No Descriptionhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/16814https://cgspace.cgiar.org/bitstreams/0c83f982-17ee-437e-8ae9-c09536c5a3d3/download2026-10-01T02:19:24Z2026-10-01T02:19:24Z100102621Bhattacharya, JayantaBhaduri, Tanmoyhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1857092026-10-01T01:08:09Z2026-09-30T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Capacity-Building Workshop for Department of Agricultural Extension Personnel on Scaling Solar Irrigation in Rangpur, Bangladesh dc.contributor.author: Bhattacharya, Jayanta; Bhaduri, Tanmoy dcterms.abstract: This workshop report documents a two-day capacity-building event held from August 19–20, 2026 at the Additional Director's Office of the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) in Rangpur, Bangladesh. The International Water Management Institute (IWMI) organized this workshop with DAE under the Solar Energy for Agricultural Resilience (SoLAR) Phase II project, funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC). Irrigation in Bangladesh relies heavily on diesel-powered groundwater pumps. Solar irrigation pumping systems (SIPS) have expanded, but adoption is still held back by low farmer awareness, weak financing linkages, and capacity gaps among DAE's frontline Sub-Assistant Agriculture Officers (SAAOs). The workshop was the first in-person session of a multi-tier training program. It brought together 30 participants (9 women and 21 men), including SAAOs, agriculture engineers and NGO representatives from Rangpur, Lalmonirhat, and Kurigram districts. DAE's own agriculture engineers and its project director (Solar) led the technical sessions. They covered solar panel and pump types, system selection and installation, operation and maintenance, irrigation system design, water-saving technologies such as alternate wetting and drying (AWD), and inclusive solar irrigation. Participants worked in six groups to identify local obstacles to scaling up, such as access to finance, availability of technicians, and farmer awareness. They also visited an operating solar irrigation site in Kaunia Upazila and talked with farmers, the landowner, and the pump operator. Evaluations before and after the training measured what participants learned.

2026-09-30T00:00:00ZBhattacharya, JayantaBhaduri, TanmoyThis workshop report documents a two-day capacity-building event held from August 19–20, 2026 at the Additional Director's Office of the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) in Rangpur, Bangladesh. The International Water Management Institute (IWMI) organized this workshop with DAE under the Solar Energy for Agricultural Resilience (SoLAR) Phase II project, funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC). Irrigation in Bangladesh relies heavily on diesel-powered groundwater pumps. Solar irrigation pumping systems (SIPS) have expanded, but adoption is still held back by low farmer awareness, weak financing linkages, and capacity gaps among DAE's frontline Sub-Assistant Agriculture Officers (SAAOs). The workshop was the first in-person session of a multi-tier training program. It brought together 30 participants (9 women and 21 men), including SAAOs, agriculture engineers and NGO representatives from Rangpur, Lalmonirhat, and Kurigram districts. DAE's own agriculture engineers and its project director (Solar) led the technical sessions. They covered solar panel and pump types, system selection and installation, operation and maintenance, irrigation system design, water-saving technologies such as alternate wetting and drying (AWD), and inclusive solar irrigation. Participants worked in six groups to identify local obstacles to scaling up, such as access to finance, availability of technicians, and farmer awareness. They also visited an operating solar irrigation site in Kaunia Upazila and talked with farmers, the landowner, and the pump operator. Evaluations before and after the training measured what participants learned.McCartney, Matthew P.Tadesse, MulugetaJirasinha, Radheekahttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1857082026-10-01T01:09:04Z2026-09-30T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Blue–Green Water Accounting in the Omo-Gibe Basin, Ethiopia dc.contributor.author: McCartney, Matthew P.; Tadesse, Mulugeta; Jirasinha, Radheeka dcterms.abstract: This report describes the establishment of a spatially and temporally explicit blue–green water accounting framework for Ethiopia’s Omo–Gibe Basin. It argues that conventional assessments centred on rivers, reservoirs and groundwater overlook critical green water processes—rainfall, soil moisture, and evapotranspiration—that sustain rainfed agriculture in the upper and middle basin. In the lower basin, seasonal river flows, flooding, and groundwater interactions support flood-recession farming, grazing, fisheries, wetlands, and the Lake Turkana ecosystem. The activity will adapt IWMI’s Water Accounting Plus (WA+) methodology, integrating existing observations, remote-sensing products, spatial datasets and institutional knowledge. As data permits, accounts will distinguish water availability, storage, use, consumption, depletion, and return flows at basin and sub-basin scales and at seasonal or monthly intervals. No new primary data collection is planned. Implementation runs through five phases: data assembly and stakeholder inception; development of a hydrological baseline; preparation of upper-, middle- and lower-basin accounts; basin-wide integration, validation and uncertainty assessment; and application of results to related research. Stakeholder engagement—including inception, technical review, and validation workshops—is integral throughout. Outputs will include WA+ water balances, maps, indicators, validated blue–green water accounts and a final accounting package. These products will support valuation of water-related ecosystem services, assessment of hydropower–irrigation–ecosystem trade-offs, and more integrated decisions on water security, livelihoods, and multifunctional landscape management. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Multifunctional Landscapes

2026-09-30T00:00:00ZMcCartney, Matthew P.Tadesse, MulugetaJirasinha, RadheekaThis report describes the establishment of a spatially and temporally explicit blue–green water accounting framework for Ethiopia’s Omo–Gibe Basin. It argues that conventional assessments centred on rivers, reservoirs and groundwater overlook critical green water processes—rainfall, soil moisture, and evapotranspiration—that sustain rainfed agriculture in the upper and middle basin. In the lower basin, seasonal river flows, flooding, and groundwater interactions support flood-recession farming, grazing, fisheries, wetlands, and the Lake Turkana ecosystem. The activity will adapt IWMI’s Water Accounting Plus (WA+) methodology, integrating existing observations, remote-sensing products, spatial datasets and institutional knowledge. As data permits, accounts will distinguish water availability, storage, use, consumption, depletion, and return flows at basin and sub-basin scales and at seasonal or monthly intervals. No new primary data collection is planned. Implementation runs through five phases: data assembly and stakeholder inception; development of a hydrological baseline; preparation of upper-, middle- and lower-basin accounts; basin-wide integration, validation and uncertainty assessment; and application of results to related research. Stakeholder engagement—including inception, technical review, and validation workshops—is integral throughout. Outputs will include WA+ water balances, maps, indicators, validated blue–green water accounts and a final accounting package. These products will support valuation of water-related ecosystem services, assessment of hydropower–irrigation–ecosystem trade-offs, and more integrated decisions on water security, livelihoods, and multifunctional landscape management.McCartney, Matthew P.Tadesse, MulugetaJirasinha, Radheekahttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1857072026-10-01T01:04:54Z2026-09-30T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Valuing Blue–Green Water Services in the Omo-Gibe Basin, Ethiopia dc.contributor.author: McCartney, Matthew P.; Tadesse, Mulugeta; Jirasinha, Radheeka dcterms.abstract: This report outlines an initiative to value the services generated by blue and green water in Ethiopia’s Omo–Gibe Basin. Blue water includes rivers, lakes, reservoirs, and groundwater; green water comprises soil moisture and evapotranspiration supporting rainfed agriculture and terrestrial ecosystems. Although both sustain livelihoods, economic activity and ecosystems, their contributions—especially those of green water—are poorly represented in conventional planning and economic accounts. The initiative will link physical water accounts to benefits including rainfed and irrigated agriculture, livestock and grazing, hydropower, fisheries, domestic and productive uses, wetlands, forests, rangelands, and floodplain ecosystems. Particular attention will be given to green water-dependent production in the upper and middle basin and to seasonal river flows and flooding that sustain agriculture, grazing, fisheries, and ecosystems in the Lower Omo. The proposed framework will adapt SEEA-Water and SEEA Ecosystem Accounting to basin conditions. It will establish physical relationships between water and benefits before selecting service-specific valuation methods. Monetary valuation will be used selectively alongside physical and qualitative indicators, with transparent treatment of uncertainty and safeguards against double counting. Work will proceed through five phases: conceptual development and stakeholder validation; basin-specific accounting protocols; physical quantification and valuation; integration of benefits, beneficiaries and trade-offs; and scenario analysis and decision-support. Continuous stakeholder engagement will guide priorities and validate results. The final output will be a spatially explicit framework supporting integrated planning, investment prioritization, and assessment of trade-offs among agriculture, hydropower, livelihoods, and ecosystems. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Multifunctional Landscapes

2026-09-30T00:00:00ZMcCartney, Matthew P.Tadesse, MulugetaJirasinha, RadheekaThis report outlines an initiative to value the services generated by blue and green water in Ethiopia’s Omo–Gibe Basin. Blue water includes rivers, lakes, reservoirs, and groundwater; green water comprises soil moisture and evapotranspiration supporting rainfed agriculture and terrestrial ecosystems. Although both sustain livelihoods, economic activity and ecosystems, their contributions—especially those of green water—are poorly represented in conventional planning and economic accounts. The initiative will link physical water accounts to benefits including rainfed and irrigated agriculture, livestock and grazing, hydropower, fisheries, domestic and productive uses, wetlands, forests, rangelands, and floodplain ecosystems. Particular attention will be given to green water-dependent production in the upper and middle basin and to seasonal river flows and flooding that sustain agriculture, grazing, fisheries, and ecosystems in the Lower Omo. The proposed framework will adapt SEEA-Water and SEEA Ecosystem Accounting to basin conditions. It will establish physical relationships between water and benefits before selecting service-specific valuation methods. Monetary valuation will be used selectively alongside physical and qualitative indicators, with transparent treatment of uncertainty and safeguards against double counting. Work will proceed through five phases: conceptual development and stakeholder validation; basin-specific accounting protocols; physical quantification and valuation; integration of benefits, beneficiaries and trade-offs; and scenario analysis and decision-support. Continuous stakeholder engagement will guide priorities and validate results. The final output will be a spatially explicit framework supporting integrated planning, investment prioritization, and assessment of trade-offs among agriculture, hydropower, livelihoods, and ecosystems.Matchaya, Greenwell C.Wapamesa, AgreyMutenje, MunyaradziKasoma-Pele, WinnieKakwasha, KeaganJacobs-Mata, IngaKiala, ZoloMaliro, Jephthahhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1857042026-10-01T01:00:28Z2026-09-30T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Water and Soil Accelerator (WASA) Malawi Baseline Report: Baseline Assessment of Agricultural Production, Water Security, Food Systems, and Resilience Pathways dc.contributor.author: Matchaya, Greenwell C.; Wapamesa, Agrey; Mutenje, Munyaradzi; Kasoma-Pele, Winnie; Kakwasha, Keagan; Jacobs-Mata, Inga; Kiala, Zolo; Maliro, Jephthah dcterms.abstract: The Water and Soil Accelerator (WASA) Malawi Baseline Report lays the foundation for scaling proven water and soil management solutions across seven program districts: Chikwawa, Dowa, Lilongwe, Mangochi, Mchinji, Mulanje, and Salima. Drawing on a survey of 997 households and district focus group discussions, the study examines farming systems, land and water management, technology adoption, agricultural productivity, food security, access to markets, finance and extension services, and gender-related constraints. The findings show substantial differences across districts in vulnerability, production potential, adoption, and market readiness. Farmers are already using a range of improved soil, water, and agricultural practices, but adoption is often fragmented and constrained by unreliable water access, land degradation, climate shocks, limited finance, weak extension services, and market constraints. The baseline therefore points to the importance of scaling complementary technology bundles, rather than isolated practices or introducing entirely new technologies. The report identifies differentiated scaling pathways. Highly vulnerable districts require restoration of water systems, erosion control, and production stabilization before wider scaling, while other districts offer opportunities for irrigation, diversification, commercialization, mechanization, and stronger service integration. The baseline provides the reference point for tracking WASA results and for targeting and sequencing proven solutions according to district conditions.

2026-09-30T00:00:00ZMatchaya, Greenwell C.Wapamesa, AgreyMutenje, MunyaradziKasoma-Pele, WinnieKakwasha, KeaganJacobs-Mata, IngaKiala, ZoloMaliro, JephthahThe Water and Soil Accelerator (WASA) Malawi Baseline Report lays the foundation for scaling proven water and soil management solutions across seven program districts: Chikwawa, Dowa, Lilongwe, Mangochi, Mchinji, Mulanje, and Salima. Drawing on a survey of 997 households and district focus group discussions, the study examines farming systems, land and water management, technology adoption, agricultural productivity, food security, access to markets, finance and extension services, and gender-related constraints. The findings show substantial differences across districts in vulnerability, production potential, adoption, and market readiness. Farmers are already using a range of improved soil, water, and agricultural practices, but adoption is often fragmented and constrained by unreliable water access, land degradation, climate shocks, limited finance, weak extension services, and market constraints. The baseline therefore points to the importance of scaling complementary technology bundles, rather than isolated practices or introducing entirely new technologies. The report identifies differentiated scaling pathways. Highly vulnerable districts require restoration of water systems, erosion control, and production stabilization before wider scaling, while other districts offer opportunities for irrigation, diversification, commercialization, mechanization, and stronger service integration. The baseline provides the reference point for tracking WASA results and for targeting and sequencing proven solutions according to district conditions.Simaika, JohnFernando, AsthaWickramaratne, ChaturangiHaile, Alemseged Tamiruhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1856682026-09-30T01:11:03Z2026-09-29T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Ecological Functions, Ecosystem Services and Water Management Challenges of the Omo-Gibe River Basin, Ethiopia dc.contributor.author: Simaika, John; Fernando, Astha; Wickramaratne, Chaturangi; Haile, Alemseged Tamiru dcterms.abstract: This report synthesizes evidence on the ecological functions, ecosystem services and water-management challenges of the lower Omo-Gibe River Basin, Ethiopia, including its floodplain and delta, with Lake Turkana treated as the receiving system. Drawing on 139 academic and grey-literature sources published between 1979 and 2026, the review examines how hydropower development, irrigation expansion, climate variability and land-use change are reshaping the basin’s seasonal flood-pulse regime. Six interacting impact pathways are assessed: dam regulation and flow alteration; irrigation abstraction; sediment and nutrient retention; reduced groundwater recharge; evaporation associated with the Turkana low-level jet; and land-cover and climate feedbacks. The evidence indicates that redistribution of seasonal flows—rather than a large reduction in annual discharge—is a principal mechanism affecting floodplain inundation, ecological productivity, flood-recession agriculture, fisheries and downstream livelihoods. However, confidence varies substantially across pathways: dam-related hydrological effects are comparatively well supported, whereas irrigation impacts, groundwater dynamics, atmospheric processes and post-regulation ecological responses remain poorly quantified. The report identifies major monitoring and governance gaps, including inadequate hydrometric coverage, limited post-2017 ecological observations and the absence of an operational basin-level management authority. Current environmental-flow provisions appear insufficient to maintain the duration and ecological functions of the historical flood pulse, although proposed flow thresholds require field validation and stakeholder negotiation. The report concludes that effective management requires a shift from project-level mitigation towards basin-wide, adaptive environmental-flow management supported by renewed monitoring, integrated water-quality assessment, transboundary cooperation and stronger institutional capacity. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Multifunctional Landscapes

2026-09-29T00:00:00ZSimaika, JohnFernando, AsthaWickramaratne, ChaturangiHaile, Alemseged TamiruThis report synthesizes evidence on the ecological functions, ecosystem services and water-management challenges of the lower Omo-Gibe River Basin, Ethiopia, including its floodplain and delta, with Lake Turkana treated as the receiving system. Drawing on 139 academic and grey-literature sources published between 1979 and 2026, the review examines how hydropower development, irrigation expansion, climate variability and land-use change are reshaping the basin’s seasonal flood-pulse regime. Six interacting impact pathways are assessed: dam regulation and flow alteration; irrigation abstraction; sediment and nutrient retention; reduced groundwater recharge; evaporation associated with the Turkana low-level jet; and land-cover and climate feedbacks. The evidence indicates that redistribution of seasonal flows—rather than a large reduction in annual discharge—is a principal mechanism affecting floodplain inundation, ecological productivity, flood-recession agriculture, fisheries and downstream livelihoods. However, confidence varies substantially across pathways: dam-related hydrological effects are comparatively well supported, whereas irrigation impacts, groundwater dynamics, atmospheric processes and post-regulation ecological responses remain poorly quantified. The report identifies major monitoring and governance gaps, including inadequate hydrometric coverage, limited post-2017 ecological observations and the absence of an operational basin-level management authority. Current environmental-flow provisions appear insufficient to maintain the duration and ecological functions of the historical flood pulse, although proposed flow thresholds require field validation and stakeholder negotiation. The report concludes that effective management requires a shift from project-level mitigation towards basin-wide, adaptive environmental-flow management supported by renewed monitoring, integrated water-quality assessment, transboundary cooperation and stronger institutional capacity.Singaraju, NiyatiJones-Garcia, EliotMagalhaes, MariliaGrossi, AmandaChamberlin, WendyMartins, CarolinaKumar, Drishtihttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1856422026-09-26T01:02:18Z2026-10-25T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Solutions for digital inclusion and digital innovations for inclusion by 2050 dc.contributor.author: Singaraju, Niyati; Jones-Garcia, Eliot; Magalhaes, Marilia; Grossi, Amanda; Chamberlin, Wendy; Martins, Carolina; Kumar, Drishti dcterms.abstract: Food, land and water systems (FLWS) are transforming unevenly: off-farm work is expanding, youth employment in agriculture is falling in most regions, and women’s participation and earnings remain shaped by persistent regional gaps. Digital technologies will increasingly mediate information, finance, markets, advisory services and governance in these changing systems. Inclusive digital systems could lift approximately 30 million women out of extreme poverty and add around US$1.5 trillion to the global economy by 2050, but these gains depend on who can access, control, trust and shape digital systems. In South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa, mobile-ownership and internet-use gaps remain slow to close. This chapter asks which digital inclusion strategies can support gender and intersectional equality in FLWS by 2050, and under what conditions. It draws on chapter 1 projections to frame future priorities, while recognizing that comparable longterm, gender-disaggregated digital agriculture projections remain limited. This chapter is situated within the report’s wider framing of the polycrisis, set out in the introduction along with the report’s conceptual framing. This chapter focuses specifically on how digitalization may either reinforce exclusion or expand agency in future FLWS. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Gender Equality and Inclusion

2026-10-25T00:00:00ZSingaraju, NiyatiJones-Garcia, EliotMagalhaes, MariliaGrossi, AmandaChamberlin, WendyMartins, CarolinaKumar, DrishtiFood, land and water systems (FLWS) are transforming unevenly: off-farm work is expanding, youth employment in agriculture is falling in most regions, and women’s participation and earnings remain shaped by persistent regional gaps. Digital technologies will increasingly mediate information, finance, markets, advisory services and governance in these changing systems. Inclusive digital systems could lift approximately 30 million women out of extreme poverty and add around US$1.5 trillion to the global economy by 2050, but these gains depend on who can access, control, trust and shape digital systems. In South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa, mobile-ownership and internet-use gaps remain slow to close. This chapter asks which digital inclusion strategies can support gender and intersectional equality in FLWS by 2050, and under what conditions. It draws on chapter 1 projections to frame future priorities, while recognizing that comparable longterm, gender-disaggregated digital agriculture projections remain limited. This chapter is situated within the report’s wider framing of the polycrisis, set out in the introduction along with the report’s conceptual framing. This chapter focuses specifically on how digitalization may either reinforce exclusion or expand agency in future FLWS.Elias, M.Zaremba, HaleyBohra, BabitaGumucio, TatianaKyle, JordanNajjar, DinaMapedza, Everisto D.https://hdl.handle.net/10568/1856412026-09-26T01:06:57Z2026-10-25T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Solutions for gender equality in land and water access, rights and governance within inclusive and resilient food, land and water systems dc.contributor.author: Elias, M.; Zaremba, Haley; Bohra, Babita; Gumucio, Tatiana; Kyle, Jordan; Najjar, Dina; Mapedza, Everisto D. dcterms.abstract: Food, land and water systems (FLWS) embed profound gender and social inequalities, including in terms of who has rights to the essential elements of land and water. These inequalities are not incidental, but rather systemic expressions of unequal power relations that shape who controls resources, whose knowledge is recognized, and whose voice is heard in FLWS governance. This chapter aims to identify effective strategies, approaches and actions, referred to as solutions, that can strengthen women’s access and rights to land (including forests and rangelands) and water, to chart more equitable, sustainable and resilient pathways for FLWS. Specifically, we ask: (1) What evidence-based solutions can support women’s access and rights to land and water, as well as their full and effective participation in land and water governance? (2) Under what conditions are these solutions effective? And (3) How can research, policies, investments and practice support the adaptation, implementation and scaling of these solutions? To begin, we provide a brief background on gender and intersectional equality related to land, water and their governance. Drawing on evidence from diverse contexts, we then outline solutions for addressing gender and intersectional inequalities and the conditions under which these solutions have been effective. Finally, we provide recommendations to adapt, implement and scale these solutions. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Gender Equality and Inclusion

