No Descriptionhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/16814https://cgspace.cgiar.org/bitstreams/0c83f982-17ee-437e-8ae9-c09536c5a3d3/download2026-07-28T03:24:30Z2026-07-28T03:24:30Z100101911Shrestha, ShisherKarki, Darshanhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1839502026-07-27T08:48:03Z2026-07-21T00:00:00Z

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2026-07-14T00:00:00ZPalay, IsisFragaszy, StephenStifel, ElizabethGharaibeh, SawsanKoyratty, NadiaAheeyar, MohamedHewajulige, Ilmi G. N.Tan, Daniel K. Y.Quabili, WahidZagré, Rock RomaricOlney, Deanna K.Cunningham, KendaKumar, Nehahttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1837402026-07-21T13:46:16Z2026-07-13T00:00:00Z

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2026-06-25T00:00:00ZBhaduri, TanmoyVerma, Shilphttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1835622026-06-30T09:53:15Z2024-08-03T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Solar pumps as instruments for groundwater governance: A policy proposal for Punjab. dc.contributor.author: Verma, Shilp dcterms.abstract: With declining costs and attractive government subsidies, solar irrigation pumps have become an attractive proposition for farmers, especially in areas where farm power supply is unavailable or unreliable. However, few farmers are replacing grid-connected pumps with solar pumps. Of the 350,000 solar irrigation pumps deployed in India, less than 5,000 are grid-connected – about 4,200 in Gujarat’s Suryashakti Kisan Yojana, 300 in Karnataka’s Surya Raitha pilot and 200 in Andhra Pradesh’s BLDC pilot. Drawing on experience of grid-connected solar farmers in Gujarat, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, this paper argues that smartly designed programs for grid-connected solar irrigation pumps can be a ‘Nexus Solution’ that can help states effectively co-manage energy, water, and agriculture. The authors propose a ‘farm top solar scheme’ for Punjab that can: eliminate perverse farm power subsidies, incentivise efficient use of energy and groundwater, increase farmers’ income; and become the fulcrum of Punjab’s Groundwater Governance strategy.

2024-08-03T00:00:00ZVerma, ShilpWith declining costs and attractive government subsidies, solar irrigation pumps have become an attractive proposition for farmers, especially in areas where farm power supply is unavailable or unreliable. However, few farmers are replacing grid-connected pumps with solar pumps. Of the 350,000 solar irrigation pumps deployed in India, less than 5,000 are grid-connected – about 4,200 in Gujarat’s Suryashakti Kisan Yojana, 300 in Karnataka’s Surya Raitha pilot and 200 in Andhra Pradesh’s BLDC pilot. Drawing on experience of grid-connected solar farmers in Gujarat, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, this paper argues that smartly designed programs for grid-connected solar irrigation pumps can be a ‘Nexus Solution’ that can help states effectively co-manage energy, water, and agriculture. The authors propose a ‘farm top solar scheme’ for Punjab that can: eliminate perverse farm power subsidies, incentivise efficient use of energy and groundwater, increase farmers’ income; and become the fulcrum of Punjab’s Groundwater Governance strategy.Tegegne, DesalegnSieber, StefanUcker, GoetzGirma, RedietHaileslassie, AmareMekuria, Woldehttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1835362026-07-01T05:05:22Z2026-09-16T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Integrating Solar-Based Irrigation and Vermicompost Using Living-Lab Approach: Effects on Yield, Soil, and Livelihoods, Ethiopia dc.contributor.author: Tegegne, Desalegn; Sieber, Stefan; Ucker, Goetz; Girma, Rediet; Haileslassie, Amare; Mekuria, Wolde dcterms.abstract: This study in Ethiopia’s Rift Valley used field experiments and key informant interviews to evaluate (i) the combined effects of solar-based irrigation and soil fertility management on yield and soil moisture dynamics, and (ii) farmers’ perceptions of solar-based irrigation’s contributions to livelihoods and environmental sustainability. The participatory on-farm trial used cabbage and pepper as test crops and employed a randomised complete block design with three treatments: (i) Control/Treatment 1 - solar-based irrigation with farmers’ current practices; (ii) Treatment 2-solar-based irrigation plus farmers’ practices and 4 t ha−1 of vermicompost; and (iii) Treatment 3-solar-based irrigation plus farmers’ practices and 8 t ha−1 of vermicompost. The study shows that integrating solar-based irrigation with vermicompost significantly increased crop yield and volumetric soil moisture content across sites. Financial analysis also indicates that the yield gains from this bundling technology were economically viable, with a benefit-cost ratio ranging from 0.38 to 2.46. Farmers reported that solar-based irrigation enabled livelihood diversification by expanding irrigated land, increasing harvest frequency, and supporting a shift from staple cereals to vegetables, fruits, and fodder crops. These changes strengthened household income, food security, and nutrition, while also improving dry-season feed availability. The adoption of solar-based irrigation generated environmental co-benefits, including tree planting, biodiversity-supportive practices, and improved ecosystem services. However, biodiversity efforts largely focused on economically valuable species, indicating the need for broader conservation strategies. Findings underscore that solar-based irrigation delivers the greatest benefits when integrated with soil fertility management practices, highlighting that scaling efforts should prioritise bundled interventions to maximise agronomic, economic, and livelihood impacts in Ethiopia and similar agro-ecological contexts. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Scaling for Impact; Food Frontiers and Security

2026-09-16T00:00:00ZTegegne, DesalegnSieber, StefanUcker, GoetzGirma, RedietHaileslassie, AmareMekuria, WoldeThis study in Ethiopia’s Rift Valley used field experiments and key informant interviews to evaluate (i) the combined effects of solar-based irrigation and soil fertility management on yield and soil moisture dynamics, and (ii) farmers’ perceptions of solar-based irrigation’s contributions to livelihoods and environmental sustainability. The participatory on-farm trial used cabbage and pepper as test crops and employed a randomised complete block design with three treatments: (i) Control/Treatment 1 - solar-based irrigation with farmers’ current practices; (ii) Treatment 2-solar-based irrigation plus farmers’ practices and 4 t ha−1 of vermicompost; and (iii) Treatment 3-solar-based irrigation plus farmers’ practices and 8 t ha−1 of vermicompost. The study shows that integrating solar-based irrigation with vermicompost significantly increased crop yield and volumetric soil moisture content across sites. Financial analysis also indicates that the yield gains from this bundling technology were economically viable, with a benefit-cost ratio ranging from 0.38 to 2.46. Farmers reported that solar-based irrigation enabled livelihood diversification by expanding irrigated land, increasing harvest frequency, and supporting a shift from staple cereals to vegetables, fruits, and fodder crops. These changes strengthened household income, food security, and nutrition, while also improving dry-season feed availability. The adoption of solar-based irrigation generated environmental co-benefits, including tree planting, biodiversity-supportive practices, and improved ecosystem services. However, biodiversity efforts largely focused on economically valuable species, indicating the need for broader conservation strategies. Findings underscore that solar-based irrigation delivers the greatest benefits when integrated with soil fertility management practices, highlighting that scaling efforts should prioritise bundled interventions to maximise agronomic, economic, and livelihood impacts in Ethiopia and similar agro-ecological contexts.Tegegne, DesalegnSieber, StefanUckert, GoetzGirma, RedietMoges, AwdenegestMekuria, Woldehttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1835242026-06-27T16:05:51Z2026-12-01T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Using Local Knowledge and Scientific Assessment for Inclusive Land Restoration in Halaba, Central Ethiopia dc.contributor.author: Tegegne, Desalegn; Sieber, Stefan; Uckert, Goetz; Girma, Rediet; Moges, Awdenegest; Mekuria, Wolde dcterms.abstract: This study used Halaba, Ethiopia, as a case study and employed a mixed approach to examine societal challenges and evaluate the benefits of adopting sustainable land management (SLM) practices. Qualitative data analysis applied the drivers-pressures-state-impact-responses framework to capture farmers’ perspectives on land degradation and restoration, while quantitative analysis assessed land use and land cover and land degradation neutrality trends, as well as the resulting changes in ecosystem service values (ESVs). The results revealed significant variations in resource access and land use needs among the different groups, shaped by gender, wealth, and seasonal patterns, highlighting the need for gender-sensitive and inclusive interventions. Insights from scientific knowledge indicate substantial landscape transformation between 1994 and 2024. From 1994 to 2014, natural ecosystems declined markedly, including forestlands (− 9.9%), shrublands (− 9.5%), and grasslands (− 6.5%), alongside an expansion of degraded areas from 27 to 40%. However, the period from 2014 to 2024 shows signs of recovery in both natural ecosystems and degraded lands. Insights from local and scientific knowledge highlight significant environmental, economic, and social benefits of adopted SLM interventions. Specifically, the scientific knowledge indicated that the post 2014 period showed recovery reflected in rising ESVs from natural ecosystems, ranging from 20 to 30%, translated to increases in ESVs by 0.9 to 16.9 million US$. Ensuring community engagement and social inclusivity, and bundling conservation measures when planning future SLM practices are crucial. Prioritizing affordable and user-friendly technologies; maintaining consistent follow-up; and scaling successful practices with long-term investment will enhance ecological restoration and livelihood resilience.

2026-12-01T00:00:00ZTegegne, DesalegnSieber, StefanUckert, GoetzGirma, RedietMoges, AwdenegestMekuria, WoldeThis study used Halaba, Ethiopia, as a case study and employed a mixed approach to examine societal challenges and evaluate the benefits of adopting sustainable land management (SLM) practices. Qualitative data analysis applied the drivers-pressures-state-impact-responses framework to capture farmers’ perspectives on land degradation and restoration, while quantitative analysis assessed land use and land cover and land degradation neutrality trends, as well as the resulting changes in ecosystem service values (ESVs). The results revealed significant variations in resource access and land use needs among the different groups, shaped by gender, wealth, and seasonal patterns, highlighting the need for gender-sensitive and inclusive interventions. Insights from scientific knowledge indicate substantial landscape transformation between 1994 and 2024. From 1994 to 2014, natural ecosystems declined markedly, including forestlands (− 9.9%), shrublands (− 9.5%), and grasslands (− 6.5%), alongside an expansion of degraded areas from 27 to 40%. However, the period from 2014 to 2024 shows signs of recovery in both natural ecosystems and degraded lands. Insights from local and scientific knowledge highlight significant environmental, economic, and social benefits of adopted SLM interventions. Specifically, the scientific knowledge indicated that the post 2014 period showed recovery reflected in rising ESVs from natural ecosystems, ranging from 20 to 30%, translated to increases in ESVs by 0.9 to 16.9 million US$. Ensuring community engagement and social inclusivity, and bundling conservation measures when planning future SLM practices are crucial. Prioritizing affordable and user-friendly technologies; maintaining consistent follow-up; and scaling successful practices with long-term investment will enhance ecological restoration and livelihood resilience.International Water Management Institutehttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1835032026-06-27T01:06:42Z2026-06-26T00:00:00Z

dc.title: IWMI Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2025 - Auditor’s Report dc.contributor.author: International Water Management Institute

2026-06-26T00:00:00ZInternational Water Management InstituteCreed, Irena F.Ury, Emily A.Anderson, Kenneth J.Bansal, SheelBadiou, PascalDombrowik, VictoriaDuffy, Philip B.Gauci, VincentGold, AdamHolgerson, Meredith A.Holmatov, BunyodKinsman-Costello, LaurenLobato-de Magalhães, TatianaMonteverde, Danielle R.Ward, Eric J.Zhang, ZhenBuma, Brianhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1834932026-07-01T11:11:31Z2026-06-19T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Climate-Smart Wetlands Can Mitigate the Wetland-Methane Feedback Loop dc.contributor.author: Creed, Irena F.; Ury, Emily A.; Anderson, Kenneth J.; Bansal, Sheel; Badiou, Pascal; Dombrowik, Victoria; Duffy, Philip B.; Gauci, Vincent; Gold, Adam; Holgerson, Meredith A.; Holmatov, Bunyod; Kinsman-Costello, Lauren; Lobato-de Magalhães, Tatiana; Monteverde, Danielle R.; Ward, Eric J.; Zhang, Zhen; Buma, Brian dcterms.abstract: Climate change is intensifying wetland methane emissions, reinforcing a feedback loop that accelerates warming and threatens wetlands’ role as natural climate solutions. We propose climate-smart interventions for wetland protection, restoration, and management that explicitly account for methane dynamics. Targeted interventions can weaken methane feedback while safeguarding ecological functions and services.

2026-06-19T00:00:00ZCreed, Irena F.Ury, Emily A.Anderson, Kenneth J.Bansal, SheelBadiou, PascalDombrowik, VictoriaDuffy, Philip B.Gauci, VincentGold, AdamHolgerson, Meredith A.Holmatov, BunyodKinsman-Costello, LaurenLobato-de Magalhães, TatianaMonteverde, Danielle R.Ward, Eric J.Zhang, ZhenBuma, BrianClimate change is intensifying wetland methane emissions, reinforcing a feedback loop that accelerates warming and threatens wetlands’ role as natural climate solutions. We propose climate-smart interventions for wetland protection, restoration, and management that explicitly account for methane dynamics. Targeted interventions can weaken methane feedback while safeguarding ecological functions and services.Verma, Shilphttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1834842026-06-25T10:40:15Z2022-02-15T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Can SPaRC fix India’s perverse energy incentives and save aquifers? dc.contributor.author: Verma, Shilp

2022-02-15T00:00:00ZVerma, ShilpVanham, DavyGunathilake, DahamiThowfeek, AsmaCofie, Olufunke O.https://hdl.handle.net/10568/1834692026-06-30T05:41:36Z2026-06-24T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Increased Water Use for Crop Production in Africa: Policy Implications dc.contributor.author: Vanham, Davy; Gunathilake, Dahami; Thowfeek, Asma; Cofie, Olufunke O. dcterms.abstract: Africa needs to increase food production to feed a growing population with a healthy nutritious diet. Food production depends on limited available water resources. Many African regions already face water scarcity today, as not only agriculture needs water but also other sectors. For informed decision making it is imperative to know how much water is used for African food production. A new IWMI led study finds that African crop production amounts to a blue and green water consumption (WC) of 119 and 1,087 km³ respectively for the year 2020, showing a high dependency on rainfed agriculture. Blue water refers to water in rivers, lakes, wetlands and aquifers. Green water is the soil water originating from precipitation. The study provides crop WC amounts for 46 different crops in a spatial resolution of 10 kilometers, that can be aggregated to (sub)national or river basin level. All results and the model to compute them are freely available to any stakeholder. The researchers found that blue and green WC have increased in Africa from 2010 to 2020, while producing more food, driven by an increase in harvested areas, leading to additional pressure on limited water resources in African river basins. Overall, crop water productivity has increased during this period. Crop yields generally remain low though and should be increased on existing agricultural lands to avoid agricultural land expansion at the expense of natural ecosystems. Expansion of irrigation is an important strategy to increase yields and make African crops more resilient to climate change, accounting for local water availability and the growing demand of other sectors. African average irrigation efficiency of blue water is with 53% rather low and should be increased. Strategies should account for the different water footprints of crops and critically evaluate the costs and benefits of cash crop exports outside Africa. Policies related to crop production need to embed nexus thinking and should be data and science based. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations

2026-06-24T00:00:00ZVanham, DavyGunathilake, DahamiThowfeek, AsmaCofie, Olufunke O.Africa needs to increase food production to feed a growing population with a healthy nutritious diet. Food production depends on limited available water resources. Many African regions already face water scarcity today, as not only agriculture needs water but also other sectors. For informed decision making it is imperative to know how much water is used for African food production. A new IWMI led study finds that African crop production amounts to a blue and green water consumption (WC) of 119 and 1,087 km³ respectively for the year 2020, showing a high dependency on rainfed agriculture. Blue water refers to water in rivers, lakes, wetlands and aquifers. Green water is the soil water originating from precipitation. The study provides crop WC amounts for 46 different crops in a spatial resolution of 10 kilometers, that can be aggregated to (sub)national or river basin level. All results and the model to compute them are freely available to any stakeholder. The researchers found that blue and green WC have increased in Africa from 2010 to 2020, while producing more food, driven by an increase in harvested areas, leading to additional pressure on limited water resources in African river basins. Overall, crop water productivity has increased during this period. Crop yields generally remain low though and should be increased on existing agricultural lands to avoid agricultural land expansion at the expense of natural ecosystems. Expansion of irrigation is an important strategy to increase yields and make African crops more resilient to climate change, accounting for local water availability and the growing demand of other sectors. African average irrigation efficiency of blue water is with 53% rather low and should be increased. Strategies should account for the different water footprints of crops and critically evaluate the costs and benefits of cash crop exports outside Africa. Policies related to crop production need to embed nexus thinking and should be data and science based.Asiedu, PrinceMichalscheck, MirjaKotu, Bekele HundieZemadim, BirhanuPadmanabhan, MartinaOsei-Amponsah, Charityhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1834542026-06-24T13:34:25Z2026-10-01T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Responsible Scaling for Sustainable Intensification: Dimensions of Land Rights and Farmer Realities in Northern Ghana dc.contributor.author: Asiedu, Prince; Michalscheck, Mirja; Kotu, Bekele Hundie; Zemadim, Birhanu; Padmanabhan, Martina; Osei-Amponsah, Charity dcterms.abstract: Despite efforts to promote Sustainable Intensification (SI) in northern Ghana, adoption remains uneven due to interacting constraints such as farm-level constraints, limited resources, lack of institutional support, and land tenure issues, which influence farmers’ willingness and ability to engage in SI. The paper assesses how different land tenure modes are locally understood and experienced within the different pathways of use rights that farmers may derive tenure (in)security in their engagement in Sustainable Intensification in northern Ghana. Moving beyond binary notions of land tenure security, the analysis applies the Theory of Access to examine how socially embedded rights, obligations, and recognition structure farmers’ ability to invest in land. The study draws on qualitative evidence from participatory rural appraisal tools, including matrix ranking, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews. The findings indicate that farmers begin by evaluating the land itself, that is, its transfer rights, collateral ability, dispute possibilities, and the extent to which use rights are socially recognized, even before deciding whether and how to engage with Sustainable Intensification (SI) practices. Even where land was held under relatively secure arrangements, including plots with formal title deeds, farmers were reluctant to use land as collateral for formal credit. This reluctance stemmed primarily from heightened climate uncertainty, including rainfall variability, drought risk, and the possibility of crop failure, which made the prospect of losing land through loan default unacceptable. In this context, SI investments were more commonly financed through informal support systems such as kin-based lending and rotating labor and savings associations. Long-term practices, such as agroforestry, were intentionally avoided on conditionally accessed lands, as tree planting was widely interpreted as an implicit ownership claim that could invite disputes or land withdrawal. Where women’s access to land was conditional on marital and childbearing status, incentives to undertake longterm investments were further reduced. Overall, farmers' engagement in SI requires not only technical adaptation but institutional sensitivity, recognizing that the sustainability of SI also depends on the alignment between innovation characteristics and the rights through which farmers engage with land. cg.contributor.initiative: Mixed Farming Systems cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Multifunctional Landscapes

