Latest 40 records. Data source: https://cgspace.cgiar.org/https://hdl.handle.net/10568/16814https://cgspace.cgiar.org/bitstreams/0c83f982-17ee-437e-8ae9-c09536c5a3d3/download2026-08-07T05:27:02Z2026-08-07T05:27:02Z40101961Kasoma-Pele, WinnieEnokenwa Baa, OjongetakahMabele, ThatoChoruma, Dennis Juniorhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1846492026-08-07T01:03:01Z2026-08-06T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Building Scaling Readiness for Inclusive Mechanization in Zambia: Insights from the Training of Trainers and Mechanization Awareness Meetings dc.contributor.author: Kasoma-Pele, Winnie; Enokenwa Baa, Ojongetakah; Mabele, Thato; Choruma, Dennis Junior dcterms.abstract: This report presents findings from the April 2026 Training of Trainers (ToT) and Mechanization Awareness Meetings held under the CGIAR Scaling for Impact (S4I) Program in Zambia. These activities supported the Inclusive Mechanization through Rural Entrepreneurship and Financial Innovation Solution Track by strengthening the capacity of extension staff and partners and raising awareness of an inclusive Mechanization Service Provider (MSP) model among smallholder farmers and prospective service providers. The report examines how these field activities helped identify opportunities and constraints in the enabling environment for scaling climate-smart mechanization, with particular attention to women, youth, and persons with disabilities. Key findings highlight strong stakeholder interest in mechanization services, the importance of decentralized capacity building, and the need for improved access to affordable finance, business incubation, after-sales support, and stronger institutional partnerships. The report demonstrates that successful mechanization scaling depends not only on appropriate technologies but also on supportive policy, market, institutional, and social systems. It concludes with recommendations to strengthen inclusive recruitment, financing mechanisms, extension systems, and multi-stakeholder collaboration to support responsible scaling and sustainable mechanization service delivery in Zambia. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Scaling for Impact

2026-08-06T00:00:00ZKasoma-Pele, WinnieEnokenwa Baa, OjongetakahMabele, ThatoChoruma, Dennis JuniorThis report presents findings from the April 2026 Training of Trainers (ToT) and Mechanization Awareness Meetings held under the CGIAR Scaling for Impact (S4I) Program in Zambia. These activities supported the Inclusive Mechanization through Rural Entrepreneurship and Financial Innovation Solution Track by strengthening the capacity of extension staff and partners and raising awareness of an inclusive Mechanization Service Provider (MSP) model among smallholder farmers and prospective service providers. The report examines how these field activities helped identify opportunities and constraints in the enabling environment for scaling climate-smart mechanization, with particular attention to women, youth, and persons with disabilities. Key findings highlight strong stakeholder interest in mechanization services, the importance of decentralized capacity building, and the need for improved access to affordable finance, business incubation, after-sales support, and stronger institutional partnerships. The report demonstrates that successful mechanization scaling depends not only on appropriate technologies but also on supportive policy, market, institutional, and social systems. It concludes with recommendations to strengthen inclusive recruitment, financing mechanisms, extension systems, and multi-stakeholder collaboration to support responsible scaling and sustainable mechanization service delivery in Zambia.Mandave, VidyaKumar, Gopalhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1846402026-08-05T09:58:26Z2026-08-03T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Securing the Future through Smarter Resource Management dc.contributor.author: Mandave, Vidya; Kumar, Gopal cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Multifunctional Landscapes

2026-08-03T00:00:00ZMandave, VidyaKumar, GopalMupangwa, WalterChipindu, LovemoreNcube, BonganiTauro, Tonny P.https://hdl.handle.net/10568/1846002026-08-04T03:39:22Z2026-07-31T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Modelling Soil Water Content in Different Tillage Systems and Soil Types Using Machine Learning dc.contributor.author: Mupangwa, Walter; Chipindu, Lovemore; Ncube, Bongani; Tauro, Tonny P. dcterms.abstract: Soil water availability is one of the major challenges in many rainfed crop production systems of the Global South. Soil water conservation practices are being promoted to enhance climate change adaptation for rainfed cropping systems of southern Africa. However, the cost and time required to develop and test appropriate modelling and simulation tools can be enormous. The objectives of this study were to: (i) test the performance of the decision tree, adaptive boosting (AdaBoost), support vector machine, neural network, stochastic gradient descent, k-nearest neighbours, random forest and linear regression machine learning models in predicting soil water under different tillage practices, soil types and depths, and (ii) assess the soil water classification and prediction capabilities of 8 models under different tillage practices, soil types and depths. The neural network, random forest and decision tree models had the best soil water prediction capabilities. The neural network, random forest and decision tree models were the best algorithms (RMSE = 15.801–16.369; MAE = 11.997–12.315; R2 = 0.822–0.835) for predicting and classifying soil water from different soil types and depth intervals. The support vector machine learning model was the weakest algorithm (RMSE = 36.177; MAE = 30.84; R2 = 0.133) for predicting and classifying soil water. All the algorithms poorly predicted and classified soil water based on tillage practices. All the models closely predicted soil water at 300 and 900 mm depths but poorly predicted soil water at 600 mm depth intervals. Based on this study, the neural network model is the best machine learning tool for predicting soil water in clay and sandy soils under semi-arid agroecological conditions.

2026-07-31T00:00:00ZMupangwa, WalterChipindu, LovemoreNcube, BonganiTauro, Tonny P.Soil water availability is one of the major challenges in many rainfed crop production systems of the Global South. Soil water conservation practices are being promoted to enhance climate change adaptation for rainfed cropping systems of southern Africa. However, the cost and time required to develop and test appropriate modelling and simulation tools can be enormous. The objectives of this study were to: (i) test the performance of the decision tree, adaptive boosting (AdaBoost), support vector machine, neural network, stochastic gradient descent, k-nearest neighbours, random forest and linear regression machine learning models in predicting soil water under different tillage practices, soil types and depths, and (ii) assess the soil water classification and prediction capabilities of 8 models under different tillage practices, soil types and depths. The neural network, random forest and decision tree models had the best soil water prediction capabilities. The neural network, random forest and decision tree models were the best algorithms (RMSE = 15.801–16.369; MAE = 11.997–12.315; R2 = 0.822–0.835) for predicting and classifying soil water from different soil types and depth intervals. The support vector machine learning model was the weakest algorithm (RMSE = 36.177; MAE = 30.84; R2 = 0.133) for predicting and classifying soil water. All the algorithms poorly predicted and classified soil water based on tillage practices. All the models closely predicted soil water at 300 and 900 mm depths but poorly predicted soil water at 600 mm depth intervals. Based on this study, the neural network model is the best machine learning tool for predicting soil water in clay and sandy soils under semi-arid agroecological conditions.Mekuria, WoldeDessalegn, MengistuAbdella, MohammedHaile, Alemseged Tamiruhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1845692026-07-31T19:29:12Z2026-07-31T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Revitalizing Ethiopia’s Amibara Irrigation Scheme: Governance, Institutions, and Stakeholder Engagement dc.contributor.author: Mekuria, Wolde; Dessalegn, Mengistu; Abdella, Mohammed; Haile, Alemseged Tamiru dcterms.abstract: This study aimed to assess irrigation practices, institutional arrangements, and stakeholder dynamics to inform the revitalization of irrigation schemes, using the Amibara irrigation scheme in Ethiopia as a case study. Specifically the study (i) examined water use and management practices, associated challenges, and their implications for revitalization, (ii) assessed institutional structures and key governance gaps in water access, use and management, (iii) identified and mapped stakeholders involved in revitalization based on their roles, interests and influence, (iv) analyzed the motivations of different stakeholder groups to engage in the revitalization process, (v) assessed the needs and capacities of stakeholders to influence revitalization; and (vi) proposed engagement strategies to enhance participation, collaboration and partnerships. The study used key informant interviews, group discussions and observations, with multi-stage stakeholder analysis. Qualitative data were analyzed using deductive content analysis, while stakeholder mapping tools assessed legitimate power and power resources, interests, and influence. Results showed that the use of irrigation water is dominated by individualized practices, causing water shortages, conflicts, and governance gaps threatening sustainability. The stakeholder analysis identified diverse groups interested in revitalizing the scheme, indicating the need for multisectoral collaboration. Most stakeholders had perceived high interest but low influence, while some had high interest and influence or low interest but high influence, requiring tailored engagement strategies. Stakeholder motivation stems from expected benefits and alignment with their goals. Participation can be increased through better access to data, technical and financial support, capacity building, and clear roles. Stakeholders could contribute expertise and resources. Barriers included unclear mandates, funding gaps, limited technical capacity, peace and security issues, and environmental risks like soil salinity and water scarcity. The findings emphasize that without strengthening institutional frameworks, promoting collective action, and establishing irrigation water user associations, infrastructure rehabilitation alone will not yield lasting benefits. It is also suggested that engagement approaches focusing on trust-building and collaboration, as well as integrated social and institutional reforms aligned with national and sub-regional policies, are crucial. Effective revitalization benefits from public-private partnerships and community-government collaboration. We recommend clarifying roles, formalizing partnerships, ensuring transparent communication, and establishing coordination mechanisms.

2026-07-31T00:00:00ZMekuria, WoldeDessalegn, MengistuAbdella, MohammedHaile, Alemseged TamiruThis study aimed to assess irrigation practices, institutional arrangements, and stakeholder dynamics to inform the revitalization of irrigation schemes, using the Amibara irrigation scheme in Ethiopia as a case study. Specifically the study (i) examined water use and management practices, associated challenges, and their implications for revitalization, (ii) assessed institutional structures and key governance gaps in water access, use and management, (iii) identified and mapped stakeholders involved in revitalization based on their roles, interests and influence, (iv) analyzed the motivations of different stakeholder groups to engage in the revitalization process, (v) assessed the needs and capacities of stakeholders to influence revitalization; and (vi) proposed engagement strategies to enhance participation, collaboration and partnerships. The study used key informant interviews, group discussions and observations, with multi-stage stakeholder analysis. Qualitative data were analyzed using deductive content analysis, while stakeholder mapping tools assessed legitimate power and power resources, interests, and influence. Results showed that the use of irrigation water is dominated by individualized practices, causing water shortages, conflicts, and governance gaps threatening sustainability. The stakeholder analysis identified diverse groups interested in revitalizing the scheme, indicating the need for multisectoral collaboration. Most stakeholders had perceived high interest but low influence, while some had high interest and influence or low interest but high influence, requiring tailored engagement strategies. Stakeholder motivation stems from expected benefits and alignment with their goals. Participation can be increased through better access to data, technical and financial support, capacity building, and clear roles. Stakeholders could contribute expertise and resources. Barriers included unclear mandates, funding gaps, limited technical capacity, peace and security issues, and environmental risks like soil salinity and water scarcity. The findings emphasize that without strengthening institutional frameworks, promoting collective action, and establishing irrigation water user associations, infrastructure rehabilitation alone will not yield lasting benefits. It is also suggested that engagement approaches focusing on trust-building and collaboration, as well as integrated social and institutional reforms aligned with national and sub-regional policies, are crucial. Effective revitalization benefits from public-private partnerships and community-government collaboration. We recommend clarifying roles, formalizing partnerships, ensuring transparent communication, and establishing coordination mechanisms.Bhattacharya, JayantaShrestha, ShisherRavindranath, DarshiniBhaduri, Tanmoyhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1839762026-07-28T04:05:57Z2026-07-27T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Agrivoltaics in Bangladesh: Growing Food and Solar Power on the Same Land dc.contributor.author: Bhattacharya, Jayanta; Shrestha, Shisher; Ravindranath, Darshini; Bhaduri, Tanmoy