2026-10-25T00:00:00ZElias, M.Zaremba, HaleyBohra, BabitaGumucio, TatianaKyle, JordanNajjar, DinaMapedza, Everisto D.Food, land and water systems (FLWS) embed profound gender and social inequalities, including in terms of who has rights to the essential elements of land and water. These inequalities are not incidental, but rather systemic expressions of unequal power relations that shape who controls resources, whose knowledge is recognized, and whose voice is heard in FLWS governance. This chapter aims to identify effective strategies, approaches and actions, referred to as solutions, that can strengthen women’s access and rights to land (including forests and rangelands) and water, to chart more equitable, sustainable and resilient pathways for FLWS. Specifically, we ask: (1) What evidence-based solutions can support women’s access and rights to land and water, as well as their full and effective participation in land and water governance? (2) Under what conditions are these solutions effective? And (3) How can research, policies, investments and practice support the adaptation, implementation and scaling of these solutions? To begin, we provide a brief background on gender and intersectional equality related to land, water and their governance. Drawing on evidence from diverse contexts, we then outline solutions for addressing gender and intersectional inequalities and the conditions under which these solutions have been effective. Finally, we provide recommendations to adapt, implement and scale these solutions.Sobratee-Fajurally, NafiisaCofie, Olufunke O.Slotow, RobMabhaudhi, Tafadzwanashehttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1856362026-09-26T01:02:29Z2026-08-27T00:00:00Z

dc.title: A Cybernetic Framework for Transformative Food System Change: Sustainable Landscape Management in West and Central Africa dc.contributor.author: Sobratee-Fajurally, Nafiisa; Cofie, Olufunke O.; Slotow, Rob; Mabhaudhi, Tafadzwanashe dcterms.abstract: The multiple socio-ecological dimensions of sustainable landscape management, along with potential cross-boundary effects and co-evolving societal conditions, require research evaluation approaches that consider complex projects as viable organizational systems rather than a collection of stand-alone workstreams. This study analyses the co-design phase of the Transforming Agri-Food Systems in West and Central Africa (TAFS-WCA) Initiative by applying the Viable System Model (VSM) as a cybernetic framework for organizational analysis. Using the Initiative’s proposal and Theory of Change as the reference structure, the analysis identifies three nested organizational levels: Initiative, Work Package and Output, and summarizes how the five VSM functions at each level interact to shape operational processes, coordination mechanisms, strategic foresight and governance. Moreover, an adapted Rummler-Brache Nine Box Model is applied to the VSM diagnosis to support streamlined examination of performance expectations, process design, and capability requirements across the nested levels. This dual framing supports a structured and systemic interrogation of the Initiative’s organizational design. It highlights how the Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning and Impact Assessment (MELIA) functions may act as potential feedback pathways linking operational performance (S1) with managerial oversight (S2, S3, S3*) and strategic adaptation (S4, S5). The cybernetic interpretation, therefore, positions MELIA as a visible mechanism through which reflective and accountability processes can filter, strengthen and redirect information flows across recursive levels. The analysis then focuses on Work Package (WP) 3, which synthesizes evidence from multiple WPs to develop sustainable landscape management plans and a Water Decision Support System. By matching WP3’s expected deliverables with the outputs and Activities from other WPs and interrogating these relationships through the VSM, the analysis clarifies how interdependencies across the nested organizational levels may influence WP3’s ability to mobilize evidence. This structured approach offers a clearer understanding of how WP3’s integrative role may contribute to system (Initiative)-wide adaptive capacity. This study provides a reproducible methodology for examining, during the co-design phase, how governance, coordination and performance dynamics can be aligned within sustainability initiatives operating under complex and evolving conditions.

2026-08-27T00:00:00ZSobratee-Fajurally, NafiisaCofie, Olufunke O.Slotow, RobMabhaudhi, TafadzwanasheThe multiple socio-ecological dimensions of sustainable landscape management, along with potential cross-boundary effects and co-evolving societal conditions, require research evaluation approaches that consider complex projects as viable organizational systems rather than a collection of stand-alone workstreams. This study analyses the co-design phase of the Transforming Agri-Food Systems in West and Central Africa (TAFS-WCA) Initiative by applying the Viable System Model (VSM) as a cybernetic framework for organizational analysis. Using the Initiative’s proposal and Theory of Change as the reference structure, the analysis identifies three nested organizational levels: Initiative, Work Package and Output, and summarizes how the five VSM functions at each level interact to shape operational processes, coordination mechanisms, strategic foresight and governance. Moreover, an adapted Rummler-Brache Nine Box Model is applied to the VSM diagnosis to support streamlined examination of performance expectations, process design, and capability requirements across the nested levels. This dual framing supports a structured and systemic interrogation of the Initiative’s organizational design. It highlights how the Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning and Impact Assessment (MELIA) functions may act as potential feedback pathways linking operational performance (S1) with managerial oversight (S2, S3, S3*) and strategic adaptation (S4, S5). The cybernetic interpretation, therefore, positions MELIA as a visible mechanism through which reflective and accountability processes can filter, strengthen and redirect information flows across recursive levels. The analysis then focuses on Work Package (WP) 3, which synthesizes evidence from multiple WPs to develop sustainable landscape management plans and a Water Decision Support System. By matching WP3’s expected deliverables with the outputs and Activities from other WPs and interrogating these relationships through the VSM, the analysis clarifies how interdependencies across the nested organizational levels may influence WP3’s ability to mobilize evidence. This structured approach offers a clearer understanding of how WP3’s integrative role may contribute to system (Initiative)-wide adaptive capacity. This study provides a reproducible methodology for examining, during the co-design phase, how governance, coordination and performance dynamics can be aligned within sustainability initiatives operating under complex and evolving conditions.Sahana, V.Panjwani, ShwetaAmarnath, Girirajhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1856292026-09-25T08:41:44Z2026-12-01T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Evaluation of CMIP6 Models over Zambia: Assessment of Temperature, Precipitation, and Droughts for Climate Adaptation dc.contributor.author: Sahana, V.; Panjwani, Shweta; Amarnath, Giriraj dcterms.abstract: Global climate change disrupts physical, environmental, and socio-economic systems, directly or indirectly impacting food security and human health. Climate change scenarios are essential inputs for policymakers and stakeholders to develop adaptive strategies addressing future impacts. Zambia frequently experiences droughts and floods, severely affecting multiple sectors. This study assesses climate risk across Zambia using Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6) projections from 25 global climate models (GCMs). Taylor skill score (TSS), percentage bias and Kling-Gupta efficiency (KGE) performance metrics are used to identify the best-performing GCMs by evaluating precipitation and temperature against the baseline period (1981–2014) using Climate Research Unit (CRU) and Climate Hazards Group InfraRed Precipitation with Station data (CHIRPS) observations. While previous studies mainly focused on changes in precipitation and temperature, this study examines trends in annual precipitation, annual temperature, standardised precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI), and drought hazard for the near (2021–2060) and far future (2061–2100). All climate scenarios show increasing temperature trends, with the worst-case scenario (SSP5-8.5) projecting warming of up to 5°C by the end of the 21st century. Precipitation projections show spatial variation: south-western provinces indicate up to 8% decline, while north-eastern provinces may see up to 7% increase under SSP5-8.5. SPEI shows a declining trend in both periods for all scenarios except SSP1-2.6 (far future). Significant increases in drought hazard are projected for Western, Southern, North-western, and Lusaka provinces, indicating worsening conditions. The findings will support decision-makers in prioritising adaptation and mitigation strategies, promoting sustainable and resilient development in Zambia. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Climate Action

2026-12-01T00:00:00ZSahana, V.Panjwani, ShwetaAmarnath, GirirajGlobal climate change disrupts physical, environmental, and socio-economic systems, directly or indirectly impacting food security and human health. Climate change scenarios are essential inputs for policymakers and stakeholders to develop adaptive strategies addressing future impacts. Zambia frequently experiences droughts and floods, severely affecting multiple sectors. This study assesses climate risk across Zambia using Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6) projections from 25 global climate models (GCMs). Taylor skill score (TSS), percentage bias and Kling-Gupta efficiency (KGE) performance metrics are used to identify the best-performing GCMs by evaluating precipitation and temperature against the baseline period (1981–2014) using Climate Research Unit (CRU) and Climate Hazards Group InfraRed Precipitation with Station data (CHIRPS) observations. While previous studies mainly focused on changes in precipitation and temperature, this study examines trends in annual precipitation, annual temperature, standardised precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI), and drought hazard for the near (2021–2060) and far future (2061–2100). All climate scenarios show increasing temperature trends, with the worst-case scenario (SSP5-8.5) projecting warming of up to 5°C by the end of the 21st century. Precipitation projections show spatial variation: south-western provinces indicate up to 8% decline, while north-eastern provinces may see up to 7% increase under SSP5-8.5. SPEI shows a declining trend in both periods for all scenarios except SSP1-2.6 (far future). Significant increases in drought hazard are projected for Western, Southern, North-western, and Lusaka provinces, indicating worsening conditions. The findings will support decision-makers in prioritising adaptation and mitigation strategies, promoting sustainable and resilient development in Zambia.Gebregergs, TibletsGebre, Girma GezimuMohammed, Mohammedawel JenetoTegegne, DesalegnSieber, Stefanhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1856202026-09-26T01:08:30Z2026-08-24T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Effect of Integrated Use of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizer on Wheat Productivity in Tigray, Ethiopia dc.contributor.author: Gebregergs, Tiblets; Gebre, Girma Gezimu; Mohammed, Mohammedawel Jeneto; Tegegne, Desalegn; Sieber, Stefan dcterms.abstract: Declining soil fertility is a major constraint to wheat production in Tigray, Ethiopia, threatening food security and rural livelihoods. This study evaluated the effects of integrated organic and inorganic nutrient management on the growth, yield, and nutrient uptake of bread wheat (Shina, HAR-1868) in Laelay Maichew Woreda during the 2019 cropping season. A factorial experiment with four compost levels (0, 4, 8, and 12 t/ha) and three chemical fertilizer rates (0, 50, and 100 kg/ha of urea and DAP) was laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Soil and compost analyses indicated low fertility in the experimental site, with deficiencies in nitrogen, phosphorus, and organic matter, while the compost was rich in nitrogen and organic carbon. Results showed that both chemical and compost fertilizers, individually and in combination, significantly improved wheat phenology, growth parameters, grain and biomass yield, and nutrient uptake. The combined application of 12 t/ha compost and 100 kg/ha chemical fertilizer produced the highest grain yield (46.17 q/ha), above-ground biomass (102.50 q/ha), and nutrient uptake (N: 97.84 kg/ha; P: 5.54 kg/ha), outperforming sole applications. Grain yield was positively correlated with plant height, panicle length, number of tillers, seeds per panicle, biomass, and straw yield, and negatively correlated with days to emergence, heading, and maturity. The study demonstrates that integrated nutrient management using locally available compost and recommended chemical fertilizers can enhance wheat productivity, improve soil fertility, and optimize nutrient use efficiency under Tigray conditions. Adoption of such strategies could contribute to sustainable wheat production and food security in the region.

2026-08-24T00:00:00ZGebregergs, TibletsGebre, Girma GezimuMohammed, Mohammedawel JenetoTegegne, DesalegnSieber, StefanDeclining soil fertility is a major constraint to wheat production in Tigray, Ethiopia, threatening food security and rural livelihoods. This study evaluated the effects of integrated organic and inorganic nutrient management on the growth, yield, and nutrient uptake of bread wheat (Shina, HAR-1868) in Laelay Maichew Woreda during the 2019 cropping season. A factorial experiment with four compost levels (0, 4, 8, and 12 t/ha) and three chemical fertilizer rates (0, 50, and 100 kg/ha of urea and DAP) was laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Soil and compost analyses indicated low fertility in the experimental site, with deficiencies in nitrogen, phosphorus, and organic matter, while the compost was rich in nitrogen and organic carbon. Results showed that both chemical and compost fertilizers, individually and in combination, significantly improved wheat phenology, growth parameters, grain and biomass yield, and nutrient uptake. The combined application of 12 t/ha compost and 100 kg/ha chemical fertilizer produced the highest grain yield (46.17 q/ha), above-ground biomass (102.50 q/ha), and nutrient uptake (N: 97.84 kg/ha; P: 5.54 kg/ha), outperforming sole applications. Grain yield was positively correlated with plant height, panicle length, number of tillers, seeds per panicle, biomass, and straw yield, and negatively correlated with days to emergence, heading, and maturity. The study demonstrates that integrated nutrient management using locally available compost and recommended chemical fertilizers can enhance wheat productivity, improve soil fertility, and optimize nutrient use efficiency under Tigray conditions. Adoption of such strategies could contribute to sustainable wheat production and food security in the region.Mekuria, WoldeTesfaye, YitnaTeshale, Tirusewhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1855942026-09-25T01:10:21Z2026-09-24T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Operationalizing Payment for Ecosystem Services in the Ghibe III Hydroelectric Dam Catchment, Omo-Ghibe Living Landscape, Ethiopia: Barriers, Opportunities, and an Implementation Roadmap dc.contributor.author: Mekuria, Wolde; Tesfaye, Yitna; Teshale, Tirusew dcterms.abstract: The study assessed the feasibility of operationalizing a Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) mechanism in the Gibe III hydroelectric dam catchment, where soil erosion, land degradation, sedimentation, and climate pressures threaten upstream livelihoods and downstream investments. Drawing on policy review, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions, the assessment identifies upstream farming communities—engaged in soil and water conservation, agroforestry, exclosures, and landscape restoration—as the primary ecosystem service providers and intended recipients of PES compensation. Downstream stakeholders, including the Gibe III hydropower facility, irrigation users, agricultural investors, and national energy consumers, are the main beneficiaries and potential buyers or co-financiers. Sediment retention and erosion control, hydrological regulation, and carbon sequestration emerge as priority services. Upstream communities express strong willingness to participate, provided benefit-sharing is transparent, equitable, and livelihood-linked, though fragmented coordination, weak capacity, and limited monitoring persist. The study proposes a five-pillar framework—a Watershed PES Charter and Ecosystem Stewardship Credits, a hybrid input- and performance-based payment model, a diversified Watershed PES Fund, an integrated MRV system, and grievance and safeguard mechanisms—delivered through a three-phase roadmap covering institutional readiness, piloting, and scaling. The Charter, Credits, and Fund remain design options requiring validation. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Multifunctional Landscapes

2026-09-24T00:00:00ZMekuria, WoldeTesfaye, YitnaTeshale, TirusewThe study assessed the feasibility of operationalizing a Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) mechanism in the Gibe III hydroelectric dam catchment, where soil erosion, land degradation, sedimentation, and climate pressures threaten upstream livelihoods and downstream investments. Drawing on policy review, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions, the assessment identifies upstream farming communities—engaged in soil and water conservation, agroforestry, exclosures, and landscape restoration—as the primary ecosystem service providers and intended recipients of PES compensation. Downstream stakeholders, including the Gibe III hydropower facility, irrigation users, agricultural investors, and national energy consumers, are the main beneficiaries and potential buyers or co-financiers. Sediment retention and erosion control, hydrological regulation, and carbon sequestration emerge as priority services. Upstream communities express strong willingness to participate, provided benefit-sharing is transparent, equitable, and livelihood-linked, though fragmented coordination, weak capacity, and limited monitoring persist. The study proposes a five-pillar framework—a Watershed PES Charter and Ecosystem Stewardship Credits, a hybrid input- and performance-based payment model, a diversified Watershed PES Fund, an integrated MRV system, and grievance and safeguard mechanisms—delivered through a three-phase roadmap covering institutional readiness, piloting, and scaling. The Charter, Credits, and Fund remain design options requiring validation.Mekuria, WoldeHaileslassie, AmareAdimassu, Zenebehttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1855882026-09-24T01:10:37Z2026-09-23T00:00:00Z

dc.title: A Guideline for Establishing and Operationalizing a Multi-Stakeholder Platform for Landscape Restoration and Payment for Ecosystem Services: The Case of Omo-Gibe Living Landscape, Ethiopia dc.contributor.author: Mekuria, Wolde; Haileslassie, Amare; Adimassu, Zenebe dcterms.abstract: Prepared by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) under the CGIAR Multifunctional Landscapes Science Program, this guideline provides a practical technical reference for establishing and operating a Multi-Stakeholder Platform (MSP) to advance landscape restoration and Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) in Ethiopia's Omo-Gibe River Basin, with an initial focus on the Gibe III hydroelectric dam catchment — the MFL flagship living landscape — and a phased pathway for scaling to the wider basin. Intended users span federal, basin, regional and local authorities, private-sector operators, community and watershed institutions, development partners, NGOs and research organizations; it aims to inform, not replace, statutory processes. Informed by national and sub-basin consultations that confirmed the need for coordinated upstream–downstream action integrating PES with restoration, it anchors the MSP in Ethiopia's enabling policy and legal framework covering environmental, watershed, basin, riparian-buffer, restoration and PES provisions. The guideline sets out a four-phase pathway: (1) diagnostic assessment and stakeholder mapping; (2) platform formalization and governance; (3) PES and restoration implementation; and (4) institutionalization within existing governance systems. Guided by inclusiveness, transparency, accountability, legal anchoring, gender equality and social inclusion, and a MEAL framework for adaptive learning, it offers a practical tool for translating policy into equitable, sustainable action. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Multifunctional Landscapes

2026-09-23T00:00:00ZMekuria, WoldeHaileslassie, AmareAdimassu, ZenebePrepared by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) under the CGIAR Multifunctional Landscapes Science Program, this guideline provides a practical technical reference for establishing and operating a Multi-Stakeholder Platform (MSP) to advance landscape restoration and Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) in Ethiopia's Omo-Gibe River Basin, with an initial focus on the Gibe III hydroelectric dam catchment — the MFL flagship living landscape — and a phased pathway for scaling to the wider basin. Intended users span federal, basin, regional and local authorities, private-sector operators, community and watershed institutions, development partners, NGOs and research organizations; it aims to inform, not replace, statutory processes. Informed by national and sub-basin consultations that confirmed the need for coordinated upstream–downstream action integrating PES with restoration, it anchors the MSP in Ethiopia's enabling policy and legal framework covering environmental, watershed, basin, riparian-buffer, restoration and PES provisions. The guideline sets out a four-phase pathway: (1) diagnostic assessment and stakeholder mapping; (2) platform formalization and governance; (3) PES and restoration implementation; and (4) institutionalization within existing governance systems. Guided by inclusiveness, transparency, accountability, legal anchoring, gender equality and social inclusion, and a MEAL framework for adaptive learning, it offers a practical tool for translating policy into equitable, sustainable action.Mabumbo, DecideNgulube, Nombulelo Kitsepilehttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1855802026-09-24T01:03:54Z2026-09-02T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Assessing Disaster Preparedness and Recovery from Tropical Cyclones in Zimbabwe: Insights from Cyclone Ana in Nyanga dc.contributor.author: Mabumbo, Decide; Ngulube, Nombulelo Kitsepile dcterms.abstract: Tropical cyclones pose increasing risks in Southern Africa, with impacts shaped not only by hazard intensity but also by underlying vulnerabilities and disaster risk management (DRM) capacity. This study examines preparedness, response, and recovery following Cyclone Ana (2022) in Nyanga District, Zimbabwe, drawing on qualitative data from focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and field observations. Findings reveal persistent gaps in community preparedness, early warning communication, and institutional coordination, with DRM systems remaining largely reactive, centralized, and unevenly implemented. Although warning information was widely disseminated, its technical and generalized nature limited local interpretation and did not consistently prompt protective action. Recovery efforts were similarly constrained by short-term funding cycles and uneven targeting, resulting in variable outcomes across communities. At the same time, strong local capacity for collective action was evident, with communities mobilizing indigenous knowledge, social networks, and mutual support to address immediate needs. Building on these findings, the article positions Cyclone Ana as a baseline for assessing subsequent reforms, including the introduction of impact-based forecasting, anticipatory action frameworks, and strengthened contingency planning. While these developments represent important progress, significant challenges remain in operationalizing them at the local level. The study identifies a critical implementation gap between policy commitments and practice, underscoring the need to better align legislative reform, financing mechanisms, and institutional capacity with community-centered approaches. By linking empirical insights to broader debates on disaster risk governance, the article contributes to understanding how DRM systems can transition from reactive response toward more adaptive, inclusive, and resilience-oriented pathways.

