Research Focus
AgriFood Research Initiatives
With that in mind, we continue to invest resources and energy in research to address fundamental problems of national, regional, and international importance in sustaining agriculture.
Critical Issues in Agriculture
1. Food Security
2. Climate Change and Environmental Degradation
3. Poverty and Economic Inequality
4. Health and Nutrition
5. Education and Knowledge Gaps
6. Market Access and Infrastructure
Research Focus Areas
1. Problem-Solving and Applied Research
2. Context-Specific Interventions
3. Participatory Research and Community Involvement
4. Interdisciplinary and Collaborative Approach
5. Policy Recommendations and Strategic Insights
6. Capacity Building and Knowledge Transfer
Our Approach to Key Areas of Research
- Impact Assessment
- Value Chain Analysis
- Market Assessment
- Feasibility Studies
Our impact assessments measure the effectiveness of agricultural projects and initiatives, from new crop varieties to farmer training programs. By evaluating the tangible outcomes—like improvements in income, productivity, and community well-being—we provide evidence of what works and where we can make a greater impact. These insights allow us to continually refine and optimize approaches to better serve the agricultural community.
We analyze every step of the agricultural value chain, from production to market, to uncover areas for improvement and innovation. By understanding bottlenecks and opportunities within the chain, we help farmers, cooperatives, and businesses enhance productivity, reduce waste, and increase profitability. This research guides stakeholders in creating more efficient, sustainable, and profitable agricultural systems that benefit everyone involved, especially smallholder farmers.
Our market assessments provide essential insights into demand, pricing, and competitive landscapes. By helping farmers and agribusinesses understand which crops or products are in demand and what market conditions look like, we equip them with the knowledge to make smart, market-driven decisions. Our research helps connect farmers to broader, more profitable markets and ensures they can adapt to consumer trends and price changes, enhancing their market resilience.
Feasibility studies are at the heart of responsible, data-driven decision-making. Whether for new crop ventures, processing facilities, or distribution channels, our feasibility studies assess potential risks, costs, and rewards. By analyzing everything from financial implications to environmental impacts, we ensure that new projects are realistic and beneficial, reducing risk and maximizing resources.
Monitoring & Evaluation
OECD Framework
We leverage the OECD Framework to evaluate how agricultural programs affect economic outcomes and social well-being, allowing us to provide actionable insights that support effective decision-making and resource allocation in agricultural development.
Food Systems Approach
Provides us with a holistic view that enables us to understand the complexities of food systems, including how various factors such as climate change, socio-economic conditions, and dietary preferences impact food security and sustainability.
Market Systems Approach
Enables us to identify barriers that farmers face in accessing markets and to develop strategies that enhance their competitiveness, thereby fostering economic growth and reducing poverty in agricultural communities.
AAER Framework
Ensures that our research is systematic and thorough, allowing us to generate credible evidence that informs policy and practice in agriculture and enhances our ability to track progress and adapt strategies based on what works best for the communities we serve.