2026-07-27T00:00:00ZBhattacharya, JayantaShrestha, ShisherRavindranath, DarshiniBhaduri, TanmoyShrestha, ShisherKarki, Darshanhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1839502026-07-27T08:48:03Z2026-07-21T00:00:00Z

dc.title: The Sustainability Challenge: Lessons from Nepal’s Water-Lift Programs dc.contributor.author: Shrestha, Shisher; Karki, Darshan

2026-07-21T00:00:00ZShrestha, ShisherKarki, DarshanAlam, Mohammad FaizVarshney, DeepakPavelic, PaulSikka, AlokKrishnan, SunderrajanDodiya, Meruhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1839262026-07-24T09:19:25Z2026-09-01T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Do Grid-Connected Solar Irrigation Pumps Help Promote Groundwater Sustainability?: Evidence from India dc.contributor.author: Alam, Mohammad Faiz; Varshney, Deepak; Pavelic, Paul; Sikka, Alok; Krishnan, Sunderrajan; Dodiya, Meru dcterms.abstract: India's water-energy nexus is complex, with two-thirds of irrigation dependent on groundwater and ∼75% of 23 million pumps being electric. Subsidized electricity has driven groundwater over-abstraction, while solar irrigation, though promising, risks exacerbating unsustainable pumping due to near-zero costs. Grid-connected solar pumps offer a solution by enabling farmers to sell surplus energy to the grid, incentivizing sustainable water and energy use. This study assesses the impact of grid-connected solar irrigation on farmers' pumping behaviour in Gujarat, India using empirical data from ∼220–240 farmers across two seasons in districts with contrasting aquifers: hard rock (Botad) and alluvial (Anand). Results show irrigation water use in Anand (1753–1961 mm) is 3–4 times higher than in Botad (450–546 mm). In Botad, where shallow aquifers and prevailing cropping pattern and irrigation practices constrain groundwater availability and its use, no significant differences were found between solar and non-solar farmers, as water not energy is the primary constraint. Conversely, in Anand’s alluvial aquifers, significant reductions in water use (-608.45 mm in 2021–2022; -556.13 mm in 2022–2023) suggest grid connected solar pumps can influence groundwater conservation through the opportunity cost of energy exports. This reduction may partly reflect shifts in local water markets in Anand, where sellers balance energy exports with water sales, and buyers adapt through efficient irrigation or adjusted irrigation hours in response to higher water prices. The reduction in water use highlights the scheme’s potential to incentivise groundwater conservation, demonstrates the scheme's potential as a groundwater management tool in alluvial aquifer settings with sufficient groundwater availability, while highlighting that its conservation impact is highly context-specific. These findings underscore the need to align solar irrigation policies and tariff designs with local hydrogeology to enhance groundwater sustainability and socio-economic benefits.

2026-09-01T00:00:00ZAlam, Mohammad FaizVarshney, DeepakPavelic, PaulSikka, AlokKrishnan, SunderrajanDodiya, MeruIndia's water-energy nexus is complex, with two-thirds of irrigation dependent on groundwater and ∼75% of 23 million pumps being electric. Subsidized electricity has driven groundwater over-abstraction, while solar irrigation, though promising, risks exacerbating unsustainable pumping due to near-zero costs. Grid-connected solar pumps offer a solution by enabling farmers to sell surplus energy to the grid, incentivizing sustainable water and energy use. This study assesses the impact of grid-connected solar irrigation on farmers' pumping behaviour in Gujarat, India using empirical data from ∼220–240 farmers across two seasons in districts with contrasting aquifers: hard rock (Botad) and alluvial (Anand). Results show irrigation water use in Anand (1753–1961 mm) is 3–4 times higher than in Botad (450–546 mm). In Botad, where shallow aquifers and prevailing cropping pattern and irrigation practices constrain groundwater availability and its use, no significant differences were found between solar and non-solar farmers, as water not energy is the primary constraint. Conversely, in Anand’s alluvial aquifers, significant reductions in water use (-608.45 mm in 2021–2022; -556.13 mm in 2022–2023) suggest grid connected solar pumps can influence groundwater conservation through the opportunity cost of energy exports. This reduction may partly reflect shifts in local water markets in Anand, where sellers balance energy exports with water sales, and buyers adapt through efficient irrigation or adjusted irrigation hours in response to higher water prices. The reduction in water use highlights the scheme’s potential to incentivise groundwater conservation, demonstrates the scheme's potential as a groundwater management tool in alluvial aquifer settings with sufficient groundwater availability, while highlighting that its conservation impact is highly context-specific. These findings underscore the need to align solar irrigation policies and tariff designs with local hydrogeology to enhance groundwater sustainability and socio-economic benefits.Appiah, Collins EbenezerOsei-Amponsah, CharityQuarmine, WilliamOkem, Andrew EmmanuelOsei-Asare, YawSarpong, Daniel Brucehttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1839002026-07-24T07:55:18Z2026-06-29T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Leveraging Farmers’ Social Networks to Improve Co-Production and Dissemination of Climate Information Services in SSA: A Systematic Review dc.contributor.author: Appiah, Collins Ebenezer; Osei-Amponsah, Charity; Quarmine, William; Okem, Andrew Emmanuel; Osei-Asare, Yaw; Sarpong, Daniel Bruce dcterms.abstract: Co-production of Climate Information Services (CIS) is increasingly recognized as vital for improving user engagement, local relevance and uptake in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). While empirical studies highlight the importance of social networks in CIS co-production, a comprehensive synthesis of how these networks improve co-production and dissemination to smallholder farmers is lacking. This paper synthesizes evidence across diverse SSA contexts to assess how farmers' social networks (FSNs) improve CIS co-production and dissemination. The findings show FSNs are central to CIS co-production and dissemination by integrating indigenous knowledge, improving contextual relevance and strengthening trust. These networks, comprising community leaders, peer farmers, kinship ties and farmer associations, bridge scientific and indigenous knowledge systems, facilitate collective interpretation of forecasts and enable rapid CIS dissemination. Enabling FSNs is key to effective CIS co-production and information exchange in SSA. Policymakers should strengthen FSNs through agricultural and rural development policies. Policy should institutionalize participatory co-production by integrating FSNs and indigenous knowledge systems into national CIS frameworks, supported by capacity building, blended financing and inclusive digital infrastructure. Future research should assess the relative effectiveness of formal and informal FSNs in facilitating CIS delivery and guide where to focus efforts on building stronger and more effective FSNs.

2026-06-29T00:00:00ZAppiah, Collins EbenezerOsei-Amponsah, CharityQuarmine, WilliamOkem, Andrew EmmanuelOsei-Asare, YawSarpong, Daniel BruceCo-production of Climate Information Services (CIS) is increasingly recognized as vital for improving user engagement, local relevance and uptake in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). While empirical studies highlight the importance of social networks in CIS co-production, a comprehensive synthesis of how these networks improve co-production and dissemination to smallholder farmers is lacking. This paper synthesizes evidence across diverse SSA contexts to assess how farmers' social networks (FSNs) improve CIS co-production and dissemination. The findings show FSNs are central to CIS co-production and dissemination by integrating indigenous knowledge, improving contextual relevance and strengthening trust. These networks, comprising community leaders, peer farmers, kinship ties and farmer associations, bridge scientific and indigenous knowledge systems, facilitate collective interpretation of forecasts and enable rapid CIS dissemination. Enabling FSNs is key to effective CIS co-production and information exchange in SSA. Policymakers should strengthen FSNs through agricultural and rural development policies. Policy should institutionalize participatory co-production by integrating FSNs and indigenous knowledge systems into national CIS frameworks, supported by capacity building, blended financing and inclusive digital infrastructure. Future research should assess the relative effectiveness of formal and informal FSNs in facilitating CIS delivery and guide where to focus efforts on building stronger and more effective FSNs.Bhaduri, Tanmoyhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1838702026-07-22T05:40:25Z2026-07-21T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Beyond Groundwater: Rethinking Barind’s Water Crisis dc.contributor.author: Bhaduri, Tanmoy

2026-07-21T00:00:00ZBhaduri, TanmoySharma, Yaggesh KumarAlam, Mohammad FaizSharma, NavneetPavelic, PaulKim, SeokhyeonRaj, Ravihttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1838582026-07-21T05:19:15Z2026-10-01T00:00:00Z

dc.title: A Computational Framework for Basin-Scale Pond Recharge Estimation Using Multi-Source Geospatial Data dc.contributor.author: Sharma, Yaggesh Kumar; Alam, Mohammad Faiz; Sharma, Navneet; Pavelic, Paul; Kim, Seokhyeon; Raj, Ravi dcterms.abstract: Water scarcity and groundwater depletion are increasing due to anthropogenic and climatic pressures. This study presents a computational framework for pond recharge estimation in the Ramganga Basin (RGB), India. At present, most ponds in the area are not utilized as Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) systems; however, increasing interest necessitates data-driven approaches, and the proposed framework enables systematic evaluation of MAR potential at the basin scale. A large-scale geospatial dataset of 7443 ponds was compiled by integrating field surveys, government records, and remote sensing data. Model validation was conducted using recharge observations from 23 monitoring stations in the Moradabad zone. The framework incorporates ten hydro-environmental predictors within a spatial modeling pipeline to identify high-potential recharge zones. Among the three machine learning models evaluated, Gradient Boosting showed the best predictive performance, with an Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 0.92. It also achieved consistent performance in pond recharge rate prediction, with R of 0.83 and lower RMSE and MAE compared to other models. Overall, machine learning approaches performed better than conventional statistical methods across the selected evaluation metrics. Spatially explicit recharge potential zones were delineated for the entire RGB, revealing clear variability across different geomorphological and hydrological settings. Because validation sites are concentrated within alluvial plain regions, the framework is considered most reliable under similar hydrogeological conditions, while additional validation is required for hilly regions. Overall, the proposed framework provides a reproducible and scalable approach for identifying recharge zones and assessing pond-based groundwater replenishment, supporting data-driven MAR planning in water-stressed basins. cg.contributor.initiative: NEXUS Gains cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations

2026-10-01T00:00:00ZSharma, Yaggesh KumarAlam, Mohammad FaizSharma, NavneetPavelic, PaulKim, SeokhyeonRaj, RaviWater scarcity and groundwater depletion are increasing due to anthropogenic and climatic pressures. This study presents a computational framework for pond recharge estimation in the Ramganga Basin (RGB), India. At present, most ponds in the area are not utilized as Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) systems; however, increasing interest necessitates data-driven approaches, and the proposed framework enables systematic evaluation of MAR potential at the basin scale. A large-scale geospatial dataset of 7443 ponds was compiled by integrating field surveys, government records, and remote sensing data. Model validation was conducted using recharge observations from 23 monitoring stations in the Moradabad zone. The framework incorporates ten hydro-environmental predictors within a spatial modeling pipeline to identify high-potential recharge zones. Among the three machine learning models evaluated, Gradient Boosting showed the best predictive performance, with an Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 0.92. It also achieved consistent performance in pond recharge rate prediction, with R of 0.83 and lower RMSE and MAE compared to other models. Overall, machine learning approaches performed better than conventional statistical methods across the selected evaluation metrics. Spatially explicit recharge potential zones were delineated for the entire RGB, revealing clear variability across different geomorphological and hydrological settings. Because validation sites are concentrated within alluvial plain regions, the framework is considered most reliable under similar hydrogeological conditions, while additional validation is required for hilly regions. Overall, the proposed framework provides a reproducible and scalable approach for identifying recharge zones and assessing pond-based groundwater replenishment, supporting data-driven MAR planning in water-stressed basins.Vaca-Jiménez, S. D.Gerbens-Leenes, P. W.Holmatov, BunyodVanham, RaphaelVanham, Davyhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1838232026-07-20T08:16:22Z2026-05-07T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Forecast on Africa’s Power Production up to 2030 with Related Water Use and CO2 Emissions dc.contributor.author: Vaca-Jiménez, S. D.; Gerbens-Leenes, P. W.; Holmatov, Bunyod; Vanham, Raphael; Vanham, Davy dcterms.abstract: Africa needs to increase electricity production to improve electricity access. For informed decision making, there is a need for reliable, findable, high-quality, open access and spatially distributed power plant data with associated water use and CO2 emissions amounts. Here we present a detailed spatial inventory of operational, under construction and planned African power plants from 2020 until 2030, covering 3,139 individual plants, the result of an intensive data mining effort. This inventory forecasts a 57% increase to 1,787,858 Gigawatthours in electricity production from 2023 to 2030. Related water use and CO2 emissions increase substantially, showing trade-offs in water and carbon intensity of different fuel types. Africa is stepping up in planning and constructing additional power plants, with renewables’ share growing from 19% to 34%. However, the increase in hydropower puts additional pressure on available water resources. Current power plant construction falls slightly short on commitments in the nationally determined contributions. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations

2026-05-07T00:00:00ZVaca-Jiménez, S. D.Gerbens-Leenes, P. W.Holmatov, BunyodVanham, RaphaelVanham, DavyAfrica needs to increase electricity production to improve electricity access. For informed decision making, there is a need for reliable, findable, high-quality, open access and spatially distributed power plant data with associated water use and CO2 emissions amounts. Here we present a detailed spatial inventory of operational, under construction and planned African power plants from 2020 until 2030, covering 3,139 individual plants, the result of an intensive data mining effort. This inventory forecasts a 57% increase to 1,787,858 Gigawatthours in electricity production from 2023 to 2030. Related water use and CO2 emissions increase substantially, showing trade-offs in water and carbon intensity of different fuel types. Africa is stepping up in planning and constructing additional power plants, with renewables’ share growing from 19% to 34%. However, the increase in hydropower puts additional pressure on available water resources. Current power plant construction falls slightly short on commitments in the nationally determined contributions.Mekuria, WoldeGirma, RedietMoges, AwdenegestBalana, BedruKirui, Oliver K.Khalifa, MuhammadRuckstuhl, Sandrahttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1838202026-07-20T08:24:34Z2026-07-17T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Societal Challenges and Suitability Mapping of Resilient Nature-Based Water Solutions: Evidence from Case Studies in White Nile, El Gedaref, and Kassala, Sudan dc.contributor.author: Mekuria, Wolde; Girma, Rediet; Moges, Awdenegest; Balana, Bedru; Kirui, Oliver K.; Khalifa, Muhammad; Ruckstuhl, Sandra dcterms.abstract: This study focuses on three refugee-hosting areas in Sudan—Kassala, El Gedaref, and White Nile—with three main aims: to assess key societal and environmental challenges in each state; to identify Resilient Nature-based Water Solution (RNBWS) suited to local socio-ecological conditions; and to map areas most suitable for implementing these solutions to enhance environmental sustainability and livelihood resilience. The study combined a review of published and grey literature with multi-temporal satellite imagery and geographic information system (GIS)-based analysis. These methods were used to assess societal challenges, land-use and land-cover change, land degradation neutrality, and site characteristics such as slope and soil type. Spatial analysis, guided by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Global Standards for Nature-based Solutions and the Restoration Opportunities Assessment Methodology (ROAM), was used to identify and prioritize suitable areas for RNBWS. Results show that economic hardship, conflict, weak governance, natural disasters, and climate change are key drivers of displacement and migration across the three states. Over the last two decades, forestlands, shrublands, grasslands, and water bodies have declined, while agricultural land, settlements, and degraded areas have expanded. Socio-economic and governance constraints—including insecure land tenure, dependence on rainfed agriculture, food insecurity, competition over land, water, grazing, and fuelwood, and weak institutional coordination—shape both vulnerability and implementation feasibility. At the same time, the analysis identified extensive areas suitable for multiple RNBWS, including tree-based solutions, rainwater harvesting, soil and water conservation, and ecological restoration. The findings provide spatially explicit evidence to guide humanitarian programming, state-level planning, climate adaptation, and investment decisions in Sudan’s displacement-affected landscapes. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Food Frontiers and Security

2026-07-17T00:00:00ZMekuria, WoldeGirma, RedietMoges, AwdenegestBalana, BedruKirui, Oliver K.Khalifa, MuhammadRuckstuhl, SandraThis study focuses on three refugee-hosting areas in Sudan—Kassala, El Gedaref, and White Nile—with three main aims: to assess key societal and environmental challenges in each state; to identify Resilient Nature-based Water Solution (RNBWS) suited to local socio-ecological conditions; and to map areas most suitable for implementing these solutions to enhance environmental sustainability and livelihood resilience. The study combined a review of published and grey literature with multi-temporal satellite imagery and geographic information system (GIS)-based analysis. These methods were used to assess societal challenges, land-use and land-cover change, land degradation neutrality, and site characteristics such as slope and soil type. Spatial analysis, guided by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Global Standards for Nature-based Solutions and the Restoration Opportunities Assessment Methodology (ROAM), was used to identify and prioritize suitable areas for RNBWS. Results show that economic hardship, conflict, weak governance, natural disasters, and climate change are key drivers of displacement and migration across the three states. Over the last two decades, forestlands, shrublands, grasslands, and water bodies have declined, while agricultural land, settlements, and degraded areas have expanded. Socio-economic and governance constraints—including insecure land tenure, dependence on rainfed agriculture, food insecurity, competition over land, water, grazing, and fuelwood, and weak institutional coordination—shape both vulnerability and implementation feasibility. At the same time, the analysis identified extensive areas suitable for multiple RNBWS, including tree-based solutions, rainwater harvesting, soil and water conservation, and ecological restoration. The findings provide spatially explicit evidence to guide humanitarian programming, state-level planning, climate adaptation, and investment decisions in Sudan’s displacement-affected landscapes.Assefa, Tewodros T.Taye, Meron TeferiEbrahim, Girma YimerSeid, Abdulkarimhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1837962026-07-21T03:07:07Z2026-08-01T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Water Storage Gap in the Tana-Beles Sub-Basin, Upper Blue Nile, Ethiopia dc.contributor.author: Assefa, Tewodros T.; Taye, Meron Teferi; Ebrahim, Girma Yimer; Seid, Abdulkarim dcterms.abstract: Water demand is rising globally due to population growth, rapid urbanization, climate change, and the need for economic development. The need for additional water storage is therefore increasing to meet these demands. Water storage, both natural and built infrastructure, offers a way to manage the availability of water resources. Properly planning and optimizing diverse water storage options for increasing water demand requires an assessment framework. We developed a framework for assessing water storage gaps under current and future scenarios. It is applied in an African setting in the Tana-Beles sub-basin of the Blue Nile basin, one of Ethiopia’s economic growth corridors, where irrigation and hydropower development are planned. The volume of usable water storage in Lake Tana, groundwater, and built reservoirs was estimated and compared with irrigation, energy, domestic, livestock, and industrial water demands for the current and future periods. Results showed that the current annual water storage gap is 613 MCM. The storage gap increases to 3663 MCM by 2040s, about five times higher than in the current period. Besides, spatial disparity exists between where most water storage is available and where the water demand occurs. Particularly, demands for irrigation, domestic use, and livestock are spread throughout the sub-basin while there is a strong reliance on surface water sources, which are located in the upstream part of the basin. Given that these sources are subject to spatial and temporal limitations, diversifying natural and built water storage sources is recommended to address the increasing gap between supply and demand. cg.contributor.initiative: NEXUS Gains cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations

2026-08-01T00:00:00ZAssefa, Tewodros T.Taye, Meron TeferiEbrahim, Girma YimerSeid, AbdulkarimWater demand is rising globally due to population growth, rapid urbanization, climate change, and the need for economic development. The need for additional water storage is therefore increasing to meet these demands. Water storage, both natural and built infrastructure, offers a way to manage the availability of water resources. Properly planning and optimizing diverse water storage options for increasing water demand requires an assessment framework. We developed a framework for assessing water storage gaps under current and future scenarios. It is applied in an African setting in the Tana-Beles sub-basin of the Blue Nile basin, one of Ethiopia’s economic growth corridors, where irrigation and hydropower development are planned. The volume of usable water storage in Lake Tana, groundwater, and built reservoirs was estimated and compared with irrigation, energy, domestic, livestock, and industrial water demands for the current and future periods. Results showed that the current annual water storage gap is 613 MCM. The storage gap increases to 3663 MCM by 2040s, about five times higher than in the current period. Besides, spatial disparity exists between where most water storage is available and where the water demand occurs. Particularly, demands for irrigation, domestic use, and livestock are spread throughout the sub-basin while there is a strong reliance on surface water sources, which are located in the upstream part of the basin. Given that these sources are subject to spatial and temporal limitations, diversifying natural and built water storage sources is recommended to address the increasing gap between supply and demand.Ansah, Samuel OwusuUmer, YakobAnnor, ThompsonLimantol, Andrew ManobaLarbi, IsaacAbiodun, BabatundeAsamoah, JoshuaAwuah, AlfredTaye, Meron Teferihttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1837482026-07-21T03:08:15Z2026-07-01T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Application of Flood Hazard Assessment for Decision-Making in the White Volta Basin, Ghana dc.contributor.author: Ansah, Samuel Owusu; Umer, Yakob; Annor, Thompson; Limantol, Andrew Manoba; Larbi, Isaac; Abiodun, Babatunde; Asamoah, Joshua; Awuah, Alfred; Taye, Meron Teferi dcterms.abstract: Flooding is a major natural hazard in Ghana, with the White Volta Basin (WVB) highly susceptible due to flat terrain, intense rainfall, and upstream dam releases. The September 2020 flood, caused by heavy rainfall and Bagre Dam spillage, inundated croplands and settlements, revealing the need for impact-based flood intelligence. This study uses the Hydrologic Engineering Center's River Analysis System to simulate flood dynamics and assess cropland exposure. Calibration and validation with Sentinel-1 Synthetic Aperture Radar-derived flood extent showed strong spatial agreement (61–77%). A composite flood hazard index, combining water depth and velocity, classified hazard intensity into seven levels, linking hydraulic severity with crop impacts. The framework guides community-level early warning and preparedness, supporting decision-making by the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO), Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA), Water Resources Commission (WRC), and Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet). High-risk areas included Bawku West (22.7%), Binduri (15.1%), and Talensi (6.1%), aiding climate-resilient planning in transboundary basins.