2026-09-02T00:00:00ZMabumbo, DecideNgulube, Nombulelo KitsepileTropical cyclones pose increasing risks in Southern Africa, with impacts shaped not only by hazard intensity but also by underlying vulnerabilities and disaster risk management (DRM) capacity. This study examines preparedness, response, and recovery following Cyclone Ana (2022) in Nyanga District, Zimbabwe, drawing on qualitative data from focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and field observations. Findings reveal persistent gaps in community preparedness, early warning communication, and institutional coordination, with DRM systems remaining largely reactive, centralized, and unevenly implemented. Although warning information was widely disseminated, its technical and generalized nature limited local interpretation and did not consistently prompt protective action. Recovery efforts were similarly constrained by short-term funding cycles and uneven targeting, resulting in variable outcomes across communities. At the same time, strong local capacity for collective action was evident, with communities mobilizing indigenous knowledge, social networks, and mutual support to address immediate needs. Building on these findings, the article positions Cyclone Ana as a baseline for assessing subsequent reforms, including the introduction of impact-based forecasting, anticipatory action frameworks, and strengthened contingency planning. While these developments represent important progress, significant challenges remain in operationalizing them at the local level. The study identifies a critical implementation gap between policy commitments and practice, underscoring the need to better align legislative reform, financing mechanisms, and institutional capacity with community-centered approaches. By linking empirical insights to broader debates on disaster risk governance, the article contributes to understanding how DRM systems can transition from reactive response toward more adaptive, inclusive, and resilience-oriented pathways.International Water Management Institutehttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1855152026-09-19T01:01:58Z2026-09-18T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Regional Strategic Roadmap: Middle East and North Africa 2024–2030 dc.contributor.author: International Water Management Institute

2026-09-18T00:00:00ZInternational Water Management InstituteAkaffou, Franck HervéObahoundje, SalomonDiedhiou, AronaKouassi, Kouakou LazareDiallo, DiorAmoussou, ErnestYamegueu, DanielOfosu, Eric Antwihttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1855122026-09-23T14:55:23Z2026-09-08T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Integrating Machine Learning to Assess Climate Risks on Reservoir’s Inflow and Hydropower Generation across West African Basins dc.contributor.author: Akaffou, Franck Hervé; Obahoundje, Salomon; Diedhiou, Arona; Kouassi, Kouakou Lazare; Diallo, Dior; Amoussou, Ernest; Yamegueu, Daniel; Ofosu, Eric Antwi dcterms.abstract: This study presents a novel five-step ensemble machine learning approach to improve predictive accuracy in assessing climate change impacts on inflow patterns and hydropower generation across seven dam basins in West Africa. The methodology integrates precipitation and temperature using the multi-lag approach. An initial pool of fifteen machine learning models were evaluated, and top-performing models were selected for further refinement through iterative ensemble stacking and weak learner elimination. Historical analysis (1983–2014) utilized CHIRPS and CHIRTS datasets. Future projections employed twelve bias-adjusted CMIP6 models and their ensemble mean (EnsMean) under SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, and SSP5-8.5 for the near (2036–2067) and far (2068–2099) futures. Results showed notable improvements in model accuracy and efficiency across layers, with R² and NSE exceeding 0.6 for all inflow simulations and for selected energy simulations (Bagre, Nangbeto, and Taabo). Projections indicated warming up to 4.5°C and spatially heterogeneous precipitation changes across basins and scenarios, with SSP5-8.5 projecting the most pronounced shifts. Inflow reductions are projected to reach up to 24% at Buyo and 13% at Nangbeto, while hydropower output may decline by up to 19% at Nangbeto and 58% at Taabo in the future. Conversely, Manantali and Taabo are projected to experience inflow increases, and Bagre may see energy gains of up to 42% under SSP5-8.5. These findings highlight heightened vulnerability, as well as contrasting opportunities across the region, underscoring the urgent need for adaptive management strategies, such as enhancing hydropower system resilience, diversifying energy portfolios, and integrating renewable sources to mitigate climate risks. Hydropower managers and policymakers must prioritize proactive measures to ensure energy security and sustainable resource management amid changing climatic conditions.

2026-09-08T00:00:00ZAkaffou, Franck HervéObahoundje, SalomonDiedhiou, AronaKouassi, Kouakou LazareDiallo, DiorAmoussou, ErnestYamegueu, DanielOfosu, Eric AntwiThis study presents a novel five-step ensemble machine learning approach to improve predictive accuracy in assessing climate change impacts on inflow patterns and hydropower generation across seven dam basins in West Africa. The methodology integrates precipitation and temperature using the multi-lag approach. An initial pool of fifteen machine learning models were evaluated, and top-performing models were selected for further refinement through iterative ensemble stacking and weak learner elimination. Historical analysis (1983–2014) utilized CHIRPS and CHIRTS datasets. Future projections employed twelve bias-adjusted CMIP6 models and their ensemble mean (EnsMean) under SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, and SSP5-8.5 for the near (2036–2067) and far (2068–2099) futures. Results showed notable improvements in model accuracy and efficiency across layers, with R² and NSE exceeding 0.6 for all inflow simulations and for selected energy simulations (Bagre, Nangbeto, and Taabo). Projections indicated warming up to 4.5°C and spatially heterogeneous precipitation changes across basins and scenarios, with SSP5-8.5 projecting the most pronounced shifts. Inflow reductions are projected to reach up to 24% at Buyo and 13% at Nangbeto, while hydropower output may decline by up to 19% at Nangbeto and 58% at Taabo in the future. Conversely, Manantali and Taabo are projected to experience inflow increases, and Bagre may see energy gains of up to 42% under SSP5-8.5. These findings highlight heightened vulnerability, as well as contrasting opportunities across the region, underscoring the urgent need for adaptive management strategies, such as enhancing hydropower system resilience, diversifying energy portfolios, and integrating renewable sources to mitigate climate risks. Hydropower managers and policymakers must prioritize proactive measures to ensure energy security and sustainable resource management amid changing climatic conditions.Rajkhowa, PallaviBuisson, Marie-CharlotteOwusu, AfuaZane, GiuliaOwino, JesseKemboi, Jackiede Haas, Sanderhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1855072026-09-18T06:21:41Z2026-09-17T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Impacts of Water Bunds on Vegetation and Soil Moisture in Pastoral Land in Kenya dc.contributor.author: Rajkhowa, Pallavi; Buisson, Marie-Charlotte; Owusu, Afua; Zane, Giulia; Owino, Jesse; Kemboi, Jackie; de Haas, Sander dcterms.abstract: Land degradation in semi-arid sub-Saharan Africa increasingly threatens ecosystem function and rural livelihoods. Water bunds—simple earthen structures designed to slow runoff and enhance water infiltration—have been widely promoted as a low-cost, nature-based restoration strategy, yet robust causal evidence on their environmental impacts remains limited. This study assesses the effects of water bund interventions implemented across project sites in Kenya, where approximately 689,000 bunds were constructed between 2016 and 2025, using an Earth Observation based impact evaluation. We employed a spatial panel design based on a 1 km² grid observed annually from 2014 to 2025, with treatment defined at the grid level by the presence of bunds. Control units (never-treated grids) were selected using propensity score matching with a nearest-neighbour algorithm to ensure comparability on pre-intervention characteristics, including rainfall, temperature, night-time lights, and soil moisture. Environmental outcomes—specifically vegetation greenness (NDVI) and soil moisture (surface and subsurface)—were estimated using a staggered Difference-in-Differences framework following the Callaway and Sant’Anna estimator. The results indicate that water bund construction significantly improves vegetation greenness and soil moisture in treated areas. On average, water bunds increased NDVI by 3 percent, topsoil moisture by 1 percent, and subsurface soil moisture by 1.4 percent relative to pre-treatment levels. Dynamic treatment effects showed no evidence of pre-treatment trends for NDVI and topsoil moisture, while impacts evolved over time: NDVI declined in the construction year, likely due to land disturbance, before increasing steadily to about 12 percent above baseline by the fifth year. Soil moisture responded immediately following construction and remained elevated for two to three years, indicating that water bunds generate sustained improvements in water retention and vegetation recovery. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Sustainable Animal and Aquatic Foods

2026-09-17T00:00:00ZRajkhowa, PallaviBuisson, Marie-CharlotteOwusu, AfuaZane, GiuliaOwino, JesseKemboi, Jackiede Haas, SanderLand degradation in semi-arid sub-Saharan Africa increasingly threatens ecosystem function and rural livelihoods. Water bunds—simple earthen structures designed to slow runoff and enhance water infiltration—have been widely promoted as a low-cost, nature-based restoration strategy, yet robust causal evidence on their environmental impacts remains limited. This study assesses the effects of water bund interventions implemented across project sites in Kenya, where approximately 689,000 bunds were constructed between 2016 and 2025, using an Earth Observation based impact evaluation. We employed a spatial panel design based on a 1 km² grid observed annually from 2014 to 2025, with treatment defined at the grid level by the presence of bunds. Control units (never-treated grids) were selected using propensity score matching with a nearest-neighbour algorithm to ensure comparability on pre-intervention characteristics, including rainfall, temperature, night-time lights, and soil moisture. Environmental outcomes—specifically vegetation greenness (NDVI) and soil moisture (surface and subsurface)—were estimated using a staggered Difference-in-Differences framework following the Callaway and Sant’Anna estimator. The results indicate that water bund construction significantly improves vegetation greenness and soil moisture in treated areas. On average, water bunds increased NDVI by 3 percent, topsoil moisture by 1 percent, and subsurface soil moisture by 1.4 percent relative to pre-treatment levels. Dynamic treatment effects showed no evidence of pre-treatment trends for NDVI and topsoil moisture, while impacts evolved over time: NDVI declined in the construction year, likely due to land disturbance, before increasing steadily to about 12 percent above baseline by the fifth year. Soil moisture responded immediately following construction and remained elevated for two to three years, indicating that water bunds generate sustained improvements in water retention and vegetation recovery.Bhaduri, TanmoyBhattacharjee, SuchiradiptaKumar, Gopalhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1855032026-09-16T10:45:45Z2026-09-14T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Community Participation Holds the Key to India’s Water Future dc.contributor.author: Bhaduri, Tanmoy; Bhattacharjee, Suchiradipta; Kumar, Gopal cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations

2026-09-14T00:00:00ZBhaduri, TanmoyBhattacharjee, SuchiradiptaKumar, GopalMolden, David J.https://hdl.handle.net/10568/1854712026-09-11T10:47:56Z2009-09-23T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Planetary Boundaries: The Devil is in the Detail dc.contributor.author: Molden, David J. dcterms.abstract: A global limit on water consumption is necessary, but the suggested planetary boundary of 4,000 cubic kilometres per year is too generous.

2009-09-23T00:00:00ZMolden, David J.A global limit on water consumption is necessary, but the suggested planetary boundary of 4,000 cubic kilometres per year is too generous.Akpoti, KomlaviAppiah, Sarahhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1854702026-09-12T01:11:30Z2026-09-11T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Training Workshop on the Small Reservoirs Dashboard: From Data to Decision dc.contributor.author: Akpoti, Komlavi; Appiah, Sarah dcterms.abstract: This report documents a training workshop on the Small Reservoirs Dashboard held at the University for Development Studies (UDS), Nyankpala Campus, Ghana. Developed under the CGIAR Sustainable Animal and Aquatic Foods Program, the dashboard integrates information on more than 2,000 reservoirs across northern Ghana, combining satellite time-series analysis, field survey data from over 900 sites, and geospatial aquaculture suitability assessments. The workshop equipped students and faculty with practical skills to analyse reservoir water dynamics, multiple-use functions, and aquaculture potential. It also generated valuable feedback and identified opportunities for integrating the dashboard into research, teaching, extension services, and evidence-based planning to support sustainable aquaculture and water resource management in northern Ghana. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Sustainable Animal and Aquatic Foods

2026-09-11T00:00:00ZAkpoti, KomlaviAppiah, SarahThis report documents a training workshop on the Small Reservoirs Dashboard held at the University for Development Studies (UDS), Nyankpala Campus, Ghana. Developed under the CGIAR Sustainable Animal and Aquatic Foods Program, the dashboard integrates information on more than 2,000 reservoirs across northern Ghana, combining satellite time-series analysis, field survey data from over 900 sites, and geospatial aquaculture suitability assessments. The workshop equipped students and faculty with practical skills to analyse reservoir water dynamics, multiple-use functions, and aquaculture potential. It also generated valuable feedback and identified opportunities for integrating the dashboard into research, teaching, extension services, and evidence-based planning to support sustainable aquaculture and water resource management in northern Ghana.Mekuria, WoldeGirma, RedietHaileslassie, AmareSahle, Kefyalewhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1853922026-09-09T01:05:54Z2026-09-08T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Landscape Approaches for Improved Land and Water Resources Management: Training of Trainers dc.contributor.author: Mekuria, Wolde; Girma, Rediet; Haileslassie, Amare; Sahle, Kefyalew

2026-09-08T00:00:00ZMekuria, WoldeGirma, RedietHaileslassie, AmareSahle, KefyalewBuisson, Marie-CharlotteSalmawobil, JosephZane, Giuliahttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1853912026-09-10T03:31:37Z2026-09-08T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Closing the Measurement Gap: The Water Security for Health and Livelihoods (WaSHeL) Indicator for Standardizing the Integrated Measurement of Household Water Security dc.contributor.author: Buisson, Marie-Charlotte; Salmawobil, Joseph; Zane, Giulia dcterms.abstract: While water insecurity is multifaceted, current indicators fail to capture all dimensions of water on welfare and livelihoods. Existing experiential scales primarily focus on some dimensions, often domestic water access, while productive uses, governance, climate risks, and adaptation responses remain underrepresented. The Water Security for Health and Livelihoods (WaSHeL) indicator closes this critical measurement gap. This concise 13-item experiential instrument integrates domestic and productive water insecurity, social consequences, governance exclusion, adaptation strategies, and climatic uncertainty. Grounded in an eight-dimension water security framework drawing on established definitions, WaSHeL captures the systemic and structural dimensions that shape household water security. Designed for rapid implementation with binary responses and a 12-month recall period consistent with the Food Insecurity Experience Scale framework, WaSHeL has been embedded in the 2025 Ghana Living Standards Survey as the first nationally representative experiential measure of integrated household water security. Its sub-index structure supports policy targeting, monitoring, evaluation, learning, and impact assessment across water, agriculture, and climate programs. The instrument is available for integration into household surveys across country and program contexts, and researchers, national statistics officers, and program evaluators are invited to contact the authors to adopt the module. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Sustainable Animal and Aquatic Foods; Sustainable Farming

2026-09-08T00:00:00ZBuisson, Marie-CharlotteSalmawobil, JosephZane, GiuliaWhile water insecurity is multifaceted, current indicators fail to capture all dimensions of water on welfare and livelihoods. Existing experiential scales primarily focus on some dimensions, often domestic water access, while productive uses, governance, climate risks, and adaptation responses remain underrepresented. The Water Security for Health and Livelihoods (WaSHeL) indicator closes this critical measurement gap. This concise 13-item experiential instrument integrates domestic and productive water insecurity, social consequences, governance exclusion, adaptation strategies, and climatic uncertainty. Grounded in an eight-dimension water security framework drawing on established definitions, WaSHeL captures the systemic and structural dimensions that shape household water security. Designed for rapid implementation with binary responses and a 12-month recall period consistent with the Food Insecurity Experience Scale framework, WaSHeL has been embedded in the 2025 Ghana Living Standards Survey as the first nationally representative experiential measure of integrated household water security. Its sub-index structure supports policy targeting, monitoring, evaluation, learning, and impact assessment across water, agriculture, and climate programs. The instrument is available for integration into household surveys across country and program contexts, and researchers, national statistics officers, and program evaluators are invited to contact the authors to adopt the module.Berhanu, DanielAlamirew, TenaHaileslassie, AmareLemann, TatendaHurni, HansAnteneh, YilikalTarkegn, Temesgen GashawGebrehiwot, Solomonhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1853842026-09-07T10:59:23Z2026-08-21T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Historical Trends and Future Changes in Hydroclimate Extremes Using CMIP6 and SWAT + in the Awash Basin and Mojo Catchment, Ethiopia dc.contributor.author: Berhanu, Daniel; Alamirew, Tena; Haileslassie, Amare; Lemann, Tatenda; Hurni, Hans; Anteneh, Yilikal; Tarkegn, Temesgen Gashaw; Gebrehiwot, Solomon dcterms.abstract: The Awash basin in Ethiopia faces severe water insecurity driven by high climate variability, recurrent droughts and floods, and rising water demand—conditions projected to intensify under climate change. This study examines historical (1981–2010) and future (2020s, 2050s, 2080s) hydroclimatic changes under SSP2-4.5 and SSP5-8.5 scenarios, focusing on precipitation, temperature, streamflow, drought, and flood dynamics, with detailed analysis for the Mojo catchment. Outputs from seven top-performing CMIP6 GCMs were bias-corrected using quantile mapping for precipitation and variance scaling for temperature. The Soil and Water Assessment Tool Plus (SWAT+) hydrological model is used to simulate streamflow across Mojo catchment in Awash basin. Results reveal strong spatial contrasts in precipitation trends. During March–May (MAM), the Upper Awash basin shows minimal PRCPTOT change (< 2 mm), slight increases in CDD, and declines in wet-day frequency and extreme rainfall. The Middle Awash basin exhibits reduced PRCPTOT and CWD but higher CDD (+ 1–4 days), while the Lower Awash basin shows marked increases in CDD and 2023decreases in CWD. In June–September (JAS), PRCPTOT rises in the Upper basin (+ 12 mm) but declines in the Middle (− 24 mm) and Lower basins. Future projections indicate increased MAM rainfall in the Upper and Lower basins (up to + 50% in Afar lowlands) but declines in the Middle basin. CWD is projected to rise across the basin, while extreme rainfall (R99pTOT, Rx5day) intensifies in the Upper basin (+ 70% by the 2080s). In the Mojo catchment, streamflow decreases by 80–100% in MAM but increases up to 70% in July–August. Projected temperature rises (+ 2.0 °C max, + 1.9 °C min), along with higher flood frequency (+ 48%) and drought severity (+ 36%), highlight the urgent need for climate-resilient integrated water resource management in the Awash basin. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Scaling for Impact

