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Limits to the applicability of the innovation platform approach for agricultural development in West Africa: Socio-economic factors constrain stakeholder engagement and confidence

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  • Sparrow, Ashley D.
  • Traoré, Adama

Abstract

Integrated Agricultural Research for Development (IAR4D) is a mode of participatory action research for development that aims to improve the well-being of smallholder farming households by facilitating networks between farmers and marketplace actors through groups called ‘innovation platforms’. In 2012, the Association for the Promotion of Livestock in the Sahel and Savannas (APESS, an NGO with rural membership) established nine innovation platforms in the Sahelian zone in Senegal, Burkina Faso, Cameroon and Chad, with the aim of engaging member livestock producers with meat and milk processors and traders. In late 2013 and early 2014, each innovation platform reviewed its perception of “performance” or “functionality”, using a consensus-based group assessment scored against nine criteria. The aim of this study is to test the extent to which perceived functionality was related to the activities of the innovation platform, as well as current farm productivity and profitability, household well-being, and regional context, using data gathered independently by APESS as part of its broader mandate to improve the lives of members.

Suggested Citation

  • Sparrow, Ashley D. & Traoré, Adama, 2018. "Limits to the applicability of the innovation platform approach for agricultural development in West Africa: Socio-economic factors constrain stakeholder engagement and confidence," Agricultural Systems, Elsevier, vol. 165(C), pages 335-343.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:agisys:v:165:y:2018:i:c:p:335-343
    DOI: 10.1016/j.agsy.2017.05.014
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    Keywords

    Agricultural innovation systems; IAR4D; Poverty traps; Sahel;
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