2026-07-01T00:00:00ZAnsah, Samuel OwusuUmer, YakobAnnor, ThompsonLimantol, Andrew ManobaLarbi, IsaacAbiodun, BabatundeAsamoah, JoshuaAwuah, AlfredTaye, Meron TeferiFlooding is a major natural hazard in Ghana, with the White Volta Basin (WVB) highly susceptible due to flat terrain, intense rainfall, and upstream dam releases. The September 2020 flood, caused by heavy rainfall and Bagre Dam spillage, inundated croplands and settlements, revealing the need for impact-based flood intelligence. This study uses the Hydrologic Engineering Center's River Analysis System to simulate flood dynamics and assess cropland exposure. Calibration and validation with Sentinel-1 Synthetic Aperture Radar-derived flood extent showed strong spatial agreement (61–77%). A composite flood hazard index, combining water depth and velocity, classified hazard intensity into seven levels, linking hydraulic severity with crop impacts. The framework guides community-level early warning and preparedness, supporting decision-making by the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO), Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA), Water Resources Commission (WRC), and Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet). High-risk areas included Bawku West (22.7%), Binduri (15.1%), and Talensi (6.1%), aiding climate-resilient planning in transboundary basins.Palay, IsisFragaszy, StephenStifel, ElizabethAbeyrathna, Wasudha PrabodhaniGharaibeh, Sawsanhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1837472026-07-15T01:11:44Z2026-07-14T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Al Murunah : renforcer la résilience climatique grâce à des approches participatives et à des projets pilotes évolutifs proposant des solutions fondées sur la nature pour la gestion de l’eau dans la région MENA dc.contributor.author: Palay, Isis; Fragaszy, Stephen; Stifel, Elizabeth; Abeyrathna, Wasudha Prabodhani; Gharaibeh, Sawsan

2026-07-14T00:00:00ZPalay, IsisFragaszy, StephenStifel, ElizabethAbeyrathna, Wasudha PrabodhaniGharaibeh, SawsanPalay, IsisFragaszy, StephenStifel, ElizabethGharaibeh, Sawsanhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1837462026-07-15T01:06:39Z2026-07-14T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Al Murunah : d’un projet pilote à l’application concrète — renforcer la préparation à l’adoption et au déploiement à grande échelle de solutions résilientes fondées sur la nature pour la gestion de l’eau dc.contributor.author: Palay, Isis; Fragaszy, Stephen; Stifel, Elizabeth; Gharaibeh, Sawsan

2026-07-14T00:00:00ZPalay, IsisFragaszy, StephenStifel, ElizabethGharaibeh, SawsanKoyratty, NadiaAheeyar, MohamedHewajulige, Ilmi G. N.Tan, Daniel K. Y.Quabili, WahidZagré, Rock RomaricOlney, Deanna K.Cunningham, KendaKumar, Nehahttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1837402026-08-04T14:11:34Z2026-07-13T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Agricultural inputs and harvest among vegetable producers in rural Sri Lanka: Insights from a baseline survey of the Fruit and Vegetables for Sustainable Healthy Diets (FRESH) end-to-end evaluation dc.contributor.author: Koyratty, Nadia; Aheeyar, Mohamed; Hewajulige, Ilmi G. N.; Tan, Daniel K. Y.; Quabili, Wahid; Zagré, Rock Romaric; Olney, Deanna K.; Cunningham, Kenda; Kumar, Neha dcterms.abstract: Sri Lanka's agricultural sector plays a vital role in the food security and nutrition of its people. In recent years, overlapping crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic, severe economic collapse, climate-related shocks, such as cyclone Ditwah and subsequent flooding, and global political unrest have disrupted food systems and exacerbated food insecurity for Sri Lankans. These challenges have constrained access to nutrient-rich foods, while increasing reliance on cheaper, less nutritious alternatives. At the same time, Sri Lanka has been undergoing a nutrition transition characterized by increased consumption of ultra-processed foods and a double burden of malnutrition including micronutrient deficiencies and rising rates of overweight and obesity. cg.contributor.initiative: Fruit and Vegetables for Sustainable Healthy Diets cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Better Diets and Nutrition

2026-07-13T00:00:00ZKoyratty, NadiaAheeyar, MohamedHewajulige, Ilmi G. N.Tan, Daniel K. Y.Quabili, WahidZagré, Rock RomaricOlney, Deanna K.Cunningham, KendaKumar, NehaSri Lanka's agricultural sector plays a vital role in the food security and nutrition of its people. In recent years, overlapping crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic, severe economic collapse, climate-related shocks, such as cyclone Ditwah and subsequent flooding, and global political unrest have disrupted food systems and exacerbated food insecurity for Sri Lankans. These challenges have constrained access to nutrient-rich foods, while increasing reliance on cheaper, less nutritious alternatives. At the same time, Sri Lanka has been undergoing a nutrition transition characterized by increased consumption of ultra-processed foods and a double burden of malnutrition including micronutrient deficiencies and rising rates of overweight and obesity.Adamseged, Muluken EliasKamanda, JoseyHaileslassie, AmareRavindranath, DarshiniSchmitter, Petra S.Zewde, Yidnekachewhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1837382026-07-14T01:06:50Z2026-07-13T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Unlocking Scale: Strategic Challenges for Solar Energy Systems for Agriculture in Ethiopia and Kenya dc.contributor.author: Adamseged, Muluken Elias; Kamanda, Josey; Haileslassie, Amare; Ravindranath, Darshini; Schmitter, Petra S.; Zewde, Yidnekachew dcterms.abstract: Despite more than a decade of investment, Solar Energy Systems for Agriculture (SESA) in Ethiopia and Kenya has yet to move beyond pilots toward commercial scale. The picture is uneven: solar water pumps are commercially mature — Kenya alone accounts for roughly 65 percent of sub-Saharan Africa’s solar water pump market — while post-harvest technologies such as cold storage, drying and milling remain at pilot stage. This SoLAR 2 brief identifies four interlocking barriers: a “pilot trap” in which technically successful demonstrations fail to become commercially viable markets, as the distribution channels, financing partnerships and support services built around them dissolve once donor funding ends; a; fragmented policy and institutional architecture, with no dedicated national SESA strategy in either country and inconsistently applied fiscal incentives; a chronic financing gap, as lenders continue to perceive agro-solar as high-risk and loan products remain poorly matched to seasonal farm cash flows; and hardware-only business models that concentrate risk on the customer and lack after-sales support. Blended finance — combining concessional donor capital with commercial lending and government risk-sharing facilities — is highlighted as the most credible path to crowding in private investment. The brief closes with coordinated recommendations for donors, governments, the private sector, and financial institutions.

2026-07-13T00:00:00ZAdamseged, Muluken EliasKamanda, JoseyHaileslassie, AmareRavindranath, DarshiniSchmitter, Petra S.Zewde, YidnekachewDespite more than a decade of investment, Solar Energy Systems for Agriculture (SESA) in Ethiopia and Kenya has yet to move beyond pilots toward commercial scale. The picture is uneven: solar water pumps are commercially mature — Kenya alone accounts for roughly 65 percent of sub-Saharan Africa’s solar water pump market — while post-harvest technologies such as cold storage, drying and milling remain at pilot stage. This SoLAR 2 brief identifies four interlocking barriers: a “pilot trap” in which technically successful demonstrations fail to become commercially viable markets, as the distribution channels, financing partnerships and support services built around them dissolve once donor funding ends; a; fragmented policy and institutional architecture, with no dedicated national SESA strategy in either country and inconsistently applied fiscal incentives; a chronic financing gap, as lenders continue to perceive agro-solar as high-risk and loan products remain poorly matched to seasonal farm cash flows; and hardware-only business models that concentrate risk on the customer and lack after-sales support. Blended finance — combining concessional donor capital with commercial lending and government risk-sharing facilities — is highlighted as the most credible path to crowding in private investment. The brief closes with coordinated recommendations for donors, governments, the private sector, and financial institutions.Rawat, MonikaNguyen-Huy, ThongSena, Dipaka RanjanAli, Aramhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1837262026-07-10T05:28:00Z2026-09-01T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Advances in Remote Sensing Techniques for Surface Soil Moisture Estimation: A Systematic Review of Recent Developments (2019–2024) dc.contributor.author: Rawat, Monika; Nguyen-Huy, Thong; Sena, Dipaka Ranjan; Ali, Aram dcterms.abstract: Surface soil moisture (SSM) is a vital variable for irrigation management, estimation of crop water stress, and agricultural drought management. This systematic review integrates recent progress (2019–2024) in remote sensing-based SSM estimation, based on 116 peer-reviewed articles selected using PRISMA guidelines. The review indicates that multi-sensor techniques, integrating optical, radar, and climate information coupled with machine learning (ML) and data assimilation methods, have immensely enhanced the spatial and temporal resolution of SSM products. These developments have brought SSM retrieval within the realm of useful, field-scale application for agricultural water management. Hybrid models and AI-downscaled approaches, in particular, have a very high potential for operational decision-making across varying agro-ecologies. Trends in performance, regional research gaps, and areas for improvement in terms of data coverage, especially for semi-arid and smallholder-dominated landscapes, are also addressed in this review. SWOT analysis of prominent retrieval algorithms identifies their advantages and limitations in application, revealing the compromises between complexity, scalability, and accuracy. Although there has been increasing technical development, with few exceptions, there is no large-scale application in actual irrigation systems. The article ends by placing greater emphasis on enhancing stronger validation protocols, improved application within crop and hydrological models, and region-tailored modifications of retrieval workflows. In the future, new satellite missions and enhanced ground data infrastructure offer opportunities to enhance the contribution of SSM to climate-resilient agriculture. This review offers a timely basis to advance SM monitoring systems that are not only scientifically valid but operationally pertinent to sustainable water management in agriculture.

2026-09-01T00:00:00ZRawat, MonikaNguyen-Huy, ThongSena, Dipaka RanjanAli, AramSurface soil moisture (SSM) is a vital variable for irrigation management, estimation of crop water stress, and agricultural drought management. This systematic review integrates recent progress (2019–2024) in remote sensing-based SSM estimation, based on 116 peer-reviewed articles selected using PRISMA guidelines. The review indicates that multi-sensor techniques, integrating optical, radar, and climate information coupled with machine learning (ML) and data assimilation methods, have immensely enhanced the spatial and temporal resolution of SSM products. These developments have brought SSM retrieval within the realm of useful, field-scale application for agricultural water management. Hybrid models and AI-downscaled approaches, in particular, have a very high potential for operational decision-making across varying agro-ecologies. Trends in performance, regional research gaps, and areas for improvement in terms of data coverage, especially for semi-arid and smallholder-dominated landscapes, are also addressed in this review. SWOT analysis of prominent retrieval algorithms identifies their advantages and limitations in application, revealing the compromises between complexity, scalability, and accuracy. Although there has been increasing technical development, with few exceptions, there is no large-scale application in actual irrigation systems. The article ends by placing greater emphasis on enhancing stronger validation protocols, improved application within crop and hydrological models, and region-tailored modifications of retrieval workflows. In the future, new satellite missions and enhanced ground data infrastructure offer opportunities to enhance the contribution of SSM to climate-resilient agriculture. This review offers a timely basis to advance SM monitoring systems that are not only scientifically valid but operationally pertinent to sustainable water management in agriculture.Okem, Andrew E.Osei-Amponsah, CharityEttang, DorcasRoberts, Debra C.https://hdl.handle.net/10568/1837192026-07-09T11:59:01Z2026-05-01T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Systematic Evidence Mapping of Climate Change Impacts, Vulnerability and Adaptation in Informal Settlements in South Africa dc.contributor.author: Okem, Andrew E.; Osei-Amponsah, Charity; Ettang, Dorcas; Roberts, Debra C. dcterms.abstract: This study maps and analyses peer-reviewed evidence from 2015 to 2024 on climate change impacts, vulnerabilities and adaptation in South African informal settlements. The review is based on a sample of 23 studies from 1,282 studies that met the review inclusion criteria. The findings reveal that informal settlements are exposed to various climate hazards, with flooding, droughts and heat being the most documented. These hazards interact with infrastructure deficits and socio-economic and institutional factors to increase the vulnerability and limit the adaptive capacity of residents of informal settlements. Reported adaptation actions were mostly structural, involving physical changes to structures and systems to mitigate climate effects, and behavioural, with only one study reporting the use of nature-based solutions. Actors involved in climate adaptation operate at the household, community and city levels. Adaptation actions have been reported to be effective in improving safety and comfort, reducing biodiversity loss and improving energy efficiency in informal settlements. However, lack of funding and political will, and participation in decision-making and resource allocation are among the barriers to adaptation. These findings collectively highlight the urgent need for systemic, inclusive, scalable and sustainable adaptation solutions for informal settlements in South Africa.