2026-08-21T00:00:00ZBerhanu, DanielAlamirew, TenaHaileslassie, AmareLemann, TatendaHurni, HansAnteneh, YilikalTarkegn, Temesgen GashawGebrehiwot, SolomonThe Awash basin in Ethiopia faces severe water insecurity driven by high climate variability, recurrent droughts and floods, and rising water demand—conditions projected to intensify under climate change. This study examines historical (1981–2010) and future (2020s, 2050s, 2080s) hydroclimatic changes under SSP2-4.5 and SSP5-8.5 scenarios, focusing on precipitation, temperature, streamflow, drought, and flood dynamics, with detailed analysis for the Mojo catchment. Outputs from seven top-performing CMIP6 GCMs were bias-corrected using quantile mapping for precipitation and variance scaling for temperature. The Soil and Water Assessment Tool Plus (SWAT+) hydrological model is used to simulate streamflow across Mojo catchment in Awash basin. Results reveal strong spatial contrasts in precipitation trends. During March–May (MAM), the Upper Awash basin shows minimal PRCPTOT change (< 2 mm), slight increases in CDD, and declines in wet-day frequency and extreme rainfall. The Middle Awash basin exhibits reduced PRCPTOT and CWD but higher CDD (+ 1–4 days), while the Lower Awash basin shows marked increases in CDD and 2023decreases in CWD. In June–September (JAS), PRCPTOT rises in the Upper basin (+ 12 mm) but declines in the Middle (− 24 mm) and Lower basins. Future projections indicate increased MAM rainfall in the Upper and Lower basins (up to + 50% in Afar lowlands) but declines in the Middle basin. CWD is projected to rise across the basin, while extreme rainfall (R99pTOT, Rx5day) intensifies in the Upper basin (+ 70% by the 2080s). In the Mojo catchment, streamflow decreases by 80–100% in MAM but increases up to 70% in July–August. Projected temperature rises (+ 2.0 °C max, + 1.9 °C min), along with higher flood frequency (+ 48%) and drought severity (+ 36%), highlight the urgent need for climate-resilient integrated water resource management in the Awash basin.Banerjee, AnuragAgarwal, TriptiVarshney, DeepakSingh, SaurabhBhaduri, TanmoyRavindranath, DarshiniKumar, Gopalhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1853812026-09-08T01:01:02Z2026-09-07T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Gender-Responsive Solar Energy for Sustainable Rural Livelihoods: Lessons in Productive Use from Mandla District, India dc.contributor.author: Banerjee, Anurag; Agarwal, Tripti; Varshney, Deepak; Singh, Saurabh; Bhaduri, Tanmoy; Ravindranath, Darshini; Kumar, Gopal dcterms.abstract: Solar irrigation can do more than reduce farmers’ dependence on diesel and improve access to water. This publication presents evidence from two tribal villages in India —Chimkatola and Kevlari in Mandla district, Madhya Pradesh—where IWMI and PRADAN tested a gender-responsive approach that combines solar lift irrigation, women-led Water User Associations (WUAs), diversified agriculture and productive use of surplus solar energy through community rice milling. Each 6.75 kWp solar irrigation system generates an estimated 8,457 kWh of electricity annually, supporting irrigation across multiple hectares while reducing reliance on costly and unreliable energy sources. Women hold all seats in the pilot’s WUAs, enabling them to participate in irrigation management, fee collection and decision-making. The pilot also demonstrates how surplus solar energy can support rural enterprises and generate additional livelihood benefits. The publication identifies key lessons for scaling: solar irrigation should be designed as a multi-use community energy asset rather than a standalone irrigation technology; women-led institutions should be strengthened; productive-use enterprises require appropriate technical design, finance, training and market linkages; and blended financing can improve financial viability. The findings offer practical recommendations for governments, financial institutions, development partners and research organizations seeking to integrate water, energy, food and livelihood objectives in solar irrigation programmes. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Multifunctional Landscapes

2026-09-07T00:00:00ZBanerjee, AnuragAgarwal, TriptiVarshney, DeepakSingh, SaurabhBhaduri, TanmoyRavindranath, DarshiniKumar, GopalSolar irrigation can do more than reduce farmers’ dependence on diesel and improve access to water. This publication presents evidence from two tribal villages in India —Chimkatola and Kevlari in Mandla district, Madhya Pradesh—where IWMI and PRADAN tested a gender-responsive approach that combines solar lift irrigation, women-led Water User Associations (WUAs), diversified agriculture and productive use of surplus solar energy through community rice milling. Each 6.75 kWp solar irrigation system generates an estimated 8,457 kWh of electricity annually, supporting irrigation across multiple hectares while reducing reliance on costly and unreliable energy sources. Women hold all seats in the pilot’s WUAs, enabling them to participate in irrigation management, fee collection and decision-making. The pilot also demonstrates how surplus solar energy can support rural enterprises and generate additional livelihood benefits. The publication identifies key lessons for scaling: solar irrigation should be designed as a multi-use community energy asset rather than a standalone irrigation technology; women-led institutions should be strengthened; productive-use enterprises require appropriate technical design, finance, training and market linkages; and blended financing can improve financial viability. The findings offer practical recommendations for governments, financial institutions, development partners and research organizations seeking to integrate water, energy, food and livelihood objectives in solar irrigation programmes.Suhardiman, Dianade Silva, Sanjivhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1853802026-09-08T01:01:58Z2019-03-30T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Empowering Farmers through a Better Understanding of the Power Dynamics That Shape the Formation of Water User Associations dc.contributor.author: Suhardiman, Diana; de Silva, Sanjiv

2019-03-30T00:00:00ZSuhardiman, Dianade Silva, SanjivBhaduri, TanmoyAlam, Mohammad Faizhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1853452026-09-04T08:55:38Z2026-08-23T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Why India’s Groundwater Future Is Being Decided Right Now dc.contributor.author: Bhaduri, Tanmoy; Alam, Mohammad Faiz cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations

2026-08-23T00:00:00ZBhaduri, TanmoyAlam, Mohammad FaizGunatilake, UpaniWeerasinghe, Vithanage P. A.Wickramaratne, Chaturangihttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1853432026-09-05T01:08:48Z2026-08-15T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Wetland Loss, Impervious Surface Expansion, and Urban Thermal Stress: A Spatiotemporal Analysis of Land Use Change and Urban Thermal Patterns in Colombo District, Sri Lanka dc.contributor.author: Gunatilake, Upani; Weerasinghe, Vithanage P. A.; Wickramaratne, Chaturangi dcterms.abstract: Rapid urbanization in tropical Asia has fundamentally transformed land use–land cover while intensifying urban thermal stress, yet the relationship between land cover change and thermal conditions is frequently assumed to be spatially uniform. This study challenges that assumption by demonstrating that land cover–thermal relationships in Colombo District, Sri Lanka, are highly spatially and temporally heterogeneous, with statistically significant associations detected in only 17–47% of the study area in any given year, underscoring that context, not land cover type alone, governs thermal outcomes. Using multi-temporal Landsat satellite imagery, LULC maps were derived, and the urban heat island effect (UHIE) and urban thermal field variance index (UTFVI) were calculated for seven time periods (1989, 1996, 2002, 2009, 2014, 2019, 2024). Geographically weighted regression (GWR) was applied to model local relationships between LULC classes, namely wetland vegetation, water bodies, impervious surfaces, and other pervious surfaces, and thermal indices across a 500 m spatial grid, revealing a 74% loss in wetland vegetation and a 326% increase in impervious surfaces over the study period. Water bodies exhibited spatially variable cooling effects relative to wetland vegetation, most pronounced in eastern regions during earlier periods, while impervious surfaces showed consistent, spatially persistent warming effects concentrated in western and southern urban cores. By coupling GWR with a 35-year multi-sensor time series, this study provides a spatially explicit, longitudinal account of how land cover–thermal relationships evolve as tropical urbanization intensifies, offering an evidence base for spatially targeted rather than uniform climate adaptation planning in rapidly urbanizing tropical cities.

2026-08-15T00:00:00ZGunatilake, UpaniWeerasinghe, Vithanage P. A.Wickramaratne, ChaturangiRapid urbanization in tropical Asia has fundamentally transformed land use–land cover while intensifying urban thermal stress, yet the relationship between land cover change and thermal conditions is frequently assumed to be spatially uniform. This study challenges that assumption by demonstrating that land cover–thermal relationships in Colombo District, Sri Lanka, are highly spatially and temporally heterogeneous, with statistically significant associations detected in only 17–47% of the study area in any given year, underscoring that context, not land cover type alone, governs thermal outcomes. Using multi-temporal Landsat satellite imagery, LULC maps were derived, and the urban heat island effect (UHIE) and urban thermal field variance index (UTFVI) were calculated for seven time periods (1989, 1996, 2002, 2009, 2014, 2019, 2024). Geographically weighted regression (GWR) was applied to model local relationships between LULC classes, namely wetland vegetation, water bodies, impervious surfaces, and other pervious surfaces, and thermal indices across a 500 m spatial grid, revealing a 74% loss in wetland vegetation and a 326% increase in impervious surfaces over the study period. Water bodies exhibited spatially variable cooling effects relative to wetland vegetation, most pronounced in eastern regions during earlier periods, while impervious surfaces showed consistent, spatially persistent warming effects concentrated in western and southern urban cores. By coupling GWR with a 35-year multi-sensor time series, this study provides a spatially explicit, longitudinal account of how land cover–thermal relationships evolve as tropical urbanization intensifies, offering an evidence base for spatially targeted rather than uniform climate adaptation planning in rapidly urbanizing tropical cities.Cofie, Olufunke O.Ringler, ClaudiaAgbonlahor, MureAmede, TilahunCzajkowski, MikaylaKabuti, VincentKimotho, EphantusSmith, Markhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1853192026-09-03T01:09:23Z2026-09-02T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Why water matters for Africa's food systems: A Call to Action for irrigation investment dc.contributor.author: Cofie, Olufunke O.; Ringler, Claudia; Agbonlahor, Mure; Amede, Tilahun; Czajkowski, Mikayla; Kabuti, Vincent; Kimotho, Ephantus; Smith, Mark dcterms.abstract: Less than 5 percent of Africa's cultivated land is reported to be irrigated, leaving farmers, livelihoods, and economies exposed to erratic rainfall, drought, floods and associated economic shocks. Irrigation is key to agricultural intensification, enabling year-round production, allows farmers to grow higher-value, nutrient-dense crops, creates jobs and wealth and strengthens food supply chains and markets. Irrigation is, moreover, an enabler of other agricultural inputs, ensuring that productivity-increasing inputs and technologies don’t go to waste as a result of dry spells but instead generate yields and farmer incomes. Africa's irrigation potential is considerable: estimates point to roughly 33 million hectares suitable for farmer-led groundwater irrigation and 6 million hectares for additional surface water irrigation. But realizing this potential sustainably means aligning national investment decisions with underlying basin and aquifer conditions; agro-ecological zones; competing water demands (such as for nature, households, and industry); and infrastructure and technology possibilities. The African Union’s Framework for irrigation development and agricultural water management (IDAWM) describes key underlying conditions for investment and scaling complementary irrigation development pathways. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations; Scaling for Impact

2026-09-02T00:00:00ZCofie, Olufunke O.Ringler, ClaudiaAgbonlahor, MureAmede, TilahunCzajkowski, MikaylaKabuti, VincentKimotho, EphantusSmith, MarkLess than 5 percent of Africa's cultivated land is reported to be irrigated, leaving farmers, livelihoods, and economies exposed to erratic rainfall, drought, floods and associated economic shocks. Irrigation is key to agricultural intensification, enabling year-round production, allows farmers to grow higher-value, nutrient-dense crops, creates jobs and wealth and strengthens food supply chains and markets. Irrigation is, moreover, an enabler of other agricultural inputs, ensuring that productivity-increasing inputs and technologies don’t go to waste as a result of dry spells but instead generate yields and farmer incomes. Africa's irrigation potential is considerable: estimates point to roughly 33 million hectares suitable for farmer-led groundwater irrigation and 6 million hectares for additional surface water irrigation. But realizing this potential sustainably means aligning national investment decisions with underlying basin and aquifer conditions; agro-ecological zones; competing water demands (such as for nature, households, and industry); and infrastructure and technology possibilities. The African Union’s Framework for irrigation development and agricultural water management (IDAWM) describes key underlying conditions for investment and scaling complementary irrigation development pathways.Simaika, JohnHaile, Alemseged Tamiruhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1852902026-09-02T01:06:18Z2026-09-01T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Workshop Report: Towards Sustaining Healthy Flows and Functions in the Omo-Gibe Basin dc.contributor.author: Simaika, John; Haile, Alemseged Tamiru dcterms.abstract: On May 14, 2026, a workshop brought together experts and stakeholders to talk about "environmental flows" — the idea that rivers need a certain amount and pattern of water flowing through them to stay healthy and keep supporting the people, farms, and ecosystems that depend on them. This event was part of a larger international effort (through IWMI and the CGIAR Multifunctional Landscapes Program) to help rivers around the world stay resilient. The focus was the Omo-Gibe River Basin in Ethiopia, an area facing several challenges at once: new dams and hydropower plants, expanding irrigation for farming, limited data on water conditions, unpredictable weather patterns, and the difficulty of getting different organizations to coordinate their efforts. The basin also matters beyond its own borders, since its waters flow onward and affect communities and countries downstream. Twenty-seven participants attended, coming from backgrounds in water management, hydrology, environmental science, universities, and community organizations. The goal was to get everyone on the same page about what environmental flows are and why they matter for managing this basin sustainably. Experts gave presentations explaining the basic concepts, the tools and methods used to measure and plan for environmental flows, an existing framework from the Nile Basin Initiative, and background on how water moves through the Omo-Gibe system specifically. Participants then worked together in small groups to dig into the basin's biggest problems: unpredictable water levels, a lack of monitoring data, multiple dams built in sequence along the river, growing irrigation demands, land degradation in the watershed, communities downstream who rely on the river, and the cross-border effects of any changes. These discussions turned big-picture ideas into practical, basin-specific priorities — such as what data is available, who needs to be involved, how the information could be used, how decisions get made, what new data and skills are needed, which stretches of river could serve as test cases, and how to measure progress. By the end, the workshop had laid the groundwork for future efforts — including deeper assessments of the river's environmental flow needs, continued engagement with stakeholders, and using this evidence to inform planning and an upcoming "digital twin" (a computer model) of the basin. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Multifunctional Landscapes

2026-09-01T00:00:00ZSimaika, JohnHaile, Alemseged TamiruOn May 14, 2026, a workshop brought together experts and stakeholders to talk about "environmental flows" — the idea that rivers need a certain amount and pattern of water flowing through them to stay healthy and keep supporting the people, farms, and ecosystems that depend on them. This event was part of a larger international effort (through IWMI and the CGIAR Multifunctional Landscapes Program) to help rivers around the world stay resilient. The focus was the Omo-Gibe River Basin in Ethiopia, an area facing several challenges at once: new dams and hydropower plants, expanding irrigation for farming, limited data on water conditions, unpredictable weather patterns, and the difficulty of getting different organizations to coordinate their efforts. The basin also matters beyond its own borders, since its waters flow onward and affect communities and countries downstream. Twenty-seven participants attended, coming from backgrounds in water management, hydrology, environmental science, universities, and community organizations. The goal was to get everyone on the same page about what environmental flows are and why they matter for managing this basin sustainably. Experts gave presentations explaining the basic concepts, the tools and methods used to measure and plan for environmental flows, an existing framework from the Nile Basin Initiative, and background on how water moves through the Omo-Gibe system specifically. Participants then worked together in small groups to dig into the basin's biggest problems: unpredictable water levels, a lack of monitoring data, multiple dams built in sequence along the river, growing irrigation demands, land degradation in the watershed, communities downstream who rely on the river, and the cross-border effects of any changes. These discussions turned big-picture ideas into practical, basin-specific priorities — such as what data is available, who needs to be involved, how the information could be used, how decisions get made, what new data and skills are needed, which stretches of river could serve as test cases, and how to measure progress. By the end, the workshop had laid the groundwork for future efforts — including deeper assessments of the river's environmental flow needs, continued engagement with stakeholders, and using this evidence to inform planning and an upcoming "digital twin" (a computer model) of the basin.Buytaert, WouterTilahun, Seifu A.Paschalis, AthanasiosBonetti, SaraVishwakarma, BramhaCrespo, PatricioDrenkhan, FabianAgyei-Mensah, SamuelOchoa-Tocachi, BorisMijic, AnaArcucci, RossellaMoseley, BenHoward, Benhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1852832026-09-03T09:08:45Z2026-05-03T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Unlocking local knowledge production for global water systems analysis dc.contributor.author: Buytaert, Wouter; Tilahun, Seifu A.; Paschalis, Athanasios; Bonetti, Sara; Vishwakarma, Bramha; Crespo, Patricio; Drenkhan, Fabian; Agyei-Mensah, Samuel; Ochoa-Tocachi, Boris; Mijic, Ana; Arcucci, Rossella; Moseley, Ben; Howard, Ben dcterms.abstract: Global freshwater systems are critically threatened by environmental change and overexploitation, stressing the need for novel, transformative solutions. As social-hydrological systems are diverse and complex, water-related risks and decision-making needs are often strongly embedded in a locally specific context. Therefore, such solutions need to be informed by solid scientific evidence while remaining tailored to local realities, knowledge, and practices. However, the current generation of global water system models struggles to produce evidence that is accurate, tailored, and actionable at the local scale. Here we outline an approach to support local knowledge co-production and its integration with existing and emerging data sources in global water system models. We focus on three knowledge sources that are currently underrepresented in global modelling approaches: non-statutory monitoring, citizen observations, and local knowledge. We show how data science methods such as semantic data models, distributed workflows, and machine learning can be leveraged to develop novel knowledge integration pipelines. These pipelines explicitly represent data provenance and track epistemic and aleatoric uncertainties across heterogeneous data sources. When combined with flexible modelling frameworks, this approach provides a blueprint for next generation simulation systems that bridge global modelling and local decision-making. Such systems enable the identification, prioritization, and targeted reduction of local knowledge gaps, thereby enhancing the relevance and legitimacy of global water assessments for regional and community-level action.

2026-05-03T00:00:00ZBuytaert, WouterTilahun, Seifu A.Paschalis, AthanasiosBonetti, SaraVishwakarma, BramhaCrespo, PatricioDrenkhan, FabianAgyei-Mensah, SamuelOchoa-Tocachi, BorisMijic, AnaArcucci, RossellaMoseley, BenHoward, BenGlobal freshwater systems are critically threatened by environmental change and overexploitation, stressing the need for novel, transformative solutions. As social-hydrological systems are diverse and complex, water-related risks and decision-making needs are often strongly embedded in a locally specific context. Therefore, such solutions need to be informed by solid scientific evidence while remaining tailored to local realities, knowledge, and practices. However, the current generation of global water system models struggles to produce evidence that is accurate, tailored, and actionable at the local scale. Here we outline an approach to support local knowledge co-production and its integration with existing and emerging data sources in global water system models. We focus on three knowledge sources that are currently underrepresented in global modelling approaches: non-statutory monitoring, citizen observations, and local knowledge. We show how data science methods such as semantic data models, distributed workflows, and machine learning can be leveraged to develop novel knowledge integration pipelines. These pipelines explicitly represent data provenance and track epistemic and aleatoric uncertainties across heterogeneous data sources. When combined with flexible modelling frameworks, this approach provides a blueprint for next generation simulation systems that bridge global modelling and local decision-making. Such systems enable the identification, prioritization, and targeted reduction of local knowledge gaps, thereby enhancing the relevance and legitimacy of global water assessments for regional and community-level action.Oluwaseun, Ojeleye AdebayoOke, AdebayoBalana, BedruKirui, Oliver K.Tilahun, Seifu A.Owolabi, Mubaraq AdetunjiCalvin, Ojeleyehttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1852812026-09-14T11:19:33Z2026-08-31T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Scaling Climate-Resilient Irrigation: Partnership Alignment, Coordinated Pathways, and Learning in Nigeria dc.contributor.author: Oluwaseun, Ojeleye Adebayo; Oke, Adebayo; Balana, Bedru; Kirui, Oliver K.; Tilahun, Seifu A.; Owolabi, Mubaraq Adetunji; Calvin, Ojeleye dcterms.abstract: The Scaling Climate-Resilient Irrigation Workshop, held in Abuja on March 24, 2026, provided a strategic pathway to address Nigeria’s irrigation deficit and strengthen year-round agricultural production. Under the CGIAR Scaling for Impact (S4I) Program, IWMI and IFPRI presented a three-year roadmap for 2026–2028 to accelerate the adoption of solar-based irrigation solutions, particularly through farmer-led irrigation development. The program targets 120,000–150,000 smallholder farmers across priority northern states, marking a shift from isolated pilot interventions to coordinated, large-scale deployment. A central message from a workshop on Scaling Resilient Irrigation in Nigeria was that scaling solar irrigation requires more than technology alone; it depends on an integrated ecosystem that connects farmers, finance, technology providers, policymakers, and institutions. Stakeholders identified weak institutional coordination as a major constraint, despite the availability of relevant technologies, programs, and financing opportunities. Financial institutions emphasized that organizing farmers into clusters and cooperatives is essential for reducing investment risk and improving access to affordable finance. Drawing on lessons from India’s large-scale solar irrigation experience, participants advocated a coordinated demand–finance–technology–linkage approach, supported by smart subsidies, tariff waivers, or affordable credit. The workshop concluded with commitments to strengthen coordination, digital extension services, localized financing models, and partnerships to establish a sustainable national system for climate-resilient irrigation. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Scaling for Impact

2026-08-31T00:00:00ZOluwaseun, Ojeleye AdebayoOke, AdebayoBalana, BedruKirui, Oliver K.Tilahun, Seifu A.Owolabi, Mubaraq AdetunjiCalvin, OjeleyeThe Scaling Climate-Resilient Irrigation Workshop, held in Abuja on March 24, 2026, provided a strategic pathway to address Nigeria’s irrigation deficit and strengthen year-round agricultural production. Under the CGIAR Scaling for Impact (S4I) Program, IWMI and IFPRI presented a three-year roadmap for 2026–2028 to accelerate the adoption of solar-based irrigation solutions, particularly through farmer-led irrigation development. The program targets 120,000–150,000 smallholder farmers across priority northern states, marking a shift from isolated pilot interventions to coordinated, large-scale deployment. A central message from a workshop on Scaling Resilient Irrigation in Nigeria was that scaling solar irrigation requires more than technology alone; it depends on an integrated ecosystem that connects farmers, finance, technology providers, policymakers, and institutions. Stakeholders identified weak institutional coordination as a major constraint, despite the availability of relevant technologies, programs, and financing opportunities. Financial institutions emphasized that organizing farmers into clusters and cooperatives is essential for reducing investment risk and improving access to affordable finance. Drawing on lessons from India’s large-scale solar irrigation experience, participants advocated a coordinated demand–finance–technology–linkage approach, supported by smart subsidies, tariff waivers, or affordable credit. The workshop concluded with commitments to strengthen coordination, digital extension services, localized financing models, and partnerships to establish a sustainable national system for climate-resilient irrigation.El-Shafai, Saber A.Mateo-Sagasta, JavierOrabi, Mohamed O.Livoreil, BarbaraValero Gutierrez del Olmo, EnriqueEales, Jacqualynhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1852782026-09-02T05:05:29Z2026-08-04T00:00:00Z

dc.title: What is the Evidence on the Implementation of Intersectoral Freshwater-Wastewater Swaps in the World?: A Systematic Map Protocol dc.contributor.author: El-Shafai, Saber A.; Mateo-Sagasta, Javier; Orabi, Mohamed O.; Livoreil, Barbara; Valero Gutierrez del Olmo, Enrique; Eales, Jacqualyn dcterms.abstract: Water scarcity is rising due to population growth, economic expansion, and climate change (Schewe et al., 2014; Gosling and Arnell, 2016; Liu et al., 2017; Lahham et al., 2022; Eldabbagh and Nicol, 2025). This shortage sparks intense sectoral competition, worsened by increasing pollution (van Vliet et al., 2021). Three main strategies address this gap: reducing demand through efficiency and productivity, generating "new" water (through desalination or wastewater treatment), and realigning resources through reallocation. (Qadir et al., 2007; World Bank 2018; He et al 2021; Ricart et al 2021; Mateo-Sagasta et al., 2022; Velpuri et al 2023). A promising but understudied approach is the Freshwater-Wastewater Swap (FWS). This mechanism involves an intersectoral arrangement in which a freshwater donor sector reallocates part of its freshwater to other sectors or to the environment in exchange for a non-conventional water source as a substitute. This arrangement may be formal (contractual, regulated) or informal (customary, negotiated). Intersectoral FWS can involve any combination of the following six water-use sectors: (1) Agricultural; (2) Municipal/urban; (3) Industrial; (4) Cooling; (5) Recreational; and (6) Environmental. Any sector can act as freshwater donor, alternative water supplier, or freshwater recipient. Although some existed specific cases of FWS have been partially assessed (Danso et al 2018, Drechsel et al 2018, Heinz et al 2011.), there is no global synthesis describing what types, how many and where these exchanges have been implemented and documented. Such information is essential to understand external factors (e.g., policies, institutions, economic incentives, perceptions) and internal factors (e.g., quantity and quality of water exchanged, infrastructure, technologies) that made the FWS possible and effective. This study aims to map global cases of the FWS and extract lessons that can support decisions in countries which intend to promote this approach, such as Jordan (Tawfik et al 2023).

2026-08-04T00:00:00ZEl-Shafai, Saber A.Mateo-Sagasta, JavierOrabi, Mohamed O.Livoreil, BarbaraValero Gutierrez del Olmo, EnriqueEales, JacqualynWater scarcity is rising due to population growth, economic expansion, and climate change (Schewe et al., 2014; Gosling and Arnell, 2016; Liu et al., 2017; Lahham et al., 2022; Eldabbagh and Nicol, 2025). This shortage sparks intense sectoral competition, worsened by increasing pollution (van Vliet et al., 2021). Three main strategies address this gap: reducing demand through efficiency and productivity, generating "new" water (through desalination or wastewater treatment), and realigning resources through reallocation. (Qadir et al., 2007; World Bank 2018; He et al 2021; Ricart et al 2021; Mateo-Sagasta et al., 2022; Velpuri et al 2023). A promising but understudied approach is the Freshwater-Wastewater Swap (FWS). This mechanism involves an intersectoral arrangement in which a freshwater donor sector reallocates part of its freshwater to other sectors or to the environment in exchange for a non-conventional water source as a substitute. This arrangement may be formal (contractual, regulated) or informal (customary, negotiated). Intersectoral FWS can involve any combination of the following six water-use sectors: (1) Agricultural; (2) Municipal/urban; (3) Industrial; (4) Cooling; (5) Recreational; and (6) Environmental. Any sector can act as freshwater donor, alternative water supplier, or freshwater recipient. Although some existed specific cases of FWS have been partially assessed (Danso et al 2018, Drechsel et al 2018, Heinz et al 2011.), there is no global synthesis describing what types, how many and where these exchanges have been implemented and documented. Such information is essential to understand external factors (e.g., policies, institutions, economic incentives, perceptions) and internal factors (e.g., quantity and quality of water exchanged, infrastructure, technologies) that made the FWS possible and effective. This study aims to map global cases of the FWS and extract lessons that can support decisions in countries which intend to promote this approach, such as Jordan (Tawfik et al 2023).International Water Management Institutehttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1852642026-09-01T01:01:53Z2026-08-31T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Feuille de Route Stratégique Régionale: Afrique de l'Ouest et du Centre 2024–2030 dc.contributor.author: International Water Management Institute dcterms.abstract: La feuille de route stratégique régionale de l’IWMI pour l’Afrique de l’Ouest et du Centre (2024-2030) propose un cadre stratégique visant à promouvoir la sécurité de l’eau, la résilience climatique, l’agriculture durable et un développement économique équitable en Afrique de l’Ouest et du Centre. Cette feuille de route s’appuie sur la solide expérience de l’IWMI dans les domaines du développement de l’irrigation, de la gestion inclusive des paysages, de la comptabilité numérique de l’eau, des innovations en économie circulaire, de l’aquaculture menée par les jeunes et de la gouvernance de l’eau, et répond aux défis croissants auxquels la région est confrontée, notamment le changement climatique, la pénurie d’eau, la dégradation de l’environnement, l’urbanisation rapide et l’insécurité alimentaire. La feuille de route se concentre sur six priorités stratégiques : développer des systèmes agroalimentaires résilients ; atténuer les risques de sécheresse et d’inondation ; favoriser les innovations en matière d’économie circulaire de l’eau et de l’alimentation ; utiliser l’eau pour renforcer la résilience dans les situations fragiles et touchées par des conflits ; renforcer l’équité de genre dans la gestion des ressources en eau ; et faciliter des décisions fondées sur des données probantes concernant les infrastructures et l’allocation de l’eau. Ces priorités seront mises en œuvre grâce à une recherche intégrée, à l’innovation, à l’engagement politique, aux technologies numériques et aux partenariats stratégiques. La mise en œuvre ciblera des pays et bassins versants prioritaires et impliquera une collaboration avec les gouvernements, les institutions régionales, les organismes de recherche, les partenaires de développement et le secteur privé. La feuille de route vise à transformer les connaissances scientifiques en solutions pratiques afin d’améliorer les moyens de subsistance, de renforcer la résilience climatique et la gouvernance de l’eau, et de promouvoir un développement durable et inclusif en Afrique de l’Ouest et du Centre à l’horizon 2030.

2026-08-31T00:00:00ZInternational Water Management InstituteLa feuille de route stratégique régionale de l’IWMI pour l’Afrique de l’Ouest et du Centre (2024-2030) propose un cadre stratégique visant à promouvoir la sécurité de l’eau, la résilience climatique, l’agriculture durable et un développement économique équitable en Afrique de l’Ouest et du Centre. Cette feuille de route s’appuie sur la solide expérience de l’IWMI dans les domaines du développement de l’irrigation, de la gestion inclusive des paysages, de la comptabilité numérique de l’eau, des innovations en économie circulaire, de l’aquaculture menée par les jeunes et de la gouvernance de l’eau, et répond aux défis croissants auxquels la région est confrontée, notamment le changement climatique, la pénurie d’eau, la dégradation de l’environnement, l’urbanisation rapide et l’insécurité alimentaire. La feuille de route se concentre sur six priorités stratégiques : développer des systèmes agroalimentaires résilients ; atténuer les risques de sécheresse et d’inondation ; favoriser les innovations en matière d’économie circulaire de l’eau et de l’alimentation ; utiliser l’eau pour renforcer la résilience dans les situations fragiles et touchées par des conflits ; renforcer l’équité de genre dans la gestion des ressources en eau ; et faciliter des décisions fondées sur des données probantes concernant les infrastructures et l’allocation de l’eau. Ces priorités seront mises en œuvre grâce à une recherche intégrée, à l’innovation, à l’engagement politique, aux technologies numériques et aux partenariats stratégiques. La mise en œuvre ciblera des pays et bassins versants prioritaires et impliquera une collaboration avec les gouvernements, les institutions régionales, les organismes de recherche, les partenaires de développement et le secteur privé. La feuille de route vise à transformer les connaissances scientifiques en solutions pratiques afin d’améliorer les moyens de subsistance, de renforcer la résilience climatique et la gouvernance de l’eau, et de promouvoir un développement durable et inclusif en Afrique de l’Ouest et du Centre à l’horizon 2030.Haile, Alemseged TamiruBekele, Tilaye WorkuSeifu, EdenKebede, GetahunAlemu, Abel NegussieNigussie, LikimyeleshTilahun, Seifu A.https://hdl.handle.net/10568/1852222026-08-31T09:55:06Z2026-08-26T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Unlocking Local Knowledge Production for Global Water Reanalysis: Co-Creation Workshop Report for Case of Akaki Catchment, Ethiopia dc.contributor.author: Haile, Alemseged Tamiru; Bekele, Tilaye Worku; Seifu, Eden; Kebede, Getahun; Alemu, Abel Negussie; Nigussie, Likimyelesh; Tilahun, Seifu A. dcterms.abstract: This workshop report documents a co-creation workshop held on 28 April 2026 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, as part of the project "Unlocking local knowledge production for global water reanalysis," implemented by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) in partnership with Imperial College London and funded by Schmidt Sciences. The workshop focused on the Akaki catchment, one of three pilot sites (Ethiopia, Ghana and Laos), which was selected for its high water risk, strategic importance as a headwater of the Awash River, and existing citizen science platform. Bringing together participants from government agencies (Ministry of Water and Energy, AAWASA, Ethiopian Space and Geospatial Institute, Fire and Disaster Risk Management Commission, Environmental Protection Authority, Ethiopian Meteorology Institute, Engineering Corporation), universities, NGOs (Water Witness International, Blue Deal, Vitens), and community representatives, the workshop pursued four objectives: building a common understanding of non-conventional data in global water reanalysis; inventorying local knowledge, practices and non-conventional datasets relevant to the Akaki water system; characterizing the identified datasets and their owners; and gathering stakeholder feedback on data gaps. Through opening presentations, plenary discussion, and four thematic breakout groups (water resources, water supply and sewerage, data and risk, and water quality), participants developed a preliminary inventory of local knowledge and community practices influencing hydrology, flooding, land use and water quality, and listed the non-conventional data sources available in the catchment. Outputs were harmonized across groups and ranked by impact. Key recommendations include digitizing paper-based records, standardizing formats, centralizing scattered data, extending citizen science monitoring, and engaging data holders through structured surveys to integrate these sources into the global water reanalysis framework over the project's five-year duration.

2026-08-26T00:00:00ZHaile, Alemseged TamiruBekele, Tilaye WorkuSeifu, EdenKebede, GetahunAlemu, Abel NegussieNigussie, LikimyeleshTilahun, Seifu A.This workshop report documents a co-creation workshop held on 28 April 2026 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, as part of the project "Unlocking local knowledge production for global water reanalysis," implemented by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) in partnership with Imperial College London and funded by Schmidt Sciences. The workshop focused on the Akaki catchment, one of three pilot sites (Ethiopia, Ghana and Laos), which was selected for its high water risk, strategic importance as a headwater of the Awash River, and existing citizen science platform. Bringing together participants from government agencies (Ministry of Water and Energy, AAWASA, Ethiopian Space and Geospatial Institute, Fire and Disaster Risk Management Commission, Environmental Protection Authority, Ethiopian Meteorology Institute, Engineering Corporation), universities, NGOs (Water Witness International, Blue Deal, Vitens), and community representatives, the workshop pursued four objectives: building a common understanding of non-conventional data in global water reanalysis; inventorying local knowledge, practices and non-conventional datasets relevant to the Akaki water system; characterizing the identified datasets and their owners; and gathering stakeholder feedback on data gaps. Through opening presentations, plenary discussion, and four thematic breakout groups (water resources, water supply and sewerage, data and risk, and water quality), participants developed a preliminary inventory of local knowledge and community practices influencing hydrology, flooding, land use and water quality, and listed the non-conventional data sources available in the catchment. Outputs were harmonized across groups and ranked by impact. Key recommendations include digitizing paper-based records, standardizing formats, centralizing scattered data, extending citizen science monitoring, and engaging data holders through structured surveys to integrate these sources into the global water reanalysis framework over the project's five-year duration.Eldabbagh, FayrouzNassar, Atefhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1851962026-08-31T10:20:16Z2026-08-26T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Scaling Water and Soil Salinity Solutions in Egypt’s Nile Delta: Governance, Knowledge, Markets, and Finance in Kafr El-Sheikh dc.contributor.author: Eldabbagh, Fayrouz; Nassar, Atef dcterms.abstract: In the field of Kafr El-sheikh, at the tail end of Egypt's Nile system, salinity has become an everyday reality that farmers experience in their soils, drainage canals, and groundwater. Many technical solutions are being developed by different research institutions such as gypsum treatment, leaching techniques, salt-tolerant varieties, and reuse. This report, produced under the CGIAR Scaling for Impact (S4I) program, marks a step change; it argues that technical solutions are abundant, but the enabling environment for their scaling and adoption remains the missing piece. Therefore, this report examines six dimensions of the conditions behind hindering or enabling the wider scaling of contextually relevant technical solutions to the fields. These conditions lie in cross-sectoral coordination, policy alignment, market incentives, financial schemes, knowledge expansion, tenure security, and social norms and trust. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Scaling for Impact

2026-08-26T00:00:00ZEldabbagh, FayrouzNassar, AtefIn the field of Kafr El-sheikh, at the tail end of Egypt's Nile system, salinity has become an everyday reality that farmers experience in their soils, drainage canals, and groundwater. Many technical solutions are being developed by different research institutions such as gypsum treatment, leaching techniques, salt-tolerant varieties, and reuse. This report, produced under the CGIAR Scaling for Impact (S4I) program, marks a step change; it argues that technical solutions are abundant, but the enabling environment for their scaling and adoption remains the missing piece. Therefore, this report examines six dimensions of the conditions behind hindering or enabling the wider scaling of contextually relevant technical solutions to the fields. These conditions lie in cross-sectoral coordination, policy alignment, market incentives, financial schemes, knowledge expansion, tenure security, and social norms and trust.Salmawobil, JosephAppiah, SarahZane, Giuliahttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1851772026-08-31T09:32:22Z2026-08-25T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Co-Creation Workshop on Inclusive Business Models for Cage Aquaculture in Small Reservoirs – Bolgatanga, Ghana dc.contributor.author: Salmawobil, Joseph; Appiah, Sarah; Zane, Giulia dcterms.abstract: A co-creation workshop held by IWMI in Bolgatanga on 9 June 2026, as part of the Sustainable Animal and Aquatic Foods (SAAF) Science Program, brought together 44 stakeholders—including farmers, investors, hatchery operators, financiers, and regulators—to review IWMI’s cage aquaculture pilots in small reservoirs and co-design investment models for scaling up the approach in Ghana’s Upper East Region. After reviewing results and lessons from pilots conducted in the North East Region by IWMI, CSIR-Water Research Institute, and the Fisheries Commission of Ghana, participants compared four potential business models: community–private partnerships; full investor ownership with community members hired as labor; contract farming; and passive investment. They discussed the feasibility, opportunities, and challenges of each model in the Upper East context. The workshop revealed strong interest in investing in aquaculture in small reservoirs. Seventy-nine percent of participants indicated that they would be willing to invest their own resources to finance, at least partly, an aquaculture project. As a next step, IWMI and CSIR-Water Research Institute will provide technical assistance to potential investors, beginning with assessments of the suitability of small reservoirs where they may be interested in investing. The aim is to support the development of one or two pilot aquaculture businesses in 2026, generating practical lessons for future scaling. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Sustainable Animal and Aquatic Foods

