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on Agricultural Economics |
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Issue of 2006‒11‒25
34 papers chosen by |
| By: | Rafael N. Uaiene (Department of Agricultural Economics, Michigan State University) |
| Abstract: | This paper presents a quantitative assessment of the potential farmers’ benefits from increases in the productivity of the agricultural sector combined with the introduction of new marketing strategies. The analysis is based on farm-programming models designed to capture the important structural features of farm household decision making in Mozambique. The model explicitly incorporates the harvest income target and satisfaction of household caloric demand through home-consumption of own production before maximizing cash revenues through marketed goods. |
| Keywords: | food security, food policy, central Mozambique, new technologies, inventory credit, household farm model |
| JEL: | Q18 |
| Date: | 2006 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:msu:icpwrk:mz-iiam-rr-02e&r=agr |
| By: | John Fynn (Department of Agricultural Economics, Michigan State University); Steven Haggblade |
| Abstract: | The study aims to quantify the impact of the Kwacha appreciation and to project the broad impact on the agricultural export, domestic production and processing sectors. It explores the scope for mitigating actions – by farmers, commercial enterprises and government authorities – that might provide a means of survival of export operations and the retention of income-earning opportunities by rural communities in the commercial and small scale agricultural sectors. The study aims to assess the impact of the Kwacha appreciation on the viability of agricultural enterprises and income earning opportunities in the context of the new tax regulations proposed in the 2006 budget. It is anticipated that the findings of this study should establish a foundation for formulating a strategy for the survival of agricultural exports and domestic production capacity by various stakeholder groups. |
| Keywords: | food security, food policy, Zambia Kwacha appreciation, agricultural export, domestic production |
| JEL: | Q18 |
| Date: | 2006 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:msu:icpwrk:zm-fsrp-wp-016&r=agr |
| By: | Antony Chapoto; T.S. Jayne (Department of Agricultural Economics, Michigan State University) |
| Abstract: | This study estimates the impacts of prime-age (PA) adult morbidity and mortality on crop production and cropping patterns, household size, livestock and non-farm income in Zambia using nationally representative rural farm household longitudinal survey data. The findings provide important information to assist policy makers, donors, and development planners in designing interventions to mitigate the impacts of the AIDS on vulnerable households. |
| Keywords: | food security, food policy, Zambia, HIV/AIDS mortality |
| JEL: | Q18 |
| Date: | 2005 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:msu:icpbrf:zm-fsrp-pb-012&r=agr |
| By: | Paul Gamba (Department of Agricultural Economics, Michigan State University); Elliot Mghenyi |
| Abstract: | The objectives of this paper are: measure the prevalence of rural poverty in 1997 and 2000, based on the nationwide Tegemeo survey; categorize households according to whether they were above the poverty line in both 1997 and 2000, entered into poverty or exited from poverty between 1997 and 2000, or were above the poverty line in both years; identifies the household-level and community-level factors associated with rural poverty through econometric analysis; and the implications of these results for the design of appropriate poverty reduction strategies. Such analysis is intended to guide donor programs and interventions designed to attack the roots of chronic poverty. |
| Keywords: | food security, food policy, Kenya, rural poverty |
| JEL: | Q18 |
| Date: | 2005 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:msu:icpwrk:ke-tegemeo-wp-021&r=agr |
| By: | Cynthia Donovan (Department of Agricultural Economics, Michigan State University); Linda Bailey |
| Abstract: | This research seeks to evaluate the agricultural strategies used by households in dealing with morbidity and mortality, and to determine differences in crop production between households that have experienced a recent adult illness or death due to illness compared to those without adult morbidity or mortality. |
| Keywords: | food security, food policy, Rwanda. morbity, mortality |
| JEL: | Q18 |
| Date: | 2005 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:msu:icpwrk:rw-fsrp-rr-15&r=agr |
| By: | T.S. Jayne (Department of Agricultural Economics, Michigan State University); Antony Chapoto |
| Abstract: | This note summarizes analysis of trends in net maize exports over the 1960-2005 period and examines whether these trends are being reflected in changing maize price levels in the region. The implications are highlighted of the findings for countries’ agricultural development strategies. |
