Latest IWMI Publications

लैङ्गिक समानता तथा सामाजिक समावेशीकरण (GESI) उत्तरदायी जलश्रोत–ऊर्जा–खाद्य–पारिस्थितिकीय प्रणाली (WEFE) बीचको अन्तरसम्बन्ध सम्बन्धि अवधारणा स्थानीय तहको योजना तर्जुमाकोलागि सहयोगी पुस्तिका

2026-05-20T01:00:43Z

dc.title: लैङ्गिक समानता तथा सामाजिक समावेशीकरण (GESI) उत्तरदायी जलश्रोत–ऊर्जा–खाद्य–पारिस्थितिकीय प्रणाली (WEFE) बीचको अन्तरसम्बन्ध सम्बन्धि अवधारणा स्थानीय तहको योजना तर्जुमाकोलागि सहयोगी पुस्तिका dc.contributor.author: Pokhrel, Bharat Kumar; Koirala, Sanju; Pradhan, Meeta Sainju; Onta, Nisha; Khadka, Manohara; Nepal, Santosh dcterms.abstract: This manual was developed in response to the demand from local governments in the Rangun Watershed for a knowledge resource on the Water, Energy, Food, and Environment (WEFE) Nexus approach. The manual presents key concepts and practical guidance for applying the WEFE Nexus approach in watershed planning. It also aims to offer a practical reference to support local authorities in integrating Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) responsive WEFE principles into their annual planning, budgeting, and policy formulation processes. It is specifically designed for local government representatives and municipal and ward-level staff in Nepal who are engaged in the WEFE sectors. It serves as a practical reference for developing local plans, policies, and activities, as well as for budgeting and implementing them effectively. It is also a valuable resource for NGOs, INGOs, and academicians working in these fields, and serves as a foundational guide for training design and delivery. The content is based on the materials developed and tested during the GESI Responsive WEFE Nexus Approach training for the Rangun Watershed and the WEFE Leadership Workshop in Nepal. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations

Strengthening an Enabling Environment for Wastewater Reuse in Nepal’s Peri-Urban Agriculture

2026-05-20T01:07:25Z

dc.title: Strengthening an Enabling Environment for Wastewater Reuse in Nepal’s Peri-Urban Agriculture dc.contributor.author: Taron, Avinandan; Fanaian, Safa; Mishra, Anuj; Khadka, Manohara; Bodach, Susanne dcterms.abstract: This report assesses the enabling environment for wastewater reuse in Nepal’s peri-urban agriculture, focusing on policy and institutional coherence, technical and infrastructure capacity, human capacity, financial mechanisms, and social acceptance. Nepal has a relatively strong enabling policy base for wastewater reuse through national frameworks on WASH, environment, agriculture, and climate resilience, the transition to safe and scalable wastewater reuse requires stronger institutional coordination, reuse-oriented infrastructure investment, dedicated financing mechanisms, capacity development. Implementation remains weak due to fragmented mandates across federal, provincial, and municipal levels, with limited coordination between key sectors such as water supply, agriculture, and environment. Wastewater reuse is largely confined to informal and small-scale practices rather than being integrated into planned municipal systems. Technical and institutional readiness is low, with less than 15 percent of wastewater treated, and most systems designed for disposal rather than reuse. Municipalities face shortages of trained personnel and weak coordination between sanitation and agriculture sectors, while financial mechanisms remain limited as wastewater reuse is not a budgeted priority and lacks dedicated incentives or financing windows. Private sector participation and structured PPP models for reuse remain limited. Social acceptance remains mixed, with widespread informal use driven by necessity but strong stigma among consumers due to health concerns and limited awareness. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Food Frontiers and Security; Scaling for Impact

Mapping the Invisible: Groundwater Use, Access, Equity, and Governance in Nepal’s Southern Plains; Policy Pathways for Equitable and Sustainable Groundwater Use

2026-05-20T01:04:56Z

dc.title: Mapping the Invisible: Groundwater Use, Access, Equity, and Governance in Nepal’s Southern Plains; Policy Pathways for Equitable and Sustainable Groundwater Use dc.contributor.author: KC, Sumitra; Khadka, Manohara; Mishra, Anuj; Aryal, Anil dcterms.abstract: This study examines groundwater use, access, and governance in Barahathawa Municipality, Madhesh Province, Nepal. Groundwater is a critical resource in Nepal’s southern plains, where most households rely on it for domestic needs and many farmers depend on it for irrigation. A well and borehole inventory, combined with qualitative research, found heavy reliance on private wells and boreholes because canal irrigation is limited and unreliable. The findings show major social, economic, and gender inequalities in groundwater access. Ownership of boreholes and pumps is concentrated among certain caste groups and landholding households, while Terai Dalits, Muslims, women-headed households, smallholders, and tenant farmers face multiple barriers. These include limited land ownership, which is closely tied to groundwater access, financial constraints in investing in groundwater that requires upfront cost and energy cost, language barriers, limited access to information due to language barriers and limited social networks, and subsidies. Informal water markets help farmers meet irrigation needs but can also deepen existing inequalities. This study also identifies some critical policy and institutional challenges. The study recommends strengthening groundwater governance through clear and implementable local policies on groundwater, stronger coordination across institutions and government levels and sectors, targeted subsidies, accessible credit, and better monitoring. It also calls for participatory groundwater management involving local communities, citizen science-based data systems, multi-stakeholder platforms, and investment in groundwater recharge, and nature-based solutions to support equitable and sustainable groundwater use. cg.contributor.initiative: NEXUS Gains cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations

IWMI Global Environmental Flows Platform

2026-05-19T01:06:49Z

dc.title: IWMI Global Environmental Flows Platform dc.contributor.author: International Water Management Institute cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations; Multifunctional Landscapes

Current Practices and Challenges in Smallholder Irrigation Water Management: A WEFE Nexus-Based Assessment; The Case of the Meki Catchment

2026-05-16T01:08:50Z

dc.title: Current Practices and Challenges in Smallholder Irrigation Water Management: A WEFE Nexus-Based Assessment; The Case of the Meki Catchment dc.contributor.author: Taye, Meron Teferi; Ebrahim, Girma Yimer; Gebreyesus, Kirubel; Tadesse, Mulugeta; Seid, Abdulkarim dcterms.abstract: As part of the CGIAR Policy Innovations Program of CGIAR, this study focuses on water management for smallholder irrigated agriculture in Ethiopia. Noting that Ethiopia’s promotion of multi-season food production for food security and livelihood improvements there is a need to assess the system from Water-Energy-Food-Environment perspective for optimized resources management. This study provides baseline analysis of the current irrigation practices, the use of surface and groundwater for a case study area in the Meki catchment of the Rift Valley Lakes Basin, Ethiopia. The study used literature review and field visits to conduct the assessment using WEFE nexus methods. The results indicate that that the catchment is already experiencing water management challenges and water use conflicts due to uncoordinated surface water withdrawals between upstream and downstream users. Some of the rivers dry up during peak irrigation seasons. Conversely, farmers believe that there are enough groundwater resources for irrigation and their major challenge is limited access to affordable energy to expand irrigation with groundwater sources. While this is an important factor for improved food production; there is a risk of unsustainable groundwater abstraction when access to energy improves in the future. Hence, this study provides recommendations on how to scale irrigation with sustainable use of water and alerts practitioners and policy makers to exercise caution as irrigation expands in the catchment and beyond in other parts of Ethiopia. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations

Al Murunah: Building Climate Resilience from the Ground Up with Scalable, Resilient Nature-Based Water Solutions Pilot Projects in the MENA Region

2026-05-15T01:01:08Z

dc.title: Al Murunah: Building Climate Resilience from the Ground Up with Scalable, Resilient Nature-Based Water Solutions Pilot Projects in the MENA Region dc.contributor.author: Palay, Isis; Fragaszy, Stephen; Stifel, Elizabeth; Abeyrathna, Wasudha Prabodhani; Gharaibeh, Sawsan dcterms.abstract: This thematic brief explores how the Al Murunah project is implementing scalable, resilient nature-based water solutions (RNBWS) pilot projects to strengthen climate resilience and water security across fragile and climate-vulnerable settings in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Focusing on pilot sites in Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon and Palestine, Al Murunah pilots combine technical innovation, inclusive governance and community-led approaches to address water scarcity, land degradation, climate change and institutional fragility. Al Murunah pilots are designed as integrated and scalable models embedded within local institutions, households and policy systems. Through participatory planning, co-design and partnerships with communities, cooperatives, water user associations and government stakeholders, the project strengthens local ownership while supporting long-term adaptation and resilience. This brief presents Al Murunah as a proven and investable process for scaling locally led climate resilience solutions across the MENA region.

Energy Shocks and Food System Transmission: A Rapid Assessment Framework for Import-Dependent Economies with Evidence from Malawi

2026-05-14T01:09:33Z

dc.title: Energy Shocks and Food System Transmission: A Rapid Assessment Framework for Import-Dependent Economies with Evidence from Malawi dc.contributor.author: Matchaya, Greenwell C. dcterms.abstract: This technical report develops a rapid assessment framework for understanding how global shocks transmit into domestic food systems, with particular emphasis on import-dependent economies. Drawing on evidence from the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and recent energy market disruptions linked to tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, the report examines how external shocks spread through interconnected channels including energy and transport costs, trade disruptions, agricultural input markets, and macroeconomic pressures. The report introduces a structured conceptual framework that explains how shocks move through food systems over time, highlighting short-, medium-, and long-term transmission pathways. It emphasizes that impacts are not uniform and vary depending on market integration, geographic location, commodity type, and the degree of dependence on imported food, fuel, and agricultural inputs. Using Malawi as an empirical case study, the report applies high-frequency price data to assess early-stage transmission dynamics. The findings show that global energy shocks are reflected immediately in fuel prices and import-dependent commodities such as rice, while domestically produced staples such as maize and beans respond more gradually due to delayed pass-through effects. Rural and poorly integrated markets face higher long-term vulnerability due to elevated transport costs and weaker market connectivity. The report concludes that strengthening resilience requires integrated policy responses across energy, trade, agriculture, water systems, and social protection, while also highlighting the need for improved market monitoring and early warning systems in vulnerable economies. cg.contributor.initiative: Diversification in East and Southern Africa cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Scaling for Impact

Environmentally Safe and Just Pharmacy: A Framework and Action Plan for Operating within the Earth System Boundary for Novel Entities

2026-05-13T05:52:43Z

dc.title: Environmentally Safe and Just Pharmacy: A Framework and Action Plan for Operating within the Earth System Boundary for Novel Entities dc.contributor.author: Boxall, Alistair B. A.; Amerasinghe, Priyanie H.; Beckenham, Sally; Bertram, Michael G.; Gaw, Sally; Gray, Austin D.; Kidd, Karen A.; Langan, Laura M.; Leung, Kenneth M. Y.; Manera, Jack L.; Miglioranza, Karina S. B.; Oldenkamp, Rik; Brooks, Bryan W. dcterms.abstract: Active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) are essential for global health, yet their use and release into the environment contribute to the transgression of the Earth System Boundary for Novel Entities. This study proposes a novel framework for an Environmentally Safe and Just Pharmacy, establishing 4 overarching criteria and 12 subcriteria designed to ensure that the pharmaceutical lifecycle is environmentally safe and just from a novel entities perspective. Using the extensive expertise of our global author group, we conclude that current practices for API design and development, approval and monitoring, use and disposal are only partially or poorly aligned with our criteria. Key vulnerabilities include a lack of environmental considerations in early-stage drug design, widespread exceedances of environmental concentrations deemed safe to ecosystems, persistent selection for antimicrobial resistance in the environment, and severe data gaps in low- and middle-income countries. We further highlight environmental injustices, particularly for Indigenous and marginalized communities whose cultural identities and livelihoods are compromised by chemical contamination. To address these challenges, we present a 10-point roadmap for a transition to a sustainable future by 2050. This plan includes calls for green chemistry investments, the integration of social and cultural equity into risk assessments, and the global upgrade of treatment and management infrastructure. We emphasize that solutions to pharmaceutical impacts must be culturally sensitive and safeguard the dignity of vulnerable populations to ensure a truly just transition that operates within Earth System Boundaries.

A Self-Guided Handbook on the Use of the GenderUp Method for Responsible Scaling of Innovation

2026-05-13T01:02:18Z

dc.title: A Self-Guided Handbook on the Use of the GenderUp Method for Responsible Scaling of Innovation dc.contributor.author: Becker, Kristen; McGuire, Erin; Enokenwa Baa, Ojongetakah; Liani, Millicent Lodenyi; Nortje, Karen dcterms.abstract: This technical guide presents the GenderUp methodology, a self-guided, participatory approach designed to support responsible and inclusive scaling of agricultural innovations within the CGIAR Scaling for Impact (S4I) program. Recognizing that conventional scaling approaches are often gender-blind and risk reinforcing inequalities, GenderUp integrates gender equality, social inclusion, and intersectionality into innovation design and scaling strategies to ensure equitable outcomes across diverse user groups. The handbook provides a structured, six-stage process that guides innovation teams through reflection, analysis, and action. It begins with strengthening foundational understanding of gender dynamics and inclusive innovation design, followed by defining scaling ambitions and assessing existing strategies. Subsequent stages support teams in identifying relevant social dimensions—such as gender, age, wealth, and education—and analyzing how these intersect to shape access to, and benefits from, innovation. Through tools such as participatory surveys, persona mapping, and reflective exercises, GenderUp enables teams to identify vulnerable intersectional groups and anticipate potential unintended consequences of scaling. A key contribution of the methodology is its emphasis on mitigating negative impacts through adaptive scaling strategies and “innovation packages,” which combine core innovations with complementary interventions (e.g., policy support, financing mechanisms, or inclusive training approaches). This shift scaling from a linear, technical process to a socially embedded and adaptive one, aligned with Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI) principles, including inclusivity, anticipation, responsiveness, and transparency. Evidence from applications across CGIAR and partner organizations demonstrates that GenderUp strengthens teams’ capacity to identify overlooked user groups, design inclusive solutions, and foster institutional learning. By embedding equity considerations throughout the innovation lifecycle, the GenderUp approach contributes to more sustainable, inclusive, and transformative agrifood systems, ensuring that scaling efforts not only reach more people but do so in ways that empower marginalized populations and address systemic inequalities. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Scaling for Impact