2026-05-01T00:00:00ZOkem, Andrew E.Osei-Amponsah, CharityEttang, DorcasRoberts, Debra C.This study maps and analyses peer-reviewed evidence from 2015 to 2024 on climate change impacts, vulnerabilities and adaptation in South African informal settlements. The review is based on a sample of 23 studies from 1,282 studies that met the review inclusion criteria. The findings reveal that informal settlements are exposed to various climate hazards, with flooding, droughts and heat being the most documented. These hazards interact with infrastructure deficits and socio-economic and institutional factors to increase the vulnerability and limit the adaptive capacity of residents of informal settlements. Reported adaptation actions were mostly structural, involving physical changes to structures and systems to mitigate climate effects, and behavioural, with only one study reporting the use of nature-based solutions. Actors involved in climate adaptation operate at the household, community and city levels. Adaptation actions have been reported to be effective in improving safety and comfort, reducing biodiversity loss and improving energy efficiency in informal settlements. However, lack of funding and political will, and participation in decision-making and resource allocation are among the barriers to adaptation. These findings collectively highlight the urgent need for systemic, inclusive, scalable and sustainable adaptation solutions for informal settlements in South Africa.International Water Management Institutehttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1837052026-07-09T03:29:01Z2026-07-08T00:00:00Z

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

2026-07-08T00:00:00ZInternational Water Management InstituteTafesse, YonasAdmasu, Zeleke BelayWamba, Elizabethhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1837032026-07-08T10:28:13Z2026-05-04T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Ethiopia Plans to Scale Solar Irrigation with Public and Private Sector Momentum dc.contributor.author: Tafesse, Yonas; Admasu, Zeleke Belay; Wamba, Elizabeth cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Scaling for Impact

2026-05-04T00:00:00ZTafesse, YonasAdmasu, Zeleke BelayWamba, ElizabethSiabi, Ebenezer KwadwoKabobah, Amos TiereyangnAkpoti, KomlaviAnornu, Geophery KwameDonkor, PeterAgbavitor, SamuelMensah, Samuel KofiSiabi, Sarah Elikplimhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1837002026-07-08T08:23:39Z2026-09-01T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Impacts of Extreme Climate Events on Megacities in West Africa: A Case of the Greater Accra Region dc.contributor.author: Siabi, Ebenezer Kwadwo; Kabobah, Amos Tiereyangn; Akpoti, Komlavi; Anornu, Geophery Kwame; Donkor, Peter; Agbavitor, Samuel; Mensah, Samuel Kofi; Siabi, Sarah Elikplim dcterms.abstract: Rapid urbanization combined with intensifying climate variability is amplifying the vulnerability of megacities across West Africa. Yet, empirical evidence capturing how climate risks are socially perceived and operationalized across critical urban systems remains limited. This study investigates the perceived impacts of extreme climate events particularly floods, heatwaves, and droughts on food security, public health, energy systems, and water resources in the Greater Accra Region (GAR), Ghana. A mixed-methods approach was employed, integrating quantitative survey data from 5800 urban residents with qualitative insights from key institutional stakeholders across climate-sensitive sectors. Results reveal a strong convergence between public and institutional perceptions, highlighting hydroclimatic extremes especially flooding and heat as dominant stressors shaping urban vulnerability. Flooding was most strongly associated with food insecurity and infrastructure disruption, while heat-related conditions were widely perceived to drive increased electricity demand, water consumption, and public health risks. Notably, 46% of respondents linked climate-related health impacts to direct household economic losses, emphasizing the socio-economic burden of climate stress at the household level. The findings further indicate that climate risks are not perceived in isolation but as interconnected pressures across urban systems, reinforcing the existence of a multi-sectoral climate vulnerability nexus in GAR. While the study does not establish causal relationships, it provides critical insight into the social salience of climate risks, which plays a decisive role in shaping adaptation behavior, policy acceptance, and institutional response. In this context, the study directly contributes to advancing Sustainable Development Goal 11 by informing resilient urban planning, and Sustainable Development Goal 13 through evidence-based climate adaptation strategies in rapidly urbanizing African cities. This study advances current knowledge by demonstrating that perception-based evidence can serve as a valuable complement to physical climate and infrastructure datasets, particularly in data-constrained contexts. Findings of the study emphasize the need for integrated urban adaptation strategies that simultaneously address energy, water, health, and food systems. Future research should couple perception-based approaches with observational and model-based datasets to better align perceived and measured climate impacts.

2026-09-01T00:00:00ZSiabi, Ebenezer KwadwoKabobah, Amos TiereyangnAkpoti, KomlaviAnornu, Geophery KwameDonkor, PeterAgbavitor, SamuelMensah, Samuel KofiSiabi, Sarah ElikplimRapid urbanization combined with intensifying climate variability is amplifying the vulnerability of megacities across West Africa. Yet, empirical evidence capturing how climate risks are socially perceived and operationalized across critical urban systems remains limited. This study investigates the perceived impacts of extreme climate events particularly floods, heatwaves, and droughts on food security, public health, energy systems, and water resources in the Greater Accra Region (GAR), Ghana. A mixed-methods approach was employed, integrating quantitative survey data from 5800 urban residents with qualitative insights from key institutional stakeholders across climate-sensitive sectors. Results reveal a strong convergence between public and institutional perceptions, highlighting hydroclimatic extremes especially flooding and heat as dominant stressors shaping urban vulnerability. Flooding was most strongly associated with food insecurity and infrastructure disruption, while heat-related conditions were widely perceived to drive increased electricity demand, water consumption, and public health risks. Notably, 46% of respondents linked climate-related health impacts to direct household economic losses, emphasizing the socio-economic burden of climate stress at the household level. The findings further indicate that climate risks are not perceived in isolation but as interconnected pressures across urban systems, reinforcing the existence of a multi-sectoral climate vulnerability nexus in GAR. While the study does not establish causal relationships, it provides critical insight into the social salience of climate risks, which plays a decisive role in shaping adaptation behavior, policy acceptance, and institutional response. In this context, the study directly contributes to advancing Sustainable Development Goal 11 by informing resilient urban planning, and Sustainable Development Goal 13 through evidence-based climate adaptation strategies in rapidly urbanizing African cities. This study advances current knowledge by demonstrating that perception-based evidence can serve as a valuable complement to physical climate and infrastructure datasets, particularly in data-constrained contexts. Findings of the study emphasize the need for integrated urban adaptation strategies that simultaneously address energy, water, health, and food systems. Future research should couple perception-based approaches with observational and model-based datasets to better align perceived and measured climate impacts.Osei-Amponsah, CharityAppiah, SarahNicol, Alanhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1836892026-07-10T03:04:18Z2026-07-08T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Enhancing Capacity for Mainstreaming Gender in Nigeria’s Water Sector Policies and Governance dc.contributor.author: Osei-Amponsah, Charity; Appiah, Sarah; Nicol, Alan dcterms.abstract: This training manual provides a practical framework for strengthening gender integration in Nigeria’s water sector policies, governance systems, and service delivery. Developed in response to capacity gaps identified through stakeholder consultations and assessments, it equips policymakers, technical staff, and gender focal points with the knowledge, tools, and skills to conduct gender analysis, develop gender action plans, implement gender-responsive budgeting, and establish effective monitoring systems. Through seven interactive modules, practical exercises, templates, and case studies, the manual supports institutions in advancing gender equality, improving accountability, strengthening participation, and embedding sustainable gender-responsive approaches within water sector planning and governance. cg.contributor.initiative: National Policies and Strategies cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations

2026-07-08T00:00:00ZOsei-Amponsah, CharityAppiah, SarahNicol, AlanThis training manual provides a practical framework for strengthening gender integration in Nigeria’s water sector policies, governance systems, and service delivery. Developed in response to capacity gaps identified through stakeholder consultations and assessments, it equips policymakers, technical staff, and gender focal points with the knowledge, tools, and skills to conduct gender analysis, develop gender action plans, implement gender-responsive budgeting, and establish effective monitoring systems. Through seven interactive modules, practical exercises, templates, and case studies, the manual supports institutions in advancing gender equality, improving accountability, strengthening participation, and embedding sustainable gender-responsive approaches within water sector planning and governance.Saleth, Rathinasamy MariaAit El Mekki, AbdelkaderAmarasinghe, Upali A.Amarnath, GirirajBrouziyne, Youssefhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1836882026-07-08T03:54:01Z2026-06-09T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Governance Structure, Adaptation Options, and Climate Resilience of the Agricultural and Water Sectors of Morocco: Pathway Analysis in the Context of the Oum Er Rbia Basin dc.contributor.author: Saleth, Rathinasamy Maria; Ait El Mekki, Abdelkader; Amarasinghe, Upali A.; Amarnath, Giriraj; Brouziyne, Youssef dcterms.abstract: This chapter evaluates a novel methodology in the empirical context of the Oum Er Rbia Basin, Morocco. The methodology uses an econometric model, which captures the intricate interactions among climate change (CC), transformative adaptation options (TAOs), multiscale polycentric governance (MPG), and rural welfare (RW) as sequentially linked equations, each characterizing different impact pathways underlying the CC-TAO-MPG-RW interaction process. Selected TAOs are: (a) climate-resilient crop patterns, (b) drip system and irrigation modernization, and (c) contract farming and public–private partnership. MPG elements cover: (a) institutions, (b) infrastructures, and (c) private players in the water, agriculture, and livestock sectors. Estimating the econometric model using data from 176 stakeholders, pathway analysis is performed to provide insights into the policy roles of different TAOs, MPG elements, and impact transmission variables in enhancing climate resilience and rural welfare. The chapter concludes by highlighting implications for theory, methodology, and policy; limitations and caveats for obtained results; and directions for future research.