| Keywords: | food security, food policy, Zambia maize |
| JEL: | Q18 |
| Date: | 2006 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:msu:icpbrf:zm-fsrp-pb-016&r=agr |
| By: | Antony Chapoto; T.S. Jayne (Department of Agricultural Economics, Michigan State University) |
| Abstract: | Using comprehensive rural farm household longitudinal data from Zambia, this paper measures the impacts of prime-age (PA) adult morbidity and mortality on crop production and cropping patterns, household size, livestock and non-farm income. The paper adopts and extends the counterfactual (difference-in-difference) approach by controlling for initial (pre-death) household conditions that may influence the severity of the impacts of adult mortality. In particular, the study controls for initial poverty status, landholding size, effective dependency ratios, and the gender and position of the deceased person. Moreover, the possibility that PA death in the household is endogenous is taken into account by conceptualizing the measurement of effects of prime-age adult death on rural agricultural households’ welfare as a two stage process: first, by examining the characteristics of afflicted households; and second, conditional on being afflicted, determining the effects of morbidity and mortality on indicators of household welfare both prior to and after mortality. The findings from this study provide important information that may assist governments, donors, and development planners in developing specific policies or interventions to mitigate the impacts of the disease on vulnerable households. |
| Keywords: | food security, food policy, HIV/AIDS, prime-age mortality, endogeneity, rural livelihoods |
| JEL: | Q18 |
| Date: | 2005 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:msu:icpwrk:zm-fsrp-wp-015&r=agr |
| By: | Mary Mathenge; David Tschirley (Department of Agricultural Economics, Michigan State University) |
| Abstract: | Agricultural commodities typically show a strong seasonal pattern in production, with supplies which come off the farm during one or perhaps two distinct periods of the year having to meet relatively stable demand over the course of the entire year. This seasonal pattern in production can give rise to strong seasonal patterns in price movements, with low prices during and shortly after the harvest, rising to peaks just prior to the next harvest. Understanding this price seasonality, the typical timing and levels of seasonal highs and lows, and the reliability of each, is a key task for anyone wishing to understand the market for an agricultural commodity. This paper presents the results of seasonal analysis for seven fresh fruit and vegetable crops in Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu: ripe bananas, kales, dry onions, tomatoes, cabbages, oranges, and potatoes due to their importance in urban consumer diets. |
| Keywords: | food security, food policy, wholesale fruit and vegetable prices, Kenya |
| JEL: | Q18 |
| Date: | 2006 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:msu:icpwrk:ke-tegemeo-wp-022&r=agr |
| By: | Rajeev, Meenakshi; Ranade, Ranjeet; Deb, Sarmistha |
| Abstract: | In the face of many debt-ridden farmers committing suicide, the agricultural credit delivery system assumes a significant role in the agrarian economy of India. This paper looks at the credit delivery system in rural India on the basis of a field survey carried out in the State of West Bengal. Given the reality that access to formal sector credit is not smooth for the marginal farmers, the emergence of a trader class as a major source of credit for working capital (without demanding any collateral), appears to be beneficial for these poor farmers. Surprisingly, the repayment rates of the comparatively poorer farmers are found to be better than that of the financially better-off farmers. The paper constructs a game theoretic model to show how in the face of asymmetric information, necessity to build trust has led to this behaviour. |
| Keywords: | Key Words: Borrower; lender; trader; strategy |
| JEL: | Q14 |
| Date: | 2006–11–01 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:768&r=agr |
| By: | John Fynn; Steven Haggblade (Department of Agricultural Economics, Michigan State University) |
| Abstract: | The rapid recent appreciation of the Kwacha has placed these gains at risk. The sudden strengthening of the Kwacha since November 2005 has reduced the Kwacha value of agricultural exports by 30%, forcing reductions in farmgate prices and eroding exporter profit margins. As in a classic case of Dutch Disease, large inflows of foreign exchange–whether from surging international copper prices, foreign aid or speculative financial inflows–have contributed to the strengthening Kwacha. The subsequent rapid appreciation of the Kwacha risks making much of Zambia’s export agriculture uncompetitive on world markets. |
