Improving diagnosis of resource management issues

Description

Improving diagnosis of resource management issues involves systematically identifying and analyzing inefficiencies, shortages, and misallocations in the use of natural, financial, and human resources. This strategy employs data collection, monitoring tools, and stakeholder consultations to pinpoint root causes and prioritize interventions. Its practical intent is to enable timely, targeted remedies—such as policy adjustments, capacity building, or technology upgrades—thereby optimizing resource allocation, reducing waste, and enhancing sustainability in organizational and community contexts.

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.