2026-10-01T00:00:00ZAsiedu, PrinceMichalscheck, MirjaKotu, Bekele HundieZemadim, BirhanuPadmanabhan, MartinaOsei-Amponsah, CharityDespite efforts to promote Sustainable Intensification (SI) in northern Ghana, adoption remains uneven due to interacting constraints such as farm-level constraints, limited resources, lack of institutional support, and land tenure issues, which influence farmers’ willingness and ability to engage in SI. The paper assesses how different land tenure modes are locally understood and experienced within the different pathways of use rights that farmers may derive tenure (in)security in their engagement in Sustainable Intensification in northern Ghana. Moving beyond binary notions of land tenure security, the analysis applies the Theory of Access to examine how socially embedded rights, obligations, and recognition structure farmers’ ability to invest in land. The study draws on qualitative evidence from participatory rural appraisal tools, including matrix ranking, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews. The findings indicate that farmers begin by evaluating the land itself, that is, its transfer rights, collateral ability, dispute possibilities, and the extent to which use rights are socially recognized, even before deciding whether and how to engage with Sustainable Intensification (SI) practices. Even where land was held under relatively secure arrangements, including plots with formal title deeds, farmers were reluctant to use land as collateral for formal credit. This reluctance stemmed primarily from heightened climate uncertainty, including rainfall variability, drought risk, and the possibility of crop failure, which made the prospect of losing land through loan default unacceptable. In this context, SI investments were more commonly financed through informal support systems such as kin-based lending and rotating labor and savings associations. Long-term practices, such as agroforestry, were intentionally avoided on conditionally accessed lands, as tree planting was widely interpreted as an implicit ownership claim that could invite disputes or land withdrawal. Where women’s access to land was conditional on marital and childbearing status, incentives to undertake longterm investments were further reduced. Overall, farmers' engagement in SI requires not only technical adaptation but institutional sensitivity, recognizing that the sustainability of SI also depends on the alignment between innovation characteristics and the rights through which farmers engage with land.Shah, TushaarRathod, RahulVerma, ShilpChoudhury, Arnab PaulRai, Gyan Phttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1834502026-06-24T07:41:29Z2025-03-15T00:00:00Z

dc.title: The Case for Grid-connected Solar Irrigation Pumps - Evidence from Gujarat’s Suryashakti Kisan Yojana dc.contributor.author: Shah, Tushaar; Rathod, Rahul; Verma, Shilp; Choudhury, Arnab Paul; Rai, Gyan P dcterms.abstract: India’s solar irrigation programme is going seriously astray. Off-grid solar pumps waste two-thirds of the energy they generate. Maharashtra’s solar agricultural feeders avoid energy waste but continue driving groundwater depletion through free power for irrigation. Gujarat’s innovative pilot, Suryashakti Kisan Yojana, has net-metered 4,300 solarised tube wells and now purchases farmers’ surplus solar power under a 25-year guarantee. We present unassailable statistical evidence revealing SKY’s significant behavioural impacts. Scaling out a revamped SKY can not only phase out power subsidies but launch a frontal attack on India’s pernicious energy–water–food nexus.

2025-03-15T00:00:00ZShah, TushaarRathod, RahulVerma, ShilpChoudhury, Arnab PaulRai, Gyan PIndia’s solar irrigation programme is going seriously astray. Off-grid solar pumps waste two-thirds of the energy they generate. Maharashtra’s solar agricultural feeders avoid energy waste but continue driving groundwater depletion through free power for irrigation. Gujarat’s innovative pilot, Suryashakti Kisan Yojana, has net-metered 4,300 solarised tube wells and now purchases farmers’ surplus solar power under a 25-year guarantee. We present unassailable statistical evidence revealing SKY’s significant behavioural impacts. Scaling out a revamped SKY can not only phase out power subsidies but launch a frontal attack on India’s pernicious energy–water–food nexus.Abdellatif, GaberMateo-Sagasta, Javierhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1834402026-06-24T08:31:58Z2026-06-18T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Prevalence and Levels of Pathogens in Irrigation Water Used in the League of Arab States: A Systematic Review Protocol dc.contributor.author: Abdellatif, Gaber; Mateo-Sagasta, Javier dcterms.abstract: The Arab region faces a severe water security crisis, accounting for 6% of the global population but holding less than 1% of renewable freshwater (Wang et al. 2024). This scarcity, driven by rapid population growth and climate change, has forced a dangerous reliance on dwindling groundwater and unconventional sources (Mateo-Sagasta et al. 2022). However, the challenge is not merely one of quantity, but also of rapidly deteriorating quality. A widening "pollution gap" has emerged, as investments in wastewater treatment and pollution control fail to keep pace with increasing discharge loads. This is exacerbated by water scarcity itself; reduced river flows and declining water tables lead to higher pollutant concentrations and issues such as aquifer salinization, compromising traditional irrigation sources (Yan et al. 2025; Malakar et al. 2019). Irrigation water in the region is drawn from rivers, lakes, and aquifers, each facing anthropogenic pressures from industrial discharge, agricultural runoff, and inadequate municipal sewage management (Haddaoui and Mateo-Sagasta 2021). Among these contaminants, pathogenic indicators represent the most immediate threat to public health. While chemical pollutants pose long-term risks, microbial contamination can trigger rapid outbreaks, particularly from crops consumed raw (Ayed et al. 2024; Deblais et al. 2024; UN WATER 2024). A critical emerging dimension of this threat is antimicrobial resistance (AMR). ESBL-producing E. coli serves as a key indicator, as these bacteria resist most common antibiotics. Their presence is now a vital benchmark for assessing whether irrigation water is introducing drug-resistant pathogens into the food supply. To address these water shortages, treated wastewater reuse has become a significant trend within the circular economy. However, this introduces risks regarding treatment efficacy; poor effluent quality renders reuse potentially unsafe. Quantifying pathogen prevalence and monitoring markers like ESBL-producing E. coli are essential for setting realistic regional safety standards and prioritizing infrastructure investments.

2026-06-18T00:00:00ZAbdellatif, GaberMateo-Sagasta, JavierThe Arab region faces a severe water security crisis, accounting for 6% of the global population but holding less than 1% of renewable freshwater (Wang et al. 2024). This scarcity, driven by rapid population growth and climate change, has forced a dangerous reliance on dwindling groundwater and unconventional sources (Mateo-Sagasta et al. 2022). However, the challenge is not merely one of quantity, but also of rapidly deteriorating quality. A widening "pollution gap" has emerged, as investments in wastewater treatment and pollution control fail to keep pace with increasing discharge loads. This is exacerbated by water scarcity itself; reduced river flows and declining water tables lead to higher pollutant concentrations and issues such as aquifer salinization, compromising traditional irrigation sources (Yan et al. 2025; Malakar et al. 2019). Irrigation water in the region is drawn from rivers, lakes, and aquifers, each facing anthropogenic pressures from industrial discharge, agricultural runoff, and inadequate municipal sewage management (Haddaoui and Mateo-Sagasta 2021). Among these contaminants, pathogenic indicators represent the most immediate threat to public health. While chemical pollutants pose long-term risks, microbial contamination can trigger rapid outbreaks, particularly from crops consumed raw (Ayed et al. 2024; Deblais et al. 2024; UN WATER 2024). A critical emerging dimension of this threat is antimicrobial resistance (AMR). ESBL-producing E. coli serves as a key indicator, as these bacteria resist most common antibiotics. Their presence is now a vital benchmark for assessing whether irrigation water is introducing drug-resistant pathogens into the food supply. To address these water shortages, treated wastewater reuse has become a significant trend within the circular economy. However, this introduces risks regarding treatment efficacy; poor effluent quality renders reuse potentially unsafe. Quantifying pathogen prevalence and monitoring markers like ESBL-producing E. coli are essential for setting realistic regional safety standards and prioritizing infrastructure investments.Banerjee, AnuragRavindranath, DarshiniBhaduri, Tanmoyhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1834392026-06-23T10:09:09Z2026-06-22T00:00:00Z

dc.title: PM-KUSUM Is a Serious Policy Instrument. What It Requires Now Is Institutional Depth dc.contributor.author: Banerjee, Anurag; Ravindranath, Darshini; Bhaduri, Tanmoy

2026-06-22T00:00:00ZBanerjee, AnuragRavindranath, DarshiniBhaduri, TanmoyPradhananga, SauravNepal, Santoshhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1834372026-06-24T01:02:27Z2026-06-19T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Future Climate Risks in the Karnali River Basin in Nepal: Implications for Water, Energy, and Agriculture Sectors dc.contributor.author: Pradhananga, Saurav; Nepal, Santosh dcterms.abstract: Using the SWAT+ hydrological model driven by bias-corrected CMIP6 climate projections, analysis shows that the basin is expected to become warmer and wetter, with substantially higher monsoon rainfall and reduced precipitation during the winter and pre-monsoon seasons coupled with similar changes in flows. These seasonal shifts have far-reaching implications for Nepal's water, energy, and food security. Although the planned 900 MW Upper Karnali Hydropower Project could benefit from increased annual energy generation due to higher wet season flows, dry season power production is projected to decline by up to 15%, precisely when electricity demand is often highest. Likewise, irrigation water requirements for both paddy and wheat are expected to increase as rising temperatures and reduced winter rainfall intensify crop water stress. These findings challenge the assumption that greater annual rainfall automatically leads to improved water security. Instead, they show that the timing, distribution, and management of water resources will become increasingly critical. More intense monsoon runoff will heighten flood risks, while reduced dry season flows may constrain irrigation, hydropower production, and environmental flows, increasing competition among water users. These changes underscore the need to strengthen climate resilience across the water sector. This study recommends integrating climate-informed hydrological projections into hydropower feasibility studies, design standards, and energy planning to avoid underestimating future risks. Investments in multipurpose storage reservoirs, improved irrigation efficiency, climate-responsive crop calendars, and enhanced flood and drought preparedness will be essential to manage growing seasonal variability. Adopting an Integrated River Basin Management approach that coordinates water allocation across sectors while safeguarding ecosystem needs will be critical to ensuring sustainable and climate-resilient development in the Karnali River Basin. cg.contributor.initiative: NEXUS Gains cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations

2026-06-19T00:00:00ZPradhananga, SauravNepal, SantoshUsing the SWAT+ hydrological model driven by bias-corrected CMIP6 climate projections, analysis shows that the basin is expected to become warmer and wetter, with substantially higher monsoon rainfall and reduced precipitation during the winter and pre-monsoon seasons coupled with similar changes in flows. These seasonal shifts have far-reaching implications for Nepal's water, energy, and food security. Although the planned 900 MW Upper Karnali Hydropower Project could benefit from increased annual energy generation due to higher wet season flows, dry season power production is projected to decline by up to 15%, precisely when electricity demand is often highest. Likewise, irrigation water requirements for both paddy and wheat are expected to increase as rising temperatures and reduced winter rainfall intensify crop water stress. These findings challenge the assumption that greater annual rainfall automatically leads to improved water security. Instead, they show that the timing, distribution, and management of water resources will become increasingly critical. More intense monsoon runoff will heighten flood risks, while reduced dry season flows may constrain irrigation, hydropower production, and environmental flows, increasing competition among water users. These changes underscore the need to strengthen climate resilience across the water sector. This study recommends integrating climate-informed hydrological projections into hydropower feasibility studies, design standards, and energy planning to avoid underestimating future risks. Investments in multipurpose storage reservoirs, improved irrigation efficiency, climate-responsive crop calendars, and enhanced flood and drought preparedness will be essential to manage growing seasonal variability. Adopting an Integrated River Basin Management approach that coordinates water allocation across sectors while safeguarding ecosystem needs will be critical to ensuring sustainable and climate-resilient development in the Karnali River Basin.Xie, JiananZhu, YingtongTan, Chloe Yun YiAkandil, CengizColeman, Joanna. L.Edwards, David P.Jaung, WanggiPeh, Kelvin S.-H.Xie, LinjunYadav, ShwetaCarrasco, L. Romanhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1834362026-06-23T14:34:54Z2026-06-08T00:00:00Z

dc.title: The Circular Economy Has High Potential to Mitigate the Global Biodiversity Crisis dc.contributor.author: Xie, Jianan; Zhu, Yingtong; Tan, Chloe Yun Yi; Akandil, Cengiz; Coleman, Joanna. L.; Edwards, David P.; Jaung, Wanggi; Peh, Kelvin S.-H.; Xie, Linjun; Yadav, Shweta; Carrasco, L. Roman dcterms.abstract: The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) sets goals to conserve global biodiversity up to 2050. Concurrently, the principles of the Circular Economy (CE) have attracted significant interest for their potential to contribute to sustainability. A key unexplored question is the potential contribution of the CE to the realization of the GBF. To answer this question, we conducted a systematic literature review and a Delphi survey of experts. We find that, although most CE initiatives are expected to substantially benefit the GBF, some initiatives have weak implications for biodiversity. The Delphi survey demonstrates entirely positive views on the contribution of the CE towards the GBF, with ecosystem integrity and ecosystem services recognized to benefit most by CE principles. Scaling up CE is critical for achieving many GBF targets, and, for those CE practices that may have potentially negative effects on GBF, appropriate guidance and governance to prevent adverse effects is necessary. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Multifunctional Landscapes

2026-06-08T00:00:00ZXie, JiananZhu, YingtongTan, Chloe Yun YiAkandil, CengizColeman, Joanna. L.Edwards, David P.Jaung, WanggiPeh, Kelvin S.-H.Xie, LinjunYadav, ShwetaCarrasco, L. RomanThe Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) sets goals to conserve global biodiversity up to 2050. Concurrently, the principles of the Circular Economy (CE) have attracted significant interest for their potential to contribute to sustainability. A key unexplored question is the potential contribution of the CE to the realization of the GBF. To answer this question, we conducted a systematic literature review and a Delphi survey of experts. We find that, although most CE initiatives are expected to substantially benefit the GBF, some initiatives have weak implications for biodiversity. The Delphi survey demonstrates entirely positive views on the contribution of the CE towards the GBF, with ecosystem integrity and ecosystem services recognized to benefit most by CE principles. Scaling up CE is critical for achieving many GBF targets, and, for those CE practices that may have potentially negative effects on GBF, appropriate guidance and governance to prevent adverse effects is necessary.Simaika, Johnhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1834242026-06-22T10:14:01Z2026-06-16T00:00:00Z

dc.title: River Health for Water Security dc.contributor.author: Simaika, John cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Multifunctional Landscapes

2026-06-16T00:00:00ZSimaika, JohnBhaduri, Tanmoyhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1834232026-06-22T09:09:05Z2024-01-05T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Solar Pumps Are Empowering Women Farmers in India dc.contributor.author: Bhaduri, Tanmoy

2024-01-05T00:00:00ZBhaduri, TanmoyGirard, PierreMercandalli, SaraBerre, DavidAndrieu, NadineBezner Kerr, RachelCoe, RichardDedieu, BenoîtMadsen, SidneyScopel, EricAsnake, WoinishetMekuria, WoldeDembele, CatherineFrija, AymenHaule, YohanaMagaju, ChristineMengistu, Dejene KassahunOrounladji, Boko MichelRaharimalala, Sitrakiniainahttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1834152026-06-19T14:22:55Z2026-11-01T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Starting Points of Agroecological Transitions in Africa: Why and How Farm Structure Matter dc.contributor.author: Girard, Pierre; Mercandalli, Sara; Berre, David; Andrieu, Nadine; Bezner Kerr, Rachel; Coe, Richard; Dedieu, Benoît; Madsen, Sidney; Scopel, Eric; Asnake, Woinishet; Mekuria, Wolde; Dembele, Catherine; Frija, Aymen; Haule, Yohana; Magaju, Christine; Mengistu, Dejene Kassahun; Orounladji, Boko Michel; Raharimalala, Sitrakiniaina dcterms.abstract: In sub-Saharan Africa, dominant agricultural models such as the Green Revolution have shown limitations, and agroecology is emerging as an alternative. Yet, empirical evidence remains scarce on who adopts agroecological practices and on what types of farms. A widely accepted narrative suggests that smallholders are more rooted in agroecological systems, while larger, better-endowed farms follow “conventional” models. This paper challenges that dualistic view by providing evidence of a wider set of relationship between farm structure and the diversity of agroecological practices across multiple African contexts. For this purpose it informs the diversity of existing patterns of farms structure and starting points of agroecological transition (AET) – defined as current state of agroecological principles implemented by farms along their trajectories. By situating these starting points within the socio-technical context of national and regional AET, we gain valuable insights into which farm structures support different agroecological principles, how socio-technical regime influence these dynamics, and what policy options emerge to foster AET. Using harmonized data from 2721 farms across nine study areas in six African countries, the article shows that starting points of agroecological transitions are highly diverse and influenced by farm structure. Three patterns emerge: smallest farms mostly combine autonomy and income diversification while larger farms tend to combine conventional intensification with crop-livestock integration. Other small to medium scale farms are characterized by more land allocated to legume contributing to soil health. Future agricultural policies should consider this diversity of patterns in providing locally-relevant support to promote sustainable transitions. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Multifunctional Landscapes

