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Research centres are increasingly an integral part of the institutional and organisational infrastructure of knowledge production in development studies. However, whilst other components of the knowledge production have been problematised for their role in reproducing the hierarchies of the ‘global-north-dominated science and research ecosystem’ (Gebremariam, 2022), centres have received little direct attention. This paper identifies a new generation of large grant-funded research centres (LGRCs) as on object of study in themselves. These are large in terms of both ambitions and budgets, yet are distinguished from more permanent departments or institutes in their reliance on fixed-term grant funding. It unpicks how LGRC’s internal organisational dynamics and their location within the British and global political economies of development research encourage the dissemination of concepts coined by their Principal Investigators (PIs), through centre-branded grey literature. Whilst research grants commonly release scholars from contractual teaching and administration obligations, two case studies of LGRCs at a UK university show how this process of ‘buy-out’ can be conceived more broadly as a buy-out from peer-review, with consequences for maintaining what Hountoundji (1990, p. 6) calls ‘the North’s monopoly on theory’. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the factors that determine the functionality of bio-digesters in the rural households of East Gojjam Zone, