INNOVATIONS FOR RESILIENT
LIVELIHOODS IN AFRICAN DRYLANDS

We proudly define our agenda as ‘research for development’. Our working approach and implementation model relies on continuous inputs and support from cutting-edge scientific research within our team and with our research partners. 

 

Our experience in implementing large-scale development interventions has taught us that research and implementation are two sides of the same coin. They cannot be considered separated processes. One feeds the other and they evolve together. This applies to all of our 4 strategic pillars.

As an example, for 10 years we have been conceptualizing and developing the IBLI program. While we are supporting its implementation as the national-scale Kenya Livestock Insurance Program (KLIP) spearheaded by the Government of Kenya and IBLI expansion in Ethiopia, we continue to pursue a strong research agenda that seeks to improve data collection and drought insurance products. Some of our specific research include contract design improvement (EOPAM, GEOGLAM RAPP, KLIP), impact assessment (BASIS), extension service delivery (3IE, SCBF), and institutional processes.   

We value interdisciplinary science and methods. Our team has complementary skill sets spanning from remote sensing and rangeland ecology to development economics and social sciences. We mix quantitative and qualitative research methods.

We work in the field. We work with communities. We learn from communities. This is critical to meet our strategic objectives, and it is an incredibly enriching experience. Feedback and guidance from rural communities and local stakeholders are essential in all  stages of the research-development continuum.