Learning Talk: What Works in GCF Agriculture Projects

Summary 

The Independent Evaluation Unit (IEU) hosted a Learning Talk titled "What Works in GCF Agriculture Projects." The session explored evidence-based insights into the effectiveness of components of GCF-supported agricultural projects, highlighting findings from LORTA (the Learning-Oriented Real-Time Impact Assessment program).

Discussion Highlights 

• The Updated Strategic Plan 2024-2027 outlines the GCF will provide support for developing countries that results in 190 to 280 million beneficiaries adopting low-emission climate-resilient agricultural and fisheries practices, securing livelihoods while reconfiguring food systems.
• LORTA Findings: Midline results from the Green Gicumbi Project in Rwanda indicated significant adoption of climate-resilient agricultural practices and a reduction in food insecurity. However, there were unexpected findings, such as reduced banana production due to landscape alterations. 
• Barriers to Adoption: Common constraints include lack of knowledge, financial resources, and trust in proposed interventions. Gender differences in adoption rates and benefits were also observed, with women-led households showing greater improvements in food security. 

Case Studies 

Green Gicumbi Project (Rwanda): 

• Adoption rates for climate-resilient practices increased by 20–24 percentage points (pp). 
• Significant reductions in food insecurity were noted, particularly for women-led households. A smaller proportion of beneficiaries (17.6 pp) reported food shortages, especially women-headed households. Beneficiaries also reported a lower coping strategy index score (by 3.3 - 3.6 points), especially women-headed households. 
• Increased production and yield of beans. Unexpected declines in banana production were linked to radical terracing activities. 

Bangladesh Agricultural Project: 

• High adoption of practices among women’s groups was attributed to targeted training and awareness campaigns. 
• Increase in household income and food security (measured by food consumption).  
• A higher share of women engaged in at least one income-generating activity.  
• Limited impact on women’s decision-making and empowerment 

Uganda Wetland Restoration: 

• Project effectiveness hinged on trust-building with local communities, underscoring the importance of aligning interventions with local needs. 

Learning Outcomes 

• Capacity building, particularly tailored to women, were identified as critical enablers for adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices. 
• Projects benefit from leveraging local knowledge and aligning interventions with community priorities to build trust and ensure long-term sustainability. 
• A systems approach, including soil restoration and market linkages, is necessary to create resilient agricultural landscapes. 

Panelists

• Martin Prowse, Evaluation Specialist, IEU
• Marc Dumas-Johansen, Agriculture and Food Security Specialist, GCF
• Michell Dong, Impact Evaluation Specialist, IEU

Moderator

• Aiko Ward, Principal, Evaluation Officer, IEU 

The Learning Talk recording may be accessed here.