2026-11-01T00:00:00ZGirard, PierreMercandalli, SaraBerre, DavidAndrieu, NadineBezner Kerr, RachelCoe, RichardDedieu, BenoîtMadsen, SidneyScopel, EricAsnake, WoinishetMekuria, WoldeDembele, CatherineFrija, AymenHaule, YohanaMagaju, ChristineMengistu, Dejene KassahunOrounladji, Boko MichelRaharimalala, SitrakiniainaIn sub-Saharan Africa, dominant agricultural models such as the Green Revolution have shown limitations, and agroecology is emerging as an alternative. Yet, empirical evidence remains scarce on who adopts agroecological practices and on what types of farms. A widely accepted narrative suggests that smallholders are more rooted in agroecological systems, while larger, better-endowed farms follow “conventional” models. This paper challenges that dualistic view by providing evidence of a wider set of relationship between farm structure and the diversity of agroecological practices across multiple African contexts. For this purpose it informs the diversity of existing patterns of farms structure and starting points of agroecological transition (AET) – defined as current state of agroecological principles implemented by farms along their trajectories. By situating these starting points within the socio-technical context of national and regional AET, we gain valuable insights into which farm structures support different agroecological principles, how socio-technical regime influence these dynamics, and what policy options emerge to foster AET. Using harmonized data from 2721 farms across nine study areas in six African countries, the article shows that starting points of agroecological transitions are highly diverse and influenced by farm structure. Three patterns emerge: smallest farms mostly combine autonomy and income diversification while larger farms tend to combine conventional intensification with crop-livestock integration. Other small to medium scale farms are characterized by more land allocated to legume contributing to soil health. Future agricultural policies should consider this diversity of patterns in providing locally-relevant support to promote sustainable transitions.Jones, Sarah K.Sánchez, Andrea CeciliaDickens, ChrisGeck, Matthias S.Wickramaratne, ChaturangiAlary, VeroniqueBolo, PeterChoruma, Dennis JuniorDouangsavanh, SomphasithFall, Modou GueyeFalconnier, GatienGupta, ShwetaKettle, ChrisKrishnan, SmithaNyawira, SylviaOrjuela-Ramirez, GuillermoOrounladji, Boko MichelPareja, PiedadSibanda, TelmaLamanna, Christinehttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1834052026-06-22T13:21:47Z2026-09-01T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Collecting Holistic Evidence on Agroecology Performance to Accelerate Sustainable Food System Transitions dc.contributor.author: Jones, Sarah K.; Sánchez, Andrea Cecilia; Dickens, Chris; Geck, Matthias S.; Wickramaratne, Chaturangi; Alary, Veronique; Bolo, Peter; Choruma, Dennis Junior; Douangsavanh, Somphasith; Fall, Modou Gueye; Falconnier, Gatien; Gupta, Shweta; Kettle, Chris; Krishnan, Smitha; Nyawira, Sylvia; Orjuela-Ramirez, Guillermo; Orounladji, Boko Michel; Pareja, Piedad; Sibanda, Telma; Lamanna, Christine dcterms.abstract: A growing body of research shows the potential of agroecology for enabling a shift to planet-friendly and socially just agrifood systems through context-specific transition pathways. We conduct a scoping review to identify and evaluate the potential of 42 existing agroecology adherence and/or agricultural performance assessment tools to generate credible, legitimate, salient and transferable evidence to inform these transitions. Results show that while multiple relevant tools exist, each of them can be strengthened in at least one area. While most tools are transferable (low time and resource requirements) and have legitimacy (open access with transparent methods), tools have variable saliency (holistic scope inclusive of local priorities) and credibility (use scientific design principles and quality assurance processes). For a subset of 11 tools collecting multidimensional performance data, analysis of 263 identified indicators showed there is a bias towards economic measures (notably income, yield, and resilience), while certain social (e.g. land tenure, traditional knowledge retention) and environmental (e.g. climate mitigation) aspects are regularly overlooked. Through a multidisciplinary process engaging experts across 8 countries, we develop a Holistic Localized Performance Assessment for agroecology (HOLPA) framework that integrates and builds on positive features of existing multidimensional agroecology performance assessments tools and overcomes key limitations. The HOLPA framework for analysis, agroecology indicators, key performance indicators, and low-cost localization process can be used to strengthen agroecology performance assessments, empowering landscape actors to identify evidence-based pathways towards agrifood systems where both people and nature can thrive. cg.contributor.initiative: Agroecology cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Multifunctional Landscapes

2026-09-01T00:00:00ZJones, Sarah K.Sánchez, Andrea CeciliaDickens, ChrisGeck, Matthias S.Wickramaratne, ChaturangiAlary, VeroniqueBolo, PeterChoruma, Dennis JuniorDouangsavanh, SomphasithFall, Modou GueyeFalconnier, GatienGupta, ShwetaKettle, ChrisKrishnan, SmithaNyawira, SylviaOrjuela-Ramirez, GuillermoOrounladji, Boko MichelPareja, PiedadSibanda, TelmaLamanna, ChristineA growing body of research shows the potential of agroecology for enabling a shift to planet-friendly and socially just agrifood systems through context-specific transition pathways. We conduct a scoping review to identify and evaluate the potential of 42 existing agroecology adherence and/or agricultural performance assessment tools to generate credible, legitimate, salient and transferable evidence to inform these transitions. Results show that while multiple relevant tools exist, each of them can be strengthened in at least one area. While most tools are transferable (low time and resource requirements) and have legitimacy (open access with transparent methods), tools have variable saliency (holistic scope inclusive of local priorities) and credibility (use scientific design principles and quality assurance processes). For a subset of 11 tools collecting multidimensional performance data, analysis of 263 identified indicators showed there is a bias towards economic measures (notably income, yield, and resilience), while certain social (e.g. land tenure, traditional knowledge retention) and environmental (e.g. climate mitigation) aspects are regularly overlooked. Through a multidisciplinary process engaging experts across 8 countries, we develop a Holistic Localized Performance Assessment for agroecology (HOLPA) framework that integrates and builds on positive features of existing multidimensional agroecology performance assessments tools and overcomes key limitations. The HOLPA framework for analysis, agroecology indicators, key performance indicators, and low-cost localization process can be used to strengthen agroecology performance assessments, empowering landscape actors to identify evidence-based pathways towards agrifood systems where both people and nature can thrive.Rajkhowa, PallaviSikka, AlokSarangi, Arjamadattahttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1833972026-06-22T05:17:55Z2026-06-18T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Water Users Association Governance Index (WUAGI): A Multi-Dimensional Diagnostic Tool to Assess and Improve Water Governance dc.contributor.author: Rajkhowa, Pallavi; Sikka, Alok; Sarangi, Arjamadatta dcterms.abstract: Existing assessments of irrigation performance largely focus on technical indicators and fail to adequately capture the institutional, participatory, and equity dimensions of water governance. This technical brief summarizes the Water Users Association Governance Index (WUAGI), a multidimensional, survey-based index designed to measure governance performance, institutional effectiveness, and inclusion within Water User Associations (WUAs). Drawing on the Alkire–Foster methodology and inspired by multidimensional frameworks such as the Women’s Empowerment in Agriculture Index (WEAI), the WUAGI measures governance deprivation across six domains: water delivery and performance, member awareness, participation and collective action, perceived governance quality, institutional legitimacy and women’s participation, and social capital. Using primary survey data collected from 833 WUA members across 4 WUA in Odisha, India, the index captures both the incidence and intensity of governance deprivation and can be disaggregated by dimension and WUA to identify key governance gaps. The WUAGI is designed as a practical diagnostic and decision-support tool that enables policymakers and practitioners to identify priority areas for intervention, strengthen participatory irrigation management, and monitor governance outcomes over time. By moving beyond conventional technical metrics and macro-level governance indicators, the WUAGI provides a more comprehensive and locally grounded framework for assessing water governance performance. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations

2026-06-18T00:00:00ZRajkhowa, PallaviSikka, AlokSarangi, ArjamadattaExisting assessments of irrigation performance largely focus on technical indicators and fail to adequately capture the institutional, participatory, and equity dimensions of water governance. This technical brief summarizes the Water Users Association Governance Index (WUAGI), a multidimensional, survey-based index designed to measure governance performance, institutional effectiveness, and inclusion within Water User Associations (WUAs). Drawing on the Alkire–Foster methodology and inspired by multidimensional frameworks such as the Women’s Empowerment in Agriculture Index (WEAI), the WUAGI measures governance deprivation across six domains: water delivery and performance, member awareness, participation and collective action, perceived governance quality, institutional legitimacy and women’s participation, and social capital. Using primary survey data collected from 833 WUA members across 4 WUA in Odisha, India, the index captures both the incidence and intensity of governance deprivation and can be disaggregated by dimension and WUA to identify key governance gaps. The WUAGI is designed as a practical diagnostic and decision-support tool that enables policymakers and practitioners to identify priority areas for intervention, strengthen participatory irrigation management, and monitor governance outcomes over time. By moving beyond conventional technical metrics and macro-level governance indicators, the WUAGI provides a more comprehensive and locally grounded framework for assessing water governance performance.Kageni, BelindaHanke-Louw, NoraJacobs-Mata, IngaMbatha, Valenciahttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1833842026-06-23T03:54:20Z2026-06-16T00:00:00Z

dc.title: South-South Scaling Science Network (4SN) dc.contributor.author: Kageni, Belinda; Hanke-Louw, Nora; Jacobs-Mata, Inga; Mbatha, Valencia dcterms.abstract: On 28 October 2025, the CGIAR Scaling for Impact (S4I) Program, in collaboration with the International Water Management Institute (IWMI), the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), and partner universities, convened a South–South workshop in Nairobi. The workshop brought together university representatives from Africa and Asia to co-design a collaborative network aimed at strengthening capacity in scaling science. The workshop emphasized the need to reposition universities from peripheral actors to central drivers in the development and teaching of scaling as a discipline. Discussions highlighted that scaling should be understood as a process of systemic transformation rather than simple replication of innovations. While participating institutions demonstrated strong capabilities in outreach and innovation, a key finding was the limited availability of structured curricula and formal training programs on scaling science. Through interactive sessions, participants identified three priority areas for the proposed network: the development of implementable curricula, the establishment of faculty and student exchange programs, and the creation of a dedicated knowledge-sharing platform. These priorities reflect a shared commitment to enhancing collaboration, learning, and institutional capacity. Looking ahead, participants articulated a collective vision for 2028 in which universities play a leading role in advancing scaling research, education, and practice. While individual commitment to the network was strong, varying levels of institutional support were noted. The workshop identified practical pathways to strengthen engagement, including in-kind contributions and co-funding approaches to support sustained collaboration and impact. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Scaling for Impact

2026-06-16T00:00:00ZKageni, BelindaHanke-Louw, NoraJacobs-Mata, IngaMbatha, ValenciaOn 28 October 2025, the CGIAR Scaling for Impact (S4I) Program, in collaboration with the International Water Management Institute (IWMI), the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), and partner universities, convened a South–South workshop in Nairobi. The workshop brought together university representatives from Africa and Asia to co-design a collaborative network aimed at strengthening capacity in scaling science. The workshop emphasized the need to reposition universities from peripheral actors to central drivers in the development and teaching of scaling as a discipline. Discussions highlighted that scaling should be understood as a process of systemic transformation rather than simple replication of innovations. While participating institutions demonstrated strong capabilities in outreach and innovation, a key finding was the limited availability of structured curricula and formal training programs on scaling science. Through interactive sessions, participants identified three priority areas for the proposed network: the development of implementable curricula, the establishment of faculty and student exchange programs, and the creation of a dedicated knowledge-sharing platform. These priorities reflect a shared commitment to enhancing collaboration, learning, and institutional capacity. Looking ahead, participants articulated a collective vision for 2028 in which universities play a leading role in advancing scaling research, education, and practice. While individual commitment to the network was strong, varying levels of institutional support were noted. The workshop identified practical pathways to strengthen engagement, including in-kind contributions and co-funding approaches to support sustained collaboration and impact.Gebrezgabher, Solomie A.Ruckstuhl, SandraRajapakse, Nilmini DharshikaDickowita, Ranojahttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1833612026-06-17T01:04:58Z2026-06-16T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Circular Bioeconomy Approaches for Resilient Livelihoods and Peacebuilding in Fragile and Conflict-Affected Settings dc.contributor.author: Gebrezgabher, Solomie A.; Ruckstuhl, Sandra; Rajapakse, Nilmini Dharshika; Dickowita, Ranoja dcterms.abstract: The Nature-positive and Circular Bioeconomy Solutions for Livelihoods and Peacebuilding (C-PEACE) initiative addresses the interconnected challenges of environmental degradation, climate shocks, resource scarcity and social tensions in fragile and displacement-affected settings. Led by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) under the CGIAR Food Frontiers and Security Program, C-PEACE works in Ethiopia, Ghana and Kenya to strengthen refugee and host community livelihoods through inclusive, circular bioeconomy approaches. The initiative co-designs locally adapted livelihood models that promote environmental restoration, resilience, self-reliance and social cohesion, while reducing resource-based tensions. Working closely with governments, humanitarian agencies and local partners, C-PEACE positions refugees and host communities as active agents of restoration and development, generating evidence and pathways for scaling sustainable, conflict-sensitive solutions across Africa. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Food Frontiers and Security

2026-06-16T00:00:00ZGebrezgabher, Solomie A.Ruckstuhl, SandraRajapakse, Nilmini DharshikaDickowita, RanojaThe Nature-positive and Circular Bioeconomy Solutions for Livelihoods and Peacebuilding (C-PEACE) initiative addresses the interconnected challenges of environmental degradation, climate shocks, resource scarcity and social tensions in fragile and displacement-affected settings. Led by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) under the CGIAR Food Frontiers and Security Program, C-PEACE works in Ethiopia, Ghana and Kenya to strengthen refugee and host community livelihoods through inclusive, circular bioeconomy approaches. The initiative co-designs locally adapted livelihood models that promote environmental restoration, resilience, self-reliance and social cohesion, while reducing resource-based tensions. Working closely with governments, humanitarian agencies and local partners, C-PEACE positions refugees and host communities as active agents of restoration and development, generating evidence and pathways for scaling sustainable, conflict-sensitive solutions across Africa.Grafton, Rupert QuentinFanaian, SafaNguyen, Nhat-MaiRossi, Pablo GaítanSacco, Gabrielahttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1833582026-06-23T04:57:44Z2026-06-01T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Water Justice for All dc.contributor.author: Grafton, Rupert Quentin; Fanaian, Safa; Nguyen, Nhat-Mai; Rossi, Pablo Gaítan; Sacco, Gabriela

2026-06-01T00:00:00ZGrafton, Rupert QuentinFanaian, SafaNguyen, Nhat-MaiRossi, Pablo GaítanSacco, GabrielaBruine de Bruin, WändiInwald, JoshuaMcDonnell, RachaelYoung, Sera L.de la Haye, Kaylahttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1833492026-07-06T13:35:22Z2026-06-01T00:00:00Z

dc.title: A Lack of Clean Drinking Water is Associated with Lacking Food and Experiencing Food Safety Threats in 121 Countries across the Globe dc.contributor.author: Bruine de Bruin, Wändi; Inwald, Joshua; McDonnell, Rachael; Young, Sera L.; de la Haye, Kayla dcterms.abstract: Evidence for the co-occurrence of lacking food and clean drinking water is largely missing for high-income countries and has overlooked water’s importance for food safety. Here we examined how lacking food and food safety covaried with lacking clean drinking water, using World Risk Poll data from 121 countries across country-income levels (N = 124,003). Lacking food for more than a day in the past year was associated with lacking clean drinking water for more than a day in the past year. Participants who lacked both food and clean water, or either alone (versus neither) were more likely to experience food safety threats and be concerned about food safety. Relationships held across country-income levels. Low-income countries (especially in Eastern Africa) and high-income countries (especially in Northern America) showed compounded effects of lacking food and clean drinking water on food safety. Worldwide, food insecurity, food safety and water insecurity should be addressed jointly.

2026-06-01T00:00:00ZBruine de Bruin, WändiInwald, JoshuaMcDonnell, RachaelYoung, Sera L.de la Haye, KaylaEvidence for the co-occurrence of lacking food and clean drinking water is largely missing for high-income countries and has overlooked water’s importance for food safety. Here we examined how lacking food and food safety covaried with lacking clean drinking water, using World Risk Poll data from 121 countries across country-income levels (N = 124,003). Lacking food for more than a day in the past year was associated with lacking clean drinking water for more than a day in the past year. Participants who lacked both food and clean water, or either alone (versus neither) were more likely to experience food safety threats and be concerned about food safety. Relationships held across country-income levels. Low-income countries (especially in Eastern Africa) and high-income countries (especially in Northern America) showed compounded effects of lacking food and clean drinking water on food safety. Worldwide, food insecurity, food safety and water insecurity should be addressed jointly.Appiah, SarahOsei-Amponsah, CharityNicol, Alanhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1833302026-06-15T10:49:40Z2026-06-12T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Gender Analysis of Water Policies and Governance in Nigeria dc.contributor.author: Appiah, Sarah; Osei-Amponsah, Charity; Nicol, Alan dcterms.abstract: Nigeria has demonstrated commitment to gender equality through the adoption of key global, regional, and national policy frameworks. However, the integration of gender considerations into water governance remains limited. This report assesses the extent of gender integration in Nigeria’s water policies and governance. Using Buchy et al.’s six-theme Gender Policy Analysis Framework, developed under the CGIAR Initiative on National Policies and Strategies, the study analyzes key policy documents and draws on stakeholder-informed case studies at both federal and state levels. It provides evidence-based analysis of gender integration in water governance, revealing key structural barriers that limit women’s participation and influence. By identifying practical opportunities to enhance gender-responsive policy frameworks and implementation, it offers actionable insights for reform. It emphasizes the importance of inclusive policy development, policy coherence, and effective institutional coordination, proposing solution pathways for establishing more equitable, resilient, and sustainable water governance systems. Ultimately, it contributes to the growing body of evidence underscoring the importance of gender-transformative approaches in achieving inclusive water management. cg.contributor.initiative: National Policies and Strategies cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations

2026-06-12T00:00:00ZAppiah, SarahOsei-Amponsah, CharityNicol, AlanNigeria has demonstrated commitment to gender equality through the adoption of key global, regional, and national policy frameworks. However, the integration of gender considerations into water governance remains limited. This report assesses the extent of gender integration in Nigeria’s water policies and governance. Using Buchy et al.’s six-theme Gender Policy Analysis Framework, developed under the CGIAR Initiative on National Policies and Strategies, the study analyzes key policy documents and draws on stakeholder-informed case studies at both federal and state levels. It provides evidence-based analysis of gender integration in water governance, revealing key structural barriers that limit women’s participation and influence. By identifying practical opportunities to enhance gender-responsive policy frameworks and implementation, it offers actionable insights for reform. It emphasizes the importance of inclusive policy development, policy coherence, and effective institutional coordination, proposing solution pathways for establishing more equitable, resilient, and sustainable water governance systems. Ultimately, it contributes to the growing body of evidence underscoring the importance of gender-transformative approaches in achieving inclusive water management.IWMI-Tata Water Policy Programhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1833262026-06-16T14:50:07Z2026-06-12T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Water and Livelihoods in Viksit Bharat 2047: Celebrating 25 Years of Policy Research dc.contributor.author: IWMI-Tata Water Policy Program dcterms.abstract: The IWMI-Tata Partners' Meet 2025, titled 'Water and Livelihoods in Viksit Bharat 2047: Celebrating 25 Years of Policy Research', was held from 4-6 December 2025 at the NDDB Campus in Anand, India, marking a quarter-century of the IWMI-Tata Water Policy Research Program (ITP). The three-day event featured four curated plenary sessions and 18 technical sessions organized across four thematic tracks: Smallholder Prosperity, Solarization of Agriculture, Future of Agriculture, and Water for Life and Ecosystems. This document outlines the detailed three-day agenda, including presentations, moderated panels, and discussions on topics ranging from resilient dairy systems and decentralized renewable energy in agriculture to canal irrigation modernization, Himalayan water ecosystems, farmer-centric agrivoltaics, groundwater recharge and management, off-grid and feeder-level solarization, urban water management, rural water security, coastal resilience, and digital innovations for water governance. Plenary highlights included a fireside chat with Tushaar Shah reflecting on ITP's 25-year model of policy research, keynotes by Sunita Narain and Veena Srinivasan on water and climate resilient livelihoods, an Impact Investors' Dialogue with Synergos, ITC, and other philanthropy and CSR leaders, and a closing session charting ITP's vision for 2030 with a new focus on South-South co-learning.

2026-06-12T00:00:00ZIWMI-Tata Water Policy ProgramThe IWMI-Tata Partners' Meet 2025, titled 'Water and Livelihoods in Viksit Bharat 2047: Celebrating 25 Years of Policy Research', was held from 4-6 December 2025 at the NDDB Campus in Anand, India, marking a quarter-century of the IWMI-Tata Water Policy Research Program (ITP). The three-day event featured four curated plenary sessions and 18 technical sessions organized across four thematic tracks: Smallholder Prosperity, Solarization of Agriculture, Future of Agriculture, and Water for Life and Ecosystems. This document outlines the detailed three-day agenda, including presentations, moderated panels, and discussions on topics ranging from resilient dairy systems and decentralized renewable energy in agriculture to canal irrigation modernization, Himalayan water ecosystems, farmer-centric agrivoltaics, groundwater recharge and management, off-grid and feeder-level solarization, urban water management, rural water security, coastal resilience, and digital innovations for water governance. Plenary highlights included a fireside chat with Tushaar Shah reflecting on ITP's 25-year model of policy research, keynotes by Sunita Narain and Veena Srinivasan on water and climate resilient livelihoods, an Impact Investors' Dialogue with Synergos, ITC, and other philanthropy and CSR leaders, and a closing session charting ITP's vision for 2030 with a new focus on South-South co-learning.Mekuria, WoldeKhalifa, Muhammadde Silva, SanjivBalana, BedruKirui, Oliver K.Gharaibeh, SawsanRuckstuhl, SandraRajapakse, Nilmini Dharshikahttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1833212026-07-07T18:22:36Z2026-06-12T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Resilient Nature-Based Water Solutions for Food Systems and Women’s Empowerment (RENEW) dc.contributor.author: Mekuria, Wolde; Khalifa, Muhammad; de Silva, Sanjiv; Balana, Bedru; Kirui, Oliver K.; Gharaibeh, Sawsan; Ruckstuhl, Sandra; Rajapakse, Nilmini Dharshika dcterms.abstract: The Resilient Nature-Based Water Solutions for Food Systems and Women’s Empowerment (RENEW) initiative develops scalable, investment-ready models for climate-resilient water and land management in fragile and conflict-affected settings. Led by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) and the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) under the CGIAR Food Frontiers and Security Program, RENEW works in Bangladesh, Nigeria and Sudan to strengthen water security, livelihoods and social cohesion. By combining resilient nature-based water solutions (RNBWS), inclusive governance, women and youth empowerment, and evidence-based scaling pathways, the initiative supports locally led adaptation while generating practical insights for governments, donors and development partners to scale conflict-sensitive and climate-resilient interventions. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Food Frontiers and Security

2026-06-12T00:00:00ZMekuria, WoldeKhalifa, Muhammadde Silva, SanjivBalana, BedruKirui, Oliver K.Gharaibeh, SawsanRuckstuhl, SandraRajapakse, Nilmini DharshikaThe Resilient Nature-Based Water Solutions for Food Systems and Women’s Empowerment (RENEW) initiative develops scalable, investment-ready models for climate-resilient water and land management in fragile and conflict-affected settings. Led by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) and the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) under the CGIAR Food Frontiers and Security Program, RENEW works in Bangladesh, Nigeria and Sudan to strengthen water security, livelihoods and social cohesion. By combining resilient nature-based water solutions (RNBWS), inclusive governance, women and youth empowerment, and evidence-based scaling pathways, the initiative supports locally led adaptation while generating practical insights for governments, donors and development partners to scale conflict-sensitive and climate-resilient interventions.International Water Management Institutehttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1833202026-06-15T03:53:46Z2026-06-12T00:00:00Z

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

2026-06-12T00:00:00ZInternational Water Management InstituteBehera, AbhijitAlam, Mohammad FaizChaudhary, ShivamSena, Dipaka RanjanSikka, Alokhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1833192026-06-15T03:59:10Z2026-06-12T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Climate Resilient and Sustainable Ganges Basin dc.contributor.author: Behera, Abhijit; Alam, Mohammad Faiz; Chaudhary, Shivam; Sena, Dipaka Ranjan; Sikka, Alok dcterms.abstract: This workshop report summarizes discussions and outcomes from the national workshop on “Climate Resilient and Sustainable Ganges Basin”, organized by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) under the CGIAR Policy Innovations Science Program in New Delhi on December 1, 2025. The event brought together representatives from government agencies, research institutions, development organizations, and civil society to explore evidence-based approaches for strengthening groundwater security, climate resilience, and integrated water governance in the Ganga Basin. The workshop focused on two key themes: strengthening Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) investments through scientific evidence and advancing Water–Energy–Food–Environment (WEFE) nexus approaches for sustainable basin management. Presentations highlighted findings from field assessments of MAR interventions in the Ramganga Basin, strategies for managing water-quality risks, groundwater governance through experiential learning, water-saving opportunities in rice cultivation, and innovative digital tools such as the WEFE Nexus Decision Support System (DSS) and the TRACE satellite-based surface water monitoring platform. Discussions emphasized the need for risk-based MAR guidelines, stronger community participation, integrated data platforms, and scaling of digital decision-support tools within national water and watershed programs. The workshop resulted in the release of two policy briefs and generated actionable recommendations for policymakers and practitioners. The outcomes underscore the importance of combining scientific research, stakeholder engagement, and cross-sectoral collaboration to build climate-resilient and sustainable water management systems across the Ganges Basin. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations

2026-06-12T00:00:00ZBehera, AbhijitAlam, Mohammad FaizChaudhary, ShivamSena, Dipaka RanjanSikka, AlokThis workshop report summarizes discussions and outcomes from the national workshop on “Climate Resilient and Sustainable Ganges Basin”, organized by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) under the CGIAR Policy Innovations Science Program in New Delhi on December 1, 2025. The event brought together representatives from government agencies, research institutions, development organizations, and civil society to explore evidence-based approaches for strengthening groundwater security, climate resilience, and integrated water governance in the Ganga Basin. The workshop focused on two key themes: strengthening Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) investments through scientific evidence and advancing Water–Energy–Food–Environment (WEFE) nexus approaches for sustainable basin management. Presentations highlighted findings from field assessments of MAR interventions in the Ramganga Basin, strategies for managing water-quality risks, groundwater governance through experiential learning, water-saving opportunities in rice cultivation, and innovative digital tools such as the WEFE Nexus Decision Support System (DSS) and the TRACE satellite-based surface water monitoring platform. Discussions emphasized the need for risk-based MAR guidelines, stronger community participation, integrated data platforms, and scaling of digital decision-support tools within national water and watershed programs. The workshop resulted in the release of two policy briefs and generated actionable recommendations for policymakers and practitioners. The outcomes underscore the importance of combining scientific research, stakeholder engagement, and cross-sectoral collaboration to build climate-resilient and sustainable water management systems across the Ganges Basin.Rajkhowa, PallaviZane, GiuliaBuisson, Marie-CharlotteKinyua, Michaelhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1833182026-06-15T07:13:29Z2026-06-12T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Priorities to Achieve Agronomic Gain in Kenya: Climate Risk Perceptions and Practice Adoption dc.contributor.author: Rajkhowa, Pallavi; Zane, Giulia; Buisson, Marie-Charlotte; Kinyua, Michael cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Sustainable Farming

2026-06-12T00:00:00ZRajkhowa, PallaviZane, GiuliaBuisson, Marie-CharlotteKinyua, MichaelBoschee, AzaraAlborzi, AnesehAlexander, Augustina ClaraArheimer, BeritBel Hadj Ali, SalsebilBlöschl, GünterCastelletti, AndreaChen, XiDogra, AniyaDu, ErhuDuku, JesseFiori, AldoGarcia, MargaretGrimaldi, SalvatoreHanasaki, NaotaKim, YeonjooKreibich, HeidiLi, ChenyuanMatin, MirMedeiros, PedroMehran, AliMeira Neto, Antônio AlvesNakai, FukoNakamura, ShinichiroNguyen, PhuNobert, JoelOwusu, AfuaGopalan, Saritha PadiyedathPereira, BrunoPouladi, ParsaPouladi, MehrsaRoobavannan, MahendranSadegh, MojtabaSangiorgio, MatteoSchoppa, LukasShrestha, AshishSivapalan, MurugesuSousa, DeborahSunkara, Sai VeenaTian, FuqiangTrabelsi, FatmaVelpuri, Naga ManoharVolpi, ElenaWang, JialeWang, ShuoWu, JiefengYuan, XingAghaKouchak, Amirhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1833012026-06-12T14:13:00Z2026-06-04T00:00:00Z

dc.title: The coupled hydrology–human activity information (CHHAI) dataset: a global benchmark dataset for model comparison and evaluation dc.contributor.author: Boschee, Azara; Alborzi, Aneseh; Alexander, Augustina Clara; Arheimer, Berit; Bel Hadj Ali, Salsebil; Blöschl, Günter; Castelletti, Andrea; Chen, Xi; Dogra, Aniya; Du, Erhu; Duku, Jesse; Fiori, Aldo; Garcia, Margaret; Grimaldi, Salvatore; Hanasaki, Naota; Kim, Yeonjoo; Kreibich, Heidi; Li, Chenyuan; Matin, Mir; Medeiros, Pedro; Mehran, Ali; Meira Neto, Antônio Alves; Nakai, Fuko; Nakamura, Shinichiro; Nguyen, Phu; Nobert, Joel; Owusu, Afua; Gopalan, Saritha Padiyedath; Pereira, Bruno; Pouladi, Parsa; Pouladi, Mehrsa; Roobavannan, Mahendran; Sadegh, Mojtaba; Sangiorgio, Matteo; Schoppa, Lukas; Shrestha, Ashish; Sivapalan, Murugesu; Sousa, Deborah; Sunkara, Sai Veena; Tian, Fuqiang; Trabelsi, Fatma; Velpuri, Naga Manohar; Volpi, Elena; Wang, Jiale; Wang, Shuo; Wu, Jiefeng; Yuan, Xing; AghaKouchak, Amir dcterms.abstract: To enhance hydrologic modeling, the hydrology community has developed benchmark datasets (e.g. Model Parameter Estimation Experiment, MOPEX), providing standardized data for model evaluation and parameter estimation. However, these datasets primarily focus on modeling natural hydrologic processes, leaving a critical gap in understanding the role of human influences. Here, we introduce the Coupled Hydrology-Human Activity Information (CHHAI) dataset, a benchmark dataset that integrates coupled human–water data from regions across all continents, excluding Antarctica. CHHAI incorporates data from 25 regions that cover various human impacts such as reservoir management, flood protection, river management policies, land use changes, and water use. Each basin reflects distinct challenges, providing a diverse and globally representative resource for researchers studying these processes. By offering standardized datasets for modeling and analysis, CHHAI aims to enhance our understanding of interactions between people and water and to support the development of improved strategies for managing coupled human–water systems.

2026-06-04T00:00:00ZBoschee, AzaraAlborzi, AnesehAlexander, Augustina ClaraArheimer, BeritBel Hadj Ali, SalsebilBlöschl, GünterCastelletti, AndreaChen, XiDogra, AniyaDu, ErhuDuku, JesseFiori, AldoGarcia, MargaretGrimaldi, SalvatoreHanasaki, NaotaKim, YeonjooKreibich, HeidiLi, ChenyuanMatin, MirMedeiros, PedroMehran, AliMeira Neto, Antônio AlvesNakai, FukoNakamura, ShinichiroNguyen, PhuNobert, JoelOwusu, AfuaGopalan, Saritha PadiyedathPereira, BrunoPouladi, ParsaPouladi, MehrsaRoobavannan, MahendranSadegh, MojtabaSangiorgio, MatteoSchoppa, LukasShrestha, AshishSivapalan, MurugesuSousa, DeborahSunkara, Sai VeenaTian, FuqiangTrabelsi, FatmaVelpuri, Naga ManoharVolpi, ElenaWang, JialeWang, ShuoWu, JiefengYuan, XingAghaKouchak, AmirTo enhance hydrologic modeling, the hydrology community has developed benchmark datasets (e.g. Model Parameter Estimation Experiment, MOPEX), providing standardized data for model evaluation and parameter estimation. However, these datasets primarily focus on modeling natural hydrologic processes, leaving a critical gap in understanding the role of human influences. Here, we introduce the Coupled Hydrology-Human Activity Information (CHHAI) dataset, a benchmark dataset that integrates coupled human–water data from regions across all continents, excluding Antarctica. CHHAI incorporates data from 25 regions that cover various human impacts such as reservoir management, flood protection, river management policies, land use changes, and water use. Each basin reflects distinct challenges, providing a diverse and globally representative resource for researchers studying these processes. By offering standardized datasets for modeling and analysis, CHHAI aims to enhance our understanding of interactions between people and water and to support the development of improved strategies for managing coupled human–water systems.Junaid, NovairaHafeez, MohsinAeman, Hafsahttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1832972026-06-11T04:37:04Z2026-06-10T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Climate Change Vulnerability Index: A Case Study of District Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan dc.contributor.author: Junaid, Novaira; Hafeez, Mohsin; Aeman, Hafsa dcterms.abstract: The report on Climate Change Vulnerability Index (CCVI): A Case Study of District Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan presents an innovative and evidence-based framework for assessing climate vulnerability at the sub-national level in one of the world's most climate-vulnerable regions, Pakistan. Developed by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI), the research integrates indicators related to sensitivity, exposure, and adaptive capacity into a multidimensional Climate Change Vulnerability Index capable of identifying vulnerability hotspots and informing targeted resilience interventions. The assessment demonstrates how climate change is increasingly reshaping food, water, land, health, and migration systems thereby creating complex development challenges that disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. Through a detailed analysis of district Rahim Yar Khan, in the Southern part of Punjab, Pakistan, the report reveals significant spatial and temporal variations in climate vulnerability driven by exposure to floods, heatwaves, water insecurity, socio-economic sensitivities, and differing levels of adaptive capacity. The findings further highlight the compounded risks faced by women, children, the elderly, and climate-displaced communities. Beyond its local application, CCVI offers a scalable and replicable methodology for governments, development partners, humanitarian agencies, and researchers seeking to strengthen anticipatory action and climate adaptation planning. By transforming complex climate and socio-economic data into actionable intelligence, the framework supports evidence-based decision-making and contributes to global efforts aimed at building inclusive and climate-resilient communities in an era of increasing climate uncertainty. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Food Frontiers and Security

2026-06-10T00:00:00ZJunaid, NovairaHafeez, MohsinAeman, HafsaThe report on Climate Change Vulnerability Index (CCVI): A Case Study of District Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan presents an innovative and evidence-based framework for assessing climate vulnerability at the sub-national level in one of the world's most climate-vulnerable regions, Pakistan. Developed by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI), the research integrates indicators related to sensitivity, exposure, and adaptive capacity into a multidimensional Climate Change Vulnerability Index capable of identifying vulnerability hotspots and informing targeted resilience interventions. The assessment demonstrates how climate change is increasingly reshaping food, water, land, health, and migration systems thereby creating complex development challenges that disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. Through a detailed analysis of district Rahim Yar Khan, in the Southern part of Punjab, Pakistan, the report reveals significant spatial and temporal variations in climate vulnerability driven by exposure to floods, heatwaves, water insecurity, socio-economic sensitivities, and differing levels of adaptive capacity. The findings further highlight the compounded risks faced by women, children, the elderly, and climate-displaced communities. Beyond its local application, CCVI offers a scalable and replicable methodology for governments, development partners, humanitarian agencies, and researchers seeking to strengthen anticipatory action and climate adaptation planning. By transforming complex climate and socio-economic data into actionable intelligence, the framework supports evidence-based decision-making and contributes to global efforts aimed at building inclusive and climate-resilient communities in an era of increasing climate uncertainty.International Water Management Institutehttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1832882026-06-11T01:13:13Z2026-06-09T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Regional Strategic Roadmap: Central Asia 2024–2030 dc.contributor.author: International Water Management Institute dcterms.abstract: The IWMI Central Asia Regional Strategic Roadmap 2024–2030 provides a forward-looking framework to guide the institute’s research, partnerships, and policy engagement in addressing the region’s most pressing water-related challenges. Developed in response to increasing climate variability, water scarcity, glacier retreat, growing socio-economic demands, and the complexities of transboundary water management, the roadmap outlines IWMI’s vision for advancing water security, resilience, and sustainable development across Central Asia over the next decade. The strategy identifies five interconnected priority areas: climate change and water security, transboundary water cooperation, water productivity and sustainable agriculture, digitalization and data-driven water management, and ecosystems, WASH, and inclusive water services. These priorities reflect the region’s evolving needs and emphasize science-based solutions, innovation, and evidence-driven decision-making to strengthen resilience and improve water governance. The roadmap places strong emphasis on collaboration with national governments, regional organizations, development partners, international financial institutions, research institutions, and local communities. Through these partnerships, IWMI aims to co-design and implement practical solutions that enhance climate adaptation, improve water-use efficiency, strengthen regional cooperation, and promote equitable access to water and sanitation services. The strategy also highlights cross-cutting commitments to capacity development, policy influence, knowledge sharing, digital transformation, and inclusive participation of women, youth, and vulnerable groups. By translating research into actionable policies, investments, and on-the-ground interventions, IWMI seeks to ensure that scientific evidence delivers tangible development outcomes. As a guiding framework for IWMI’s regional operations from 2024 to 2030, the roadmap seeks to strengthen water security, improve agricultural productivity, support transboundary cooperation, protect ecosystems, and enhance the livelihoods and well-being of communities throughout the region.

2026-06-09T00:00:00ZInternational Water Management InstituteThe IWMI Central Asia Regional Strategic Roadmap 2024–2030 provides a forward-looking framework to guide the institute’s research, partnerships, and policy engagement in addressing the region’s most pressing water-related challenges. Developed in response to increasing climate variability, water scarcity, glacier retreat, growing socio-economic demands, and the complexities of transboundary water management, the roadmap outlines IWMI’s vision for advancing water security, resilience, and sustainable development across Central Asia over the next decade. The strategy identifies five interconnected priority areas: climate change and water security, transboundary water cooperation, water productivity and sustainable agriculture, digitalization and data-driven water management, and ecosystems, WASH, and inclusive water services. These priorities reflect the region’s evolving needs and emphasize science-based solutions, innovation, and evidence-driven decision-making to strengthen resilience and improve water governance. The roadmap places strong emphasis on collaboration with national governments, regional organizations, development partners, international financial institutions, research institutions, and local communities. Through these partnerships, IWMI aims to co-design and implement practical solutions that enhance climate adaptation, improve water-use efficiency, strengthen regional cooperation, and promote equitable access to water and sanitation services. The strategy also highlights cross-cutting commitments to capacity development, policy influence, knowledge sharing, digital transformation, and inclusive participation of women, youth, and vulnerable groups. By translating research into actionable policies, investments, and on-the-ground interventions, IWMI seeks to ensure that scientific evidence delivers tangible development outcomes. As a guiding framework for IWMI’s regional operations from 2024 to 2030, the roadmap seeks to strengthen water security, improve agricultural productivity, support transboundary cooperation, protect ecosystems, and enhance the livelihoods and well-being of communities throughout the region.Matchaya, Greenwell C.https://hdl.handle.net/10568/1832772026-06-11T01:04:31Z2026-06-08T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Chapter 2: The Status of Agricultural Performance in the Eastern and Southern Africa Region dc.contributor.author: Matchaya, Greenwell C.

2026-06-08T00:00:00ZMatchaya, Greenwell C.International Water Management Institute (IWMI)https://hdl.handle.net/10568/1832762026-06-11T01:10:00Z2026-06-10T00:00:00Z

dc.title: IWMI in Sri Lanka - fact sheet dc.contributor.author: International Water Management Institute (IWMI)

2026-06-10T00:00:00ZInternational Water Management Institute (IWMI)International Water Management Institute (IWMI)https://hdl.handle.net/10568/1832752026-06-11T01:20:56Z2026-05-10T00:00:00Z

dc.title: IWMI in Nepal - fact sheet dc.contributor.author: International Water Management Institute (IWMI)

2026-05-10T00:00:00ZInternational Water Management Institute (IWMI)Matchaya, Greenwell C.Nkosi, Mahlatsehttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1832742026-06-11T01:05:18Z2026-06-08T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Chapter 1: Introduction dc.contributor.author: Matchaya, Greenwell C.; Nkosi, Mahlatse

2026-06-08T00:00:00ZMatchaya, Greenwell C.Nkosi, MahlatseBanerjee, AnuragKhan, RamshaTripathi, GauravParasher, Pratishthahttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1832622026-06-10T01:06:28Z2026-06-09T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Solar Energy for Agricultural Resilience (SoLAR) Phase II Inception Workshop in India dc.contributor.author: Banerjee, Anurag; Khan, Ramsha; Tripathi, Gaurav; Parasher, Pratishtha dcterms.abstract: The International Water Management Institute (IWMI), under the Solar Energy for Agricultural Resilience (SoLAR) project supported by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), convened the SoLAR Phase II Inception Workshop in New Delhi, India, on 28 November 2025. The workshop marked the launch of Phase II and brought together policymakers, researchers, development partners, and practitioners from South Asia and East Africa to align priorities for scaling solar energy solutions in agriculture. Discussions highlighted solar irrigation as a key solution for strengthening the water–energy–food nexus, drawing on evidence from Phase I that demonstrated improvements in farmer incomes, energy efficiency, climate resilience, and reduced reliance on diesel-powered irrigation. Participants emphasized the need to expand productive uses of solar energy beyond irrigation to include agro-processing, cold storage, and other rural livelihood opportunities. The workshop also underscored the importance of enabling policies, innovative financing, capacity building, and South–South collaboration to accelerate adoption. Through country presentations, stakeholder dialogues, and the launch of the SolarReady Dashboard, participants identified practical pathways for scaling socially inclusive, climate-resilient solar energy solutions across diverse agricultural contexts.

2026-06-09T00:00:00ZBanerjee, AnuragKhan, RamshaTripathi, GauravParasher, PratishthaThe International Water Management Institute (IWMI), under the Solar Energy for Agricultural Resilience (SoLAR) project supported by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), convened the SoLAR Phase II Inception Workshop in New Delhi, India, on 28 November 2025. The workshop marked the launch of Phase II and brought together policymakers, researchers, development partners, and practitioners from South Asia and East Africa to align priorities for scaling solar energy solutions in agriculture. Discussions highlighted solar irrigation as a key solution for strengthening the water–energy–food nexus, drawing on evidence from Phase I that demonstrated improvements in farmer incomes, energy efficiency, climate resilience, and reduced reliance on diesel-powered irrigation. Participants emphasized the need to expand productive uses of solar energy beyond irrigation to include agro-processing, cold storage, and other rural livelihood opportunities. The workshop also underscored the importance of enabling policies, innovative financing, capacity building, and South–South collaboration to accelerate adoption. Through country presentations, stakeholder dialogues, and the launch of the SolarReady Dashboard, participants identified practical pathways for scaling socially inclusive, climate-resilient solar energy solutions across diverse agricultural contexts.Matchaya, Greenwell C.Nkosi, MahlatseYade, SambaneTadesse, GetawGabriel, SherwinThomas, Timothy S.Robertson, Richard D.Nkanyani, ShiluvaMwamakamba, SithembileZimba, Noahhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1832432026-06-15T14:05:35Z2026-06-08T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Current Agro-Based Transformation and Its Future in East and Southern Africa dc.contributor.author: Matchaya, Greenwell C.; Nkosi, Mahlatse; Yade, Sambane; Tadesse, Getaw; Gabriel, Sherwin; Thomas, Timothy S.; Robertson, Richard D.; Nkanyani, Shiluva; Mwamakamba, Sithembile; Zimba, Noah cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Scaling for Impact; Digital Transformation

2026-06-08T00:00:00ZMatchaya, Greenwell C.Nkosi, MahlatseYade, SambaneTadesse, GetawGabriel, SherwinThomas, Timothy S.Robertson, Richard D.Nkanyani, ShiluvaMwamakamba, SithembileZimba, NoahKhadka, ManoharaAryal, AnilAdhikari, AlishaShrestha, Ram KrishnaKaini, SantoshShrestha, ShreematChoudhary, DyutimanBhatt, Prem RajVarijakshapanicker, Padmakumarhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1831842026-06-06T01:05:51Z2026-06-04T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Stakeholder Consultation Workshop on the CGIAR Country Strategy Framework (CSF) in Nepal dc.contributor.author: Khadka, Manohara; Aryal, Anil; Adhikari, Alisha; Shrestha, Ram Krishna; Kaini, Santosh; Shrestha, Shreemat; Choudhary, Dyutiman; Bhatt, Prem Raj; Varijakshapanicker, Padmakumar dcterms.abstract: CGIAR Centers in Nepal have contributed to addressing the challenges such as fragmentation, weak coordination, and limited alignment with national priorities through research, innovation, and capacity development. However, the impact has been unrecognized. Drawing from the P25 Listening sessions organized in 2024, the necessity of a country strategy framework (CSF) for Nepal, CGIAR centers organized a national-level consultation workshop to discuss and gather feedback from partners and stakeholders on the concept and approach for co-designing, implementing, and evaluating the CGIAR CSF in Nepal. The half‑day consultation workshop combined presentations, plenary discussions, and facilitated breakout group sessions. A total of 66 participants (30% women), representing government agencies, the private sector, research and academic institutions, investors, development partners, and civil society organizations, provided feedback on the CSF concept and structure, identified priority thematic areas, and discussed governance, coordination mechanisms, and ownership arrangements. The CSF process emphasized inclusiveness, practical relevance, and alignment with national systems and policies. Recognizing CGIAR's significant roles in Nepal's development, particularly in research and innovations across food, land, and water (FLW) systems, technology transfer, and human resources development, participants expressed strong interest and commitment to engage in the CSF co-design, implementation, monitoring, and learning processes. Once formalized, the CSF will serve as a strategic tool to guide and strengthen the scaling of CGIAR research and innovations, helping achieve the impacts envisioned under the CGIAR Scaling for Impact (S4I) program. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Scaling for Impact

2026-06-04T00:00:00ZKhadka, ManoharaAryal, AnilAdhikari, AlishaShrestha, Ram KrishnaKaini, SantoshShrestha, ShreematChoudhary, DyutimanBhatt, Prem RajVarijakshapanicker, PadmakumarCGIAR Centers in Nepal have contributed to addressing the challenges such as fragmentation, weak coordination, and limited alignment with national priorities through research, innovation, and capacity development. However, the impact has been unrecognized. Drawing from the P25 Listening sessions organized in 2024, the necessity of a country strategy framework (CSF) for Nepal, CGIAR centers organized a national-level consultation workshop to discuss and gather feedback from partners and stakeholders on the concept and approach for co-designing, implementing, and evaluating the CGIAR CSF in Nepal. The half‑day consultation workshop combined presentations, plenary discussions, and facilitated breakout group sessions. A total of 66 participants (30% women), representing government agencies, the private sector, research and academic institutions, investors, development partners, and civil society organizations, provided feedback on the CSF concept and structure, identified priority thematic areas, and discussed governance, coordination mechanisms, and ownership arrangements. The CSF process emphasized inclusiveness, practical relevance, and alignment with national systems and policies. Recognizing CGIAR's significant roles in Nepal's development, particularly in research and innovations across food, land, and water (FLW) systems, technology transfer, and human resources development, participants expressed strong interest and commitment to engage in the CSF co-design, implementation, monitoring, and learning processes. Once formalized, the CSF will serve as a strategic tool to guide and strengthen the scaling of CGIAR research and innovations, helping achieve the impacts envisioned under the CGIAR Scaling for Impact (S4I) program.Mekuria, Woldehttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1831672026-06-03T09:11:55Z2026-06-02T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Ethiopian Communities Are Using Low-Cost Methods to Restore Eroded Land dc.contributor.author: Mekuria, Wolde cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Multifunctional Landscapes

2026-06-02T00:00:00ZMekuria, WoldeZemadim, BirhanuOke, AdebayoDirwai, Tinashe LindelAdmasu, ZelekeChoruma, Dennis JuniorDickson, JonathanNzeyimana, ValereHafeez, Mohsinhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1831662026-06-08T03:35:03Z2026-06-03T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Comprehensive Guidelines for Capacity Building for Irrigation Managers in Water Management within Modern Irrigation Technologies dc.contributor.author: Zemadim, Birhanu; Oke, Adebayo; Dirwai, Tinashe Lindel; Admasu, Zeleke; Choruma, Dennis Junior; Dickson, Jonathan; Nzeyimana, Valere; Hafeez, Mohsin dcterms.abstract: Sub-Saharan Africa has substantial untapped irrigation potential, yet many existing systems underperform due to weak operation and maintenance (O&M), limited technical capacity, and institutional governance challenges. These constraints reduce water-use efficiency, lower returns on infrastructure investments, and weaken resilience to climate variability. At the same time, rising climate uncertainty, energy costs, groundwater stress, and persistent food insecurity are increasing the urgency for more effective irrigation management. Addressing these challenges requires a shift from infrastructure-focused investment to capacity-driven, performance-oriented irrigation management. This FAO–IWMI initiative develops evidence-based, scalable guidelines to strengthen the human and institutional systems that underpin irrigation performance. The objective is to equip irrigation managers, extension agents, scheme operators, and Water User Associations (WUAs) with the competencies, tools, and governance frameworks needed to plan, operate, maintain, and scale modern irrigation systems efficiently and sustainably. The guidelines draw on desk reviews, case studies, performance assessments, and stakeholder consultations involving irrigation authorities, engineers, farmers, and private-sector actors. They cover drip and sprinkler systems, center pivots, solar-powered irrigation, smart and digital irrigation, and subsurface technologies. Key lessons emphasize that capacity building must be multi-actor, continuous, and embedded in functioning irrigation service ecosystems. One-off training is insufficient; sustained mentoring and technical support are essential. Experiences from Zambia and South Africa highlight the need for systems-oriented approaches and competency-based frameworks tailored to different actor groups, especially suppliers, technicians, and extension services. The guidelines complement the FAO PRISM tool by translating diagnostic insights into practical competencies and operational procedures, providing the “how to improve and sustain,” thereby supporting scalable, climate-resilient irrigation development. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations

2026-06-03T00:00:00ZZemadim, BirhanuOke, AdebayoDirwai, Tinashe LindelAdmasu, ZelekeChoruma, Dennis JuniorDickson, JonathanNzeyimana, ValereHafeez, MohsinSub-Saharan Africa has substantial untapped irrigation potential, yet many existing systems underperform due to weak operation and maintenance (O&M), limited technical capacity, and institutional governance challenges. These constraints reduce water-use efficiency, lower returns on infrastructure investments, and weaken resilience to climate variability. At the same time, rising climate uncertainty, energy costs, groundwater stress, and persistent food insecurity are increasing the urgency for more effective irrigation management. Addressing these challenges requires a shift from infrastructure-focused investment to capacity-driven, performance-oriented irrigation management. This FAO–IWMI initiative develops evidence-based, scalable guidelines to strengthen the human and institutional systems that underpin irrigation performance. The objective is to equip irrigation managers, extension agents, scheme operators, and Water User Associations (WUAs) with the competencies, tools, and governance frameworks needed to plan, operate, maintain, and scale modern irrigation systems efficiently and sustainably. The guidelines draw on desk reviews, case studies, performance assessments, and stakeholder consultations involving irrigation authorities, engineers, farmers, and private-sector actors. They cover drip and sprinkler systems, center pivots, solar-powered irrigation, smart and digital irrigation, and subsurface technologies. Key lessons emphasize that capacity building must be multi-actor, continuous, and embedded in functioning irrigation service ecosystems. One-off training is insufficient; sustained mentoring and technical support are essential. Experiences from Zambia and South Africa highlight the need for systems-oriented approaches and competency-based frameworks tailored to different actor groups, especially suppliers, technicians, and extension services. The guidelines complement the FAO PRISM tool by translating diagnostic insights into practical competencies and operational procedures, providing the “how to improve and sustain,” thereby supporting scalable, climate-resilient irrigation development.International Water Management Institutehttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1831592026-06-03T04:59:08Z2026-06-02T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Regional Strategic Roadmap: West and Central Africa 2024–2030 dc.contributor.author: International Water Management Institute dcterms.abstract: The IWMI West and Central Africa Regional Strategic Roadmap (2024–2030) provides a strategic framework for promoting water security, climate resilience, sustainable agriculture and equitable economic development in West and Central Africa. The roadmap is grounded in IWMI’s strong history of work in irrigation development, inclusive landscape management, digital water accounting, circular economy innovations, youth-led aquaculture and water governance, and addresses the growing challenges facing the region, including climate change, water scarcity, environmental degradation, rapid urbanisation and food insecurity. The roadmap focuses on six strategic priorities: developing resilient agri-food systems; mitigating drought and flood risks; fostering circular water and food economy innovations; utilising water for resilience in fragile and conflict-affected situations; enhancing gender equity in water resource management; and facilitating evidence-based decisions on water infrastructure and allocation. These priorities will be delivered through integrated research, innovation, policy engagement, digital technologies and strategic partnerships. Implementation will target priority countries and river basins and will involve working with governments, regional institutions, research organisations, development partners and the private sector. The roadmap aims to transform scientific knowledge into practical solutions to improve livelihoods, increase climate resilience and water governance, and promote sustainable and inclusive development in West and Central Africa by 2030.

2026-06-02T00:00:00ZInternational Water Management InstituteThe IWMI West and Central Africa Regional Strategic Roadmap (2024–2030) provides a strategic framework for promoting water security, climate resilience, sustainable agriculture and equitable economic development in West and Central Africa. The roadmap is grounded in IWMI’s strong history of work in irrigation development, inclusive landscape management, digital water accounting, circular economy innovations, youth-led aquaculture and water governance, and addresses the growing challenges facing the region, including climate change, water scarcity, environmental degradation, rapid urbanisation and food insecurity. The roadmap focuses on six strategic priorities: developing resilient agri-food systems; mitigating drought and flood risks; fostering circular water and food economy innovations; utilising water for resilience in fragile and conflict-affected situations; enhancing gender equity in water resource management; and facilitating evidence-based decisions on water infrastructure and allocation. These priorities will be delivered through integrated research, innovation, policy engagement, digital technologies and strategic partnerships. Implementation will target priority countries and river basins and will involve working with governments, regional institutions, research organisations, development partners and the private sector. The roadmap aims to transform scientific knowledge into practical solutions to improve livelihoods, increase climate resilience and water governance, and promote sustainable and inclusive development in West and Central Africa by 2030.Vanham, Davyhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1831432026-06-02T05:30:42Z2026-06-01T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Africa’s Power Plants Are Set for Expansion by 2030, with Renewables’ Share Growing from 19% to 34% dc.contributor.author: Vanham, Davy cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations

2026-06-01T00:00:00ZVanham, DavyInternational Water Management Institutehttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1831402026-06-02T01:09:53Z2026-06-01T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Country Strategic Roadmap: India 2024–2030 dc.contributor.author: International Water Management Institute dcterms.abstract: The IWMI India Country Strategic Roadmap 2026–2030 presents a forward-looking framework to guide the organization’s research, partnerships, and policy engagement in support of sustainable water management and resilient agricultural systems in India. Developed in response to growing pressures from climate change, groundwater depletion, rapid urbanization, and increasing demands on food and water resources, the roadmap outlines IWMI India’s vision for generating actionable science and scaling evidence-based solutions over the next five years. The strategy identifies priority thematic areas, including water security, climate resilience, sustainable agriculture, groundwater governance, water-energy-food nexus approaches, and inclusive resource management. It emphasizes strengthening partnerships with government agencies, research institutions, development organizations, and local communities to co-develop and implement innovative solutions. The roadmap also highlights cross-cutting commitments to gender equality, capacity development, policy influence, and knowledge sharing, ensuring that research outcomes translate into meaningful societal impact. By aligning with national development priorities and global sustainability agendas, the strategy seeks to support informed decision-making and foster resilient, equitable, and climate-smart development pathways. As a guiding document for IWMI India’s operations from 2024 to 2030, the roadmap aims to enhance the organization’s contribution to improved water management, food security, livelihoods, and environmental sustainability across diverse regions of India.

2026-06-01T00:00:00ZInternational Water Management InstituteThe IWMI India Country Strategic Roadmap 2026–2030 presents a forward-looking framework to guide the organization’s research, partnerships, and policy engagement in support of sustainable water management and resilient agricultural systems in India. Developed in response to growing pressures from climate change, groundwater depletion, rapid urbanization, and increasing demands on food and water resources, the roadmap outlines IWMI India’s vision for generating actionable science and scaling evidence-based solutions over the next five years. The strategy identifies priority thematic areas, including water security, climate resilience, sustainable agriculture, groundwater governance, water-energy-food nexus approaches, and inclusive resource management. It emphasizes strengthening partnerships with government agencies, research institutions, development organizations, and local communities to co-develop and implement innovative solutions. The roadmap also highlights cross-cutting commitments to gender equality, capacity development, policy influence, and knowledge sharing, ensuring that research outcomes translate into meaningful societal impact. By aligning with national development priorities and global sustainability agendas, the strategy seeks to support informed decision-making and foster resilient, equitable, and climate-smart development pathways. As a guiding document for IWMI India’s operations from 2024 to 2030, the roadmap aims to enhance the organization’s contribution to improved water management, food security, livelihoods, and environmental sustainability across diverse regions of India.Vanham, DavyHolmatov, Bunyodhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1831392026-06-02T05:31:19Z2026-06-01T00:00:00Z

dc.title: A New Spatial Inventory of Power Plants Shows Africa Is Stepping up in Construction and Planning up to 2030 dc.contributor.author: Vanham, Davy; Holmatov, Bunyod

2026-06-01T00:00:00ZVanham, DavyHolmatov, BunyodShrestha, ShisherPradhan, PrachandaKC, SumitraLal, Sanjibhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1831382026-06-01T02:36:20Z2026-01-01T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Scaling Inclusive Solar MUS in Nepal: Opportunities, Challenges, and Future Pathways dc.contributor.author: Shrestha, Shisher; Pradhan, Prachanda; KC, Sumitra; Lal, Sanjib dcterms.abstract: Solar-powered multiple-use water services (solar-MUS) systems have become an effective solution in Nepal’s hilly regions, providing water for drinking, other domestic uses, irrigation, and small enterprises by lifting groundwater or river water to upland settlements. Their adaptability has encouraged adoption at both household and community levels. Beyond economic gains, solar-MUS reduces women’s workload and supports social empowerment. This study examines opportunities and challenges for scaling inclusive Solar-MUS using literature reviews, policy analysis, and qualitative case studies of two mid-hill projects. Key findings highlight policy fragmentation, governance gaps, high upfront costs, and social inequities as barriers, while strong local ownership, resilient system design, and integrated policy support emerge as enablers. Scaling solar-MUS requires coordinated institutional roles, capacity-building for user groups, and private sector-led innovation to ensure long-term sustainability and equitable benefits. The study provides actionable pathways for expanding inclusive, climate-resilient water services in Nepal’s mid-hills.

2026-01-01T00:00:00ZShrestha, ShisherPradhan, PrachandaKC, SumitraLal, SanjibSolar-powered multiple-use water services (solar-MUS) systems have become an effective solution in Nepal’s hilly regions, providing water for drinking, other domestic uses, irrigation, and small enterprises by lifting groundwater or river water to upland settlements. Their adaptability has encouraged adoption at both household and community levels. Beyond economic gains, solar-MUS reduces women’s workload and supports social empowerment. This study examines opportunities and challenges for scaling inclusive Solar-MUS using literature reviews, policy analysis, and qualitative case studies of two mid-hill projects. Key findings highlight policy fragmentation, governance gaps, high upfront costs, and social inequities as barriers, while strong local ownership, resilient system design, and integrated policy support emerge as enablers. Scaling solar-MUS requires coordinated institutional roles, capacity-building for user groups, and private sector-led innovation to ensure long-term sustainability and equitable benefits. The study provides actionable pathways for expanding inclusive, climate-resilient water services in Nepal’s mid-hills.Akpoti, KomlaviVelpuri, Naga ManoharLeh, MansoorKagone, StefanieMekonnen, KirubelOwusu, AfuaTadesse, MulugetaParanamana, Thilina PrabhathMadushanka, LahiruPerera, TharinduParrish, Gabriel E. L.Nangia, VinaySy, SouleymaneBliefernicht, JanGuug, SamuelSeid, AbdulkarimSenay, Gabriel B.https://hdl.handle.net/10568/1831352026-05-30T06:57:40Z2026-08-01T00:00:00Z

dc.title: VegET Evapotranspiration for Africa: Continental-Scale Simulation, Multi-Product Evaluation, and Drought Assessment dc.contributor.author: Akpoti, Komlavi; Velpuri, Naga Manohar; Leh, Mansoor; Kagone, Stefanie; Mekonnen, Kirubel; Owusu, Afua; Tadesse, Mulugeta; Paranamana, Thilina Prabhath; Madushanka, Lahiru; Perera, Tharindu; Parrish, Gabriel E. L.; Nangia, Vinay; Sy, Souleymane; Bliefernicht, Jan; Guug, Samuel; Seid, Abdulkarim; Senay, Gabriel B. dcterms.abstract: Study region: Continental Africa, encompassing diverse climatic zones—tropical, arid, and temperate—and spanning major transboundary river basins such as the Nile, Niger, Congo, Volta, and Zambezi River Basins. The region exhibits pronounced hydroclimatic gradients and heterogeneous land use systems ranging from rainfed croplands and rangelands to dense tropical forests and irrigated schemes. Study focus: Actual evapotranspiration (ETa) is a central component of the terrestrial water balance, governing the redistribution of water and energy between the land surface and the atmosphere. Accurate estimation of ETa at continental scale is critical for hydrological monitoring, water resource management, and climate adaptation, as well as for quantifying water, energy, and carbon fluxes that underpin sustainable development. In this study, we applied the agro-hydrologic VegET v2 model to simulate a new, high-resolution, continental-scale ETa dataset for Africa (2000–2021). The model results were benchmarked against four widely used remote sensing-based products—MODIS16 v6.1, SSEBop v6.1, WaPOR v3, and GLEAM v4.1a—across major climate zones, land use types, and River Basins, providing a comprehensive multi-product evaluation of evapotranspiration dynamics across the continent. New hydrological insights for the region: Validation against eddy covariance flux tower observations at eight representative sites confirmed that VegET v2 accurately reproduces the seasonal dynamics of observed ETa, achieving a correlation (r) of 0.8 and an RMSE of 25 mm month⁻¹ —accuracy that is comparable to or higher than accuracies of satellite-based products MODIS16, SSEBop, and GLEAM. This study represents one of the first Africa-wide hydrological simulations of ETa, extending the VegET model beyond basin-scale applications. Intercomparisons reveal that VegET aligns closely with MODIS16, SSEBop, and GLEAM in humid and tropical regions (r = 0.80–0.90; RMSE < 20 mm month⁻¹), while greater discrepancies appear in arid and semi-arid zones, where WaPOR tends to overestimate ETa (RMSE ≥ 28 mm month⁻¹). Despite these differences, VegET effectively captures spatial and temporal ETa variability across rainfed croplands, forests, and savannas, supporting its utility in regional water balance assessments, water accounting, and drought monitoring. A key application of VegET v2 is the Evapotranspiration Deficit Index (ETDI), derived by integrating VegET-based ETa with potential evapotranspiration (PET) to quantify water stress. ETDI successfully captured major drought episodes across Africa, including persistent Sahelian and southern African dry spells, the 2020–2021 winter drought in the Maghreb, and the 2018–2019 austral summer drought in southern Africa, while identifying positive anomalies over central Africa indicative of recurrent wetness. These results underscore VegET’s capability as a hydrologically consistent, operational tool for continental ETa monitoring and drought assessment, offering support for basin-scale water balance studies, food security planning, and climate resilience across Africa’s diverse hydrological environments.

2026-08-01T00:00:00ZAkpoti, KomlaviVelpuri, Naga ManoharLeh, MansoorKagone, StefanieMekonnen, KirubelOwusu, AfuaTadesse, MulugetaParanamana, Thilina PrabhathMadushanka, LahiruPerera, TharinduParrish, Gabriel E. L.Nangia, VinaySy, SouleymaneBliefernicht, JanGuug, SamuelSeid, AbdulkarimSenay, Gabriel B.Study region: Continental Africa, encompassing diverse climatic zones—tropical, arid, and temperate—and spanning major transboundary river basins such as the Nile, Niger, Congo, Volta, and Zambezi River Basins. The region exhibits pronounced hydroclimatic gradients and heterogeneous land use systems ranging from rainfed croplands and rangelands to dense tropical forests and irrigated schemes. Study focus: Actual evapotranspiration (ETa) is a central component of the terrestrial water balance, governing the redistribution of water and energy between the land surface and the atmosphere. Accurate estimation of ETa at continental scale is critical for hydrological monitoring, water resource management, and climate adaptation, as well as for quantifying water, energy, and carbon fluxes that underpin sustainable development. In this study, we applied the agro-hydrologic VegET v2 model to simulate a new, high-resolution, continental-scale ETa dataset for Africa (2000–2021). The model results were benchmarked against four widely used remote sensing-based products—MODIS16 v6.1, SSEBop v6.1, WaPOR v3, and GLEAM v4.1a—across major climate zones, land use types, and River Basins, providing a comprehensive multi-product evaluation of evapotranspiration dynamics across the continent. New hydrological insights for the region: Validation against eddy covariance flux tower observations at eight representative sites confirmed that VegET v2 accurately reproduces the seasonal dynamics of observed ETa, achieving a correlation (r) of 0.8 and an RMSE of 25 mm month⁻¹ —accuracy that is comparable to or higher than accuracies of satellite-based products MODIS16, SSEBop, and GLEAM. This study represents one of the first Africa-wide hydrological simulations of ETa, extending the VegET model beyond basin-scale applications. Intercomparisons reveal that VegET aligns closely with MODIS16, SSEBop, and GLEAM in humid and tropical regions (r = 0.80–0.90; RMSE < 20 mm month⁻¹), while greater discrepancies appear in arid and semi-arid zones, where WaPOR tends to overestimate ETa (RMSE ≥ 28 mm month⁻¹). Despite these differences, VegET effectively captures spatial and temporal ETa variability across rainfed croplands, forests, and savannas, supporting its utility in regional water balance assessments, water accounting, and drought monitoring. A key application of VegET v2 is the Evapotranspiration Deficit Index (ETDI), derived by integrating VegET-based ETa with potential evapotranspiration (PET) to quantify water stress. ETDI successfully captured major drought episodes across Africa, including persistent Sahelian and southern African dry spells, the 2020–2021 winter drought in the Maghreb, and the 2018–2019 austral summer drought in southern Africa, while identifying positive anomalies over central Africa indicative of recurrent wetness. These results underscore VegET’s capability as a hydrologically consistent, operational tool for continental ETa monitoring and drought assessment, offering support for basin-scale water balance studies, food security planning, and climate resilience across Africa’s diverse hydrological environments.Siabi, Ebenezer K.Kabo-bah, Amos T.Akpoti, KomlaviAnornu, Geophrey K.Mortey, EricAwafo, Edward A.Derkyi, Nana S. A.Ofosu, Eric AntwiYazdanie, Mashaelhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1831342026-05-30T04:24:36Z2026-04-10T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Rising Urban Flood Risk and Exposure under Shared Socioeconomic Pathways in Greater Accra Ghana dc.contributor.author: Siabi, Ebenezer K.; Kabo-bah, Amos T.; Akpoti, Komlavi; Anornu, Geophrey K.; Mortey, Eric; Awafo, Edward A.; Derkyi, Nana S. A.; Ofosu, Eric Antwi; Yazdanie, Mashael dcterms.abstract: This study assesses flood susceptibility in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana, one of West Africa’s most flood-prone areas by employing the Frequency Ratio (FR) model. The analysis integrates a range of environmental and meteorological variables alongside non-meteorological factors in the susceptibility mapping. The model yielded an Area Under the Curve (AUC) score of 0.82, indicating reliable flood susceptibility predictions. Various factors such as elevation, slope, geology, distance from urban, and stream power index significantly influence flood susceptibility. The spatial distribution of baseline susceptibility zones reveals coastal and northeastern areas as highly susceptible. Projections under different Shared Socioeconomic Pathway (SSP) scenarios depict a dynamic susceptibility landscape, emphasizing shifts in susceptibility levels. Notably, SSP2 and SSP3 foresee an increase in high and very high susceptibility zones. For district and town-level dynamics, districts like Weija Gbawe and towns along the coastline consistently exhibit very high susceptibility. The spatial distribution of building footprints shows a notable concentration within high and very high flood susceptibility zones, highlighting significant exposure risks to both the population and critical infrastructure. For example, over 780,000 and 810,000 building footprints, representing 3.12 million and 3.24 million people, are projected to experience high flood susceptibility under SSP2 and SSP3, respectively. This comprehensive assessment provides critical insights for flood management decisions in cities, emphasizing the importance of considering various factors in understanding and mitigating flood risks in West Africa and globally.