| Keywords: | food security, food policy, Zambia, appreciation impact |
| JEL: | Q18 |
| Date: | 2006 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:msu:icpbrf:zm-fsrp-pb-013&r=agr |
| By: | Andrew McKay; Scott Loveridge (Department of Agricultural Economics, Michigan State University) |
| Abstract: | A brief introduction to Rwanda, its recent history and agricultural policies provides context for the reader. This then leads into a brief discussion of rural livelihood strategies. Next is basic documentation of income and expenditure surveys conducted prior to the war (1990) and after the war (2000). Then patterns are compared in household strategies in a time before the disruptions to a time of relative calm after the major disruptions. |
| Keywords: | food security, food policy, Rwanda, household income, nutrition |
| JEL: | Q18 |
| Date: | 2005 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:msu:icpwrk:rw-fsrp-rr-14&r=agr |
| By: | Billy Mwiinga; Julius Shawa; T.S. Jayne (Department of Agricultural Economics, Michigan State University); James Shaffer |
| Abstract: | This report provides an initial assessment of the impact of agricultural commodity taxes levied by local district authorities on the national objectives of food security, poverty alleviation and economic growth. A study was undertaken to provide government with a better understanding of the effects of the grain levy on the national policy objectives of promoting food security, poverty alleviation, and economic growth in Zambia. |
| Keywords: | food security, food policy, agricultural commodity taxes, Zambia |
| JEL: | Q18 |
| Date: | 2005 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:msu:icpwrk:zm-fsrp-wp-012&r=agr |
| By: | David Tschirley (Department of Agricultural Economics, Michigan State University); Colin Poulton; Duncan Boughton |
| Abstract: | With cotton sector reform in much of SSA a decade old, it is now possible to review the empirical record and begin drawing lessons from experience. This paper assesses the record of five countries in southern and eastern Africa: Tanzania, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Mozambique. In four of these countries, cotton is the first- or second most important smallholder cash crop; only in Uganda does it substantially lag other cash crops. The focus on the course of reform in each – initial conditions, key elements of the reform, and institutional response to it – and attempt to draw lessons for policy makers, donors, and researchers. the paper begins by outlining the challenges faced by cotton production and marketing systems. Next a review the range of pre-reform institutional responses to these challenges, before discussing the reform process in each country and reviewing the evolving institutional response to it. Finally, assess the performance that each country has achieved and attempt to relate this to its initial conditions and subsequent institutional responses, and closing by outlining lessons for strategies to improve cotton systems in SSA. |
| Keywords: | food security, food policy, cotton sector reform, Tanzania, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique |
| JEL: | Q18 |
| Date: | 2006 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:msu:icpwrk:zm-fsrp-wp-018&r=agr |
| By: | David Megill (Department of Agricultural Economics, Michigan State University) |
| Abstract: | The Central Statistical Office (CSO) has been conducting the Zambia Post-Harvest Survey (PHS) annually for about 15 years. This survey is one of the most important sources of data in Zambia for the annual production of crops and livestock, as well as socio-economic characteristics of agricultural households. The purpose of this report is to document the findings from this review of the PHS sampling, listing and estimation methodology and the proposed weight adjustment procedures, as well as to make recommendations for improving the methodology for the PHS and Crop Forecasting Survey (CFS) in the future. |
| Keywords: | food security, food policy, estimation methodology, agricultural households |
| JEL: | Q18 |
| Date: | 2005 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:msu:icpwrk:zm-fsrp-wp-013&r=agr |
| By: | Valerie Kelly (Department of Agricultural Economics, Michigan State University); Janet Carpenter; Oumar Diall; Tom Easterling; Moctar Koné; Peter McCornick; Mike McGahuey |