2026-06-09T00:00:00ZSaleth, Rathinasamy MariaAit El Mekki, AbdelkaderAmarasinghe, Upali A.Amarnath, GirirajBrouziyne, YoussefThis chapter evaluates a novel methodology in the empirical context of the Oum Er Rbia Basin, Morocco. The methodology uses an econometric model, which captures the intricate interactions among climate change (CC), transformative adaptation options (TAOs), multiscale polycentric governance (MPG), and rural welfare (RW) as sequentially linked equations, each characterizing different impact pathways underlying the CC-TAO-MPG-RW interaction process. Selected TAOs are: (a) climate-resilient crop patterns, (b) drip system and irrigation modernization, and (c) contract farming and public–private partnership. MPG elements cover: (a) institutions, (b) infrastructures, and (c) private players in the water, agriculture, and livestock sectors. Estimating the econometric model using data from 176 stakeholders, pathway analysis is performed to provide insights into the policy roles of different TAOs, MPG elements, and impact transmission variables in enhancing climate resilience and rural welfare. The chapter concludes by highlighting implications for theory, methodology, and policy; limitations and caveats for obtained results; and directions for future research.Gizaw, GetachewAlamirew, TenaSeid, AbdulkarimAlemayehu, TayeAbebe, Bizuneh Asfawhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1836762026-07-07T09:49:50Z2026-08-01T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Evaluating the Implementation of Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM) Using the Four IWRM Pillars in Awash River Basin, Ethiopia dc.contributor.author: Gizaw, Getachew; Alamirew, Tena; Seid, Abdulkarim; Alemayehu, Taye; Abebe, Bizuneh Asfaw dcterms.abstract: Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM) is pivotal for sustainable development in Ethiopia's water stressed Awash River Basin. This study evaluated IWRM implementation using the four-pillar SDG 6.5.1 framework: Enabling Environment, Institutions and Participation, Management Tools, and Finance. The research adopted a mixed-methods approach, including synthesized data from document review, 100 selected participants' questionnaires, interviews and focus group discussions. For the analysis, “High” and “Very High” critical gaps were aggregated into a single “Total Critical Gaps” (VH + HCG) metric. The findings reveal a systemic disconnect between policy aspiration and operational reality, with overall implementation assessed as “low” (11%–30%), significantly below the national average of 41%. The Institutions and Participation pillar is compromised by overlapping mandates and a top–down approach that excludes the private sector and local stakeholders. The Finance pillar represents the most severe bottleneck, with an 84.6% aggregate critical gap regarding the “polluter pays” principle. Management tools are undermined by poor data integrity (74.4% VH + HCG), while the enabling environment is crippled by a lack of specific water allocation legislation (87.2% VH + HCG). Consequently, IWRM in Awash Basin functions as a collection of fragmented initiatives, rather than an integrated system. This study concludes that achieving effective IWRM implementation requires urgent water governance reforms centered on empowering decentralized basin organizations, enforcing legal mandates, and operationalizing self-sustaining financial models.

2026-08-01T00:00:00ZGizaw, GetachewAlamirew, TenaSeid, AbdulkarimAlemayehu, TayeAbebe, Bizuneh AsfawIntegrated Water Resource Management (IWRM) is pivotal for sustainable development in Ethiopia's water stressed Awash River Basin. This study evaluated IWRM implementation using the four-pillar SDG 6.5.1 framework: Enabling Environment, Institutions and Participation, Management Tools, and Finance. The research adopted a mixed-methods approach, including synthesized data from document review, 100 selected participants' questionnaires, interviews and focus group discussions. For the analysis, “High” and “Very High” critical gaps were aggregated into a single “Total Critical Gaps” (VH + HCG) metric. The findings reveal a systemic disconnect between policy aspiration and operational reality, with overall implementation assessed as “low” (11%–30%), significantly below the national average of 41%. The Institutions and Participation pillar is compromised by overlapping mandates and a top–down approach that excludes the private sector and local stakeholders. The Finance pillar represents the most severe bottleneck, with an 84.6% aggregate critical gap regarding the “polluter pays” principle. Management tools are undermined by poor data integrity (74.4% VH + HCG), while the enabling environment is crippled by a lack of specific water allocation legislation (87.2% VH + HCG). Consequently, IWRM in Awash Basin functions as a collection of fragmented initiatives, rather than an integrated system. This study concludes that achieving effective IWRM implementation requires urgent water governance reforms centered on empowering decentralized basin organizations, enforcing legal mandates, and operationalizing self-sustaining financial models.Berhanu, DanielAlamirew, TenaO’Donnell, GregWalsh, Claire L.Haileslassie, AmareTarkegn, Temesgen GashawBantider, AmareGebrehiwot, SolomonZeleke, Getehttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1836732026-07-07T10:13:25Z2026-04-21T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Historical Trend and Future Projection of Extreme Seasonal Precipitation over Ethiopia, East Africa dc.contributor.author: Berhanu, Daniel; Alamirew, Tena; O’Donnell, Greg; Walsh, Claire L.; Haileslassie, Amare; Tarkegn, Temesgen Gashaw; Bantider, Amare; Gebrehiwot, Solomon; Zeleke, Gete dcterms.abstract: East Africa is highly vulnerable to climate change due to limited adaptive capacity and strong reliance on rain-fed agriculture. Ethiopia, in particular, experiences recurrent socio-economic losses from droughts and floods. This study presents a national-scale assessment of observed (1981–2010) and projected (2041–2100) changes in extreme seasonal precipitation across Ethiopia using ten ETCCDIs. High-resolution Enhancing National Climate Services (ENACTS) observations and bias-corrected outputs from a selected ensemble of CMIP6 models under SSP2-4.5 and SSP5-8.5 scenarios are used to assess historically trends and future extreme precipitation, respectively. Historical trends show increases in extreme precipitation during the Kiremt (JJAS) season, particularly over the northwestern, western, and southwestern highlands; however, most of these increases are not statistically significant. In contrast, the Belg (FMAM) season exhibits widespread declines, which are also largely not statistically significant. Future projections suggest increases in total precipitation (PRCPTOT), heavy (R10) and very heavy rainfall days (R20), very wet days (R95p) and extremely wet days (R95p), and rainfall intensity (SDII) over northwestern, western, southwestern, and parts of northeastern Ethiopia during JJAS. During FMAM, PRCPTOT is projected to increase in the northern and northwestern regions, while decreases are expected in the northeastern and southeastern regions. The Awash and Tekeze basins emerge as key hotspots of change, indicating potential seasonal shifts and an increased likelihood of extreme weather in these regions. Despite inter-model uncertainty, the results highlight the need for flexible, uncertainty-informed adaptation strategies to enhance climate resilience in Ethiopia. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Scaling for Impact

2026-04-21T00:00:00ZBerhanu, DanielAlamirew, TenaO’Donnell, GregWalsh, Claire L.Haileslassie, AmareTarkegn, Temesgen GashawBantider, AmareGebrehiwot, SolomonZeleke, GeteEast Africa is highly vulnerable to climate change due to limited adaptive capacity and strong reliance on rain-fed agriculture. Ethiopia, in particular, experiences recurrent socio-economic losses from droughts and floods. This study presents a national-scale assessment of observed (1981–2010) and projected (2041–2100) changes in extreme seasonal precipitation across Ethiopia using ten ETCCDIs. High-resolution Enhancing National Climate Services (ENACTS) observations and bias-corrected outputs from a selected ensemble of CMIP6 models under SSP2-4.5 and SSP5-8.5 scenarios are used to assess historically trends and future extreme precipitation, respectively. Historical trends show increases in extreme precipitation during the Kiremt (JJAS) season, particularly over the northwestern, western, and southwestern highlands; however, most of these increases are not statistically significant. In contrast, the Belg (FMAM) season exhibits widespread declines, which are also largely not statistically significant. Future projections suggest increases in total precipitation (PRCPTOT), heavy (R10) and very heavy rainfall days (R20), very wet days (R95p) and extremely wet days (R95p), and rainfall intensity (SDII) over northwestern, western, southwestern, and parts of northeastern Ethiopia during JJAS. During FMAM, PRCPTOT is projected to increase in the northern and northwestern regions, while decreases are expected in the northeastern and southeastern regions. The Awash and Tekeze basins emerge as key hotspots of change, indicating potential seasonal shifts and an increased likelihood of extreme weather in these regions. Despite inter-model uncertainty, the results highlight the need for flexible, uncertainty-informed adaptation strategies to enhance climate resilience in Ethiopia.Bandopadhyay, SubhajitDey, SouravGrover, LatikaGhosh, SubhasisKour, SnehaDas, BarnaliGhosh, Surajithttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1836712026-07-07T04:17:07Z2026-06-01T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Earth Observation Technologies for Agricultural Risk Management in Fragmented Croplands of India dc.contributor.author: Bandopadhyay, Subhajit; Dey, Sourav; Grover, Latika; Ghosh, Subhasis; Kour, Sneha; Das, Barnali; Ghosh, Surajit dcterms.abstract: A significant issue in Indian agriculture is the fragmentation of croplands into small landholdings, which results in the division of agricultural land into smaller and often uneconomical parcels. Fragmentation, or the breakdown of landholdings into smaller parcels, has an adverse impact on crop yields and productivity due to its uneconomic operational sizes. Therefore, accurate mapping of small landholdings (SLs) is necessary for precise monitoring of crop health, soil conditions, water usage, and many other factors, which can significantly improve the productivity of fragmented land parcels and sustain the country's’s food security. This comprehensive review provides insights into the complex dynamics of SLs in India by leveraging Earth Observation (EO) based remote sensing data and technology, synthesizing the existing literature, methodologies, and outcomes, as well as technological advancements, their challenges and limitations. This study aims to synthesize the current challenges, management practices, and applications of Earth Observation (EO) technologies for mapping, monitoring, and parametric assessment of small-scale agricultural landholdings in India. The review also discussed different remote sensing platforms and how to utilize their varied spectrums for identifying and characterizing SLs at different geographies in India. By incorporating EO approaches into Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) frameworks, the study highlights how fragmented croplands can be better identified, monitored, and safeguarded against disasters and climate-induced agricultural risks. This study will support the decision-making process and policy formulation in the Indian agricultural system by providing comprehensive insights from EO-based sensing perspectives. Finally, this will help to plan more productive and sustainable farming methods, which will be advantageous to both farmers and the national economy.

2026-06-01T00:00:00ZBandopadhyay, SubhajitDey, SouravGrover, LatikaGhosh, SubhasisKour, SnehaDas, BarnaliGhosh, SurajitA significant issue in Indian agriculture is the fragmentation of croplands into small landholdings, which results in the division of agricultural land into smaller and often uneconomical parcels. Fragmentation, or the breakdown of landholdings into smaller parcels, has an adverse impact on crop yields and productivity due to its uneconomic operational sizes. Therefore, accurate mapping of small landholdings (SLs) is necessary for precise monitoring of crop health, soil conditions, water usage, and many other factors, which can significantly improve the productivity of fragmented land parcels and sustain the country's’s food security. This comprehensive review provides insights into the complex dynamics of SLs in India by leveraging Earth Observation (EO) based remote sensing data and technology, synthesizing the existing literature, methodologies, and outcomes, as well as technological advancements, their challenges and limitations. This study aims to synthesize the current challenges, management practices, and applications of Earth Observation (EO) technologies for mapping, monitoring, and parametric assessment of small-scale agricultural landholdings in India. The review also discussed different remote sensing platforms and how to utilize their varied spectrums for identifying and characterizing SLs at different geographies in India. By incorporating EO approaches into Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) frameworks, the study highlights how fragmented croplands can be better identified, monitored, and safeguarded against disasters and climate-induced agricultural risks. This study will support the decision-making process and policy formulation in the Indian agricultural system by providing comprehensive insights from EO-based sensing perspectives. Finally, this will help to plan more productive and sustainable farming methods, which will be advantageous to both farmers and the national economy.Bhattacharya, JayantaTripathi, GauravRavindranath, Darshinihttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1836702026-07-08T01:07:06Z2026-07-07T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Filling the Gaps in Carbon Credits from Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) in Bangladesh dc.contributor.author: Bhattacharya, Jayanta; Tripathi, Gaurav; Ravindranath, Darshini dcterms.abstract: This fact sheet outlines how Bangladesh can harness carbon markets to accelerate the adoption of Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) in rice cultivation, particularly in Solar Irrigation Pump (SIP) command areas. Developed under the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC)-supported Solar Energy for Agricultural Resilience (SoLAR) project, implemented by IWMI and partners, the fact sheet demonstrates how AWD can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, conserve water, and generate additional income for farmers through carbon credits. Field pilots involving 600 farmers across 26 Bangladesh Agricultural Development Corporation (BADC) SIP sites are building the scientific evidence, digital monitoring, reporting and verification (MRV) systems, and policy frameworks needed to scale carbon finance. The publication highlights key challenges, including limited farmer awareness, weak MRV infrastructure, and policy gaps, while proposing practical recommendations to operationalize Bangladesh's agricultural carbon market. By linking climate-smart irrigation with carbon finance, the initiative aims to strengthen water resilience, improve farmer livelihoods, and support the country's national climate commitments.