Landless Bangladeshi Farmers Suffer as Paddy Fades in Barind

2026-05-12T10:12:40Z

dc.title: Landless Bangladeshi Farmers Suffer as Paddy Fades in Barind dc.contributor.author: Bhaduri, Tanmoy

Comparative Analysis of Good Agronomic Practices (GAP) and Conventional Methods in Sri Lankan Vegetable Farming

2026-05-12T14:26:28Z

dc.title: Comparative Analysis of Good Agronomic Practices (GAP) and Conventional Methods in Sri Lankan Vegetable Farming dc.contributor.author: Aheeyar, Mohamed M. M.; Kesamreddy, Lokeshwar; Pawera, Lukas; Nisansala, Duleesha; Othim, Stephen T. O.; Srinivasan, Ramasamy; Kodikara, K. M. S.; Hafeez, Mohsin dcterms.abstract: The agricultural sector in Sri Lanka faces persistent challenges in optimizing crop yields, reducing production costs, and enhancing farmers’ incomes. This study evaluates the economic viability of Good Agronomic Practices (GAP) compared with conventional farming practices across four vegetable crops (tomato, pole bean, cabbage, and carrot) cultivated in two agroecologically distinct vegetable production areas: Balangoda and Boralanda. Using a participatory field trial design, we assessed crop yield, cultivation costs, and net income over two growing seasons. The results indicate that the GAP plots produced agronomic and economic improvements or no losses compared to conventional plots, though effects varied by crop and season. For cabbage, no significant differences were observed in season one; however, in season two, GAP recorded a 35% higher cultivation costs (p < 0.001), an 18% higher yield (p < 0.05), and a 31% increase in gross returns (p < 0.05), without significant improvements in net returns or benefit–cost ratio (BCR). For carrots, season one showed 10% lower cultivation costs (p < 0.001) and 33.9% higher yields (p < 0.05) under the GAP, although net returns were not significantly different. In season two, GAP achieved significantly higher net returns (an 83.2% increase; p < 0.05) and BCR (a 50.3% improvement; p < 0.05). For pole beans, season one recorded 20% lower cultivation costs (p < 0.001) and a 53.1% higher BCR (p < 0.05) under the GAP. In contrast, in season two, GAP production costs were 43% higher (p < 0.001) but achieved statistically non-significant increase in net returns and the BCR. Importantly, GAP consistently used fewer chemical inputs than the control, suggesting its potential for safer, more sustainable production. These findings highlight the importance of context-specific GAP packages to inform policy and guide farmers toward profitable, sustainable vegetable production. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Better Diets and Nutrition

Al Murunah: Strengthening Water Security and Livelihoods in Palestine

2026-05-12T03:34:39Z

dc.title: Al Murunah: Strengthening Water Security and Livelihoods in Palestine dc.contributor.author: Palay, Isis; Fragaszy, Stephen; Abeyrathna, Wasudha Prabodhani; Rabi, Ayman

Al Murunah: Building Climate-Resilient Water and Food Systems in Jordan’s Fragile Areas

2026-05-11T09:33:09Z

dc.title: Al Murunah: Building Climate-Resilient Water and Food Systems in Jordan’s Fragile Areas dc.contributor.author: Palay, Isis; Fragaszy, Stephen; Abeyrathna, Wasudha Prabodhani; Hayajneh, Ali; Slehat, Faizah dcterms.abstract: This country brief explores how Al Murunah is strengthening climate-resilient water and food systems in Jordan through resilient nature-based water solutions (RNBWS) in Wadi Seer, Greater Amman Municipality. The brief highlights how the project combines spring and irrigation canal rehabilitation, regenerative agriculture, inclusive governance and women-led enterprise development to address water scarcity, land degradation and climate vulnerability in fragile rural-urban areas. Al Murunah and Al Murunah+ work together to restore local water systems, strengthen cooperatives and canal committees and build household and community resilience through gender-transformative approaches, capacity-building and climate-smart agriculture. Through partnerships with national and local stakeholders, the project supports scalable and community-driven adaptation models aligned with Jordan’s climate and water strategies. The brief positions the Jordan pilot as an adaptable and investable model for scaling resilient water management, inclusive livelihoods and locally led climate resilience across Jordan and the wider MENA region.

Jasmines, Roses and a Tale of Farmer Prosperity

2026-05-08T09:42:07Z

dc.title: Jasmines, Roses and a Tale of Farmer Prosperity dc.contributor.author: Bhattacharjee, Suchiradipta

Al Murunah: From Pilot to Practice, Building Readiness for Adoption and Scaling of Resilient Nature-Based Water Solutions

2026-05-08T03:32:37Z

dc.title: Al Murunah: From Pilot to Practice, Building Readiness for Adoption and Scaling of Resilient Nature-Based Water Solutions dc.contributor.author: Palay, Isis; Fragaszy, Stephen; Stifel, Elizabeth; Gharaibeh, Sawsan dcterms.abstract: This thematic brief explores how the Al Murunah project is building readiness for the adoption and scaling of resilient nature-based water solutions (RNBWS) across fragile and water-scarce contexts in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Covering Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon and Palestine, the brief examines how the project strengthens the technical, institutional, social and policy conditions needed for long-term uptake and replication.   Al Murunah combines infrastructure improvements, governance strengthening, inclusive community engagement and capacity-building to support sustainable climate adaptation and water resilience. The brief outlines barriers to scaling, including weak governance, limited financing, social exclusion and fragility, and demonstrates how locally led and systems-based approaches can address these challenges. It presents Al Murunah as a scalable model for strengthening climate resilience, water security and inclusive development across the MENA region.

The Multidimensional Digital Inclusiveness Index Scoring Dashboard (Version 2.0): A Tool for Visualizing Digital Inclusiveness and Innovation Performance within the CGIAR Framework

2026-05-07T01:05:01Z

dc.title: The Multidimensional Digital Inclusiveness Index Scoring Dashboard (Version 2.0): A Tool for Visualizing Digital Inclusiveness and Innovation Performance within the CGIAR Framework dc.contributor.author: Jolaiya, Emmanuel Ayodele; Nejo, Bright Oluwaferanmi; Ajeyomi, Adedoyin S.; Olufemi, Damilola; Martins, Carolina Iglésias; Garcia Andarcia, Mariangel dcterms.abstract: The Multidimensional Digital Inclusiveness Index Scoring Dashboard Version 2.0 is an advanced analytical platform developed within the CGIAR framework to evaluate and visualize digital inclusiveness across agriculture, food, water, and land sectors. Building on its earlier version, the system enhances usability, interactivity, and data integration, enabling more effective monitoring of digital innovation performance. It operationalizes seven core dimensions, including accessibility, beneficial impact, usage effectiveness, ethical innovation, governance, risks, and ecosystem support, using structured survey data from diverse stakeholders. The dashboard integrates data from KoboToolbox and consolidated repositories, processed through an API and modeled in Microsoft Power BI to generate hierarchical metrics and key performance indicators. New modules such as Stakeholder Relationships and People and Impact provide deeper insights into collaboration patterns, co-creation, and demographic outcomes, linking inclusiveness metrics to real-world social impact. Interactive visualizations and dynamic filters support comparative analysis across tools, countries, and technologies. Overall, Version 2.0 transforms heterogeneous data into actionable insights, strengthening evidence-based decision-making, accountability, and continuous improvement in digital innovation, while advancing inclusive and sustainable development goals within CGIAR’s digital transformation agenda. cg.contributor.initiative: Digital Innovation cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Digital Transformation; Sustainable Farming

