringa value chain in Ethiopia and the socio-economic impact of pests and diseases
Fitawek, Wegayehu Bogale; Anjulo, Agena; Healey, Madaline; Lawson, Simon; Hurley, Brett Phillip (CAB International, 2026-05-20)
BACKGROUND : Moringa is a multipurpose tree, and the demand for Moringa products is growing significantly. It has gained popularity in southern Ethiopia, where the tree is cultivated for its nutritious food, medicinal properties, cultural significance, and economic value. However, there is limited research examining how pests and diseases affect the Moringa value chain. The aims of this study were to examine the socio-economic factors influencing the level of pest severity among Moringa growers and to estimate the impact of Moringa production on the income of value chain actors. METHODS : The study used primary data collected from Moringa value chain actors in the Arba Minch and Derashe districts of the southern Ethiopia Region, encompassing 507 households involved in the Moringa value chain. The study employed value chain mapping to analyse the entire chain and applied a multinomial endogenous switching regression model to address selection bias and assess the impact of Moringa production on the income of value chain actors. Results: Results show that younger individuals, women, singles, and cooperative members are more likely to participate in distribution and processing, while larger households with land and more Moringa plants tend to remain growers. Pest severity varies by location and household age, with Arba Minch growers more likely to experience medium pest severity, likely due to lower insecticide use than in Derashe. Distributors earn significantly less than growers, while processors earn similar incomes. Pest impacts on income were not statistically significant, likely because infestation periods were brief and Moringa is mainly grown for household consumption. CONCLUSIONS : The findings provide new insights into the impact of pests and diseases on the Moringa value chain and on the income of actors. The results identify key socio-economic and locational factors associated with pest severity among growers and estimate income differences across value chain actors. This highlights how participation in different stages of the value chain and pest dynamics influence economic outcomes in Moringa production systems. Given Moringa’s importance as a staple vegetable for food security, employment opportunities, and medicinal and cultural benefits, support from the government and NGOs is essential to strengthen the Moringa value chain. In addition, raising awareness of the impacts of insecticides and promoting integrated pest management is crucial for sustainable and resilient Moringa production and should inform policy and technical interventions.
What is missing from the shopping experience provided by omnichannel marketing model? Probing the drivers of loyalty in the hypermarket industry
Moatshe, Palesa; Tsvakirai, Chiedza Zvirurami (Sprint Investify, 2025-10-31)
The integration of online and in-store interactions via omnichannel marketing has become standard in retail. While online channels facilitate repeat purchases through convenience, the in-store experience remains a critical driver of customer loyalty. This study investigated the specific elements of the physical shopping experience that foster such loyalty. Although omnichannel models in supermarkets are well-documented, research in the hypermarket context remains limited. To address this gap, qualitative data were collected through one-on-one interviews with customers of a leading South African hypermarket. A thematic analysis of the responses identified key in-store factors motivating repeat purchases. The findings indicate that customer loyalty is primarily driven by two elements: perceived service quality and perceived price fairness. Service quality appeals to customers' emotional motivations, while price fairness aligns with their personal values. Consistency in delivering both emerged as a crucial determinant of long-term loyalty. These findings contribute to retail literature by pinpointing the in-store experience elements that positively influence omnichannel marketing. The study also offers strategic recommendations for retailers seeking to strengthen the link between their in-store efforts and customer loyalty.
Balancing bioenergy and food security through circular biomass utilization and fourth industrial revolution (4IR)-driven framework
Atofarati, Emmanuel O.; Osabohien, Romanus; Fitawek, Wegayehu Bogale; Oludoye, Oluseye O.; Enweremadu, Christopher C. (Elsevier, 2026-11)
The rising demand for renewable energy and sustainable agriculture has intensified pressures on food systems, particularly through competition for biomass resources. Despite growing interest in bioenergy, existing studies remain fragmented, with limited integration of agricultural waste valorization, food security metrics, and digital optimization strategies within a unified framework. This review synthesizes current knowledge on balancing food security and bioenergy production by prioritizing agricultural waste valorization and resource-efficient biomass management within a Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR)–enabled framework. Emphasis is placed on studies addressing resource efficiency, circular bioeconomy transitions, and the application of artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, robotics, and blockchain in biomass management. The analysis reveals that prioritizing agricultural residues over food-based feedstocks significantly reduces food system disruption while enhancing resource efficiency and environmental performance. Furthermore, digital technologies demonstrably improve biomass availability forecasting, logistics coordination, land-use optimization, and supply chain traceability, thereby strengthening system resilience and transparency. However, critical gaps persist in regulatory alignment, data governance, and the economic feasibility of deploying 4IR technologies in resource-constrained settings. To address these challenges, a multilayer 4IR-enabled framework is proposed, integrating data acquisition, predictive analytics, optimization, and governance for sustainable biomass utilization. The findings highlight that strategic alignment of waste valorization and digital innovation can support circular bioeconomy transitions and climate-resilient food systems. This work provides actionable insights for policymakers and researchers to advance sustainable food security, resource efficiency, and inclusive green growth, particularly in emerging economies. HIGHLIGHTS • Africa generates >3 billion t yr−1 of agricultural residues, forming the framework baseline. • A 4IR-enabled framework integrates AI, IoT, robotics, and blockchain traceable biomass supply chains. • AI–GIS–remote sensing models predict biomass availability and food–energy trade-offs. • Multi-objective optimization selects bioenergy pathways with minimized GHG and soil loss. • Nigeria and South Africa cases validate SDG-aligned, climate-resilient food systems to circular bioenergy transitions.
Environmental, health and social externalities in Uganda's coffee value chain : the hidden cost of coffee
Atieno, Prisca; Hendriks, Sheryl L.; Selomane, Odirilwe (Elsevier, 2026-06)
Global coffee demand rises by about 2.3% annually, intensifying environmental, health and social externalities, particularly in producing countries. There is limited understanding of the magnitude of these externalities in Uganda's coffee value chain. This study provides the first simultaneous quantification and monetisation of negative environmental, health and social externalities in Uganda's coffee value chain using integrated true cost accounting approaches. Life-cycle assessment, disability-adjusted life years and the living income benchmark were employed to quantify environmental, health and social externalities, respectively. The True Price methodology was used to monetise the environmental and social externalities, while the value of a statistical life year was applied to monetise health externalities. The total hidden costs were estimated at 3665 USD (range 3079–4383) per tonne of coffee, nearly 1.8 times the export price of 2000 USD per tonne. Environmental costs (1985 USD) were attributed to greenhouse gas emissions and soil erosion, social costs (1033 USD) were due to child labour and insufficient income among smallholder households and health costs (67 USD) were from pesticide exposure. Across the value chain stages, cultivation accounted for over half (2822 USD) of the total hidden costs. These findings indicate that the environmental, health and social impacts of Uganda's coffee value chain exceed its market value. Internalising these externalities would require substantial investments from value chain actors and policymakers, nearly double the current market value of coffee. HIGHLIGHTS • Uganda's coffee value chain generates negative environmental, health and social costs. • Hidden costs amounted to 3665 USD (range 3079–4383) per tonne, nearly double the export price per tonne of coffee. • Environmental externalities accounted for 55% of the total costs, followed by social (44%) and health costs (1%). • Rising production to meet growing demand is likely increase these negative externalities. • Failing to address these hidden costs could threaten the sustainability of Uganda's coffee value chain.
Human-elephant conflict in communities bordering Kruger National Park : revealing causes and unpicking social media narratives
Moorhouse, Tom P.; Ntuli, Herbert; Nketiah, Prince; Elwin, Angie; Paterson, Suzi; D’Cruze, Neil C. (Public Library of Science, 2026-07-08)
Conflict between humans and wildlife in communities living adjacent to protected areas is one of the most intractable issues facing policymakers and conservation practitioners. The presence of wildlife can negatively impact on humans in a number of different ways, from fatalities to loss of livelihoods. Proximity to human communities can also negatively impact wildlife, for example through retaliatory killings and illegal harvesting. Meeting conservation objectives therefore often requires measures to reduce human-wildlife conflict, especially at the borders of national parks. We examine the drivers of human-elephant conflict occurring in villages bordering Kruger National Park (KNP), South Africa – which can result in the killing of elephants that enter these communities. We use data from surveys in these communities, as well as online descriptions of an incident in the village of Matsulu which resulted in the death of an elephant and which was filmed by several community members, generating a large number of social media stories. Social media stories and survey responses both highlighted the same underlying drivers of elephant killings: that members of the community appear to have tampered with the KNP fence and encouraged elephants to exit the park. Community members benefited through obtaining elephant meat. Data from the survey additionally indicated that a small number of community members profit financially from elephant escapes, but that the wider community experiences a range of negative impacts, which may be partially defrayed by benefits in the form of meat. The majority (71.2%) of survey respondents stated they would support non-lethal elephant management approaches. The current policy regarding elephant management in KNP is that elephants are protected within the park but if outside and considered a danger to humans are permitted to be killed. This policy has implications for elephant conservation in a context where members of local communities may feel incentivised to facilitate the escape of elephants, in order to benefit from legitimately killing them. We recommend an evaluation of this policy in the light of community attitudes towards elephants and their management.
Remittances, financial inclusion, and food insecurity : evidence from Cameroon
Mukong, Alfred Kechia; Ntuli, Herbert; Aquilas, Nkwetta Ajong; Nyambe, Jacob M. (Wiley, 2026-11)
Food insecurity remains a major challenge in developing countries, particularly in African countries where natural disasters and conflict have increasingly reversed the efforts of many policymakers and development practitioners. Although financial inclusion and remittances have emerged as key drivers of food insecurity, the magnitude of their effects is still debated, questioned, and inconclusive. This paper deepens the empirical analysis of the determinants of food insecurity by considering the simultaneous effects of financial inclusion and remittances in Cameroon, a country where internal conflict has worsened the levels of food insecurity. Based on data extracted from the 2017 Cameroon Finscope Consumer Survey, we used several estimation techniques including the two-stage least square (2SLS) and heteroscedasticity-based instrumental variable approach to check for consistency of the results and to minimize the potential bias associated with endogeneity. The empirical findings reveal that improving access to remittances and having access to financial services significantly reduces food insecurity. The effects are higher among those with formal financial services. The results are consistent across the different dimensions of food insecurity and financial inclusion and the methods used. It is therefore imperative for policymakers, especially in developing countries, to advocate for universal access to financial services. It is also important to consider the role of remittances when setting or implementing food security interventions.
Seed literacy and access to quality seeds among smallholder farmers in the Eastern Cape, South Africa : a case study of KwaMkhiva Village
Shiba, Walter; Matli, Mankaba Whitney; Gqutyana, Ntanda; Mdwebi, Portia; Magagula, Nomfundo; Zantsi, Siphe; Bairu, Michael (MDPI, 2026-03)
Access to quality seed is a critical driver of smallholder productivity and household food security in South Africa, yet rural communities in the Eastern Cape continue to rely heavily on informal seed systems. Limited seed literacy among farmers and vendors is widely recognized as a constraint to the effective selection and use of high-quality seed. The purpose of this study is to assess seed literacy levels among smallholder farmers in KwaMkhiva village and evaluate how knowledge gaps shape farmers’ seed sourcing patterns and access to quality seed. The study hypothesizes that low seed literacy significantly increases reliance on informal seed systems and reduces adoption of certified or improved varieties. A quantitative, cross-sectional survey design was used to collect data from 50 smallholder farmers and 12 informal seedling vendors, complemented by semi-structured interviews with three extension officers. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, correlation analysis, and a composite Seed Literacy Index (SLI) were employed to assess literacy dimensions and their association with seed choices. Findings show that 49% of farmers rely on local markets and 40% use farm-saved seed, with 75% assessing quality visually rather than through germination or varietal indicators. Only 10% had received any seed-related training, and awareness of seed adaptability and crop rotation was below 20%. Higher SLI scores were positively associated with adoption of certified seed (r = 0.42, p < 0.01) and crop diversification. The study concludes that seed literacy is a critical yet underserved capability that shapes smallholder seed access within dual seed economies. Strengthening farmer-centred seed literacy programmes, revitalising extension services, and supporting community seed banks could enhance access to quality seed and improve smallholder resilience.
Climate variability, land-cover and vegetation dynamics in Ethiopia
Leyu, Tefera K.; Karuaihe, Selma Tuemumunu; Fitawek, Wegayehu Bogale (Institute of Agronomy and Veterinary Medicine, 2025-11)
CONTEXT AND BACKGROUND : Ethiopia's agricultural sector, primarily consisting of rain-fed smallholder farming, is facing increasing vulnerability due to the combined impacts of climate variability and changes in land cover. In recent years, changes in temperature and precipitation patterns, along with environmental degradation, have posed significant challenges to vegetation health and crop productivity. This study aims to explore how these climatic and ecological factors interact to affect agricultural outcomes. GOAL AND OBJECTIVES : The goal of this study is to assess the spatial and temporal risks of seasonal drought and climatic water shortages in Ethiopia by analyzing observed and projected precipitation and temperature trends. Additionally, the study examines changes in land cover and the relationship between climate variability and vegetation dynamics to understand their combined effects on crop damage and regional land productivity. METHODOLOGY : The study utilizes a multi-method approach, including the Coefficient of Variation, Precipitation Concentration Index, and Standardized Precipitation Index to evaluate rainfall variability, drought trends, and temperature trends. RESULTS : The study reveals a long-term warming trend in Ethiopia, characterized by increasing mean and minimum temperatures. While average rainfall levels have remained relatively stable, there has been an increase in variability, leading to more frequent droughts affecting 37.5% of seasons. These climatic changes are closely linked to declining vegetation health, changes in land cover, and worsening soil degradation, resulting in significant crop damage. Future climate projections under different scenarios show a complex outlook, with persistent droughts expected in the short term (2020–2039) and wetter conditions with increased flood risks in the long term (2080–2099) under high-emission pathways. The study also emphasizes the importance of integrated water resource management due to high inter-seasonal precipitation correlation. These findings underscore the need for localized, evidence-based adaptation strategies to enhance agricultural resilience and ensure food security in Ethiopia's vulnerable farming systems.
Assessing rangeland conditions on land reform farms in South Africa : a national analysis of the proactive land acquisition strategy farms
Zantsi, Siphe; Phali, Lerato; Verschoor, Aart-Jan; Gandidzanwa, Colleta (Taylor and Francis, 2026-04-21)
The conservation of natural resources to ensure the long-term sustainability of agriculture is a national priority. Likewise, reforming South Africa’s land and agrarian structure remains a key objective. However, balancing agricultural reform with the sustainable use of natural resources remains challenging. This study contributes to this body of work by analysing rangeland capability and its determinants on farms redistributed under the Proactive Land Acquisition Strategy (PLAS). A national survey of 1 752 farms was conducted, capturing information on farm manager demographics, farm characteristics and performance. Using published natural resource capability datasets, GPS coordinates of each farm and Surveyor-General cadastral boundaries projected through Google Maps, an interdisciplinary panel of scientists assessed the rangeland productivity of PLAS farms. The Tobit regression results indicate that factors such as the risk of bush encroachment, commercial productivity, gender of the farm manager, tenure security and climate capability were statistically significant in explaining variations in rangeland capability scores. As such, climate-change adaptation should be prioritised in rangeland management. Strengthening the public agricultural extension service by employing more rangeland ecologists could also ensure the sustainability of rangelands.