2026-07-07T00:00:00ZBhattacharya, JayantaTripathi, GauravRavindranath, DarshiniThis fact sheet outlines how Bangladesh can harness carbon markets to accelerate the adoption of Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) in rice cultivation, particularly in Solar Irrigation Pump (SIP) command areas. Developed under the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC)-supported Solar Energy for Agricultural Resilience (SoLAR) project, implemented by IWMI and partners, the fact sheet demonstrates how AWD can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, conserve water, and generate additional income for farmers through carbon credits. Field pilots involving 600 farmers across 26 Bangladesh Agricultural Development Corporation (BADC) SIP sites are building the scientific evidence, digital monitoring, reporting and verification (MRV) systems, and policy frameworks needed to scale carbon finance. The publication highlights key challenges, including limited farmer awareness, weak MRV infrastructure, and policy gaps, while proposing practical recommendations to operationalize Bangladesh's agricultural carbon market. By linking climate-smart irrigation with carbon finance, the initiative aims to strengthen water resilience, improve farmer livelihoods, and support the country's national climate commitments.International Water Management Institutehttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1836552026-07-07T01:02:23Z2026-07-06T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Beyond Waste: Circular Economy Pathways for Resilient Island Food Systems dc.contributor.author: International Water Management Institute cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Food Frontiers and Security

2026-07-06T00:00:00ZInternational Water Management InstituteIWMI-Tata Water Policy Programhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1836412026-07-06T04:54:45Z2022-10-19T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Convergence Opportunities between PM-KUSUM and ABhY in Rajasthan dc.contributor.author: IWMI-Tata Water Policy Program dcterms.abstract: This IWMI-GIZ policy video argues that especially in groundwater-scarce regions of Rajasthan, PM-KUSUM (India's flagship initiative for solarization of agriculture) and ABhY (India's program for improved groundwater governance) can work together. It makes a case for viewing solar irrigation pumps as an instrument for groundwater demand management. The work presented in this policy brief video was carried out as part of an IWMI-GIZ collaborative project: “Solar irrigation expansion in India: Opportunities and challenges in co-management of Energy, Water, Agriculture and Climate”. The project aims to facilitate better decision making in the process of scaling and mainstreaming of solar irrigation in India, specifically through the Government of India’s PM-KUSUM initiative and associated state-level policies. We would also like to acknowledge contributions to this work from IWMI's partnership with the Indian Council for Agricultural Research (ICAR) and the two-decade old partnership between IWMI and Tata Trusts, IWMI-Tata Water Policy Program.

2022-10-19T00:00:00ZIWMI-Tata Water Policy ProgramThis IWMI-GIZ policy video argues that especially in groundwater-scarce regions of Rajasthan, PM-KUSUM (India's flagship initiative for solarization of agriculture) and ABhY (India's program for improved groundwater governance) can work together. It makes a case for viewing solar irrigation pumps as an instrument for groundwater demand management. The work presented in this policy brief video was carried out as part of an IWMI-GIZ collaborative project: “Solar irrigation expansion in India: Opportunities and challenges in co-management of Energy, Water, Agriculture and Climate”. The project aims to facilitate better decision making in the process of scaling and mainstreaming of solar irrigation in India, specifically through the Government of India’s PM-KUSUM initiative and associated state-level policies. We would also like to acknowledge contributions to this work from IWMI's partnership with the Indian Council for Agricultural Research (ICAR) and the two-decade old partnership between IWMI and Tata Trusts, IWMI-Tata Water Policy Program.Obahoundje, SalomonTilahun, Seifu A.Schmitter, Petra S.https://hdl.handle.net/10568/1836402026-07-06T04:03:13Z2026-07-01T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Climate–Yield Interactions in West Africa: Machine Learning Insights for Cocoa Production in Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire dc.contributor.author: Obahoundje, Salomon; Tilahun, Seifu A.; Schmitter, Petra S. dcterms.abstract: Cocoa production in Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire is threatened by climate variability and extremes, particularly droughts and excessive rainfall. However, quantitative evidence on the impacts of climate change on cocoa yields remains limited, constraining the development of effective climate-smart adaptation strategies. This study assessed future climate impacts on cocoa production using regridded (~5 km resolution) ensemble projections from 12 Global Climate Models under a low (SSP1-2.6) and a high (SSP5-8.5) SSP scenario. Precipitation and temperature data were bias-corrected using five approaches: Delta Change, CDFt, SDM, EQM, and LOCI. Among these, the Delta Change method best preserved intra-annual climate variability, while temperature corrections outperformed precipitation corrections. A Random Forest model, trained on bias-corrected climate data, simulated and projected cocoa yields with an accuracy exceeding 85%, although performance varied across regions. Future changes were assessed for the near future (2026–2055) and far future (2056–2085) relative to a historical baseline (1985–2014). Ensemble projections indicate a drying trend across cocoa-growing areas, with precipitation declining by 5–10% under SSP5-8.5 and increasing modestly (around 5%) under SSP1-2.6. At the same time, temperatures are projected to rise across all regions, exceeding 3.5°C under SSP5-8.5 by the late century, particularly in central and northern zones. Projected yield responses vary spatially. Southern and coastal cocoa-growing areas are expected to experience yield declines of about 5%, with losses reaching up to 20% under severe drought conditions in highly vulnerable regions such as Dix-Huit Montagnes in Côte d’Ivoire under SSP5-8.5. In contrast, some northern and central regions may maintain or slightly increase yields under SSP1-2.6. Vulnerability is shaped by climatic, biophysical, and socio-economic factors, with regions such as Sud-Comoé (Côte d’Ivoire) and Brong Ahafo (Ghana) identified as at risk. These findings highlight the need for targeted adaptation strategies to enhance the resilience of West Africa’s cocoa sector. cg.contributor.initiative: Excellence in Agronomy cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Sustainable Farming

2026-07-01T00:00:00ZObahoundje, SalomonTilahun, Seifu A.Schmitter, Petra S.Cocoa production in Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire is threatened by climate variability and extremes, particularly droughts and excessive rainfall. However, quantitative evidence on the impacts of climate change on cocoa yields remains limited, constraining the development of effective climate-smart adaptation strategies. This study assessed future climate impacts on cocoa production using regridded (~5 km resolution) ensemble projections from 12 Global Climate Models under a low (SSP1-2.6) and a high (SSP5-8.5) SSP scenario. Precipitation and temperature data were bias-corrected using five approaches: Delta Change, CDFt, SDM, EQM, and LOCI. Among these, the Delta Change method best preserved intra-annual climate variability, while temperature corrections outperformed precipitation corrections. A Random Forest model, trained on bias-corrected climate data, simulated and projected cocoa yields with an accuracy exceeding 85%, although performance varied across regions. Future changes were assessed for the near future (2026–2055) and far future (2056–2085) relative to a historical baseline (1985–2014). Ensemble projections indicate a drying trend across cocoa-growing areas, with precipitation declining by 5–10% under SSP5-8.5 and increasing modestly (around 5%) under SSP1-2.6. At the same time, temperatures are projected to rise across all regions, exceeding 3.5°C under SSP5-8.5 by the late century, particularly in central and northern zones. Projected yield responses vary spatially. Southern and coastal cocoa-growing areas are expected to experience yield declines of about 5%, with losses reaching up to 20% under severe drought conditions in highly vulnerable regions such as Dix-Huit Montagnes in Côte d’Ivoire under SSP5-8.5. In contrast, some northern and central regions may maintain or slightly increase yields under SSP1-2.6. Vulnerability is shaped by climatic, biophysical, and socio-economic factors, with regions such as Sud-Comoé (Côte d’Ivoire) and Brong Ahafo (Ghana) identified as at risk. These findings highlight the need for targeted adaptation strategies to enhance the resilience of West Africa’s cocoa sector.Wickramaratne, ChaturangiAmerasinghe, Priyanie H.Simpson, MatthewJirasinha, RadheekaMcCartney, Matthew P.https://hdl.handle.net/10568/1836082026-07-03T04:31:22Z2026-08-01T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Implementation of the Colombo Wetland Management Strategy: Current Status, Stakeholder Perceptions and Recommendations dc.contributor.author: Wickramaratne, Chaturangi; Amerasinghe, Priyanie H.; Simpson, Matthew; Jirasinha, Radheeka; McCartney, Matthew P. dcterms.abstract: The Colombo Wetland Complex provides vital ecosystem services ranging from flood regulation, thermal cooling to recreational support, that enhance urban well-being and climate resilience. Despite recent conservation efforts, including the 2016 Metro Colombo Wetland Management Strategy, the wetlands face ongoing degradation. This study evaluated the strategy’s progress through stakeholder consultations and an online perception survey. Since 2016, key achievements include improved wetland zoning, Ramsar Wetland City accreditation, new protected areas, recreational parks, a ban on wetland filling, and awareness campaigns. Nevertheless, perception surveys indicated that 59% of respondents perceived a reduction in wetland extent, while 43% reported a deterioration in wetland health since 2016. While progress has been made under the strategy’s five goals, further action is needed. A major gap is the lack of an agreed management approach among institutions and a dedicated sub-committee to guide implementation that was called for within the 2016 strategy. To address this, the operationalization of the co-developed Colombo Wetland Management Framework is proposed to ensure better coordination and sustainable outcomes. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations

2026-08-01T00:00:00ZWickramaratne, ChaturangiAmerasinghe, Priyanie H.Simpson, MatthewJirasinha, RadheekaMcCartney, Matthew P.The Colombo Wetland Complex provides vital ecosystem services ranging from flood regulation, thermal cooling to recreational support, that enhance urban well-being and climate resilience. Despite recent conservation efforts, including the 2016 Metro Colombo Wetland Management Strategy, the wetlands face ongoing degradation. This study evaluated the strategy’s progress through stakeholder consultations and an online perception survey. Since 2016, key achievements include improved wetland zoning, Ramsar Wetland City accreditation, new protected areas, recreational parks, a ban on wetland filling, and awareness campaigns. Nevertheless, perception surveys indicated that 59% of respondents perceived a reduction in wetland extent, while 43% reported a deterioration in wetland health since 2016. While progress has been made under the strategy’s five goals, further action is needed. A major gap is the lack of an agreed management approach among institutions and a dedicated sub-committee to guide implementation that was called for within the 2016 strategy. To address this, the operationalization of the co-developed Colombo Wetland Management Framework is proposed to ensure better coordination and sustainable outcomes.Obahoundje, SalomonZwart, Sander J.Schmitter, Petra S.https://hdl.handle.net/10568/1836072026-07-02T17:00:36Z2026-06-25T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Database of Remote Sensing and Machine Learning-Based Key Performance Indicators for Monitoring Agricultural Water Management Efficiency in Climate Change Adaptation Across Africa dc.contributor.author: Obahoundje, Salomon; Zwart, Sander J.; Schmitter, Petra S. dcterms.abstract: Database of Key Performance Indicators for Monitoring Agricultural Water Management Efficiency in Climate Change Adaptation Across Africa. This database aims to support the assessment of Agricultural Water Management (AWM) interventions for climate adaptation across multiple spatial scales in Africa. Specifically, it seeks to: 1. Assess the application of remote sensing technologies, multi-source geospatial datasets, and machine-learning approaches in quantifying intervention performance, monitoring adaptation outcomes, and supporting evidence-based decision-making across farm, watershed, regional, and continental scales.

