Targeting Agricultural Research for Development in the Semi-Arid Tropics of Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

This publication contains the papers, discussions and recommendations at an international workshop, Targeting agricultural research for development in the semi-arid tropics of sub- Saharan Africa. The meeting was attended by over 50 R&D specialists from national and international research institutes, regional organizations, universities, NGOs, donor agencies and the private sector. There have been significant changes in policy, market conditions and household livelihood strategies in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in the past decade. This meeting sought to examine the effects of these changes on smallholder farmers' investment strategies; identify factors influencing technology choice; assess trends and prospects relating to agricultural technology; and examine institutional arrangements to support research. The presentations and discussions highlighted the key biophysical, socio-economic, and institutional factors influencing technology adoption. Recommendations were made on specific ways to improve technology adoption and impact in semi-arid areas, including new approaches to be considered by international research institutes such as ICRISAT