Unpacking Scaling in Agricultural Research for Development: Performance Insights from the Kashkadarya Research Station for Agricultural Innovation

2026-05-06T18:38:19Z

dc.title: Unpacking Scaling in Agricultural Research for Development: Performance Insights from the Kashkadarya Research Station for Agricultural Innovation dc.contributor.author: Dhehibi, Boubaker; Meyliev, Obidjon; Souissi, Asma; Akramov, Kamiljon; Akramkhanov, Akmal; Oumer, Ali M.; Al-Zu’bi, Maha; Haddad, Mira; Crichton, Rhiannon; Amanov, Oybek; Juraev, Diyor; Fayzullayev, Abdulla; Baum, Michael dcterms.abstract: This working paper explores the strategic role of the Southern Research Institute of Agriculture (SRIA) in advancing agricultural innovation, productivity, and climate resilience in Uzbekistan’s Kashkadarya region. As a key public research institution, SRIA has played a critical role in developing drought- and salinity-tolerant seed varieties, promoting improved agronomic practices, and introducing water-saving technologies suited to semi-arid conditions. The study aims to: assess SRIA’s effectiveness in generating and disseminating farmer-relevant innovations; identify the main barriers to their adoption; and examine institutional mechanisms to enhance impact. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining farm surveys, field trials, cluster and social network analyses, and statistical evaluations. Data were collected from farmers and households in the Karshi District, as well as through interviews with researchers and key stakeholders. Between 2018 and 2023, SRIA implemented 45 research projects and introduced innovations such as climate-resilient seed varieties and no-till farming techniques. These technologies contribute to increasing yield and reducing production costs. However, their adoption remains limited due to weak extension services, outdated infrastructure, and fragmented communication channels. To overcome these challenges, the study recommends the establishment of a multi-actor Innovation Platform (IP) to foster collaboration, enhance knowledge exchange, and accelerate the scaling of sustainable agricultural innovations.

Stakeholder Profiling and Innovation Scaling Demand Signaling in Bangladesh

2026-05-06T03:05:35Z

dc.title: Stakeholder Profiling and Innovation Scaling Demand Signaling in Bangladesh dc.contributor.author: Chakraborty, Shreya; Aravindakshan, Sreejith; Minh, Thai Thi; Cofie, Olufunke O. dcterms.abstract: This report synthesizes findings of eliciting and interpreting demand signals across 11 critical domains of the agrifood system, ranging from nutrition-sensitive agriculture and behavior change to climate resilience and indigenous innovations. These findings are based on analyzing qualitative datasets collected through a workshop organized in Dhaka, on Stakeholder Profiling and Innovation Scaling Demand Signaling. By engaging diverse actors, the engagement sought to move beyond supply-driven narratives to understand how stakeholders specifically articulate their needs, priorities, and constraints for scaling innovations. Three dominant scaling imperatives across the agrifood system were identified in Bangladesh: (i) closing systemic infrastructure and production readiness gaps, particularly in post-harvest handling, cold chains, climate-resilient crops, and water management; (ii) strengthening market pull through traceability, food safety compliance, branding, and risk-mitigation mechanisms; and (iii) institutionalizing community-based and behavioural delivery models, including clusters, care groups, cooperatives, and local food hubs, as the primary unit of scaling. The report demonstrates that demand in Bangladesh is systemic rather than purely technological. Stakeholders consistently call for "innovation bundles" that integrate physical assets with social and financial mechanisms. Successful scaling requires a hybrid strategy, integrating modernizing production for commercial zones, preserving indigenous assets for vulnerable areas, transitioning financial models from short-term subsidies to long-term market de-risking and institutionalizing community structures as the unit of scaling. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Scaling for Impact

Digital Solutions for Sustainable Water Management in MENA

2026-05-05T07:52:44Z

dc.title: Digital Solutions for Sustainable Water Management in MENA dc.contributor.author: Al-Zu’bi, Maha; Khalifa, Muhammad; Brouziyne, Youssef dcterms.abstract: This chapter examines the role of digital tools in addressing water scarcity challenges in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, with a particular focus on agriculture. With climate change, population growth, and rising agricultural demands, efficient water management and irrigation are critical. The chapter examines technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, remote sensing (RS), geographic information systems (GIS), and advanced data analytics in optimizing water usage. Case studies from Jordan, Egypt, Sudan, Morocco, and Syria illustrate how these tools enhance water conservation, crop yields, and reduce costs and analysis time. The chapter also discusses barriers to adoption, such as technological, economic, and social factors, and proposes strategies to overcome them. Ultimately, it highlights the transformative potential of digital solutions for sustainable water management in the MENA region.

Regional Strategic Roadmap: East Africa 2024–2030

2026-05-15T01:06:29Z

dc.title: Regional Strategic Roadmap: East Africa 2024–2030 dc.contributor.author: International Water Management Institute dcterms.abstract: The IWMI East Africa Strategic Roadmap (2024–2030) positions water (security) as central to addressing the region’s toughest challenges: climate change, food insecurity, environmental degradation, and social fragility. Recognizing water as a systemic risk, the roadmap calls for integrated, climate-resilient, and inclusive solutions that cross sectors and borders. Moving beyond fragmented projects, IWMI embraces a bold, partnership-driven approach—connecting research, policy, and action. The roadmap draws on past successes in building robust data systems, managing droughts and floods, restoring ecosystems, and fostering shared waters dialogues. Five strategic priorities shape the agenda: sustaining ecosystems; advancing water security for livelihoods and economies; managing drought risks; mitigating flood risks; and deepening cooperation over shared waters. These priorities rest on a research-for-development model focused on co-design, national ownership, and scaling impact through strong partnerships. With phased implementation—from evidence-building to piloting, capacity development, and scaling—the roadmap champions gender equality, social inclusion, youth engagement, and digital innovation. Overall, it aims to turn science into action, empower decision-makers, and guide East Africa toward a water-secure, resilient, and equitable future.

Technical and Financial Aspects of Solar Irrigation Pumps in India: Training Manual

2026-05-05T01:02:53Z

dc.title: Technical and Financial Aspects of Solar Irrigation Pumps in India: Training Manual dc.contributor.author: Varshney, Deepak; Khan, Ramsha; Banerjee, Anurag; Ravindranath, Darshini; Davda, Akash; Desai, Himanshu; Pathak, Manan; Bhat, Palak; Vala, Juhi dcterms.abstract: The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha Evam Utthan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) is a flagship initiative to promote solar energy in agriculture, reduce fossil fuel dependence, and enhance farmer livelihoods while contributing to India’s climate commitments. This training manual focuses on Component B (off-grid solar irrigation pumps) and Component C1 (grid-connected individual pumps), addressing key barriers to adoption such as limited awareness, uncertainty about technical performance, and low familiarity with financial procedures. Designed as a practical resource for agricultural extension agents and field-level stakeholders, the manual provides clear, field-oriented guidance on the technical and financial aspects of solar irrigation systems. It combines simplified technical explanations, farmer-friendly training tools, and case-based examples to support effective grassroots engagement. Particular emphasis is placed on enabling smallholder and women farmers to understand costs, benefits, operation, and maintenance of solar irrigation technologies. Developed under the Solar Energy for Agricultural Resilience (SoLAR) project, the training manual is part of a broader effort to institutionalize Energy Extension Agents and Citizen Service Centres. It will be piloted through a randomized controlled trial across 96 villages, supporting outreach to 1,280 farmers and generating evidence to scale sustainable and resilient solar irrigation solutions in India. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Scaling for Impact

Anthropogenic Drivers and Their Impact on the Hydrological Regime of Nepal: A Review

2026-05-01T08:41:24Z

dc.title: Anthropogenic Drivers and Their Impact on the Hydrological Regime of Nepal: A Review dc.contributor.author: Sayedi, Sayedeh Sara; Singh, Kunwar K.; Fabrizio, Mary C.; Nepal, Santosh dcterms.abstract: Nepal’s hydrological regime, shaped by steep topography, monsoon-dominated rainfall, and extensive cryospheric systems, offers a useful testbed for understanding how climate change and human activities are reshaping water resources in mountain regions globally. Despite abundant water sources, Nepal faces persistent water security challenges driven by extreme seasonality, rising temperatures, shifting precipitation patterns, and rapid land-use change. In this review, we synthesize current evidence on anthropogenic drivers of hydrological change in Nepal and draw lessons relevant to other data-sparse, high-mountain and monsoon-influenced regions. We find that warming-induced glacial retreat, altered snowmelt timing, and changing monsoon dynamics are intensifying wet-season flood risks while heightening dry-season water scarcity, patterns increasingly observed across the Himalaya, Andes, and other mountain systems. Human activities, including urban expansion, agricultural intensification, hydropower, and extraction of sediments from rivers, further modify river flows, reduce groundwater recharge, and increase vulnerability to extremes. Yet major uncertainties persist, especially concerning high-elevation hydrology, permafrost dynamics, sediment extraction, and the cumulative impacts of expanding infrastructure. Nepal’s pronounced topographic and climatic gradients limit broad generalizations, underscoring the need for region-specific hydrological monitoring and modeling. These challenges mirror global limitations in mountain hydrology, where sparse observations and rapidly changing conditions constrain predictive capacity. By identifying key knowledge gaps and highlighting cascading impacts on agriculture, hydropower, domestic water supply, and aquatic ecosystems, this review emphasizes the urgency of strengthening monitoring networks and integrating uncertainty into water management and climate adaptation strategies. Nepal’s experience offers broader insights for countries facing similar pressures at the intersection of climate change, development, and fragile mountain water systems. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations

Solar Irrigation and Just Energy Transitions in Agriculture: Insights from Evaluation of Gujarat’s SKY Program

2026-04-30T04:53:29Z

dc.title: Solar Irrigation and Just Energy Transitions in Agriculture: Insights from Evaluation of Gujarat’s SKY Program dc.contributor.author: Varshney, Deepak; Mukherji, Aditi; Sharma, Kriti; Banerjee, Anurag; Sikka, Alok dcterms.abstract: Set against the backdrop of reducing agricultural emissions, improving smallholder livelihoods, and promoting sustainable groundwater use, this paper evaluates the Surya Shakti Kisan Yojana (SKY)—the world's first largescale grid-connected solar irrigation pump (SIP) scheme, launched in Gujarat, India in 2018. Using real-time monitoring data from 4321 farmers and a primary survey of 2435 farmers, the study addresses three core objectives. First, it examines the determinants of SKY participation and evaluates the scheme's technical performance, financial features, and income effects. Our findings reveal that financial constraints and risk aversion among smallholder farmers hinder scheme adoption. Farmers earn up to ₹ 21,917 (~USD 257) annually from electricity sales—43 % of their crop income—even after repaying an annual loan of ₹ 105,000 (~USD 1235). The simulation suggests that extending the loan repayment period from 7 to 10 years could nearly double farmers' income from energy sales. Second, the study assesses SKY's impact on energy use for groundwater extraction. During the Rabi (dry) season, SKY-enrolled farmers show significantly slower growth in energy consumption than non-enrolled farmers, indicating more sustainable water use. No such difference is observed in the Kharif (monsoon) season. Third, it estimates SKY's climate mitigation potential. Each participant offsets about 12.34 metric tons of CO2 annually—over twice the impact of off-grid systems—yielding 53,308 metric tons of CO2 abatement across 4321 farmers. These findings demonstrates grid-connected SIP as a scalable, climate-aligned model for energy transitions in the Global South, offering practical insights for integrated energy-water-livelihood strategies.

Business Case: Sustainable Tilapia Aquaculture in the North East Region of Ghana

2026-05-01T01:08:41Z

dc.title: Business Case: Sustainable Tilapia Aquaculture in the North East Region of Ghana dc.contributor.author: Salmawobil, Joseph; Zane, Giulia; Appiah, Sarah; Gbodji, Kekeli Kofi; Akosua, Richeal; Taron, Avinandan; Buisson, Marie-Charlotte dcterms.abstract: The report presents a business case for tilapia cage aquaculture in small reservoirs in the Northeast Region of Ghana. It responds to declining capture fisheries, limited access to affordable protein, and underutilized water resources in a region where water is scarce, and poverty and food insecurity are high. Piloted in 2023-2025 by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) in partnership with the CSIR Water Research Institute and the Fisheries Commission of Ghana, four youth-led aquaculture groups were established and supported with inputs, training, and technical assistance. Findings show that the model is technically feasible, socially inclusive, and environmentally compatible with other reservoir uses. The Business Model Canvas highlights strong partnerships, clear value propositions (fresh, high-quality fish), and diversified revenue streams, though costs, especially feed and labor, remain high. The SWOT analysis identifies key strengths such as trained members and strong teamwork, while weaknesses include limited finances, high input costs, and logistical constraints. Cost-benefit analysis reveals that initial production cycles were not profitable once full costs (including labor) were considered, mainly due to inefficiencies such as poor feed management, inaccurate weighing, and post-harvest losses. However, correcting these inefficiencies could significantly improve outcomes, with some groups reaching break-even or profitability. Long-term projections indicate strong potential: at realistic market prices, the model achieves positive net present value and favorable benefit-cost ratios, suggesting financial viability over time. Overall, the study concludes that small-reservoir aquaculture can become a scalable, inclusive livelihood model. Key recommendations include reducing input costs (e.g., local feed production), strengthening infrastructure and market access, and continuing technical support to improve efficiency and sustainability. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Sustainable Animal and Aquatic Foods

Scaling Agtech Innovation Bundles Across African Markets

2026-05-04T13:04:14Z

dc.title: Scaling Agtech Innovation Bundles Across African Markets dc.contributor.author: Omondi, Joshua; TK, Christi; Nkosi, Mahlatse; Kamanda, Josey dcterms.abstract: This report provides an applied overview of the agtech innovation landscape across Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria, and Zambia, with a focus on how innovation bundles can support more resilient, productive, and inclusive agrifood systems. It examines three priority areas: irrigation technologies, soil and water management, and circular water and nutrient management. These areas address core constraints affecting African agriculture, including limited water access, declining soil fertility, low productivity, climate vulnerability, infrastructure gaps, and weak market integration. Using an adapted Adaptive Scaling Ecosystem (ASEco) framework, the report assesses how innovations are positioned across different market contexts and what is required for them to scale. It combines quantitative market and investment data, desk-based reviews, and qualitative insights from key informant interviews with innovators, investors, and ecosystem actors. The analysis maps companies, funding flows, product bundling strategies, country-level enabling conditions, and real-world case studies from firms such as Mechro, Rhea Africa, AgroCares, Sistema.bio, Lersha, and Emerging Cooking Solutions. The report serves as a decision-support tool for the CGIAR Scaling for Impact Program and related partners. It identifies viable scaling pathways, financing needs, policy considerations, and ecosystem interventions needed to accelerate market-driven agtech solutions across African food, land, and water systems. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Scaling for Impact

Securing a resilient future for Pakistan: How hydro-economic modeling guides evidence-based adaptation

2026-05-11T17:50:48Z

dc.title: Securing a resilient future for Pakistan: How hydro-economic modeling guides evidence-based adaptation dc.contributor.author: Davies, Stephen; Ali, Muhammad Tahir; Akram, Iqra; Hafeez, Mohsin; Ringler, Claudia dcterms.abstract: Pakistan’s water crisis has steadily evolved into a binding constraint on economic growth, food security, and climate resilience. Behind this crisis lie the tightly coupled challenges of rapid groundwater depletion, rising energy costs for pumping, overreliance on water-intensive crops such as rice and sugarcane, and increasing climate variability. This calls for solutions that recognize the water–energy–food–environment (WEFE) nexus. For years, policy discussions acknowledged these interlinkages; yet decision-making largely relied on sector-by-sector evidence, making it difficult to anticipate economywide consequences of water-related reforms. What was missing was a nationally relevant hydro-economic framework capable of quantifying trade-offs, synergies, and distributional effects of alternative policy pathways. Policymakers and researchers have long understood this need but have taken limited steps to develop such a framework until recently – with the development and launch of the Hydro-Economic Decision Support System. cg.contributor.initiative: NEXUS Gains cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations

Country Strategic Roadmap: Nepal 2024–2030

2026-04-29T03:08:12Z

dc.title: Country Strategic Roadmap: Nepal 2024–2030 dc.contributor.author: International Water Management Institute dcterms.abstract: IWMI’s Nepal Strategic Roadmap 2024–2030 sets out an ambitious agenda for research, innovation, and partnerships to advance water security, climate resilience, and inclusive development in Nepal. Aligned with national priorities—including the 16th Five-Year Plan, the National Irrigation Policy, the Food System Transformation Strategic Plan, NDC 3.0, and the National Adaptation Plan—the roadmap positions water as a foundation for growth, food security, resilient livelihoods, ecosystem health, equality, and long-term prosperity. It responds to Nepal’s priorities for socio‑economic transformation, effective governance, and resilient development amid evolving political‑economy and environmental drivers. The roadmap addresses key water systems challenges—from drying springs and seasonal water stress to climate and disaster risks, irrigation gaps, weak governance amid rapid urbanization and federalism, and persistent inequalities affecting women, youth, smallholder farmers, and marginalized groups. The roadmap identifies six strategic priorities for 2024–2030: strengthening resilience through water systems management; energizing water and food systems through low-emission technologies; advancing transformative and inclusive water governance; embedding gender equality, disability and social inclusion across water systems; accelerating agrifood system transformation through irrigation modernization and innovation; and scaling nature-based solutions and integrated river basin management. Through these strategic priorities, IWMI will work with government, communities, academic and knowledge‑system partners, development partners, civil society, and the private sector to co‑create knowledge and evidence, strengthen institutions, and scale solutions for a resilient, equitable, and water‑secure Nepal.

Satellite Remote Sensing for Estimating Reservoir Physical Characteristics: A Global Review of Existing Methodologies for Operational Monitoring

2026-04-28T03:46:33Z

dc.title: Satellite Remote Sensing for Estimating Reservoir Physical Characteristics: A Global Review of Existing Methodologies for Operational Monitoring dc.contributor.author: Codjia, Audrey Kantz Dossou; Akpoti, Komlavi; Dembélé, Moctar; Yonaba, Roland; Fowe, Tazen; Orowale, Triumph Prosper; Koissi, Modeste G. Déo-Gratias; Zwart, Sander J. dcterms.abstract: Accurate and timely estimates of reservoir surface area, water level, and volume are essential for water resource management. Yet no recent synthesis compares the remote sensing methods used to obtain these physical characteristics. This study evaluates peer-reviewed studies from 2000 to 2025 that derived any of the three characteristics from satellite data to identify reliable techniques and operational gaps. A total of 169 cases of surface area mapping (88), water level retrieval (49), and volume estimation (32) were analyzed from 106 articles across more than 60 countries. Each case was classified according to its physical characteristics, approach, sensor, and validation method. Surface area is typically mapped using optical imagery (76 %). Threshold indices dominate at 63 %. Meanwhile, machine and deep learning methods are being used more frequently to provide more accurate classifications. Water levels are usually obtained from radar altimetry (67 %) followed by areaelevation models (30 %). Volume is most often computed using combined area-elevation approaches (60 %), followed by water level-volume regressions (25 %) and area-volume curves (15 %), with average errors of up to 10 %. Three critical gaps emerge: only 11 % of studies address reservoirs smaller than 1 km2 , turbid or vegetated waters incur estimation errors, and only a few studies use sensors with a revisit time of three days or less, which limits real-time management. Although fusion of several sensor data is demonstrably more accurate, it remains rare. These insights guide managers and future research directions to enable automated, high-resolution monitoring of both large and small reservoirs.

IWMI in India - fact sheet

2026-04-28T08:33:34Z

dc.title: IWMI in India - fact sheet dc.contributor.author: International Water Management Institute

How AI Helped Promote Community-Led Development in Rajasthan

2026-04-27T05:56:10Z

dc.title: How AI Helped Promote Community-Led Development in Rajasthan dc.contributor.author: Bhattacharjee, Suchiradipta; Nicol, Alan cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations

Unpacking the Challenges of Solar Lift Irrigation in Nepal’s Mid-Hills: Toward a Sustainable Energy-Water Solution