| Abstract: | This report represents a synthesis of individual reports and notes prepared by each team member. The first three points in the terms of reference (TOR), provide an overview of current S&T research institutions and programs in Mali. Promising S&T products and needed support services are identified to encourage rapid uptake (4th item on the TOR). This discussion is divided into two sub-sections: one presents the key findings concerning crops and the other deals with livestock. These sections include the team’s recommendations for product- or subsector-based activities to be pursued in Mali by researchers, extension services, and public and private sector actors involved in different levels of the value-chain. Cross-cutting issues that affect technology development and uptake across multiple products and subsectors (5th item on the TOR) are analyzed. Key issues discussed are research and extension capacity; the role of natural resource and water management in stimulating agricultural productivity growth and reducing production risk; and downstream institutional constraints such as regulatory issues that limit uptake and dissemination of S&T products. Resolutions are discussed. |
| Keywords: | food security, food policy, Mali science and technology research, research and extension |
| JEL: | Q18 |
| Date: | 2005 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:msu:icpwrk:ml-promisam-rr-01e&r=agr |
| By: | Milu Muyanga (Department of Agricultural Economics, Michigan State University); T.S. Jayne |
| Abstract: | The primary objective of this study is to assess the food crops and livestock extension service provision in Kenya with a broad aim of understanding what exists, what works and why. It seeks to expand knowledge on the nature of the existing extension providers, their characteristics, approaches employed and the challenges they face. Based on success cases, an attempt is made to delineate the fundamentals of ideal extension service system and the role of the government in such a scenario, with the aim of informing the implementation of the new National Agricultural Sector Extension Policy (NASEP). |
| Keywords: | food security, food policy, extension services, privatization, policy reform, Kenya |
| JEL: | Q18 |
| Date: | 2006 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:msu:icpwrk:ke-tegemeo-wp-026&r=agr |
| By: | T. Walker (Department of Agricultural Economics, Michigan State University); R. Pitoro; A. Tomo; I. Sitoe; C. Salência; R. Mahanzule; C. Donovan; F. Mazuze |
| Abstract: | The bulk of this research report addresses the question of where commodity research should be cited across IIAM’s ten agro-ecologies and four zonal research centers. As IIAM decentralizes its scientific human resources to its four zonal center locations, it should not lose sight of the primacy of the Northeast Zonal Research Center in both economic importance and the potential for poverty reduction. Our analysis suggests that the Northeast Zonal Research Center contributes about 40% to value of commodity production and to absolute poverty alleviation. The temptation is that too many resources are allocated to the South Zonal Research Center because the research infrastructure in the south is wider and deeper than in the center and north of the country. If the three other zonal research centers are to fulfill their promise, a few key facilities need to be rehabilitated and strengthened in the center and north. The scarcity of research infrastructure is most constraining in the coastal agroecologies, especially for rice. |
| Keywords: | food security, food policy, priority setting, Mozambique, rice |
| JEL: | Q18 |
| Date: | 2006 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:msu:icpwrk:mz-iiam-rr-03e&r=agr |
| By: | Munguzwe Hichaambwa; David Tschirley (Department of Agricultural Economics, Michigan State University) |
| Abstract: | The purpose of this paper is to begin generating the empirical information needed to launch a process of stakeholder consultation regarding the key challenges facing the country’s horticultural sector. The paper is based on a rapid appraisal of the sector meant to provide a broad overview; FSRP’s hope is that stakeholder input will help identify a more focused set of applied research dealing with specific issues. The paper proceeds as follows: the rest of this chapter presents the data and methods used in the research; chapter two uses national rural household survey data to characterize horticultural marketing patterns in the smallholder sector; chapter three presents results of the rapid appraisal, focusing on large scale farmers, “first sellers” in the Soweto wholesale market of Lusaka, retail traders in Lusaka and Ndola, and shoppers from a range of retail outlets in both cities; chapter four concludes with a discussion of policy and program issues. |
| Keywords: | food security, food policy, Zambia horticultural rapid appraisal, fresh fruits and vegetables |
| JEL: | Q18 |
| Date: | 2006 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:msu:icpwrk:zm-fsrp-wp-017&r=agr |
| By: | Yue, Chengyan; Alfnes, Frode; Jensen, Helen H. |