2026-08-25T00:00:00ZSalmawobil, JosephAppiah, SarahZane, GiuliaA co-creation workshop held by IWMI in Bolgatanga on 9 June 2026, as part of the Sustainable Animal and Aquatic Foods (SAAF) Science Program, brought together 44 stakeholders—including farmers, investors, hatchery operators, financiers, and regulators—to review IWMI’s cage aquaculture pilots in small reservoirs and co-design investment models for scaling up the approach in Ghana’s Upper East Region. After reviewing results and lessons from pilots conducted in the North East Region by IWMI, CSIR-Water Research Institute, and the Fisheries Commission of Ghana, participants compared four potential business models: community–private partnerships; full investor ownership with community members hired as labor; contract farming; and passive investment. They discussed the feasibility, opportunities, and challenges of each model in the Upper East context. The workshop revealed strong interest in investing in aquaculture in small reservoirs. Seventy-nine percent of participants indicated that they would be willing to invest their own resources to finance, at least partly, an aquaculture project. As a next step, IWMI and CSIR-Water Research Institute will provide technical assistance to potential investors, beginning with assessments of the suitability of small reservoirs where they may be interested in investing. The aim is to support the development of one or two pilot aquaculture businesses in 2026, generating practical lessons for future scaling.Ayana, MekonenTiruneh, YibeltalKedir, YusufAbegaz, FentawMohammed, MulugetaTesfaye, HenokAwol, ElisaHaileslassie, Amarehttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1851572026-08-25T01:05:23Z2026-08-21T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Revitalizing Community and Household Irrigation in Ethiopia: Policy Considerations for Improved Performance dc.contributor.author: Ayana, Mekonen; Tiruneh, Yibeltal; Kedir, Yusuf; Abegaz, Fentaw; Mohammed, Mulugeta; Tesfaye, Henok; Awol, Elisa; Haileslassie, Amare dcterms.abstract: This policy brief is the result of concerted efforts by the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR), Regional Research Systems, Regional Bureaus of Agriculture, the Ministry of Agriculture, IWMI, and members of the Agricultural Water Management Task Force coordinated by the Ministry of Agriculture. Despite continued expansion of irrigation in Ethiopia, many existing community- and household-managed schemes underperform, limiting the benefits of irrigation investments. Evidence from previous IWMI/CGIAR research and a nationwide EIAR assessment of 75 community-managed and 39 household-managed schemes across diverse agroecological zones and river basins provides the evidence base for this policy brief. The findings highlight the need to balance further expansion of irrigated areas with improving the performance and sustainability of existing schemes. Priority actions include establishing a national irrigation performance monitoring and benchmarking system; targeting rehabilitation and modernization based on scheme performance and importance; strengthening operation and maintenance through improved service delivery and partnerships with youth enterprises and private providers; strengthening Water User Associations and irrigation-specific technical support; and scaling appropriate technologies, including solar-powered irrigation, efficient irrigation systems, water-control and measurement devices, and digital decision-support tools. Together, these measures can increase agricultural productivity and water-use efficiency while making irrigation services more reliable, sustainable, and inclusive. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Scaling for Impact

2026-08-21T00:00:00ZAyana, MekonenTiruneh, YibeltalKedir, YusufAbegaz, FentawMohammed, MulugetaTesfaye, HenokAwol, ElisaHaileslassie, AmareThis policy brief is the result of concerted efforts by the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR), Regional Research Systems, Regional Bureaus of Agriculture, the Ministry of Agriculture, IWMI, and members of the Agricultural Water Management Task Force coordinated by the Ministry of Agriculture. Despite continued expansion of irrigation in Ethiopia, many existing community- and household-managed schemes underperform, limiting the benefits of irrigation investments. Evidence from previous IWMI/CGIAR research and a nationwide EIAR assessment of 75 community-managed and 39 household-managed schemes across diverse agroecological zones and river basins provides the evidence base for this policy brief. The findings highlight the need to balance further expansion of irrigated areas with improving the performance and sustainability of existing schemes. Priority actions include establishing a national irrigation performance monitoring and benchmarking system; targeting rehabilitation and modernization based on scheme performance and importance; strengthening operation and maintenance through improved service delivery and partnerships with youth enterprises and private providers; strengthening Water User Associations and irrigation-specific technical support; and scaling appropriate technologies, including solar-powered irrigation, efficient irrigation systems, water-control and measurement devices, and digital decision-support tools. Together, these measures can increase agricultural productivity and water-use efficiency while making irrigation services more reliable, sustainable, and inclusive.Nicol, AlanAbalo, Jackie AkotNakiru, Lucky SarafinaThuo, Simonhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1850912026-08-22T01:01:26Z2026-08-21T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Policy Coherence for Water Security in the Karamoja–Turkana Complex Between Uganda and Kenya: Aligning Institutions, Incentives, and Investments for a Changing Drylands Region dc.contributor.author: Nicol, Alan; Abalo, Jackie Akot; Nakiru, Lucky Sarafina; Thuo, Simon

2026-08-21T00:00:00ZNicol, AlanAbalo, Jackie AkotNakiru, Lucky SarafinaThuo, SimonNicol, AlanAbalo, Jackie AkotNakiru, Lucky SarafinaThuo, Simonhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1850902026-08-22T01:05:57Z2026-08-21T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Policy Coherence for Water Security in the Karamoja–Turkana Complex between Uganda and Kenya: Aligning Institutions, Incentives, and Investments for a Changing Drylands Region dc.contributor.author: Nicol, Alan; Abalo, Jackie Akot; Nakiru, Lucky Sarafina; Thuo, Simon

2026-08-21T00:00:00ZNicol, AlanAbalo, Jackie AkotNakiru, Lucky SarafinaThuo, SimonBoon, Philip J.Ridley, Francesca A.Adhya, TiasaBaigún, ClaudioBöhm, MonikaHarrison, IanJähnig, Sonja C.Quintana, YasmínSimaika, Johnhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1850762026-08-22T01:10:40Z2026-08-19T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Evidence Charts the Future of Freshwater Biodiversity Conservation dc.contributor.author: Boon, Philip J.; Ridley, Francesca A.; Adhya, Tiasa; Baigún, Claudio; Böhm, Monika; Harrison, Ian; Jähnig, Sonja C.; Quintana, Yasmín; Simaika, John dcterms.abstract: Evidence is essential for promoting freshwater conservation and selecting appropriate conservation actions. This article examines the importance of evidence for freshwater conservation, available sources, how evidence is used, geographical coverage, and the challenges in obtaining evidence. Two databases containing published evidence, namely, Conservation Evidence (CE) and the Collaboration for Environmental Evidence (CEE), were systematically searched and evaluated. Evidence in CE is geographically skewed, with most studies coming from North America and Europe. The IUCN Red List requires evidence to assign species to threat categories, but is limited in its ability to track conservation success. IUCN Green Status can be used to assess the impact of conservation actions on species recovery, but suffers from some of the limitations of Red List assessments. Evidence is also required to select freshwater areas for protection, and for monitoring their condition over time, accompanied by an increasing recognition of the value of using evidence from Indigenous communities to support international agreements. Persistent barriers to the use of evidence for promoting freshwater conservation include weak baselines, short monitoring horizons, mismatched spatial scales, reliance on subjective opinion when analysing evidence, and under-reporting of failures. These and other barriers are addressed in several concluding recommendations. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Multifunctional Landscapes

2026-08-19T00:00:00ZBoon, Philip J.Ridley, Francesca A.Adhya, TiasaBaigún, ClaudioBöhm, MonikaHarrison, IanJähnig, Sonja C.Quintana, YasmínSimaika, JohnEvidence is essential for promoting freshwater conservation and selecting appropriate conservation actions. This article examines the importance of evidence for freshwater conservation, available sources, how evidence is used, geographical coverage, and the challenges in obtaining evidence. Two databases containing published evidence, namely, Conservation Evidence (CE) and the Collaboration for Environmental Evidence (CEE), were systematically searched and evaluated. Evidence in CE is geographically skewed, with most studies coming from North America and Europe. The IUCN Red List requires evidence to assign species to threat categories, but is limited in its ability to track conservation success. IUCN Green Status can be used to assess the impact of conservation actions on species recovery, but suffers from some of the limitations of Red List assessments. Evidence is also required to select freshwater areas for protection, and for monitoring their condition over time, accompanied by an increasing recognition of the value of using evidence from Indigenous communities to support international agreements. Persistent barriers to the use of evidence for promoting freshwater conservation include weak baselines, short monitoring horizons, mismatched spatial scales, reliance on subjective opinion when analysing evidence, and under-reporting of failures. These and other barriers are addressed in several concluding recommendations.Wamba, ElizabethMoges, AwdenegestMekuria, Woldehttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1850732026-08-20T10:43:49Z2026-08-14T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Trees for Halaba’s Land Restoration, Livelihoods and Legacy dc.contributor.author: Wamba, Elizabeth; Moges, Awdenegest; Mekuria, Wolde

2026-08-14T00:00:00ZWamba, ElizabethMoges, AwdenegestMekuria, WoldeSapkota, ReganNepal, SantoshShrestha, ShisherKarki, Darshanhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1850702026-08-21T01:06:18Z2026-03-20T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Diagnosing National and Sub -National Climate Finance in Nepal dc.contributor.author: Sapkota, Regan; Nepal, Santosh; Shrestha, Shisher; Karki, Darshan

2026-03-20T00:00:00ZSapkota, ReganNepal, SantoshShrestha, ShisherKarki, DarshanMekonnen, KirubelTadesse, MulugetaVelpuri, Naga ManoharAbdella, MohammedDessalegn, MengistuLeh, MansoorAkpoti, KomlaviOwusu, AfuaLikessa, AshenafiSeid, Abdulkarimhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1850592026-08-25T01:10:35Z2026-09-01T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Multi-Scale Assessment of Irrigation Water Use and Supply in the Amibara Irrigation Scheme, Ethiopia Using Landsat-Derived Evapotranspiration and Field Data dc.contributor.author: Mekonnen, Kirubel; Tadesse, Mulugeta; Velpuri, Naga Manohar; Abdella, Mohammed; Dessalegn, Mengistu; Leh, Mansoor; Akpoti, Komlavi; Owusu, Afua; Likessa, Ashenafi; Seid, Abdulkarim dcterms.abstract: Accurate estimation of irrigation water use and supply is essential for effective irrigation management, yet irrigation withdrawals remain largely unmetered and unreported in many schemes. This study applied a remote sensing–based approach to quantify irrigation water use and supply in the Amibara Irrigation Scheme, Ethiopia. The irrigation component of crop evapotranspiration (Blue ET) was partitioned from a high-resolution Landsat-based ETa product using the Water Accounting Plus (WA+) framework. Blue ET estimates were then integrated with irrigation efficiency parameters to derive remote sensing–based irrigation supply (RbIS) at block, canal and scheme scales. Crop type maps for 2010 and 2024 and a digitized irrigation layout provided the spatial basis for assessing irrigation performance using relative evapotranspiration (RET) and relative irrigation supply (RIS) metrics. Crop mapping revealed a substantial decline in the gravity-fed irrigated area from 9941 ha in 2010 to 4532 ha in 2024. RbIS showed reasonable agreement with reported irrigation supply in 2010 (R² = 0.58) and measured supply in 2024 (R² = 0.77), although supply was consistently underestimated. The extent of irrigation water deficits increased between 2010 and 2024, with the proportion of cotton blocks experiencing water deficits rising from 40% to 67%. Key informant interviews and focus group discussions corroborated the observed irrigation water deficits in 2024, supporting the remote sensing–based assessment. Moreover, RET and RIS revealed spatial variability in irrigation performance across irrigation canals, suggesting potential under and over-supply of irrigation. Overall, the proposed approach provides a scalable framework for assessing irrigation water use and supply in data-scarce irrigation schemes.

2026-09-01T00:00:00ZMekonnen, KirubelTadesse, MulugetaVelpuri, Naga ManoharAbdella, MohammedDessalegn, MengistuLeh, MansoorAkpoti, KomlaviOwusu, AfuaLikessa, AshenafiSeid, AbdulkarimAccurate estimation of irrigation water use and supply is essential for effective irrigation management, yet irrigation withdrawals remain largely unmetered and unreported in many schemes. This study applied a remote sensing–based approach to quantify irrigation water use and supply in the Amibara Irrigation Scheme, Ethiopia. The irrigation component of crop evapotranspiration (Blue ET) was partitioned from a high-resolution Landsat-based ETa product using the Water Accounting Plus (WA+) framework. Blue ET estimates were then integrated with irrigation efficiency parameters to derive remote sensing–based irrigation supply (RbIS) at block, canal and scheme scales. Crop type maps for 2010 and 2024 and a digitized irrigation layout provided the spatial basis for assessing irrigation performance using relative evapotranspiration (RET) and relative irrigation supply (RIS) metrics. Crop mapping revealed a substantial decline in the gravity-fed irrigated area from 9941 ha in 2010 to 4532 ha in 2024. RbIS showed reasonable agreement with reported irrigation supply in 2010 (R² = 0.58) and measured supply in 2024 (R² = 0.77), although supply was consistently underestimated. The extent of irrigation water deficits increased between 2010 and 2024, with the proportion of cotton blocks experiencing water deficits rising from 40% to 67%. Key informant interviews and focus group discussions corroborated the observed irrigation water deficits in 2024, supporting the remote sensing–based assessment. Moreover, RET and RIS revealed spatial variability in irrigation performance across irrigation canals, suggesting potential under and over-supply of irrigation. Overall, the proposed approach provides a scalable framework for assessing irrigation water use and supply in data-scarce irrigation schemes.Tafesse, YonasAdmasu, Zeleke BelayOke, AdebayoWamba, Elizabethhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1850572026-09-22T03:36:30Z2026-08-18T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Solar Irrigation Technology is Ready to Scale, but is the System? dc.contributor.author: Tafesse, Yonas; Admasu, Zeleke Belay; Oke, Adebayo; Wamba, Elizabeth dcterms.abstract: Innovative finance, partnerships and farmer support will determine Ethiopia and Nigeria’s solar irrigation future.

2026-08-18T00:00:00ZTafesse, YonasAdmasu, Zeleke BelayOke, AdebayoWamba, ElizabethInnovative finance, partnerships and farmer support will determine Ethiopia and Nigeria’s solar irrigation future.International Water Management Institutehttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1850542026-08-21T01:02:22Z2026-08-18T00:00:00Z

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

2026-08-18T00:00:00ZInternational Water Management InstituteMokria, MulugetaHagazi, NiguseHailemariam, GebrehiwotAbiyu, AbrhamMekuria, WoldeKassa, HabtemariamTadele, MalefiaGedle, AssefaMinang, Peterhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1850532026-09-23T14:55:00Z2026-10-01T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Impacts of Landscape Restoration and Long-Term Land Use Change on Ecosystem Services: Evidence from a Case Study in Ethiopia dc.contributor.author: Mokria, Mulugeta; Hagazi, Niguse; Hailemariam, Gebrehiwot; Abiyu, Abrham; Mekuria, Wolde; Kassa, Habtemariam; Tadele, Malefia; Gedle, Assefa; Minang, Peter dcterms.abstract: Land degradation threatens food security, water resources, and biodiversity by eroding soil health and productivity. In Ethiopia, restoration initiatives like exclosures are widely implemented, yet most studies fail to integrate plot-level ecological evidence with landscape-scale land use and land cover (LULC) dynamics. Furthermore, few studies combine these biophysical trends with long-term economic valuation of ecosystem services (ES) and local knowledge to quantify ES trade-offs. Using the Sire-Dodota district of Ethiopia, as a case study, we (i) evaluated the localized ecological performances of communal exclosures relative to LULC-driven ecosystem service (ES) changes, (ii) quantified spatial and temporal (22 years) LULC impacts on ecosystem service values (ESVs), and (iii) assessed community perceptions of restoration outcomes. We combined vegetation inventories, spatial analysis, household surveys, focus group discussions, and value transfer methods across plot and landscape scales. Our results reveal a clear socio-ecological paradox across scales. At the plot-scale, community-managed exclosures significantly enhanced biomass accumulation and biodiversity, establishing a robust empirical baseline for ecological recovery. At the landscape scale, however, LULC-based ESVs increased over 22 years, driven by gains of US$80.6 million from agricultural lands and US$1.3 million from forest lands, alongside a US$3.4 million decline in shrubland ESVs. These increases are potential values rather than realized ecosystem service flows, masking systemic losses in regulating and supporting services as short-term agricultural expansion dominates valuation outcomes. Social data from 393 households strongly corroborate these patterns. While communities consistently recognized localized ecological recovery, they favored agroforestry integration over static exclosures to offset high opportunity costs of restricted access. Together, these findings caution against reliance on uncontextualized macro-scale economic indicators and underscore the need for integrated, multifunctional landscape strategies that align ecological recovery with livelihood needs. We, therefore, recommend establishing a national, open-access ESV meta-database linked to Ethiopia's Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) targets, alongside future multi-decadal monitoring of below-ground carbon and soil biodiversity, and the cost-benefit performance of blended finance restoration models. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Multifunctional Landscapes

2026-10-01T00:00:00ZMokria, MulugetaHagazi, NiguseHailemariam, GebrehiwotAbiyu, AbrhamMekuria, WoldeKassa, HabtemariamTadele, MalefiaGedle, AssefaMinang, PeterLand degradation threatens food security, water resources, and biodiversity by eroding soil health and productivity. In Ethiopia, restoration initiatives like exclosures are widely implemented, yet most studies fail to integrate plot-level ecological evidence with landscape-scale land use and land cover (LULC) dynamics. Furthermore, few studies combine these biophysical trends with long-term economic valuation of ecosystem services (ES) and local knowledge to quantify ES trade-offs. Using the Sire-Dodota district of Ethiopia, as a case study, we (i) evaluated the localized ecological performances of communal exclosures relative to LULC-driven ecosystem service (ES) changes, (ii) quantified spatial and temporal (22 years) LULC impacts on ecosystem service values (ESVs), and (iii) assessed community perceptions of restoration outcomes. We combined vegetation inventories, spatial analysis, household surveys, focus group discussions, and value transfer methods across plot and landscape scales. Our results reveal a clear socio-ecological paradox across scales. At the plot-scale, community-managed exclosures significantly enhanced biomass accumulation and biodiversity, establishing a robust empirical baseline for ecological recovery. At the landscape scale, however, LULC-based ESVs increased over 22 years, driven by gains of US$80.6 million from agricultural lands and US$1.3 million from forest lands, alongside a US$3.4 million decline in shrubland ESVs. These increases are potential values rather than realized ecosystem service flows, masking systemic losses in regulating and supporting services as short-term agricultural expansion dominates valuation outcomes. Social data from 393 households strongly corroborate these patterns. While communities consistently recognized localized ecological recovery, they favored agroforestry integration over static exclosures to offset high opportunity costs of restricted access. Together, these findings caution against reliance on uncontextualized macro-scale economic indicators and underscore the need for integrated, multifunctional landscape strategies that align ecological recovery with livelihood needs. We, therefore, recommend establishing a national, open-access ESV meta-database linked to Ethiopia's Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) targets, alongside future multi-decadal monitoring of below-ground carbon and soil biodiversity, and the cost-benefit performance of blended finance restoration models.Bhaduri, TanmoyWamba, ElizabethSamarasekara, Vidhishahttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1850442026-08-19T10:41:52Z2026-08-16T00:00:00Z

dc.title: How South–South Learning Can Shape a Just Water Future dc.contributor.author: Bhaduri, Tanmoy; Wamba, Elizabeth; Samarasekara, Vidhisha