2026-05-04T06:05:56Z

dc.title: Unpacking the Challenges of Solar Lift Irrigation in Nepal’s Mid-Hills: Toward a Sustainable Energy-Water Solution dc.contributor.author: Shrestha, Shisher; Karki, Darshan; Aryal, Mamata; Buchy, Marlene dcterms.abstract: Solar Lift Irrigation (SLI) presents a promising water-energy-food nexus solution, especially in off-grid, low-income countries with mountainous terrain. Yet adoption and scaling remain limited. This study examines barriers to the clean energy adoption for irrigation and identifies Critical Success Factors (CSFs) influencing SLI sustainability. The study draws on qualitative evidence from thirteen SLI projects across eight districts in Nepal, based on primary data collected through nine group discussions and nineteen semi-structured interviews with multiple stakeholder groups. The analysis identifies seven interdependent CSFs: detailed feasibility study, cost of technology, farm income, transparency, synergies, ownership, and operation and management (O&M) plan. We find that the successful adoption of technological innovations like SLI depends on a host of interrelated factors that cannot be addressed in isolation. Yet our study reveals that SLI projects often prioritize techno-financial dimensions while governance and social dimensions are neglected. For long-term sustainability, it is imperative to understand and balance all dimensions of the project, fostering an enabling environment that supports technological adoption. Addressing the interlinkages among these CSFs can strengthen SLI sustainability through an integrated approach linking energy and water access with rural livelihood. The findings highlight three policy priorities: formalizing inter-governmental coordination, establishing dedicated post-installation maintenance funding, and integrating SLI projects with agricultural value chains. These insights are relevant for similar off-grid contexts across the Global South. cg.contributor.initiative: NEXUS Gains cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Climate Action; Policy Innovations

Country Strategic Roadmap: Pakistan 2024–2030

2026-04-24T01:06:58Z

dc.title: Country Strategic Roadmap: Pakistan 2024–2030 dc.contributor.author: International Water Management Institute dcterms.abstract: The Pakistan Country Strategic Roadmap 2024–2030 outlines a comprehensive, science-driven framework to address the country’s growing water, climate, and development challenges. Set against the backdrop of increasing water scarcity, climate variability, rapid population growth, and institutional complexities, the strategy positions water as central to Pakistan’s food security, economic stability, and environmental sustainability. Building on nearly four decades of engagement, IWMI’s roadmap emphasizes evidence-based decision-making, strengthened governance, and integrated approaches across the water–energy–food–environment nexus. It identifies four strategic priority areas: irrigation modernization and food security; integrated river basin management; climate resilience and livelihoods improvement; and wastewater reuse within a circular water economy. These are supported by cross-cutting commitments to capacity building, gender equality, youth engagement, and social inclusion. The roadmap adopts a phased, partnership-driven implementation model, focusing on co-design with government institutions, embedding analytical tools and data systems, and scaling proven solutions. It highlights IWMI’s role as a trusted research-for-development partner, bridging science, policy, and practice. Overall, the strategy aims to enable Pakistan’s transition toward a water-secure, climate-resilient, and inclusive future through actionable evidence, institutional strengthening, and collaborative partnerships at national and sub-national levels.

Tharparkar Desert Flora: Resilient Ecological System

2026-04-22T17:23:04Z

dc.title: Tharparkar Desert Flora: Resilient Ecological System dc.contributor.author: Gul, Nazar; Ashraf, Muhammad; Salam, Hafiz Abdul dcterms.abstract: Discover the unique flora of the Tharparkar Desert, a resilient ecological system that supports diverse plant species essential for soil conservation, dune stabilization, and the livelihoods of local communities. Learn how these plants provide food, medicine, fuel, and income. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations

Validating the Efficiency of the AquaCrop Model Under Full and Deficit Irrigation Regimes to Simulate Future Climate Impacts on Wheat Crop

2026-04-22T13:32:30Z

dc.title: Validating the Efficiency of the AquaCrop Model Under Full and Deficit Irrigation Regimes to Simulate Future Climate Impacts on Wheat Crop dc.contributor.author: Memon, Shamim Ara; Shaikh, Irfan Ahmed; Talpur, Mashooque Ali; Junejo, Abdul Rahim; Mangrio, Munir Ahmed; Gul, Nazar; Khan, Zaheer Ahmed; Salam, Hafiz Abdul; Ashraf, Muhammad dcterms.abstract: Wheat yield and water demand are affected by the ongoing disturbance of climatic factors and greenhouse gases (GHG). As a result, the AquaCrop model's ability to anticipate climate change impacts on wheat harvests under full and deficit irrigation regimes in Sindh, Pakistan, was evaluated using wheat trials conducted between 2018 and 2020. However, for its validation, the results of the deficit irrigation treatment ITS50 (50% controlled irrigation at the tillering stage) for both seasons were employed. The model efficiently estimated yield with a normalised root-mean-square error (NRMSE) of 13% and 17%, a Willmott's d-index of 98% and a Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency (NME) of 95% under full and deficit irrigation treatments, respectively. The simulation results revealed an adverse effect of climate change on the yield and water productivity of wheat. Over the century, the model predicted an increase of 6% to 7% in wheat yield under full (well-watered) irrigation and a decrease of 10 to 12% in 25% reduced water applied depth (RAD) and 21% to 24% under 50% RAD scenarios for both representative concentration pathway RCPs (4.5 and 8.5). The overall wheat water productivity increased under a well-watered irrigation regime by 16% in RCP8.5 compared with RCP4.5. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations

Sunlight to Sustenance: Early Implementation Insights from a Solar-Grid Lift System Pilot in Nepal’s Mid-Hills

2026-04-23T01:05:59Z

dc.title: Sunlight to Sustenance: Early Implementation Insights from a Solar-Grid Lift System Pilot in Nepal’s Mid-Hills dc.contributor.author: Adhikari, Aashika; Karki, Darshan; Shrestha, Shisher; KC, Jibesh dcterms.abstract: This technical brief presents early insights from a pilot solar-grid lift system (SLS) implemented in Bisdeutar, a remote and marginalized Majhi community in Indrawati Rural Municipality, Nepal. The intervention addresses chronic water scarcity exacerbated by climate change, difficult terrain, and limited infrastructure. Designed as a multiple-use system, the SLS supplies both domestic and irrigation water, lifting over 90,000 liters daily and serving 55 households. The study highlights that strong community engagement, in-kind contributions, and continuous social mobilization are critical for successful adoption. Capacity-building, agricultural support, and stakeholder collaboration including local government involvement are essential for long-term sustainability. Early outcomes show improved water access, reduced workload for women, increased cropping intensity, and emerging livelihood opportunities such as vegetable farming and beekeeping. The intervention has also enhanced disaster preparedness and strengthened community initiative in accessing external support. Overall, the pilot demonstrates that integrated, context-specific water solutions can generate broader socio-economic and environmental benefits, emphasizing the importance of combining technological innovation with institutional support and local ownership. cg.contributor.initiative: NEXUS Gains; Mixed Farming Systems cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Climate Action; Policy Innovations

Gender Action Learning System Assessment: Insights on How Inclusive Innovations Shape Gender Transformative Outcomes

2026-04-23T08:31:27Z

dc.title: Gender Action Learning System Assessment: Insights on How Inclusive Innovations Shape Gender Transformative Outcomes dc.contributor.author: Enokenwa Baa, Ojongetakah; Chinyophiro, Amon; Nortje, Karen dcterms.abstract: The Gender Action Learning System (GALS) is a household and community-led transformative tool that offers researchers and practitioners a guide to drive inclusive transformation across food systems. The GALS assessment conducted under the CGIAR Scaling for Impact (S4I) program in Malawi evaluates how inclusive innovations drive gender-transformative outcomes in scaling climate-smart agriculture. This study engaged 1,417 participants—78% women—representing 4,095 households trained under the CGIAR Initiative on Diversification in East and Southern Africa (Ukama Ustawi). Using mixed methods (household surveys and Most Significant Change stories), the assessment found that GALS fosters equitable decision-making, agency, and climate resilience. Results show 87% of participants improved visioning and goal setting, 64% strengthened gender equality awareness, and 62% enhanced financial management. Joint household decision-making rose from 74–82% across domains such as farming, finance, and education, while women’s leadership and participation increased markedly. Adoption of climate-smart practices was high—96% for manure use and tree planting, 95% for crop rotation, and 93% for irrigation—demonstrating GALS’ effectiveness in promoting sustainable agriculture. Despite strong household and community uptake, institutional adoption remains limited (24%), signaling the need for integration into governance and partner systems. The report recommends strengthening facilitation capacity, linking GALS to economic empowerment initiatives, and embedding it in local institutions. Overall, GALS provides a scalable, self-sustaining methodology for gender-equitable innovation and climate-smart transformation. cg.contributor.initiative: Diversification in East and Southern Africa cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Scaling for Impact