| Abstract: | Organic producers have limited methods of avoiding plant diseases that result in cosmetic damage to produce. Therefore, the appearance of organic produce is often less than perfect. We use an experimental auction to investigate how cosmetic damage affects consumers’ willingness to pay for organic apples. We find that 75% of the participants are willing to pay more for organic than for conventional apples given identical appearance. However, at the first sight of any imperfection in the appearance of the organic apples, this segment is significantly reduced. Furthermore, we find that there is a significant effect of interaction between cosmetic damage and product methods. Even though most consumers say they buy organic products to avoid pesticides, we find that cosmetic damage has a larger impact on the willingness to pay for organic apples than for conventional apples. |
| Keywords: | appearance, apples, experimental auctions, organic, willingness to pay. |
| Date: | 2006–11–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:isu:genres:12693&r=agr |
| By: | Elobeid, Amani; Tokgoz, Simla; Hayes, Dermot J.; Babcock, Bruce A.; Hart, Chad E. |
| Abstract: | The ongoing growth of corn-based ethanol production raises some fundamental questions about what impact continued growth will have on U.S. and world agriculture. Estimates of the long-run potential for ethanol production can be made by calculating the corn price at which the incentive to expand ethanol production disappears. Under current ethanol tax policy, if the prices of crude oil, natural gas, and distillers grains stay at current levels, then the break-even corn price is $4.05 per bushel. A multi-commodity, multi-country system of integrated commodity models is used to estimate the impacts if we ever get to $4.05 corn. At this price, corn-based ethanol production would reach 31.5 billion gallons per year, or about 20% of projected U.S. fuel consumption in 2015. Supporting this level of production would require 95.6 million acres of corn to be planted. Total corn production would be approximately 15.6 billion bushels, compared to 11.0 billion bushels today. Most of the additional corn acres come from reduced soybean acreage. Wheat acreage would expand because of higher prices and increased demand for feed wheat. Corn exports and production of pork and poultry would all be reduced in response to higher corn prices and increased utilization of corn by ethanol plants. These results should not be viewed as a prediction of what will eventually materialize. Rather, they indicate a logical end point to the current incentives to invest in corn-based ethanol plants. |
| Keywords: | biofuels, commodity markets, corn price, energy markets, ethanol. |
| Date: | 2006–11–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:isu:genres:12692&r=agr |
| By: | Anthony Mwanaumo; T.S. Jayne (Department of Agricultural Economics, Michigan State University); Ballard Zulu; Julius Shawa; Green Mbozi; Steven Haggblade; Misheck Nyembe |
| Abstract: | This paper shows how government actions can affect the performance of the maize marketing system and influence the severity of food crises. Examples from the 2005/06 marketing season are used to illustrate how Zambia’s food security situation can be improved through closer consultation, transparency and predictability between government and the private sector. The paper also identifies longer-run options for strengthening the ability of local and regional markets to ensure household and national food security in the face of maize production instability. |
| Keywords: | food security, food policy, Zambia, maize |
| JEL: | Q18 |
| Date: | 2005 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:msu:icpbrf:zm-fsrp-pb-011&r=agr |
| By: | David Tschirley (Department of Agricultural Economics, Michigan State University); Pedro Arlindo; Jan J. Nijhoff; Billy Mwinga; Michael T. Weber; T.S. Jayne |
| Abstract: | This paper examines the efficiency and effectiveness of emergency response in Southern Africa through the lens of the 2002/03-food crisis in the region. It outlines improvements in information and operational procedures needed to enhance the response to future events. Also discussed are national and regional trade regime changes that would reduce the need for emergency response, and consider what lessons the 2002/03 crisis may have for the role of Strategic Grain Reserves. |
| Keywords: | food security, food policy, food crisis, southern Africa, trade |
| JEL: | Q18 |
| Date: | 2005 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:msu:icpbrf:mz-minag-rl-46e&r=agr |
| By: | M. Muyanga; T.S. Jayne (Department of Agricultural Economics, Michigan State University); Gem Argwings-Kodhek; J. Ariga |
| Abstract: | This study examines current consumption patterns of the main staple carbohydrate products in Nairobi--maize, wheat, rice, and cooking banana--in an effort to illuminate policy issues affecting urban food security. Also identified the factors driving changes in the amount and form of urban maize meal consumption. To better understand how food security policy should be designed in order to respond to the needs of low-income consumers, we disaggregate consumption and expenditure patterns for low-, medium- and high-income groups. The study also examines whether the marketing channels used by the poor to secure their staple carbohydrate products differ from those used by relatively high-income consumers. The results hold important implications for policy makers by revealing how staple food consumption patterns are changing, and by identifying the types of investments that are needed to strengthen improve low-income consumers’ access to food. |
