In 2018, MAIZE researchers generated new knowledge through numerous assessments, ex-ante evaluations and policy briefs that showed the value of MAIZE research for farmers and consumers around the world.
Adoption impact studies can help scientists target newly developed technologies and innovations. Researchers examined a sample of 2,327 maize producing households in 39 districts of Ethiopia, finding that improved maize adoption has a positive impact on per capita food consumption and significantly increases the probability of a smallholder being in food surplus, confirming the important role of crop improvement in food security. A further study in Ethiopia showed that cash-renters are as likely to adopt improved maize varieties as owner-operators are, while sharecroppers are significantly more likely to adopt due to profitability. Researchers documented the major maize varieties in India and estimated their adoption rates using expert elicitation, finding that general resistance to diseases, lodging tolerance, grain color, high shelling recovery and good storage life are some of the preferred attributes of the popular varieties.
Building capacity in maize value chains helps farmers to uptake and access innovations. MAIZE researchers developed an expanded conceptual framework based on the theory of complex adaptive systems, which was applied in a further study to explore new research questions of smallholder value chain performance and their capacity for adaptation. In an examination of guides for gender-equitable value chain development, MAIZE researchers raise important issues and identify opportunities for designing more inclusive value chain interventions. In Mexico, research suggests the development of local markets that are economically equitable is a viable economic model, based on the case of San Juan Atzacualoya where one-third families are directly involved in the production-transformation-consumption chain of native maize.
Understanding the gender dynamics and social contexts in which farmers operate helps to drive increased adoption. GENNOVATE – a CIMMYT-led research initiative involving gender researchers from 11 CGIAR research programs (CRPs) – ended in 2018, having delivered reports on study outcomes to MAIZE and other CRPs, and made available a suite of tools and resources for scientists applying gender-aware approaches. GENNOVATE specialists reached out to diverse stakeholders in 2018 by delivering workshops, communication initiatives and dissemination events, and the initiative featured in a special issue of the Journal of Gender, Agriculture and Food Security.
Researchers deployed ex-ante targeting and stress modelling exercises to study how resource use affects adoption of new technologies. A key study found that low rates of fertilizer use and improved seed variety adoption can be attributed to landscape factors. The analysis found combining nitrogen fertilizer and improved seed varieties provides more sustained productivity benefits. A crop growth modelling study, focused on study sites in eastern and southern Africa and South Asia, quantified the impact of climate change on maize and found combined drought and heat stress tolerance has a benefit at least twice that of either one alone. Researchers examined the patterns and trends of drought incidence in the northeast highlands of Ethiopia, positing the study as a benchmark to develop drought management measures such as early warning systems, preparation and contingency planning.