Factors affecting the adoption of mobile-based digital technologies : evidence from Ethiopia
Bule, Degineh Lagiso; Ntuli, Herbert; Gandidzanwa, Colleta (Sage, 2026)
Mobile phones and associated services possess substantial potential to improve household livelihoods. However, there is inadequate access to and use of mobile-based technologies, despite their potential to improve livelihoods in the Hadiya zone, Ethiopia. This study aims to analyse the main factors influencing the adoption of mobile-based technology. The analysis employed an ordered logit model on cross-sectional data collected from 278 respondents. The findings indicate that factors such as gender, education, affordability, access to remittances, social networks, awareness, geographical location, trade access, and type of mobile phone have positively and significantly influenced the likelihood of adopting mobile-based digital technology, except age. The implications suggest that mobile-based technology adoption remains under-utilised for essential activities, with adoption particularly lower among women and rural populations. Targeted interventions, including infrastructure improvements, digital connectivity enhancement, awareness campaigns, skill training, income-raising initiatives, and gender-sensitive digital policies, are essential to promote adoption.
From policy to practice : unpacking the implementation hurdles of South Africa’s R638 regulation on hygiene for handling food
Mkhwanazi, Ntombizethu Simphiwe; Adelle, Camilla; Korsten, Lise (Institute for African Alternatives, 2026-03)
This case study examines the implementation of Regulation R638, which outlines general hygiene requirements for food premises and the transport of food in South Africa. The regulation was introduced without stakeholder consultation due to the urgency of addressing public health concerns, particularly following the listeriosis outbreak across the country in 2017/18. This study explores the roles of various stakeholders, including government, industry, civil society, and research institutions, in the implementation of Regulation R638 and identifies significant challenges in enforcement. Key challenges include budgetary constraints, insufficient training, lack of institutional capacity, and non-compliance among food handlers. The findings highlight how the absence of stakeholder engagement during the regulation’s formulation has hindered effective implementation. Additionally, the study underscores the complexities of policy networks at different levels of government and the impact of resource allocation on food safety governance. The results suggest that the top-down approach adopted by the Department of Health, although necessary in response to a public health crisis, has led to difficulties in practical enforcement, underscoring the need for more inclusive and well-planned regulatory processes.
Solving science conundrums in the climate-nature-equity polycrisis with integrated transformative scenarios
Pereira, Laura M.; Gibson, Matthew Ford; Abrams, Jesse F.; Brutschin, Elina; Cardenas, Juan Camilo; Cheung, William W.L.; Claudet, Joachim; Cornell, Sarah E.; Daioglou, Vassilis; Duran, America Paz; Gomez-Baggethun, Erik; Harrison, Paula A.; Hebden, Sophie; Johnson, Justin A.; Jouffray, Jean-Baptiste; Karlsson-Vinkhuyzen, Sylvia; Keys, Patrick W.; Kim, HyeJin; Kok, Marcel T.J.; Lundquist, Carolyn J.; Lenton, Timothy M.; Mason-D'Croz, Daniel; McElwee, Pamela; Munera-Roldan, Claudia; Nakicenovic, Nebojsa; Norstrom, Albert V.; Nyasulu, Maganizo K.; Peterson, Garry D.; Pinho, Patricia; Popp, Alexander; Riahi, Keywan; Sumaila, Ussif Rashid; Tobian, Arne; Winkelmann, Ricarda; Wunderling, Nico; Van Vuuren, Detlef; Vervoort, Joost; Zimm, Caroline (Elsevier, 2026-05-15)
Addressing the intertwined climate, biodiversity, and equity crises requires transformative societal change. Yet the scenario frameworks and models used to explore future pathways often reproduce existing institutions, governance systems, and social structures, limiting their ability to imagine more sustainable and just futures. A key gap is the lack of approaches that can identify and evaluate transformative actions while accounting for systemic inequities in implementation. Here, we argue that integrating climate and biodiversity knowledge across the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities, together with stakeholders and diverse knowledge holders, can support the development of normative scenarios and models for just and sustainable Earth system futures. We outline a research agenda, highlight emerging examples of this shift, and identify the coalitions and institutional changes needed to advance it. More inclusive scenarios and modeling tools are essential for foregrounding equitable solution pathways and informing decisions about collective futures.

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