| Keywords: | food security, food policy, maize, wheat, rice, cooking banana, Kenya |
| JEL: | Q18 |
| Date: | 2005 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:msu:icpwrk:ke-tegemeo-wp-016&r=agr |
| By: | Huffman, Wallace; Huffman, Sonya K.; Tegene, Abebayehu; Rickertsen, Kyrre |
| Abstract: | Health production and supply functions based on models for productive households are established. Data for 18 high income countries over 1971-2001 are used in the empirical analysis. In the health production function, mortality from cardiovascular diseases and diabetes is positively related to inputs of calories and sweeteners but not to input of fat or to national health care. In the health supply function, a high real price of food, real wage rate and non-labor income, a modest level of socialized medicine, and a low labor force participation rate decrease mortality. A cheap food policy erodes gains from reduced smoking and better treatments for high cholesterol levels and hypertension that have occurred over the last three decades. |
| Keywords: | health, household production, food prices, obesity, mortality, high income countries |
| JEL: | D1 I1 Q1 |
| Date: | 2006–11–17 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:isu:genres:12699&r=agr |
| By: | Milton Ayieko; David Tschirley (Department of Agricultural Economics, Michigan State University); Mary Mathenge |
| Abstract: | This study looks at the urban consumption patterns of fresh fruits and vegetables and the major supply chain systems used in the distribution of fresh produce. The study integrates issues of supply chain organization and performance into the analysis of consumer demand for fresh produce. In particular, the study looks at how system organization and performance affects the ability of the system to satisfy consumer demand for fresh produce. The study pursues these main objectives, namely, to estimate the household consumption of fruits and vegetables per adult equivalent; to examine the shopping patterns of fresh produce consumers as compared to other food purchases; and to examine the various supply chain systems for fresh produce. |
| Keywords: | food security, food policy, fresh fruits and vegetable consumption, consumer demand, Kenya |
| JEL: | Q18 |
| Date: | 2005 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:msu:icpwrk:ke-tegemeo-wp-019&r=agr |
| By: | David Tschirley (Department of Agricultural Economics, Michigan State University); Jan J. Nijhoff; Pedro Arlindo; Billy Mwinga; Michael T. Weber; T.S. Jayne |
| Abstract: | This paper examines the efficiency and effectiveness of emergency response in southern Africa through the lens of the 2002/03 food crisis in the region. The authors outline improvements in information and operational procedures needed to enhance the response to future events. They also discuss national and regional trade regime changes that would reduce the need for emergency response, and consider what lessons the 2002/03 crisis may have for the role of Strategic Grain Reserves (SGRs). |
| Keywords: | food security, drought, emergency, Southern Africa |
| JEL: | Q18 |
| Date: | 2006 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:msu:idpwrk:089&r=agr |
| By: | Joshua Ariga (Department of Agricultural Economics, Michigan State University); T.S. Jayne; J. Nyoro |
| Abstract: | The objective of this study is to identify the factors responsible for the impressive growth in fertilizer use in Kenya since market liberalization in the early 1990s. Over the past 10 years, fertilizer consumption has risen by 35%. So far, it is unknown whether smallholder farmers are responsible for this growth or whether it is being driven mainly by the large-scale and/or estate sectors. Moreover, it is important for policy makers to know whether the increased fertilizer consumption is being devoted to smallholder food crops or whether industrial crops such as tea and sugarcane are responsible for this growth. This study addresses these questions using nationwide survey data on smallholder fertilizer use patterns between 1996 and 2004. The study also explores whether the growth in fertilizer use in Kenya is attributed to any particular types of fertilizer delivery supply chains. A better understanding of the types of fertilizer distribution channels fueling the growth in consumption and the sustainability of these delivery systems can be of great help in guiding future policy to replicate successful supply chain models more widely in Kenya. Finally the study is meant to guide discussions on fertilizer marketing policy in Kenya in line with the new Economic Recovery Strategy (ERS). |