Low-Cost and Labour-Efficient Innovations in Household Recycling of Organic Wastes for Soil Improvement

2026-04-21T10:08:20Z

dc.title: Low-Cost and Labour-Efficient Innovations in Household Recycling of Organic Wastes for Soil Improvement dc.contributor.author: Smith, Jo; Naher, Umme Aminun; Dahal, Khem Raj; Hasan, Md Mahmodol; Rahman, Md Mizanur; Smith, Pete; Bhusal, Mukunda; Wardle, Jennifer; Bittner, Dominik; Chukwu, Vince; Adhya, Tapan; Adhikari, Raj Kumar; Akter, Masuda; Campbell, Grant A.; Gaihre, Yam Kanta; Hossain, A. T. M. Sakhawat; Islam, Md Nurul; Khan, Mehedi Hasan; Maharjan, Salu; Mekuria, Wolde; Mia, Ripon; Moges, Awdenegest; Nalavade, Rujuta; Namaswa, Timothy; Panhwar, Qurban Ali; Tumwesige, Vianney; Vista, Shree Prasad; Yakob, Getahun; Zuan, Ali Tan Kee dcterms.abstract: Organic matter plays an important role in the health and productivity of soils, but its depletion is a common problem in households in low-income countries. This is due to lack of and competing uses for organic resources, and limited information on recycling methods. Therefore, here we review low-cost and labour-efficient innovations to improve recycling of organic wastes, stabilising residues so that soil organic matter can be increased with less inputs and enhancing nutrient content to produce a more effective organic fertiliser. Composting, anaerobic digestion and pyrolysis are all processes that stabilise organic matter. Innovations in treatments are needed to improve stabilization and control the release of nutrients so that they are available to crops in the right amounts and at the right time. This can be achieved by maintaining appropriate treatment conditions: for composting, carbon to nitrogen ratio 25–35, carbon to phosphorus ratio ∼50, pH 5.5–8.5 and 50%–60% moisture content; for anaerobic digestion, carbon to nitrogen ratio 20–35, bulk density 0.6–0.8 g cm−3, lignin content < 7.5%, pH 6.8–7.4 and moisture content 85%–95%; and for pyrolysis, carbon to nitrogen > 40 and moisture content < 20%. Different methods to achieve these ideal conditions are discussed, including appropriate choice of treatment method, co-composting/co-digestion for ideal nutrient content, enhancing nutrients using collected urine, nitrogen-fixing plants, bioslurry or by inoculating with bacterial communities, absorbing excess nutrients on biochar, adjusting pH using wood ash or biochar, pre-treatment to break down lignin and cellulose, and designs to achieve ideal moisture and temperature. Innovations should also ensure that treatment processes do not overuse or compete with other important household resources, such as finances, water or labour. We draw together findings to identify methods with most potential to improve soils in low-income countries, providing decision tables to guide selection of approaches for different contexts.

’Driving Impact with Partners and Communities to Achieve Research for Development - Client Orientation – Part 2

2026-05-06T01:06:17Z

dc.title: ’Driving Impact with Partners and Communities to Achieve Research for Development - Client Orientation – Part 2 dc.contributor.author: Fragaszy, Stephen; Samarasekara, Vidhisha; Stifel, Elizabeth dcterms.abstract: This Project Insight Note (PIN) explores how the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) drives impact through effective partnerships with implementation partners and project beneficiaries in research-for-development projects. Drawing on lessons from the Al Murunah project led by IWMI, it highlights the importance of assessing partner capabilities, strengthening accountability, managing expectations and ensuring communities are genuine co-creators of solutions. The PIN shows that successful development outcomes depend on aligning donors, governments, partners and beneficiaries through strong coordination, mutual respect and adaptive management. It positions IWMI as a keystone organization that helps complex multi-stakeholder systems function effectively, creating trust, scalable results and new opportunities for policy influence and investment.

Connecting Donors and Governments to Achieve Research for Development - Client Orientation - Part 1

2026-05-06T01:05:45Z

dc.title: Connecting Donors and Governments to Achieve Research for Development - Client Orientation - Part 1 dc.contributor.author: Fragaszy, Stephen; Samarasekara, Vidhisha; Gharaibeh, Sawsan dcterms.abstract: This Project Insight Note (PIN) highlights how the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) bridges donors and national governments to deliver impactful research for development. It draws on lessons from the Al Murunah project led by IWMI, and emphasizes the importance of listening-led engagement, aligning research with policy and implementation needs, managing expectations in complex contexts and leveraging the strengths of all partners. It positions IWMI not only as a research institution, but also as a trusted knowledge broker and delivery partner that helps turn evidence into practical action, investment priorities and scalable resilience solutions across the MENA region.

Assessing the Use and Impact of GenderUp: Lessons for Gender-Responsive Innovation Design and Scaling

2026-04-22T01:02:47Z

dc.title: Assessing the Use and Impact of GenderUp: Lessons for Gender-Responsive Innovation Design and Scaling dc.contributor.author: Yami, Mastewal; McGuire, Erin; Enokenwa Baa, Ojongetakah; Nortje, Karen dcterms.abstract: The GenderUp tool was developed by Responsible Innovation in collaboration with CGIAR and partners as a responsible scaling method designed to support inclusive and responsible innovation strategies in agri-food systems. The tool has been used over time to support project teams anticipate risks, address power dynamics, and adapt scaling approaches to ensure equitable and socially responsible outcomes. This evaluation report was conducted under the CGIAR Scaling for Impact (S4I) Program, and it assesses GenderUp’s use, reach, outcomes, and challenges. The tool has been applied and used in over 20+ countries across 38 diverse organizations and institutions resulting in over 100 trained facilitators. Evidence suggests strong uptake in Sub-Saharan Africa where GenderUp has been used by both women (60%) and men (40%). The evaluation highlights that GenderUp has i) relevance for GESI tools users (43%) and or when combined with scaling activities ii) been integrated into different project stages by combining other tools such as biophysical modelling (adaptability) iii) increased capacity for designing gender-responsive interventions, influenced budget allocations toward gender-related activities (impact). These high-level insights have shifted mindsets toward inclusion, participatory research and institutional practices as evidenced by documented cases in this report. The tool remains a valuable reflective and capacity building tool for enhancing responsible scaling practices. Under the S4I program, this tool will be applied as a co-design instrument for innovation uptake with stronger institutional integration and systematic tracking of outcomes. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Scaling for Impact