2026-08-16T00:00:00ZBhaduri, TanmoyWamba, ElizabethSamarasekara, VidhishaMondal, AnitWanasinghe, W. W. M. Apsara P. K.Roy, AparnaSathiskumar, AbinayaKarnatak, GunjanThangjam, NirupadaSamanta, SrikantaMaity, Suman KumarRoy, AmitavaTaron, Avinandanhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1850372026-08-20T01:11:18Z2026-08-19T00:00:00Z

dc.title: সু#রবেনর (ছাট ও মাঝাির পুক2ের (দশীয়(পানা ও (ছাট মাছ চােষর 9িশ:ণ সহািয়কা dc.contributor.author: Mondal, Anit; Wanasinghe, W. W. M. Apsara P. K.; Roy, Aparna; Sathiskumar, Abinaya; Karnatak, Gunjan; Thangjam, Nirupada; Samanta, Srikanta; Maity, Suman Kumar; Roy, Amitava; Taron, Avinandan dcterms.abstract: This training manual provides practical guidance for farmers on environmentally sustainable and economically viable pond-based fish farming, with a particular focus on integrating Small Indigenous Species (SIS) with carp polyculture. It explains the nutritional importance of SIS as a rich source of essential micronutrients and highlights their role in improving household food and nutrition security. The manual introduces the characteristics of commonly cultured SIS, the rationale for integrated fish farming, and the different types of ponds suitable for aquaculture. It presents step-by-step instructions on pond preparation, water quality management, fertilization, liming, natural food production, and biosecurity measures. Farmers are also guided on species selection, stocking density, fingerling transportation and stocking methods, feed and nutrient management, growth monitoring, pond maintenance, disease prevention and control, and flood protection. The manual concludes with recommendations on harvesting techniques and scheduling to maximize productivity and profitability. Designed as a practical resource, it aims to strengthen farmers' technical knowledge and promote sustainable aquaculture practices that enhance fish production, improve nutrition, diversify livelihoods, and increase resilience while minimizing environmental impacts. cg.contributor.initiative: One Health cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Sustainable Animal and Aquatic Foods

2026-08-19T00:00:00ZMondal, AnitWanasinghe, W. W. M. Apsara P. K.Roy, AparnaSathiskumar, AbinayaKarnatak, GunjanThangjam, NirupadaSamanta, SrikantaMaity, Suman KumarRoy, AmitavaTaron, AvinandanThis training manual provides practical guidance for farmers on environmentally sustainable and economically viable pond-based fish farming, with a particular focus on integrating Small Indigenous Species (SIS) with carp polyculture. It explains the nutritional importance of SIS as a rich source of essential micronutrients and highlights their role in improving household food and nutrition security. The manual introduces the characteristics of commonly cultured SIS, the rationale for integrated fish farming, and the different types of ponds suitable for aquaculture. It presents step-by-step instructions on pond preparation, water quality management, fertilization, liming, natural food production, and biosecurity measures. Farmers are also guided on species selection, stocking density, fingerling transportation and stocking methods, feed and nutrient management, growth monitoring, pond maintenance, disease prevention and control, and flood protection. The manual concludes with recommendations on harvesting techniques and scheduling to maximize productivity and profitability. Designed as a practical resource, it aims to strengthen farmers' technical knowledge and promote sustainable aquaculture practices that enhance fish production, improve nutrition, diversify livelihoods, and increase resilience while minimizing environmental impacts.Bhaduri, Tanmoyhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1849712026-08-14T06:10:27Z2026-08-12T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Data-Driven Decisions to Boost Women-Led Livestock Entrepreneurship in Assam dc.contributor.author: Bhaduri, Tanmoy

2026-08-12T00:00:00ZBhaduri, TanmoyBhattacharjee, SuchiradiptaNicol, AlanPadhi, Kumar RanjanIyer, Ruhilhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1849682026-08-14T04:56:25Z2026-08-10T00:00:00Z

dc.title: How AI Helped Capture Community Feedback on Water Systems dc.contributor.author: Bhattacharjee, Suchiradipta; Nicol, Alan; Padhi, Kumar Ranjan; Iyer, Ruhil cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations

2026-08-10T00:00:00ZBhattacharjee, SuchiradiptaNicol, AlanPadhi, Kumar RanjanIyer, RuhilBhattacharjee, SuchiradiptaNicol, AlanPapnoi, PankajKettle, Stewarthttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1849672026-08-14T04:06:45Z2026-08-07T00:00:00Z

dc.title: What Community Water Leaders Had to Say about Why They Continue to Volunteer dc.contributor.author: Bhattacharjee, Suchiradipta; Nicol, Alan; Papnoi, Pankaj; Kettle, Stewart cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations

2026-08-07T00:00:00ZBhattacharjee, SuchiradiptaNicol, AlanPapnoi, PankajKettle, StewartBhattacharjee, SuchiradiptaNicol, AlanKettle, Stewarthttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1849592026-08-13T10:49:17Z2026-08-05T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Why Water Governance Needs Better Community Feedback dc.contributor.author: Bhattacharjee, Suchiradipta; Nicol, Alan; Kettle, Stewart cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations

2026-08-05T00:00:00ZBhattacharjee, SuchiradiptaNicol, AlanKettle, StewartKhalifa, MuhammadMekonnen, KirubelMcTough, MitchellMatheswaran, KarthikeyanMunir, SarfrazVelpuri, Naga ManoharRuckstuhl, Sandrahttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1849582026-08-20T05:46:54Z2026-08-13T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Spatio-Temporal Analysis to Support Modelling and Mitigation of Anthropogenic Sand and Dust Storm Sources in Southern Iraq dc.contributor.author: Khalifa, Muhammad; Mekonnen, Kirubel; McTough, Mitchell; Matheswaran, Karthikeyan; Munir, Sarfraz; Velpuri, Naga Manohar; Ruckstuhl, Sandra dcterms.abstract: This technical report presents a spatio-temporal assessment of anthropogenic sand and dust storm sources across Al-Muthanna, Dhi Qar and Al-Qadisiyah governorates in southern Iraq. Using remote sensing, spatial analysis, and Water Accounting Plus (WA+), the assessment integrates water-accounting indicators with environmental and land-surface variables—including soil moisture, wind speed, bare-land cover, vegetation productivity, soil characteristics, drought, and water availability—to identify and characterize potential anthropogenic sand and dust storm source areas. Al-Muthanna emerges as the most extensive high-risk source area, with more than 60% of its land characterized by low soil moisture and high bare-soil exposure. In Dhi Qar and Al-Qadisiyah, hotspots occur within or near agricultural areas, indicating possible links to land abandonment and unsustainable cultivation. Persistent water deficits, vegetation loss, erodible soils and recurrent summer drought reinforce land degradation and dust generation. The report identifies opportunities for resilient nature-based water solutions, including soil-moisture conservation, vegetation restoration, improved irrigation and land management, rainwater harvesting and managed aquifer recharge. It recommends field validation, higher-resolution agricultural and hydrological data, and governorate-specific planning to guide targeted mitigation and landscape restoration.

2026-08-13T00:00:00ZKhalifa, MuhammadMekonnen, KirubelMcTough, MitchellMatheswaran, KarthikeyanMunir, SarfrazVelpuri, Naga ManoharRuckstuhl, SandraThis technical report presents a spatio-temporal assessment of anthropogenic sand and dust storm sources across Al-Muthanna, Dhi Qar and Al-Qadisiyah governorates in southern Iraq. Using remote sensing, spatial analysis, and Water Accounting Plus (WA+), the assessment integrates water-accounting indicators with environmental and land-surface variables—including soil moisture, wind speed, bare-land cover, vegetation productivity, soil characteristics, drought, and water availability—to identify and characterize potential anthropogenic sand and dust storm source areas. Al-Muthanna emerges as the most extensive high-risk source area, with more than 60% of its land characterized by low soil moisture and high bare-soil exposure. In Dhi Qar and Al-Qadisiyah, hotspots occur within or near agricultural areas, indicating possible links to land abandonment and unsustainable cultivation. Persistent water deficits, vegetation loss, erodible soils and recurrent summer drought reinforce land degradation and dust generation. The report identifies opportunities for resilient nature-based water solutions, including soil-moisture conservation, vegetation restoration, improved irrigation and land management, rainwater harvesting and managed aquifer recharge. It recommends field validation, higher-resolution agricultural and hydrological data, and governorate-specific planning to guide targeted mitigation and landscape restoration.Amarnath, GirirajSchmitter, Petra S.Fakhruddin, BaponAgrawal, AshishRavindranath, DarshiniHafeez, Mohsinhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1849562026-08-15T01:10:10Z2026-08-13T00:00:00Z

dc.title: The Drought Action Catalyst: A Country Platform for Anticipatory, Financed, Government-led Drought Resilience dc.contributor.author: Amarnath, Giriraj; Schmitter, Petra S.; Fakhruddin, Bapon; Agrawal, Ashish; Ravindranath, Darshini; Hafeez, Mohsin dcterms.abstract: Drought is a systemic economic risk, costing an estimated USD 307 billion annually and projected to affect 75% of the world's population by 2050—yet 88% of weather-related disaster finance still arrives after the damage is done, even though every dollar invested proactively can generate returns up to tenfold. This imbalance is not primarily a funding-volume problem but a market-formation failure: what most drought-prone countries lack is a pipeline of investable, governable propositions backed by triggers, risk profiles, and verification mechanisms that finance can commit against. The Drought Action Catalyst, launched by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) on behalf of CGIAR at UNCCD COP16, builds precisely this pipeline. More than a delivery mechanism, it is a programmatic climate-finance architecture—a country platform that converts NAP and NDC drought priorities into country-owned investment pipelines, uses concessional finance to derisk early action, and aligns with the country-platform models supported by the GCF and MDBs. Working inside national institutions through three pillars—monitoring and early warning; vulnerability and risk profiling; and preparedness and anticipatory action—it delivers mandated drought governance, risk-informed policy, financed early-action protocols, inclusive digital advisory systems, and trained national teams, with full transfer to national ownership by 2030. Its financing architecture realigns public capital toward anticipatory action while structuring four underutilized pools of non-public capital into an investment-ready pipeline. The Catalyst seeks USD 10 million in seed co-financing (2026–27) to confirm four to five pilot countries and deliver evidence for UNCCD COP17 and negotiations toward a global drought regime. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Climate Action

2026-08-13T00:00:00ZAmarnath, GirirajSchmitter, Petra S.Fakhruddin, BaponAgrawal, AshishRavindranath, DarshiniHafeez, MohsinDrought is a systemic economic risk, costing an estimated USD 307 billion annually and projected to affect 75% of the world's population by 2050—yet 88% of weather-related disaster finance still arrives after the damage is done, even though every dollar invested proactively can generate returns up to tenfold. This imbalance is not primarily a funding-volume problem but a market-formation failure: what most drought-prone countries lack is a pipeline of investable, governable propositions backed by triggers, risk profiles, and verification mechanisms that finance can commit against. The Drought Action Catalyst, launched by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) on behalf of CGIAR at UNCCD COP16, builds precisely this pipeline. More than a delivery mechanism, it is a programmatic climate-finance architecture—a country platform that converts NAP and NDC drought priorities into country-owned investment pipelines, uses concessional finance to derisk early action, and aligns with the country-platform models supported by the GCF and MDBs. Working inside national institutions through three pillars—monitoring and early warning; vulnerability and risk profiling; and preparedness and anticipatory action—it delivers mandated drought governance, risk-informed policy, financed early-action protocols, inclusive digital advisory systems, and trained national teams, with full transfer to national ownership by 2030. Its financing architecture realigns public capital toward anticipatory action while structuring four underutilized pools of non-public capital into an investment-ready pipeline. The Catalyst seeks USD 10 million in seed co-financing (2026–27) to confirm four to five pilot countries and deliver evidence for UNCCD COP17 and negotiations toward a global drought regime.International Water Management Institutehttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1849552026-08-14T01:02:06Z2026-08-13T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Positioning the Drought Action Catalyst for Drought Resilience: A Strategic Framework dc.contributor.author: International Water Management Institute dcterms.abstract: Drought is the only major natural hazard slow enough to be anticipated, yet the one for which the world remains least prepared. Costing an estimated USD 307 billion annually and projected to affect 80% of the global population by 2050, drought continues to be met with reactive spending—88% of weather-related disaster funding flows after the event—even though every dollar invested in preparedness can return up to tenfold. This Strategic Framework, developed by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) on behalf of CGIAR, positions the Drought Action Catalyst as the mechanism to close this gap. Introduced at UNCCD COP16 (Riyadh, December 2024), the Catalyst converts decades of proven science, digital innovation, and global partnership into government-led drought action through three interconnected pillars: monitoring and early warning; vulnerability and risk profiling; and preparedness and anticipatory action. The framework presents the Catalyst's rationale, capabilities, Theory of Change, operational model, investment approach, partnership landscape, and roadmap to 2030. Its foundation is the joint capability of IWMI and CGIAR Centers across all three pillars—combining IWMI's operational drought monitoring systems, such as SADMS and MENAdrought, with CGIAR's integrated expertise in agriculture, livestock, socioeconomics, and food systems. Digital innovations, notably the multilingual SukhaRakshak AI advisory system and decision-support dashboards, extend last-mile delivery to farmers. Deployment is demand-driven and locally led through codesigned National Drought Action Templates, with gender equality and social inclusion embedded throughout. Framed as a time-bound accelerator with an explicit exit strategy, the Catalyst aims to transfer full ownership to national institutions by 2030. The framework is addressed to governments, donors, and development partners considering participation or investment in this shared vision: a world where no community is caught unprepared by drought. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Climate Action

2026-08-13T00:00:00ZInternational Water Management InstituteDrought is the only major natural hazard slow enough to be anticipated, yet the one for which the world remains least prepared. Costing an estimated USD 307 billion annually and projected to affect 80% of the global population by 2050, drought continues to be met with reactive spending—88% of weather-related disaster funding flows after the event—even though every dollar invested in preparedness can return up to tenfold. This Strategic Framework, developed by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) on behalf of CGIAR, positions the Drought Action Catalyst as the mechanism to close this gap. Introduced at UNCCD COP16 (Riyadh, December 2024), the Catalyst converts decades of proven science, digital innovation, and global partnership into government-led drought action through three interconnected pillars: monitoring and early warning; vulnerability and risk profiling; and preparedness and anticipatory action. The framework presents the Catalyst's rationale, capabilities, Theory of Change, operational model, investment approach, partnership landscape, and roadmap to 2030. Its foundation is the joint capability of IWMI and CGIAR Centers across all three pillars—combining IWMI's operational drought monitoring systems, such as SADMS and MENAdrought, with CGIAR's integrated expertise in agriculture, livestock, socioeconomics, and food systems. Digital innovations, notably the multilingual SukhaRakshak AI advisory system and decision-support dashboards, extend last-mile delivery to farmers. Deployment is demand-driven and locally led through codesigned National Drought Action Templates, with gender equality and social inclusion embedded throughout. Framed as a time-bound accelerator with an explicit exit strategy, the Catalyst aims to transfer full ownership to national institutions by 2030. The framework is addressed to governments, donors, and development partners considering participation or investment in this shared vision: a world where no community is caught unprepared by drought.Mahapatra, SmaranikaAlam, Mohammad FaizRadhakrishna, ManikantaSikka, AlokPrasad, GokulAmarasinghe, Upali A.https://hdl.handle.net/10568/1847222026-09-17T01:00:20Z2026-08-11T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Groundwater Irrigation in India’s Rice-Wheat System: Quantifying the Energy-Carbon-Productivity Nexus and Decarbonization Pathways dc.contributor.author: Mahapatra, Smaranika; Alam, Mohammad Faiz; Radhakrishna, Manikanta; Sikka, Alok; Prasad, Gokul; Amarasinghe, Upali A. dcterms.abstract: Groundwater irrigation is central to India’s rice-wheat production system but carries significant energy and carbon costs, particularly in regions with intensive groundwater use and declining water tables. This technical brief quantifies district-level groundwater pumping, energy consumption, energy productivity, and associated CO₂ emissions for rice and wheat using data from 2018–2020. The analysis estimates that groundwater irrigation for these two crops consumes about 36.1 million MWh of energy annually and generates 20.6 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions. Wheat accounts for the larger share of both energy use and emissions related to groundwater pumping. Five states, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Haryana, account for 76% of national groundwater pumping energy use and emissions. The findings also reveal substantial regional variation in energy productivity, reflecting differences in groundwater depth, crop yields, irrigation requirements, and pump types. The brief highlights that a one-size-fits-all mitigation strategy is unlikely to be effective. Instead, context- and site-specific pathways that combine irrigation efficiency, improved pump performance, crop diversification, and decarbonization of irrigation energy are crucial. An example scenario for Uttar Pradesh demonstrates that improving irrigation and pump efficiency can substantially reduce energy use and emissions, while strategic solarization under PM-KUSUM can further reduce dependence on diesel and grid electricity, assuming unchanged cropping area, cropping pattern, and irrigation behaviour. Together, the above-mentioned measures, strategically placed and tailored to local contexts, can support efforts to enhance energy productivity, reduce energy intensity and emissions, and improve energy reliability in India. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations

2026-08-11T00:00:00ZMahapatra, SmaranikaAlam, Mohammad FaizRadhakrishna, ManikantaSikka, AlokPrasad, GokulAmarasinghe, Upali A.Groundwater irrigation is central to India’s rice-wheat production system but carries significant energy and carbon costs, particularly in regions with intensive groundwater use and declining water tables. This technical brief quantifies district-level groundwater pumping, energy consumption, energy productivity, and associated CO₂ emissions for rice and wheat using data from 2018–2020. The analysis estimates that groundwater irrigation for these two crops consumes about 36.1 million MWh of energy annually and generates 20.6 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions. Wheat accounts for the larger share of both energy use and emissions related to groundwater pumping. Five states, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Haryana, account for 76% of national groundwater pumping energy use and emissions. The findings also reveal substantial regional variation in energy productivity, reflecting differences in groundwater depth, crop yields, irrigation requirements, and pump types. The brief highlights that a one-size-fits-all mitigation strategy is unlikely to be effective. Instead, context- and site-specific pathways that combine irrigation efficiency, improved pump performance, crop diversification, and decarbonization of irrigation energy are crucial. An example scenario for Uttar Pradesh demonstrates that improving irrigation and pump efficiency can substantially reduce energy use and emissions, while strategic solarization under PM-KUSUM can further reduce dependence on diesel and grid electricity, assuming unchanged cropping area, cropping pattern, and irrigation behaviour. Together, the above-mentioned measures, strategically placed and tailored to local contexts, can support efforts to enhance energy productivity, reduce energy intensity and emissions, and improve energy reliability in India.Osei-Amponsah, CharityOke, Adebayohttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1847152026-08-14T08:21:15Z2026-06-05T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Where Irrigation Dialogue Becomes Action dc.contributor.author: Osei-Amponsah, Charity; Oke, Adebayo cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Scaling for Impact

2026-06-05T00:00:00ZOsei-Amponsah, CharityOke, AdebayoMupangwa, WalterWalker, S.Tesfuhuney, W.Smith, H.Zaman-Allah, Mainassarahttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1847122026-08-11T08:12:07Z2026-05-21T00:00:00Z

dc.title: The Micrometeorology of Conservation Agriculture Cropping Systems dc.contributor.author: Mupangwa, Walter; Walker, S.; Tesfuhuney, W.; Smith, H.; Zaman-Allah, Mainassara dcterms.abstract: Conservation agriculture (CA) is widely recognized as a climate-smart practice for strengthening the adaptative capacity and resilience of farming systems in the face of climate variability. A key pathway through which CA contributes to resilience lies in its regulation of micrometeorological variables, such as temperature, humidity, and wind, within cropping systems and plant canopies. These factors are intricately linked to crop development, influencing biomass accumulation and interacting with localized atmospheric dynamics throughout the growing season. CA systems offer distinct advantages over conventional tillage by conserving soil moisture, which becomes vital during dry periods. The moderated evaporation of water from the soil surface contributes to maintaining elevated humidity levels within the canopy, thus buffering plants against moisture stress. Furthermore, higher soil water contents under CA moderate heat exchange between the soil and the atmosphere, leading to more stable and favourable canopy temperatures. CA also promotes optimal crop stand density, which improves the interception of solar radiation and stabilizes the transfer of heat and moisture within the crop canopy. This canopy structure tempers with wind flow, creating more uniform conditions that support photosynthesis and enhance productivity. On a broader scale, CA contributes to climate mitigation efforts through greater carbon sequestration compared to conventional systems. These combined effects underscore CA’s ability to create a microclimate that supports both crop performance and environmental sustainability. This review synthesizes current evidence on these micrometeorological benefits of conservation agriculture over conventional systems. The objective of the review was to assess the effect of CA practices on micrometeorological variables (air and soil temperature, soil moisture, humidity, sunlight, greenhouse gas fluxes) in soil environment and within crop canopy. Such evidence can inform the scaling of CA practices in efforts to build climate-resilient agricultural landscapes. Furthermore, the review information contributes towards effective microclimate monitoring and the development of appropriate climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Multifunctional Landscapes