| Keywords: | food security, food policy, fertilizer consumption, Kenya |
| JEL: | Q18 |
| Date: | 2006 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:msu:icpwrk:ke-tegemeo-wp-024&r=agr |
| By: | Antony Chapoto (Department of Agricultural Economics, Michigan State University); T.S. Jayne |
| Abstract: | This paper analyzes the trends in retail maize meal prices and the wholesale-retail margins enjoyed by millers and retailers in Zambia since maize and maize meal prices were decontrolled in the early 1990s. This note summarizes material from a broader study on Zambia’s maize supply chain. The findings from this paper are designed to inform policy discussions aimed at improving household food security and maize market performance in Zambia. |
| Keywords: | food security, food policy, Zambia, maize |
| JEL: | Q18 |
| Date: | 2006 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:msu:icpbrf:zm-fsrp-pb-014&r=agr |
| By: | Parrachino, Irene; Dinar, Ariel; Patrone, Fioravante |
| Abstract: | This paper reviews various applications of cooperative game theory (CGT) to issues of water resources. With an increase in the competition over various water resources, the incidents of disputes have been in the center of allocation agreements. The paper reviews the cases of various water uses, such as multi-objective water projects, irrigation, groundwater, hydropower, urban water supply, wastewater, and transboundary water disputes. In addition to providing examples of cooperative solutions to allocation problems, the conclusion from this review suggests that cooperation over scarce water resources is possible under a variety of physical conditions and institutional arrangements. In particular, the various approaches for cost sharing and for allocation of physical water infrastructure and flow can serve as a basis for stable and efficient agreement, such that long-term investments in water projects are profitable and sustainable. The latter point is especially important, given recent developments in water policy in various countries and regional institutions such as the European Union (Water Framework Directive), calling for full cost recovery of investments and operation and maintenance in water projects. The CGT approaches discussed and demonstrated in this paper can provide a solid basis for finding possible and stable cost-sharing arrangements. |
| Keywords: | Town Water Supply and Sanitation,Environmental Economics & Policies,Water Supply and Sanitation Governance and Institutions,Water Supply and Systems,Water and Industry |
| Date: | 2006–11–01 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:wbk:wbrwps:4074&r=agr |
| By: | Richard Akresh (University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign); Philip Verwimp (Institute of Social Studies) |
| Abstract: | Economic shocks at birth have lasting impacts on children’s health several years after the shock. We calculate height for age z-scores for children under age five using data from a Rwandan nationally representative household survey conducted in 1992. We exploit district and time variation in crop failure and civil conflict to measure the impact of exogenous shocks that children experience at birth on their height several years later. We find that girls born after a shock in a region experiencing these events exhibit 0.72 standard deviations lower height for age z-scores and the impact is worse for poor households. There is no impact of these shocks on boys’ health status. Results are robust to using household level production and rainfall shocks as alternative measures of crop failure. The analysis also contributes to the debate on the economic conditions prevailing on the eve of the Rwandan genocide. |
| Keywords: | Child health, economic shocks, civil war, rainfall shocks, Africa |
| JEL: | I12 J13 O12 O15 |
| Date: | 2006–09 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hic:wpaper:19&r=agr |
| By: | Zara, Stefano; Dinar, Ariel; Patrone, Fioravante |
| Abstract: | This paper provides a review of various applications of cooperative game theory (CGT) to issues of natural and environmental resources. With an increase in the level of competition over environmental and natural resources, the incidents of disputes have been at the center of allocation agreements. The paper reviews the cases of common pool resources such as fisheries and forests, and cases of environmental pollution such as acid rain, flow, and stock pollution. In addition to providing examples of cooperative solutions to allocation problems, the conclusion from this review suggests that cooperation over scarce environmental and natural resources is possible under a variety of physical conditions and institutional arrangements. CGT applications to international fishery disputes are especially useful in that they have been making headway in policy-related agreements among states and regions of the world. Forest applications are more local in nature, but of great relevance in solving disputes among communities and various levels of governments. |