2026-06-25T00:00:00ZObahoundje, SalomonZwart, Sander J.Schmitter, Petra S.Database of Key Performance Indicators for Monitoring Agricultural Water Management Efficiency in Climate Change Adaptation Across Africa. This database aims to support the assessment of Agricultural Water Management (AWM) interventions for climate adaptation across multiple spatial scales in Africa. Specifically, it seeks to: 1. Assess the application of remote sensing technologies, multi-source geospatial datasets, and machine-learning approaches in quantifying intervention performance, monitoring adaptation outcomes, and supporting evidence-based decision-making across farm, watershed, regional, and continental scales.Obahoundje, SalomonZwart, Sander J.Schmitter, Petra S.https://hdl.handle.net/10568/1836032026-07-02T15:54:00Z2026-06-25T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Database of Key Performance Indicators for Monitoring Agricultural Water Management Efficiency in Climate Change Adaptation Across Africa dc.contributor.author: Obahoundje, Salomon; Zwart, Sander J.; Schmitter, Petra S. dcterms.abstract: Database of Key Performance Indicators for Monitoring Agricultural Water Management Efficiency in Climate Change Adaptation Across Africa. This database aims to support the assessment of Agricultural Water Management (AWM) interventions for climate adaptation across multiple spatial scales in Africa. Specifically, it seeks to: 1. Identify and classify AWM technologies and practices implemented to strengthen agricultural resilience to climate variability and change; 2. Compile and synthesize the indicators and key performance metrics employed by development partners, research institutions, and national programs to evaluate the effectiveness of AWM interventions and adaptation outcomes.

2026-06-25T00:00:00ZObahoundje, SalomonZwart, Sander J.Schmitter, Petra S.Database of Key Performance Indicators for Monitoring Agricultural Water Management Efficiency in Climate Change Adaptation Across Africa. This database aims to support the assessment of Agricultural Water Management (AWM) interventions for climate adaptation across multiple spatial scales in Africa. Specifically, it seeks to: 1. Identify and classify AWM technologies and practices implemented to strengthen agricultural resilience to climate variability and change; 2. Compile and synthesize the indicators and key performance metrics employed by development partners, research institutions, and national programs to evaluate the effectiveness of AWM interventions and adaptation outcomes.Obahoundje, SalomonTilahun, Seifu A.https://hdl.handle.net/10568/1835962026-07-02T14:30:52Z2026-06-25T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Drought Characterisation across Cocoa Farming Zone in Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire dc.contributor.author: Obahoundje, Salomon; Tilahun, Seifu A. dcterms.abstract: The analysis uses the The analysis uses the CHIRPS precipitation dataset at 5 km spatial resolution to compute the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) over cocoa production zones in Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana for the period 1981–2023. CHIRPS integrates satellite-based rainfall estimates with in-situ station observations, providing a long-term, high-resolution gridded precipitation product suitable for drought monitoring in data-scarce regions. SPI was calculated by standardizing monthly accumulated precipitation relative to a long-term climatological baseline. To capture hydroclimatic variability across different temporal scales relevant to agriculture, SPI was computed at 1-, 3-, 6-, and 12-month timescales (SPI-1, SPI-3, SPI-6, SPI-12). SPI-1 reflects short-term moisture conditions influencing crop establishment, SPI-3 captures seasonal rainfall variability affecting crop growth and yield development, SPI-6 represents medium-term soil moisture conditions relevant to seasonal agricultural performance, while SPI-12 characterizes long-term hydrological anomalies influencing overall water availability. The resulting SPI time series enables classification of hydroclimatic conditions into seven standardized categories ranging from extreme dryness to extreme wetness.CHIRPS precipitation.

2026-06-25T00:00:00ZObahoundje, SalomonTilahun, Seifu A.The analysis uses the The analysis uses the CHIRPS precipitation dataset at 5 km spatial resolution to compute the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) over cocoa production zones in Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana for the period 1981–2023. CHIRPS integrates satellite-based rainfall estimates with in-situ station observations, providing a long-term, high-resolution gridded precipitation product suitable for drought monitoring in data-scarce regions. SPI was calculated by standardizing monthly accumulated precipitation relative to a long-term climatological baseline. To capture hydroclimatic variability across different temporal scales relevant to agriculture, SPI was computed at 1-, 3-, 6-, and 12-month timescales (SPI-1, SPI-3, SPI-6, SPI-12). SPI-1 reflects short-term moisture conditions influencing crop establishment, SPI-3 captures seasonal rainfall variability affecting crop growth and yield development, SPI-6 represents medium-term soil moisture conditions relevant to seasonal agricultural performance, while SPI-12 characterizes long-term hydrological anomalies influencing overall water availability. The resulting SPI time series enables classification of hydroclimatic conditions into seven standardized categories ranging from extreme dryness to extreme wetness.CHIRPS precipitation.Obahoundje, SalomonTilahun, Seifu A.https://hdl.handle.net/10568/1835902026-07-02T08:43:48Z2026-06-25T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Drought Characterisation across Agro-Climatic Zones in Ghana dc.contributor.author: Obahoundje, Salomon; Tilahun, Seifu A. dcterms.abstract: The analysis uses the CHIRPS precipitation dataset at 5 km spatial resolution to compute the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) across agro-climatic zones in Ghana for the period 1981–2023. CHIRPS combines satellite-based rainfall estimates with in-situ station data, providing a long-term, high-resolution gridded precipitation product well suited for drought monitoring in data-sparse regions. SPI was derived by standardizing monthly accumulated precipitation against a long-term climatological baseline. SPI was computed at multiple time scales (SPI-1, SPI-3, SPI-6, and SPI-12) to capture short-, medium-, and long-term moisture conditions relevant to agricultural systems. SPI-1 reflects immediate meteorological conditions affecting crop emergence and early growth, SPI-3 captures seasonal rainfall anomalies influencing crop development and yield formation, SPI-6 represents medium-term moisture deficits relevant to soil water availability and cropping season performance, while SPI-12 characterizes long-term hydrological drought conditions affecting groundwater, reservoir storage, and overall agricultural water security. The resulting time series captures interannual to multi-decadal rainfall variability and supports the classification of hydroclimatic conditions into seven categories, ranging from extreme dryness to extreme wetness.

2026-06-25T00:00:00ZObahoundje, SalomonTilahun, Seifu A.The analysis uses the CHIRPS precipitation dataset at 5 km spatial resolution to compute the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) across agro-climatic zones in Ghana for the period 1981–2023. CHIRPS combines satellite-based rainfall estimates with in-situ station data, providing a long-term, high-resolution gridded precipitation product well suited for drought monitoring in data-sparse regions. SPI was derived by standardizing monthly accumulated precipitation against a long-term climatological baseline. SPI was computed at multiple time scales (SPI-1, SPI-3, SPI-6, and SPI-12) to capture short-, medium-, and long-term moisture conditions relevant to agricultural systems. SPI-1 reflects immediate meteorological conditions affecting crop emergence and early growth, SPI-3 captures seasonal rainfall anomalies influencing crop development and yield formation, SPI-6 represents medium-term moisture deficits relevant to soil water availability and cropping season performance, while SPI-12 characterizes long-term hydrological drought conditions affecting groundwater, reservoir storage, and overall agricultural water security. The resulting time series captures interannual to multi-decadal rainfall variability and supports the classification of hydroclimatic conditions into seven categories, ranging from extreme dryness to extreme wetness.Dupont, AnnaAdoflsson, Elinhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1835892026-07-03T10:10:55Z2026-07-02T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Brief: Waterproofing Prosperity: Water-Cycle Intelligence and a Green-to-Blue Investment Logic dc.contributor.author: Dupont, Anna; Adoflsson, Elin dcterms.abstract: Human activity is destabilizing the water cycle, turning hydrological disruption into a growing headwind on economic resilience, prosperity, and macro-financial stability. Yet, current investment portfolios systematically undervalue the functioning, geographical extent, and economic contribution of the ecohydrological systems that regenerate water flows, rainfall, and storage across landscapes and economies. The result is a widening gap between what finance is designed to do and what hydrological stability actually requires. This brief argues that closing this gap requires a new investment logic that treats eco-hydrological systems as core economic infrastructure and integrates hydrological risk into capital allocation decisions. Governments, public and development banks, companies, and multilateral environmental institutions must increasingly direct capital toward the ecosystems, landscapes, and communities that reduce systemic water-related risks, sustaining both green and blue water systems across scales. This brief should be read alongside “Macro-financial stability in a changing water system: evolving policy and mandates,” which addresses mandates and prudential architecture and provides an upgraded playbook placing water cycle stability at the core of macro financial governance, while this brief presents partnership-based, whole-of-water-cycle frameworks as mechanisms that can translate hydrological integrity into risk-informed, long-term, and place-based investment pathways.

2026-07-02T00:00:00ZDupont, AnnaAdoflsson, ElinHuman activity is destabilizing the water cycle, turning hydrological disruption into a growing headwind on economic resilience, prosperity, and macro-financial stability. Yet, current investment portfolios systematically undervalue the functioning, geographical extent, and economic contribution of the ecohydrological systems that regenerate water flows, rainfall, and storage across landscapes and economies. The result is a widening gap between what finance is designed to do and what hydrological stability actually requires. This brief argues that closing this gap requires a new investment logic that treats eco-hydrological systems as core economic infrastructure and integrates hydrological risk into capital allocation decisions. Governments, public and development banks, companies, and multilateral environmental institutions must increasingly direct capital toward the ecosystems, landscapes, and communities that reduce systemic water-related risks, sustaining both green and blue water systems across scales. This brief should be read alongside “Macro-financial stability in a changing water system: evolving policy and mandates,” which addresses mandates and prudential architecture and provides an upgraded playbook placing water cycle stability at the core of macro financial governance, while this brief presents partnership-based, whole-of-water-cycle frameworks as mechanisms that can translate hydrological integrity into risk-informed, long-term, and place-based investment pathways.Borah, GulshanMinare, AnubhutiSamaddar, AyanVyas, VipinKumar, Gopalhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1835752026-07-01T07:53:18Z2026-06-30T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Restoring the Narmada: Bringing Science, Communities, and Nature Together dc.contributor.author: Borah, Gulshan; Minare, Anubhuti; Samaddar, Ayan; Vyas, Vipin; Kumar, Gopal cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Multifunctional Landscapes

2026-06-30T00:00:00ZBorah, GulshanMinare, AnubhutiSamaddar, AyanVyas, VipinKumar, GopalBhaduri, Tanmoyhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1835632026-06-30T10:52:10Z2026-06-25T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Meet India’s next Water Innovators dc.contributor.author: Bhaduri, Tanmoy cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Climate Action; Multifunctional Landscapes

2026-06-25T00:00:00ZBhaduri, Tanmoy