2026-04-10T00:00:00ZSiabi, Ebenezer K.Kabo-bah, Amos T.Akpoti, KomlaviAnornu, Geophrey K.Mortey, EricAwafo, Edward A.Derkyi, Nana S. A.Ofosu, Eric AntwiYazdanie, MashaelThis study assesses flood susceptibility in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana, one of West Africa’s most flood-prone areas by employing the Frequency Ratio (FR) model. The analysis integrates a range of environmental and meteorological variables alongside non-meteorological factors in the susceptibility mapping. The model yielded an Area Under the Curve (AUC) score of 0.82, indicating reliable flood susceptibility predictions. Various factors such as elevation, slope, geology, distance from urban, and stream power index significantly influence flood susceptibility. The spatial distribution of baseline susceptibility zones reveals coastal and northeastern areas as highly susceptible. Projections under different Shared Socioeconomic Pathway (SSP) scenarios depict a dynamic susceptibility landscape, emphasizing shifts in susceptibility levels. Notably, SSP2 and SSP3 foresee an increase in high and very high susceptibility zones. For district and town-level dynamics, districts like Weija Gbawe and towns along the coastline consistently exhibit very high susceptibility. The spatial distribution of building footprints shows a notable concentration within high and very high flood susceptibility zones, highlighting significant exposure risks to both the population and critical infrastructure. For example, over 780,000 and 810,000 building footprints, representing 3.12 million and 3.24 million people, are projected to experience high flood susceptibility under SSP2 and SSP3, respectively. This comprehensive assessment provides critical insights for flood management decisions in cities, emphasizing the importance of considering various factors in understanding and mitigating flood risks in West Africa and globally.Holmatov, BunyodLautze, JonathanMcCartney, Matthew P.Abdurakhmanov, BotirjonAkramov, Isomiddinhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1831302026-06-02T03:43:58Z2026-05-29T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Rapid Assessment as a Tool for Transboundary Water Governance: Proof-of-Concept Evidence from the Ferghana Valley dc.contributor.author: Holmatov, Bunyod; Lautze, Jonathan; McCartney, Matthew P.; Abdurakhmanov, Botirjon; Akramov, Isomiddin dcterms.abstract: While Rapid Assessment Processes (RAPs) have long been used in other disciplines, they have rarely been applied in transboundary water contexts. This research report describes an application of RAP to assess the state of transboundary water cooperation in the Ferghana Valley of Central Asia. The focus is on two small tributaries—Akburasai and Isfayramsai, shared between Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan—where cooperation is shaped by a complex mix of historical agreements, practical cooperation, and evolving governance challenges. The RAP was designed to generate a preliminary but objective understanding of current cooperation while also identifying entry points for strengthening cooperation and building trust across borders. By engaging stakeholders from both countries, the RAP process facilitated participatory engagement and a shared understanding of water challenges and opportunities. Results of the RAP application revealed a dual reality: strong operational cooperation exists on the ground, but this is not matched by formal institutional coherence or inclusive governance structures. Major governance gaps persist, notably the absence of joint river basin plans and formal stakeholder engagement mechanisms. In sum, while technical collaboration between the two countries is broadly effective, it remains inherently fragile. Drawing on consultations with stakeholders from both Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, the assessment identified three priority areas for action: 1. Strengthen legal and institutional cooperation. 2. Advance collaborative basin planning and technical coordination. 3. Enhance stakeholder engagement. The findings and jointly developed recommendations offer a practical pathway for transforming existing technical collaboration into more durable, equitable, and climate-resilient water governance both in the Ferghana Valley and, potentially, across the many transboundary river systems of Central Asia. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations

2026-05-29T00:00:00ZHolmatov, BunyodLautze, JonathanMcCartney, Matthew P.Abdurakhmanov, BotirjonAkramov, IsomiddinWhile Rapid Assessment Processes (RAPs) have long been used in other disciplines, they have rarely been applied in transboundary water contexts. This research report describes an application of RAP to assess the state of transboundary water cooperation in the Ferghana Valley of Central Asia. The focus is on two small tributaries—Akburasai and Isfayramsai, shared between Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan—where cooperation is shaped by a complex mix of historical agreements, practical cooperation, and evolving governance challenges. The RAP was designed to generate a preliminary but objective understanding of current cooperation while also identifying entry points for strengthening cooperation and building trust across borders. By engaging stakeholders from both countries, the RAP process facilitated participatory engagement and a shared understanding of water challenges and opportunities. Results of the RAP application revealed a dual reality: strong operational cooperation exists on the ground, but this is not matched by formal institutional coherence or inclusive governance structures. Major governance gaps persist, notably the absence of joint river basin plans and formal stakeholder engagement mechanisms. In sum, while technical collaboration between the two countries is broadly effective, it remains inherently fragile. Drawing on consultations with stakeholders from both Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, the assessment identified three priority areas for action: 1. Strengthen legal and institutional cooperation. 2. Advance collaborative basin planning and technical coordination. 3. Enhance stakeholder engagement. The findings and jointly developed recommendations offer a practical pathway for transforming existing technical collaboration into more durable, equitable, and climate-resilient water governance both in the Ferghana Valley and, potentially, across the many transboundary river systems of Central Asia.Oakes, Rosie L.Daron, JosephSteptoe, HamishRichardson, KatyShrestha, Mandira SinghBasnyat, Divas B.Fox, CathrynPradhananga, SauravLamsal, GirishSubedi, Divyahttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1831252026-06-01T15:20:19Z2026-05-18T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Applying a Climate Information Distillation Framework to Support a Climate Resilient Hydropower Sector in Nepal dc.contributor.author: Oakes, Rosie L.; Daron, Joseph; Steptoe, Hamish; Richardson, Katy; Shrestha, Mandira Singh; Basnyat, Divas B.; Fox, Cathryn; Pradhananga, Saurav; Lamsal, Girish; Subedi, Divya dcterms.abstract: Co-production of climate services is widely recognised as a valuable way to integrate relevant and reliable climate information into decision-making contexts. Yet the extent of information and evidence that may be relevant to a climate-sensitive decision can be very large, and it is not always feasible to involve all stakeholders throughout the process of constructing climate information. Pragmatic approaches are required, particularly in resource-constrained contexts to ensure scientifically defensible climate information can be provided to guide adaptation decisions. The Climate Information Distillation Framework (CIDF) is a multidisciplinary approach that builds on recent research with the aim of supporting climate service development across a range of applications, sectors and contexts. Here we apply the theoretical framework to the Nepal hydropower sector. Focusing on present day uncertainties and projected future changes to extreme rainfall, we show that a CIDF can be applied in situations where opportunities for co-production are limited but where there is a need to consider diverse perspectives and objectives. The benefits and challenges of using this framework are discussed, highlighting that while climate information rarely dominates in adaptation decision-making processes, appropriate framing, synthesis, transparency and communication of uncertain climate information can valuably support adaptation decisions and policy. Providing the case study of hydropower development in Nepal, within a complex economic and development context, we find that applying the theoretical framework must be done with humility and flexibility to support real-world decision-making. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations

2026-05-18T00:00:00ZOakes, Rosie L.Daron, JosephSteptoe, HamishRichardson, KatyShrestha, Mandira SinghBasnyat, Divas B.Fox, CathrynPradhananga, SauravLamsal, GirishSubedi, DivyaCo-production of climate services is widely recognised as a valuable way to integrate relevant and reliable climate information into decision-making contexts. Yet the extent of information and evidence that may be relevant to a climate-sensitive decision can be very large, and it is not always feasible to involve all stakeholders throughout the process of constructing climate information. Pragmatic approaches are required, particularly in resource-constrained contexts to ensure scientifically defensible climate information can be provided to guide adaptation decisions. The Climate Information Distillation Framework (CIDF) is a multidisciplinary approach that builds on recent research with the aim of supporting climate service development across a range of applications, sectors and contexts. Here we apply the theoretical framework to the Nepal hydropower sector. Focusing on present day uncertainties and projected future changes to extreme rainfall, we show that a CIDF can be applied in situations where opportunities for co-production are limited but where there is a need to consider diverse perspectives and objectives. The benefits and challenges of using this framework are discussed, highlighting that while climate information rarely dominates in adaptation decision-making processes, appropriate framing, synthesis, transparency and communication of uncertain climate information can valuably support adaptation decisions and policy. Providing the case study of hydropower development in Nepal, within a complex economic and development context, we find that applying the theoretical framework must be done with humility and flexibility to support real-world decision-making.Kotchofa, PacemChanthalath, AmmalaXaydala, ViengxayDubois, Markhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1831182026-05-30T01:09:28Z2026-05-29T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR) Analysis of Agroecological Trials in Attapeu Province, Lao PDR: Interim Results from the First Year of Operation of Two Pilot Systems dc.contributor.author: Kotchofa, Pacem; Chanthalath, Ammala; Xaydala, Viengxay; Dubois, Mark dcterms.abstract: This report reviews the economic and technical outcomes of agroecological innovation trials in Attapeu Province, Lao PDR, as part of the CGIAR Multifunctional Landscapes Program in May 2025. The trials evaluated Red Rice (RR) and Integrated Rice-Fish Culture (IRFC) compared to conventional systems (Loum Pa and rice monoculture) using one-season benefit-cost ratio (BCR) data, along with broader sustainability and food security aspects. Key Results: • Red Rice (RR): Shows strong market potential with higher yields (up to 5 t/ha) and nearly double the price of local varieties. Adoption among trial farmers reached 100%. First-year BCRs are below 1 due to high initial investments, but most farms become profitable when excluding these fixed costs, suggesting good medium-term prospects. • IRFC & Loum Pa: Offer ecological benefits like nutrient recycling and biodiversity, but lower BCRs result from high operational costs, technical challenges, and capacity gaps. Adoption is limited. • Rice Monoculture: Provides the highest short-term BCR (up to 3), emphasizing the trade-off and policy actions between profitability and sustainability. Key Insight: Single-season BCRs may underestimate the long-term value of agroecological systems with high upfront costs. Action Points: • Support upfront investments for RR and IRFC through financing or subsidies. • Expand extension services, especially for aquaculture and integrated crop-aquaculture systems (IRFC). • Develop value chains and contracts to secure price premiums for RR and minimize risks. • Use multi-season, technical, and environmental indicators alongside BCR to better assess system value. cg.contributor.initiative: Agroecology cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Multifunctional Landscapes

2026-05-29T00:00:00ZKotchofa, PacemChanthalath, AmmalaXaydala, ViengxayDubois, MarkThis report reviews the economic and technical outcomes of agroecological innovation trials in Attapeu Province, Lao PDR, as part of the CGIAR Multifunctional Landscapes Program in May 2025. The trials evaluated Red Rice (RR) and Integrated Rice-Fish Culture (IRFC) compared to conventional systems (Loum Pa and rice monoculture) using one-season benefit-cost ratio (BCR) data, along with broader sustainability and food security aspects. Key Results: • Red Rice (RR): Shows strong market potential with higher yields (up to 5 t/ha) and nearly double the price of local varieties. Adoption among trial farmers reached 100%. First-year BCRs are below 1 due to high initial investments, but most farms become profitable when excluding these fixed costs, suggesting good medium-term prospects. • IRFC & Loum Pa: Offer ecological benefits like nutrient recycling and biodiversity, but lower BCRs result from high operational costs, technical challenges, and capacity gaps. Adoption is limited. • Rice Monoculture: Provides the highest short-term BCR (up to 3), emphasizing the trade-off and policy actions between profitability and sustainability. Key Insight: Single-season BCRs may underestimate the long-term value of agroecological systems with high upfront costs. Action Points: • Support upfront investments for RR and IRFC through financing or subsidies. • Expand extension services, especially for aquaculture and integrated crop-aquaculture systems (IRFC). • Develop value chains and contracts to secure price premiums for RR and minimize risks. • Use multi-season, technical, and environmental indicators alongside BCR to better assess system value.Eldabbagh, Fayrouzhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1830832026-06-02T03:14:05Z2026-05-27T00:00:00Z

dc.title: From a Technical Tool to Governance Function: Institutionalizing Water Accounting in Egypt through a Comparative Analysis with Australia dc.contributor.author: Eldabbagh, Fayrouz dcterms.abstract: This technical report examines how water accounting can move from a biophysical technical assessment tool to an institutionalized public governance function in Egypt. It argues that institutionalizing water accounting is at the core of strengthening policy coherence by aligning fragmented mandates, data systems, reporting practices, and allocation decisions across competitive water-related sectors. The paper uses a comparative governance approach by capitalizing on Australia’s experience with the National Water Account as a benchmark for legal mandate, organizational ownership, inter-agency reporting, and routinized publication. Through this comparison, the study develops a five-dimensional framework for institutionalizing water accounting: defining public value, establishing a legal and policy mandate, creating a three-layer institutional arrangement, adopting staged implementation, and embedding standard reporting cycles. Based on this analytical framework, the paper assessed the existing opportunities and constraints for Egypt in moving toward coherent mandates, horizontal and vertical standard reporting, and cross-sectoral data sharing. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations

2026-05-27T00:00:00ZEldabbagh, FayrouzThis technical report examines how water accounting can move from a biophysical technical assessment tool to an institutionalized public governance function in Egypt. It argues that institutionalizing water accounting is at the core of strengthening policy coherence by aligning fragmented mandates, data systems, reporting practices, and allocation decisions across competitive water-related sectors. The paper uses a comparative governance approach by capitalizing on Australia’s experience with the National Water Account as a benchmark for legal mandate, organizational ownership, inter-agency reporting, and routinized publication. Through this comparison, the study develops a five-dimensional framework for institutionalizing water accounting: defining public value, establishing a legal and policy mandate, creating a three-layer institutional arrangement, adopting staged implementation, and embedding standard reporting cycles. Based on this analytical framework, the paper assessed the existing opportunities and constraints for Egypt in moving toward coherent mandates, horizontal and vertical standard reporting, and cross-sectoral data sharing.Bhattacharya, JayantaRavindranath, DarshiniBhaduri, Tanmoyhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1830442026-05-26T03:59:33Z2026-05-24T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Reducing Energy Dependence through Solar Irrigation in Bangladesh dc.contributor.author: Bhattacharya, Jayanta; Ravindranath, Darshini; Bhaduri, Tanmoy

2026-05-24T00:00:00ZBhattacharya, JayantaRavindranath, DarshiniBhaduri, TanmoyRegmi, Bimal RajKhadka, ManoharaNepal, Santoshhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1830432026-05-26T01:09:42Z2026-05-25T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Nepal’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC 3.0): A Water-Led Climate Future dc.contributor.author: Regmi, Bimal Raj; Khadka, Manohara; Nepal, Santosh dcterms.abstract: This brief details how the inclusion of water in the latest iteration of Nepal’s Nationally Determined Contributions, NDC 3.0,represents a notable success. This was driven by strong leadership from the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation (MoEWRI) and active engagement from the focal ministry, development partners, research partners (International Water Management Institute, IWMI), and other relevant stakeholders. The process relied on rigorous technical assessments, evidence-based analysis, and stakeholder dialogue, which ensured that water resources were strongly integrated across major adaptation priorities sectors. The NDC revision also improved the definition of quantitative and policy targets within the mitigation sector, reflecting an integrated approach to climate action. Effective implementation of NDC 3.0 will require stronger ownership across federal, provincial, and local governments, together with continued engagement from supporting partners. Priorities and targets need to be clearer and tied to practical actions, backed by adequate financing and stronger institutional capacity. Integrating NDC priorities into regular planning and budgeting processes, while also diversifying resource mobilization, will be important for turning commitments into real actions. At the local level, water management needs to deal with both scarcity and excess water, which directly affects food security, growth and local livelihoods. Clearer roles across the three tiers of government alongside additional capacity building and greater emphasis on localization will help. Equitable benefit sharing, particularly for persons with disabilities, minority and Indigenous communities, as well as youth, women and other marginalized groups, is also needed if these commitments are to lead to more inclusive and climate-resilient outcomes. cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations

2026-05-25T00:00:00ZRegmi, Bimal RajKhadka, ManoharaNepal, SantoshThis brief details how the inclusion of water in the latest iteration of Nepal’s Nationally Determined Contributions, NDC 3.0,represents a notable success. This was driven by strong leadership from the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation (MoEWRI) and active engagement from the focal ministry, development partners, research partners (International Water Management Institute, IWMI), and other relevant stakeholders. The process relied on rigorous technical assessments, evidence-based analysis, and stakeholder dialogue, which ensured that water resources were strongly integrated across major adaptation priorities sectors. The NDC revision also improved the definition of quantitative and policy targets within the mitigation sector, reflecting an integrated approach to climate action. Effective implementation of NDC 3.0 will require stronger ownership across federal, provincial, and local governments, together with continued engagement from supporting partners. Priorities and targets need to be clearer and tied to practical actions, backed by adequate financing and stronger institutional capacity. Integrating NDC priorities into regular planning and budgeting processes, while also diversifying resource mobilization, will be important for turning commitments into real actions. At the local level, water management needs to deal with both scarcity and excess water, which directly affects food security, growth and local livelihoods. Clearer roles across the three tiers of government alongside additional capacity building and greater emphasis on localization will help. Equitable benefit sharing, particularly for persons with disabilities, minority and Indigenous communities, as well as youth, women and other marginalized groups, is also needed if these commitments are to lead to more inclusive and climate-resilient outcomes.Shrestha, ShisherKarki, DarshanSapkota, ReganNepal, Santoshhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1830412026-05-29T05:41:03Z2026-03-20T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Advancing Water Resilience in Climate Action: The Evolution of Nepal’s NDCs dc.contributor.author: Shrestha, Shisher; Karki, Darshan; Sapkota, Regan; Nepal, Santosh

2026-03-20T00:00:00ZShrestha, ShisherKarki, DarshanSapkota, ReganNepal, SantoshDupont, AnnaAdolfsson, Elinhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1830152026-06-09T01:02:56Z2026-05-21T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Brief: Macro-Financial Stability in a Changing Water System: Evolving Policy and Mandates dc.contributor.author: Dupont, Anna; Adolfsson, Elin dcterms.abstract: Human activity is destabilizing the water cycle, turning hydrological disruption into a systemic macro‑financial risk: not only through scarcity, but through persistent spatial and temporal mismatches between water availability and economic activity that erode growth, fiscal capacity, and trade stability. Macro‑financial frameworks underestimate these risks by overlooking green-water systems, storage dynamics, and interconnections; as ecohydrological buffers degrade, economies enter a “long emergency” in which weakening natural systems quietly undermine debt sustainability, inflation control, and investor confidence, while amplifying inequality and eroding resilience.  This brief argues that the structural reshaping of the water cycle now demands a re‑specification of macro‑fiscal diagnostics, debt‑sustainability assessments, and international financial instruments (including the International Monetary Fund’s Resilience and Sustainability Facility) around hydrological integrity itself, treating eco-hydrological systems as core productive and protective capital rather than a peripheral environmental concern. Placing water‑cycle stability at the core of macro‑financial governance and aligning finance with the regenerative limits of water systems is essential for resilient and inclusive growth. This brief is the first of two examining the water cycle and finance. The second brief focuses on redirecting investment toward the water cycle.