| Keywords: | Environmental Economics & Policies,Fisheries & Aquaculture,Common Property Resource Development,Economic Theory & Research,Ecosystems and Natural Habitats |
| Date: | 2006–11–01 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:wbk:wbrwps:4073&r=agr |
| By: | Danny Campbell (Gibson Institute of Land, Food and Environmen, Queen’s University Belfast); W. George Hutchinson (Gibson Institute of Land, Food and Environmen, Queen’s University Belfast); Riccardo Scarpa (University of Waikato) |
| Abstract: | In discrete choice experiments respondents are generally assumed to consider all of the attributes across each of the alternatives, and to choose their most preferred. However, results in this paper indicate that many respondents employ simplified lexicographic decision-making rules, whereby they have a ranking of the attributes, but their choice of an alternative is based solely on the level of their most important attribute(s). Not accounting for these simple decision-making heuristics introduces systemic errors and leads to biased point estimates, as they are a violation of the continuity axiom and a departure from the use of compensatory decision-making. In this paper the implications of lexicographic preferences are examined. In particular, using a mixed logit specification this paper investigates the sensitivity of individual-specific willingness to pay (WTP) estimates conditional on whether lexicographic decision-making rules are accounted for in the modelling of discrete choice responses. Empirical results are obtained from a discrete choice experiment that was carried out to address the value of a number of rural landscape attributes in Ireland. |
| Keywords: | Continuity axiom, Discrete Choice Experiments, Lexicographic Preferences, Mixed Logit, Individual-Specific Willingness to Pay |
| JEL: | C35 Q24 Q51 |
| Date: | 2006–10 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fem:femwpa:2006.128&r=agr |
| By: | Carlo Carraro (Department of Economics, University Of Venice Cà Foscari); Johan Eyckmans (European University College Brussels EHSAL and Center for Economic Studies, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven.); Michael Finus (Department of Economics, University of Hagen and National University of Singapore) |
| Abstract: | The literature on international environmental agreements has recognized the role transfers play in encouraging participation in international environmental agreements. However, the results achieved so far are overly specific. Therefore, we develop a more general framework that enables us to study the role of transfers in a systematic way. We propose transfers using both internal and external financial resources for making “welfare optimal agreements” self-enforcing. To illustrate the relevance of our transfer scheme, we use a stylized integrated assessment simulation model of climate change to show how appropriate transfers may induce almost all countries into signing a self-enforcing climate treaty. |
| Keywords: | Self-enforcing International Environmental Agreements, Climate Policy, Transfers |
| JEL: | C72 H23 Q25 Q28 |
| Date: | 2006 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ven:wpaper:44_06&r=agr |
| By: | Parrachino, Irene; Zara, Stefano; Patrone, Fioravante |
| Abstract: | Game theory provides useful insights into the way parties that share a scarce resource may plan their use of the resource under different situations. This review provides a brief and self-contained introduction to the theory of cooperative games. It can be used to get acquainted with the basics of cooperative games. Its goal is also to provide a basic introduction to this theory, in connection with a couple of surveys that analyze its use in the context of environmental problems and models. The main models (bargaining games, transfer utility, and non-transfer utility games) and issues and solutions are considered: bargaining solutions, single-value solutions like the Shapley value and the nucleolus, and multi-value solutions such as the core. The cooperative game theory (CGT) models that are reviewed in this paper favor solutions that include all possible players and ignore the strategic stages leading to coalition building. They focus on the possible results of the cooperation by answering questions such as: Which coalitions can be formed? And how can the coalitional gains be divided to secure a sustainable agreement? An important aspect associated with the solution concepts of CGT is the equitable and fair sharing of the cooperation gains. |
| Keywords: | Environmental Economics & Policies,Economic Theory & Research,Livestock & Animal Husbandry,Education for the Knowledge Economy,Education for Development |
| Date: | 2006–11–01 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:wbk:wbrwps:4072&r=agr |