Improving diagnosis of resource management issues

Description

Improving diagnosis of resource management issues involves systematically identifying inefficiencies, misallocations, and underlying causes of resource depletion or waste. This strategy employs data collection, stakeholder consultation, and analytical tools to detect problems early, enabling targeted interventions. By clarifying resource flows and usage patterns, it supports the development of effective management plans, reduces environmental and economic losses, and ensures sustainable utilization, directly addressing challenges such as scarcity, overuse, and mismanagement.

Implementation

The International Centre for Research in Agroforestry (Nairobi, Kenya) is facilitating and coordinating the African Highlands Initiative -- an eco-regional initiative aimed to develop an integrated research programme for better management of natural resources. The collaborative project is a joint effort of the national agricultural research systems and non-governmental organizations from seven countries (Burundi, Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda and Zaire) and ten international research centres. Eight themes of regional importance have been identified: (a) improving the diagnosis of resource management issues; (b) maintaining soil productivity under population pressure; (c) improving management systems for highland valleys; (d) increasing the diversity of crop varieties to better fit farmers' conditions; (e) developing agro-ecological strategies for pest management; (f) conducting research on natural resources policy; (g) conducting training; and (h) disseminating information.