2026-05-21T00:00:00ZDupont, AnnaAdolfsson, ElinHuman activity is destabilizing the water cycle, turning hydrological disruption into a systemic macro‑financial risk: not only through scarcity, but through persistent spatial and temporal mismatches between water availability and economic activity that erode growth, fiscal capacity, and trade stability. Macro‑financial frameworks underestimate these risks by overlooking green-water systems, storage dynamics, and interconnections; as ecohydrological buffers degrade, economies enter a “long emergency” in which weakening natural systems quietly undermine debt sustainability, inflation control, and investor confidence, while amplifying inequality and eroding resilience.  This brief argues that the structural reshaping of the water cycle now demands a re‑specification of macro‑fiscal diagnostics, debt‑sustainability assessments, and international financial instruments (including the International Monetary Fund’s Resilience and Sustainability Facility) around hydrological integrity itself, treating eco-hydrological systems as core productive and protective capital rather than a peripheral environmental concern. Placing water‑cycle stability at the core of macro‑financial governance and aligning finance with the regenerative limits of water systems is essential for resilient and inclusive growth. This brief is the first of two examining the water cycle and finance. The second brief focuses on redirecting investment toward the water cycle.Pokharel, Bharat KumarKoirala, SanjuPradhan, Meeta SainjuOnta, NishaKhadka, ManoharaNepal, Santoshhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1830022026-05-25T13:05:22Z2026-05-19T00:00:00Z

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

2026-05-19T00:00:00ZPokharel, Bharat KumarKoirala, SanjuPradhan, Meeta SainjuOnta, NishaKhadka, ManoharaNepal, SantoshThis manual was developed in response to the demand from local governments in the Rangun Watershed for a knowledge resource on the Water, Energy, Food, and Environment (WEFE) Nexus approach. The manual presents key concepts and practical guidance for applying the WEFE Nexus approach in watershed planning. It also aims to offer a practical reference to support local authorities in integrating Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) responsive WEFE principles into their annual planning, budgeting, and policy formulation processes. It is specifically designed for local government representatives and municipal and ward-level staff in Nepal who are engaged in the WEFE sectors. It serves as a practical reference for developing local plans, policies, and activities, as well as for budgeting and implementing them effectively. It is also a valuable resource for NGOs, INGOs, and academicians working in these fields, and serves as a foundational guide for training design and delivery. The content is based on the materials developed and tested during the GESI Responsive WEFE Nexus Approach training for the Rangun Watershed and the WEFE Leadership Workshop in Nepal.Taron, AvinandanFanaian, SafaMishra, AnujKhadka, ManoharaBodach, Susannehttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1829972026-05-20T01:07:25Z2026-05-19T00:00:00Z

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

2026-05-19T00:00:00ZTaron, AvinandanFanaian, SafaMishra, AnujKhadka, ManoharaBodach, SusanneThis report assesses the enabling environment for wastewater reuse in Nepal’s peri-urban agriculture, focusing on policy and institutional coherence, technical and infrastructure capacity, human capacity, financial mechanisms, and social acceptance. Nepal has a relatively strong enabling policy base for wastewater reuse through national frameworks on WASH, environment, agriculture, and climate resilience, the transition to safe and scalable wastewater reuse requires stronger institutional coordination, reuse-oriented infrastructure investment, dedicated financing mechanisms, capacity development. Implementation remains weak due to fragmented mandates across federal, provincial, and municipal levels, with limited coordination between key sectors such as water supply, agriculture, and environment. Wastewater reuse is largely confined to informal and small-scale practices rather than being integrated into planned municipal systems. Technical and institutional readiness is low, with less than 15 percent of wastewater treated, and most systems designed for disposal rather than reuse. Municipalities face shortages of trained personnel and weak coordination between sanitation and agriculture sectors, while financial mechanisms remain limited as wastewater reuse is not a budgeted priority and lacks dedicated incentives or financing windows. Private sector participation and structured PPP models for reuse remain limited. Social acceptance remains mixed, with widespread informal use driven by necessity but strong stigma among consumers due to health concerns and limited awareness.KC, SumitraKhadka, ManoharaMishra, AnujAryal, Anilhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1829802026-05-21T01:05:01Z2026-05-19T00:00:00Z

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

2026-05-19T00:00:00ZKC, SumitraKhadka, ManoharaMishra, AnujAryal, AnilThis study examines groundwater use, access, and governance in Barahathawa Municipality, Madhesh Province, Nepal. Groundwater is a critical resource in Nepal’s southern plains, where most households rely on it for domestic needs and many farmers depend on it for irrigation. A well and borehole inventory, combined with qualitative research, found heavy reliance on private wells and boreholes because canal irrigation is limited and unreliable. The findings show major social, economic, and gender inequalities in groundwater access. Ownership of boreholes and pumps is concentrated among certain caste groups and landholding households, while Terai Dalits, Muslims, women-headed households, smallholders, and tenant farmers face multiple barriers. These include limited land ownership, which is closely tied to groundwater access, financial constraints in investing in groundwater that requires upfront cost and energy cost, language barriers, limited access to information due to language barriers and limited social networks, and subsidies. Informal water markets help farmers meet irrigation needs but can also deepen existing inequalities. This study also identifies some critical policy and institutional challenges. The study recommends strengthening groundwater governance through clear and implementable local policies on groundwater, stronger coordination across institutions and government levels and sectors, targeted subsidies, accessible credit, and better monitoring. It also calls for participatory groundwater management involving local communities, citizen science-based data systems, multi-stakeholder platforms, and investment in groundwater recharge, and nature-based solutions to support equitable and sustainable groundwater use.Simaika, Johnhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1829332026-06-23T01:06:35Z2026-05-18T00:00:00Z

dc.title: IWMI Global Environmental Flows Platform dc.contributor.author: Simaika, John cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Policy Innovations; Multifunctional Landscapes

2026-05-18T00:00:00ZSimaika, JohnTaye, Meron TeferiEbrahim, Girma YimerGebreyesus, KirubelTadesse, MulugetaSeid, Abdulkarimhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1829222026-05-16T01:08:50Z2026-05-15T00:00:00Z

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

2026-05-15T00:00:00ZTaye, Meron TeferiEbrahim, Girma YimerGebreyesus, KirubelTadesse, MulugetaSeid, AbdulkarimAs part of the CGIAR Policy Innovations Program of CGIAR, this study focuses on water management for smallholder irrigated agriculture in Ethiopia. Noting that Ethiopia’s promotion of multi-season food production for food security and livelihood improvements there is a need to assess the system from Water-Energy-Food-Environment perspective for optimized resources management. This study provides baseline analysis of the current irrigation practices, the use of surface and groundwater for a case study area in the Meki catchment of the Rift Valley Lakes Basin, Ethiopia. The study used literature review and field visits to conduct the assessment using WEFE nexus methods. The results indicate that that the catchment is already experiencing water management challenges and water use conflicts due to uncoordinated surface water withdrawals between upstream and downstream users. Some of the rivers dry up during peak irrigation seasons. Conversely, farmers believe that there are enough groundwater resources for irrigation and their major challenge is limited access to affordable energy to expand irrigation with groundwater sources. While this is an important factor for improved food production; there is a risk of unsustainable groundwater abstraction when access to energy improves in the future. Hence, this study provides recommendations on how to scale irrigation with sustainable use of water and alerts practitioners and policy makers to exercise caution as irrigation expands in the catchment and beyond in other parts of Ethiopia.Palay, IsisFragaszy, StephenStifel, ElizabethAbeyrathna, Wasudha PrabodhaniGharaibeh, Sawsanhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1829092026-07-16T08:10:10Z2026-05-14T00:00:00Z

dc.title: Al Murunah: Building Climate Resilience from the Ground Up with Scalable, Resilient Nature-Based Water Solutions Pilot Projects in the MENA Region dc.contributor.author: Palay, Isis; Fragaszy, Stephen; Stifel, Elizabeth; Abeyrathna, Wasudha Prabodhani; Gharaibeh, Sawsan dcterms.abstract: This thematic brief explores how the Al Murunah project is implementing scalable, resilient nature-based water solutions (RNBWS) pilot projects to strengthen climate resilience and water security across fragile and climate-vulnerable settings in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Focusing on pilot sites in Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon and Palestine, Al Murunah pilots combine technical innovation, inclusive governance and community-led approaches to address water scarcity, land degradation, climate change and institutional fragility. Al Murunah pilots are designed as integrated and scalable models embedded within local institutions, households and policy systems. Through participatory planning, co-design and partnerships with communities, cooperatives, water user associations and government stakeholders, the project strengthens local ownership while supporting long-term adaptation and resilience. This brief presents Al Murunah as a proven and investable process for scaling locally led climate resilience solutions across the MENA region.; La présente note thématique examine la manière dont le projet Al Murunah met en œuvre des projets pilotes de solutions résilientes fondées sur la nature pour la gestion de l’eau (RNBWS), conçus pour être mis à l’échelle, afin de renforcer la résilience climatique et la sécurité hydrique dans des contextes fragiles et vulnérables aux effets des changements climatiques au Moyen-Orient et en Afrique du Nord (MENA). Les projets pilotes d’Al Murunah, axés sur des sites pilotes en Égypte, en Jordanie, au Liban et en Palestine, associent innovation technique, gouvernance inclusive et approches portées par les communautés afin de faire face à la pénurie d’eau, à la dégradation des terres, au changement climatique et à la fragilité institutionnelle. Les projets pilotes d’Al Murunah sont conçus comme des modèles intégrés pouvant être mis à l’échelle, ancrés dans les institutions locales, les ménages et les systèmes d’élaboration des politiques. Grâce à une planification participative, à une conception conjointe et à des partenariats avec les communautés, les coopératives, les associations d'usagers de l'eau et les acteurs gouvernementaux, le projet permet de renforcer l'appropriation locale tout en favorisant l'adaptation et la résilience à long terme. Cette note présente Al Murunah comme un modèle éprouvé, susceptible de bénéficier d'investissements, visant à déployer à grande échelle des solutions de résilience climatique portées par les acteurs locaux dans l'ensemble de la région MENA.

2026-05-14T00:00:00ZPalay, IsisFragaszy, StephenStifel, ElizabethAbeyrathna, Wasudha PrabodhaniGharaibeh, SawsanThis thematic brief explores how the Al Murunah project is implementing scalable, resilient nature-based water solutions (RNBWS) pilot projects to strengthen climate resilience and water security across fragile and climate-vulnerable settings in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Focusing on pilot sites in Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon and Palestine, Al Murunah pilots combine technical innovation, inclusive governance and community-led approaches to address water scarcity, land degradation, climate change and institutional fragility. Al Murunah pilots are designed as integrated and scalable models embedded within local institutions, households and policy systems. Through participatory planning, co-design and partnerships with communities, cooperatives, water user associations and government stakeholders, the project strengthens local ownership while supporting long-term adaptation and resilience. This brief presents Al Murunah as a proven and investable process for scaling locally led climate resilience solutions across the MENA region. La présente note thématique examine la manière dont le projet Al Murunah met en œuvre des projets pilotes de solutions résilientes fondées sur la nature pour la gestion de l’eau (RNBWS), conçus pour être mis à l’échelle, afin de renforcer la résilience climatique et la sécurité hydrique dans des contextes fragiles et vulnérables aux effets des changements climatiques au Moyen-Orient et en Afrique du Nord (MENA). Les projets pilotes d’Al Murunah, axés sur des sites pilotes en Égypte, en Jordanie, au Liban et en Palestine, associent innovation technique, gouvernance inclusive et approches portées par les communautés afin de faire face à la pénurie d’eau, à la dégradation des terres, au changement climatique et à la fragilité institutionnelle. Les projets pilotes d’Al Murunah sont conçus comme des modèles intégrés pouvant être mis à l’échelle, ancrés dans les institutions locales, les ménages et les systèmes d’élaboration des politiques. Grâce à une planification participative, à une conception conjointe et à des partenariats avec les communautés, les coopératives, les associations d'usagers de l'eau et les acteurs gouvernementaux, le projet permet de renforcer l'appropriation locale tout en favorisant l'adaptation et la résilience à long terme. Cette note présente Al Murunah comme un modèle éprouvé, susceptible de bénéficier d'investissements, visant à déployer à grande échelle des solutions de résilience climatique portées par les acteurs locaux dans l'ensemble de la région MENA.Matchaya, Greenwell C.https://hdl.handle.net/10568/1828972026-05-14T01:09:33Z2026-05-13T00:00:00Z

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

2026-05-13T00:00:00ZMatchaya, Greenwell C.This technical report develops a rapid assessment framework for understanding how global shocks transmit into domestic food systems, with particular emphasis on import-dependent economies. Drawing on evidence from the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and recent energy market disruptions linked to tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, the report examines how external shocks spread through interconnected channels including energy and transport costs, trade disruptions, agricultural input markets, and macroeconomic pressures. The report introduces a structured conceptual framework that explains how shocks move through food systems over time, highlighting short-, medium-, and long-term transmission pathways. It emphasizes that impacts are not uniform and vary depending on market integration, geographic location, commodity type, and the degree of dependence on imported food, fuel, and agricultural inputs. Using Malawi as an empirical case study, the report applies high-frequency price data to assess early-stage transmission dynamics. The findings show that global energy shocks are reflected immediately in fuel prices and import-dependent commodities such as rice, while domestically produced staples such as maize and beans respond more gradually due to delayed pass-through effects. Rural and poorly integrated markets face higher long-term vulnerability due to elevated transport costs and weaker market connectivity. The report concludes that strengthening resilience requires integrated policy responses across energy, trade, agriculture, water systems, and social protection, while also highlighting the need for improved market monitoring and early warning systems in vulnerable economies.Boxall, Alistair B. A.Amerasinghe, Priyanie H.Beckenham, SallyBertram, Michael G.Gaw, SallyGray, Austin D.Kidd, Karen A.Langan, Laura M.Leung, Kenneth M. Y.Manera, Jack L.Miglioranza, Karina S. B.Oldenkamp, RikBrooks, Bryan W.https://hdl.handle.net/10568/1828832026-07-06T13:32:23Z2026-05-19T00:00:00Z

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

2026-05-19T00:00:00ZBoxall, Alistair B. A.Amerasinghe, Priyanie H.Beckenham, SallyBertram, Michael G.Gaw, SallyGray, Austin D.Kidd, Karen A.Langan, Laura M.Leung, Kenneth M. Y.Manera, Jack L.Miglioranza, Karina S. B.Oldenkamp, RikBrooks, Bryan W.Active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) are essential for global health, yet their use and release into the environment contribute to the transgression of the Earth System Boundary for Novel Entities. This study proposes a novel framework for an Environmentally Safe and Just Pharmacy, establishing 4 overarching criteria and 12 subcriteria designed to ensure that the pharmaceutical lifecycle is environmentally safe and just from a novel entities perspective. Using the extensive expertise of our global author group, we conclude that current practices for API design and development, approval and monitoring, use and disposal are only partially or poorly aligned with our criteria. Key vulnerabilities include a lack of environmental considerations in early-stage drug design, widespread exceedances of environmental concentrations deemed safe to ecosystems, persistent selection for antimicrobial resistance in the environment, and severe data gaps in low- and middle-income countries. We further highlight environmental injustices, particularly for Indigenous and marginalized communities whose cultural identities and livelihoods are compromised by chemical contamination. To address these challenges, we present a 10-point roadmap for a transition to a sustainable future by 2050. This plan includes calls for green chemistry investments, the integration of social and cultural equity into risk assessments, and the global upgrade of treatment and management infrastructure. We emphasize that solutions to pharmaceutical impacts must be culturally sensitive and safeguard the dignity of vulnerable populations to ensure a truly just transition that operates within Earth System Boundaries.Becker, KristenMcGuire, ErinEnokenwa Baa, OjongetakahLiani, Millicent LodenyiNortje, Karenhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1828642026-05-13T01:02:18Z2026-05-12T00:00:00Z

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

2026-05-12T00:00:00ZBecker, KristenMcGuire, ErinEnokenwa Baa, OjongetakahLiani, Millicent LodenyiNortje, KarenThis technical guide presents the GenderUp methodology, a self-guided, participatory approach designed to support responsible and inclusive scaling of agricultural innovations within the CGIAR Scaling for Impact (S4I) program. Recognizing that conventional scaling approaches are often gender-blind and risk reinforcing inequalities, GenderUp integrates gender equality, social inclusion, and intersectionality into innovation design and scaling strategies to ensure equitable outcomes across diverse user groups. The handbook provides a structured, six-stage process that guides innovation teams through reflection, analysis, and action. It begins with strengthening foundational understanding of gender dynamics and inclusive innovation design, followed by defining scaling ambitions and assessing existing strategies. Subsequent stages support teams in identifying relevant social dimensions—such as gender, age, wealth, and education—and analyzing how these intersect to shape access to, and benefits from, innovation. Through tools such as participatory surveys, persona mapping, and reflective exercises, GenderUp enables teams to identify vulnerable intersectional groups and anticipate potential unintended consequences of scaling. A key contribution of the methodology is its emphasis on mitigating negative impacts through adaptive scaling strategies and “innovation packages,” which combine core innovations with complementary interventions (e.g., policy support, financing mechanisms, or inclusive training approaches). This shift scaling from a linear, technical process to a socially embedded and adaptive one, aligned with Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI) principles, including inclusivity, anticipation, responsiveness, and transparency. Evidence from applications across CGIAR and partner organizations demonstrates that GenderUp strengthens teams’ capacity to identify overlooked user groups, design inclusive solutions, and foster institutional learning. By embedding equity considerations throughout the innovation lifecycle, the GenderUp approach contributes to more sustainable, inclusive, and transformative agrifood systems, ensuring that scaling efforts not only reach more people but do so in ways that empower marginalized populations and address systemic inequalities.Bhaduri, Tanmoyhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1828632026-05-12T10:12:40Z2026-05-11T00:00:00Z

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

2026-05-11T00:00:00ZBhaduri, Tanmoy