2026-05-21T00:00:00ZMupangwa, WalterWalker, S.Tesfuhuney, W.Smith, H.Zaman-Allah, MainassaraConservation agriculture (CA) is widely recognized as a climate-smart practice for strengthening the adaptative capacity and resilience of farming systems in the face of climate variability. A key pathway through which CA contributes to resilience lies in its regulation of micrometeorological variables, such as temperature, humidity, and wind, within cropping systems and plant canopies. These factors are intricately linked to crop development, influencing biomass accumulation and interacting with localized atmospheric dynamics throughout the growing season. CA systems offer distinct advantages over conventional tillage by conserving soil moisture, which becomes vital during dry periods. The moderated evaporation of water from the soil surface contributes to maintaining elevated humidity levels within the canopy, thus buffering plants against moisture stress. Furthermore, higher soil water contents under CA moderate heat exchange between the soil and the atmosphere, leading to more stable and favourable canopy temperatures. CA also promotes optimal crop stand density, which improves the interception of solar radiation and stabilizes the transfer of heat and moisture within the crop canopy. This canopy structure tempers with wind flow, creating more uniform conditions that support photosynthesis and enhance productivity. On a broader scale, CA contributes to climate mitigation efforts through greater carbon sequestration compared to conventional systems. These combined effects underscore CA’s ability to create a microclimate that supports both crop performance and environmental sustainability. This review synthesizes current evidence on these micrometeorological benefits of conservation agriculture over conventional systems. The objective of the review was to assess the effect of CA practices on micrometeorological variables (air and soil temperature, soil moisture, humidity, sunlight, greenhouse gas fluxes) in soil environment and within crop canopy. Such evidence can inform the scaling of CA practices in efforts to build climate-resilient agricultural landscapes. Furthermore, the review information contributes towards effective microclimate monitoring and the development of appropriate climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies.Nigussie, LikimyeleshEnokenwa Baa, OjongetakahNortje, Karenhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1846962026-08-14T05:40:12Z2026-08-10T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Intersecting Barriers, Uneven Gains: Analysis of Ethiopia’s Enterprise Environment for Women and Youth dc.contributor.author: Nigussie, Likimyelesh; Enokenwa Baa, Ojongetakah; Nortje, Karen dcterms.abstract: This review examines how Ethiopia’s enabling environment shapes women’s and youth’s enterprise inclusion and what this means for responsible scaling across three Scaling for Impact (S4I) Area of Work2 solution-track delivery systems. In this report, enterprise environment refers to the formal and informal enabling conditions that shape enterprise entry, formalization, operation, adaptation, growth, resilience, and benefit control. The review examines barriers across policy and regulation, financial-market access, market coordination, institutional capacity, Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI), and climate-finance. It uses Solar Powered Irrigation System (SPIS), agro-advisory, and forage-feed pathways as analytical design-testing areas for assessing delivery-system usability, inclusion risks, and enterprise outcomes. The review uses a scoping approach with systematic elements, an Ethiopia-only analytical scope, and a mixed evidence base combining screened academic literature with separately reviewed policy, strategy, roadmap, and grey-literature documents. It applies GESI, intersectionality, feminist political economy, and enterprise lifecycle lenses to examine not only which barriers exist, but how they operate, whom they affect, and how they shape enterprise entry, formalization, operation, adaptation, growth, resilience, and benefit control. The central finding is that barriers to enterprise development in Ethiopia are interconnected and mutually reinforcing rather than discrete. These barriers include regulatory requirements, collateral constraints, weak institutional support, fragmented market coordination, GESI-related constraints, and climate-finance barriers that require cautious interpretation because the evidence on eligibility, transaction costs, instruments, scale, and long-term enterprise outcomes remains limited. These interactions are especially consequential for differently positioned women and youth whose access to assets, information, mobility, time, institutional support, and decision-making power is uneven. For S4I, these barriers matter because scaling may expand reach while reproducing unequal access, weak agency, unmanaged labour and risk burdens, limited voice, and uneven control over benefits. In SPIS, these barriers shape access to finance, technology, water, suppliers, services, and irrigation markets. In agro-advisory scaling, they affect whether content, channels, language, timing, feedback, and service linkages become actionable. In forage-feed innovations, they shape access to livestock assets, training, labour arrangements, cooperative support, markets, and control over benefits. Evidence is not equally direct across the three pathways: SPIS is the relatively stronger evidence-informed design-testing area, while agro-advisory and forage-feed implications are supported more indirectly and should be treated as design considerations requiring further testing. The report therefore recommends using solution-track-specific screening criteria before expansion, so that S4I decisions are based on credible evidence of inclusive access, sustained use, manageable labour and risk, agency, and benefit control rather than reach or adoption alone. Evidence is strongest for policy and regulation, financial-market access, institutional capacity, and GESI, but weaker for climate-finance, long-term reform outcomes, and some solution-track-specific effects. Consequently, the three pathways should be treated as design-testing areas, not as already validated inclusive-scaling models. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Scaling for Impact

2026-08-10T00:00:00ZNigussie, LikimyeleshEnokenwa Baa, OjongetakahNortje, KarenThis review examines how Ethiopia’s enabling environment shapes women’s and youth’s enterprise inclusion and what this means for responsible scaling across three Scaling for Impact (S4I) Area of Work2 solution-track delivery systems. In this report, enterprise environment refers to the formal and informal enabling conditions that shape enterprise entry, formalization, operation, adaptation, growth, resilience, and benefit control. The review examines barriers across policy and regulation, financial-market access, market coordination, institutional capacity, Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI), and climate-finance. It uses Solar Powered Irrigation System (SPIS), agro-advisory, and forage-feed pathways as analytical design-testing areas for assessing delivery-system usability, inclusion risks, and enterprise outcomes. The review uses a scoping approach with systematic elements, an Ethiopia-only analytical scope, and a mixed evidence base combining screened academic literature with separately reviewed policy, strategy, roadmap, and grey-literature documents. It applies GESI, intersectionality, feminist political economy, and enterprise lifecycle lenses to examine not only which barriers exist, but how they operate, whom they affect, and how they shape enterprise entry, formalization, operation, adaptation, growth, resilience, and benefit control. The central finding is that barriers to enterprise development in Ethiopia are interconnected and mutually reinforcing rather than discrete. These barriers include regulatory requirements, collateral constraints, weak institutional support, fragmented market coordination, GESI-related constraints, and climate-finance barriers that require cautious interpretation because the evidence on eligibility, transaction costs, instruments, scale, and long-term enterprise outcomes remains limited. These interactions are especially consequential for differently positioned women and youth whose access to assets, information, mobility, time, institutional support, and decision-making power is uneven. For S4I, these barriers matter because scaling may expand reach while reproducing unequal access, weak agency, unmanaged labour and risk burdens, limited voice, and uneven control over benefits. In SPIS, these barriers shape access to finance, technology, water, suppliers, services, and irrigation markets. In agro-advisory scaling, they affect whether content, channels, language, timing, feedback, and service linkages become actionable. In forage-feed innovations, they shape access to livestock assets, training, labour arrangements, cooperative support, markets, and control over benefits. Evidence is not equally direct across the three pathways: SPIS is the relatively stronger evidence-informed design-testing area, while agro-advisory and forage-feed implications are supported more indirectly and should be treated as design considerations requiring further testing. The report therefore recommends using solution-track-specific screening criteria before expansion, so that S4I decisions are based on credible evidence of inclusive access, sustained use, manageable labour and risk, agency, and benefit control rather than reach or adoption alone. Evidence is strongest for policy and regulation, financial-market access, institutional capacity, and GESI, but weaker for climate-finance, long-term reform outcomes, and some solution-track-specific effects. Consequently, the three pathways should be treated as design-testing areas, not as already validated inclusive-scaling models.Pandey, Niteesh KumarAlkhatib, Alaa Eddin AlhmeidiSimon, MonikaVishwakarma, Rajesh KumarKumar, JagdeeshSrikanth, V.Sen, SumitJoshi, HimanshuYadav, ShwetaMateo-Sagasta, JavierJampani, MaheshSikka, AlokHazra, Saugatahttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1846822026-08-07T16:19:38Z2026-08-01T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Role of Urban Discharges in Regulating the Dynamics of River Water Quality to Antibiotic Resistance in Subtropical River Basins dc.contributor.author: Pandey, Niteesh Kumar; Alkhatib, Alaa Eddin Alhmeidi; Simon, Monika; Vishwakarma, Rajesh Kumar; Kumar, Jagdeesh; Srikanth, V.; Sen, Sumit; Joshi, Himanshu; Yadav, Shweta; Mateo-Sagasta, Javier; Jampani, Mahesh; Sikka, Alok; Hazra, Saugata dcterms.abstract: Point-sources of pollution, especially in heavily urbanized regions in developing countries, play a decisive role in determining health of rivers passing through them, as they introduce biological and chemical pollutants. In this study, an attempt was made to assess the role of point sources on the health of rivers (Bindal and Rispana) passing through a heavily urbanized region in a typical sub-tropical basin of Song River, Uttarakhand, India. Water samples from the observed point sources, viz., outflows from urban drains and effluents of Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) falling into the rivers, were collected and analyzed. An upstream river site (unpolluted headwater) was considered as the reference point, while a midstream site and two downstream sites were considered as impacted sites. This study comprised collection of 57 water samples, including 24 from urban drains, 21 from STP effluents, and 12 from the rivers, collected over three seasons (Winter, Summer and Monsoon) in 2024. Drain samples exhibited the highest microbial contamination, with culturable bacterial loads reached up to 4Log 10 cfu/mL, along with the highest antibiotic-resistant bacterial load and the highest diversity of (121 unique) antibiotics. Microbial community profiling revealed the highest genera richness (1044 genera) in drain samples, predominantly Escherichia and Pseudomonas. Elevated heavy metal concentrations, particularly Zn, Cd, and Pb, accompanied by increased abundance of putative antibiotic resistance genes. The findings underscored the distribution of pollutants from point sources, contributing as a major source of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, heavy metals and various antibiotics advocating refined surveillance and management strategies in the urban settings. cg.contributor.initiative: One Health cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Sustainable Animal and Aquatic Foods

2026-08-01T00:00:00ZPandey, Niteesh KumarAlkhatib, Alaa Eddin AlhmeidiSimon, MonikaVishwakarma, Rajesh KumarKumar, JagdeeshSrikanth, V.Sen, SumitJoshi, HimanshuYadav, ShwetaMateo-Sagasta, JavierJampani, MaheshSikka, AlokHazra, SaugataPoint-sources of pollution, especially in heavily urbanized regions in developing countries, play a decisive role in determining health of rivers passing through them, as they introduce biological and chemical pollutants. In this study, an attempt was made to assess the role of point sources on the health of rivers (Bindal and Rispana) passing through a heavily urbanized region in a typical sub-tropical basin of Song River, Uttarakhand, India. Water samples from the observed point sources, viz., outflows from urban drains and effluents of Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) falling into the rivers, were collected and analyzed. An upstream river site (unpolluted headwater) was considered as the reference point, while a midstream site and two downstream sites were considered as impacted sites. This study comprised collection of 57 water samples, including 24 from urban drains, 21 from STP effluents, and 12 from the rivers, collected over three seasons (Winter, Summer and Monsoon) in 2024. Drain samples exhibited the highest microbial contamination, with culturable bacterial loads reached up to 4Log 10 cfu/mL, along with the highest antibiotic-resistant bacterial load and the highest diversity of (121 unique) antibiotics. Microbial community profiling revealed the highest genera richness (1044 genera) in drain samples, predominantly Escherichia and Pseudomonas. Elevated heavy metal concentrations, particularly Zn, Cd, and Pb, accompanied by increased abundance of putative antibiotic resistance genes. The findings underscored the distribution of pollutants from point sources, contributing as a major source of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, heavy metals and various antibiotics advocating refined surveillance and management strategies in the urban settings.Kasoma-Pele, WinnieEnokenwa Baa, OjongetakahMabele, ThatoChoruma, Dennis Juniorhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1846492026-08-07T05:52:53Z2026-08-06T00:00:00Z

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/10568/1846002026-08-18T01:05:06Z2026-07-31T00:00:00Z

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/10568/1845692026-08-18T01:09:14Z2026-07-31T00:00:00Z

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.Jennings, StewartChallinor, Andrew J.Macdiarmid, Jennie I.King, RichardPope, EdwardWhitfield, StephenSarku, RebeccaChomba, ChristianNawiko, MasiyeNkanyani, Shiluva ChaukeHorgan, GrahamHellin, JonNg’endo, MaryFisher, EleanorYou, LiangzhiTimu, Anne G.Pacillo, GraziaCaroli, GiuliaBelli, AnnaChilambe, Pedro AnglazeGirvetz, Evan H.Rose, SabrinaAmarnath, GirirajKennedy-Asser, AlanRigby, RichardLoboguerrero, Ana Mariahttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1840392026-08-26T14:35:51Z2026-08-01T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Adaptive policies balancing trade, productivity and cropland increases can support Zambia's nutrition security under future climate shocks dc.contributor.author: Jennings, Stewart; Challinor, Andrew J.; Macdiarmid, Jennie I.; King, Richard; Pope, Edward; Whitfield, Stephen; Sarku, Rebecca; Chomba, Christian; Nawiko, Masiye; Nkanyani, Shiluva Chauke; Horgan, Graham; Hellin, Jon; Ng’endo, Mary; Fisher, Eleanor; You, Liangzhi; Timu, Anne G.; Pacillo, Grazia; Caroli, Giulia; Belli, Anna; Chilambe, Pedro Anglaze; Girvetz, Evan H.; Rose, Sabrina; Amarnath, Giriraj; Kennedy-Asser, Alan; Rigby, Richard; Loboguerrero, Ana Maria dcterms.abstract: Policies in sub-Saharan Africa are constrained by a limited knowledge of climate change extremes and a focus on agricultural production rather than nutrition supply. Here we model the impacts of future extremes on national-level calorie and nutrient supply in Zambia for production and nutrition focused policy scenarios. We identify the specific cropland, yield and import increases required to achieve climate-resilient nutrition security and highlight policy options. cg.contributor.initiative: Climate Resilience cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Climate Action

2026-08-01T00:00:00ZJennings, StewartChallinor, Andrew J.Macdiarmid, Jennie I.King, RichardPope, EdwardWhitfield, StephenSarku, RebeccaChomba, ChristianNawiko, MasiyeNkanyani, Shiluva ChaukeHorgan, GrahamHellin, JonNg’endo, MaryFisher, EleanorYou, LiangzhiTimu, Anne G.Pacillo, GraziaCaroli, GiuliaBelli, AnnaChilambe, Pedro AnglazeGirvetz, Evan H.Rose, SabrinaAmarnath, GirirajKennedy-Asser, AlanRigby, RichardLoboguerrero, Ana MariaPolicies in sub-Saharan Africa are constrained by a limited knowledge of climate change extremes and a focus on agricultural production rather than nutrition supply. Here we model the impacts of future extremes on national-level calorie and nutrient supply in Zambia for production and nutrition focused policy scenarios. We identify the specific cropland, yield and import increases required to achieve climate-resilient nutrition security and highlight policy options.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, TanmoyIruhiriye, Elysevan den Bold, MaraAheeyar, MohamedAngeles-Agdeppa, ImeldaHoundoloa-Mitchodigni, IreneMwombeki, WistonThow, Anne-MarieOlney, Deanna K.https://hdl.handle.net/10568/1839752026-08-14T13:13:13Z2026-07-01T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Integrating stakeholder engagement in food system research programs: Stakeholder experiences dc.contributor.author: Iruhiriye, Elyse; van den Bold, Mara; Aheeyar, Mohamed; Angeles-Agdeppa, Imelda; Houndoloa-Mitchodigni, Irene; Mwombeki, Wiston; Thow, Anne-Marie; Olney, Deanna K. dcterms.abstract: Objectives: We aimed to understand stakeholder experiences participating in FRESH – a food-systems, participatory, action-oriented research initiative (2022–2024) aiming to increase fruit and vegetable intake using an end-to-end (ETE) approach (demand, supply, food environment and enabling environment). cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Better Diets and Nutrition

2026-07-01T00:00:00ZIruhiriye, Elysevan den Bold, MaraAheeyar, MohamedAngeles-Agdeppa, ImeldaHoundoloa-Mitchodigni, IreneMwombeki, WistonThow, Anne-MarieOlney, Deanna K.Objectives: We aimed to understand stakeholder experiences participating in FRESH – a food-systems, participatory, action-oriented research initiative (2022–2024) aiming to increase fruit and vegetable intake using an end-to-end (ETE) approach (demand, supply, food environment and enabling environment).Shrestha, 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/10568/1839262026-08-11T01:04:58Z2026-09-01T00:00:00Z

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.Holmatov, BunyodNehring, Ryanhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1838982026-07-22T18:41:52Z2026-07-22T00:00:00Z

dc.title: From agreements to action: Practical tools for strengthening transboundary water cooperation dc.contributor.author: Holmatov, Bunyod; Nehring, Ryan dcterms.abstract: Key takeaways Addressing small bottlenecks in managing transboundary water resources is key to realizing the broad goals elaborated in formal agreements. Rapid assessments help identify realistic solutions. A case in Central Asia found strong day-to-day cooperation but outdated rules, unclear responsibilities, and limited stakeholder engagement. Inclusive institutions make water governance more resilient. Multistakeholder platforms help build trust, improve decision-making, and support long-term cooperation. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations

2026-07-22T00:00:00ZHolmatov, BunyodNehring, RyanKey takeaways Addressing small bottlenecks in managing transboundary water resources is key to realizing the broad goals elaborated in formal agreements. Rapid assessments help identify realistic solutions. A case in Central Asia found strong day-to-day cooperation but outdated rules, unclear responsibilities, and limited stakeholder engagement. Inclusive institutions make water governance more resilient. Multistakeholder platforms help build trust, improve decision-making, and support long-term cooperation.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/10568/1838232026-08-18T01:02:53Z2026-05-07T00:00:00Z

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/10568/1837962026-08-18T01:02:13Z2026-08-01T00:00:00Z

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/10568/1837482026-08-11T01:05:05Z2026-07-01T00:00:00Z

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/10568/1837262026-08-11T01:05:53Z2026-09-01T00:00:00Z

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/10568/1837192026-08-18T01:09:47Z2026-05-01T00:00:00Z

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/10568/1837002026-08-11T01:08:25Z2026-09-01T00:00:00Z

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/10568/1836732026-08-15T01:07:25Z2026-04-21T00:00:00Z

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/10568/1836712026-08-15T01:00:16Z2026-06-01T00:00:00Z

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/10568/1836552026-08-08T01:02:05Z2026-07-06T00:00:00Z

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/10568/1836402026-08-11T01:02:52Z2026-07-01T00:00:00Z

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/10568/1836082026-08-19T01:02:53Z2026-08-01T00:00:00Z

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.