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Does Agricultural Intensification Pay ?

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  • Aihounton,Dossou Ghislain Boris
  • Christiaensen,Luc

Abstract

Modern inputs and mechanization are promoted across Africa to raise smallholder laborproductivity and broker the structural transformation. Yet, adoption has remained low and the implications for returnsto labor and labor allocation remain poorly understood. This paper explores the effects of different intensificationpackages on farm performance, market orientation, and food security using data from lowland rice farmers in Côted'Ivoire. Employing a multinomial treatment effect model, the findings reveal that intensification increasesland and labor productivity, especially when agro-chemicals and mechanized land preparation are combined. Returns tolabor double to triple, inducing specialization and greater market orientation as well as greater food security, whileproductively releasing agricultural labor for other activities. Labor in agriculture becomes more waged. Thegender balance remains the same. Child labor input does not decrease. The findings call for greater attention to laborproductivity and confirm that agricultural intensification can pay and enhance rural transformation.

Suggested Citation

  • Aihounton,Dossou Ghislain Boris & Christiaensen,Luc, 2023. "Does Agricultural Intensification Pay ?," Policy Research Working Paper Series 10405, The World Bank.
    • Handle: RePEc:wbk:wbrwps:10405
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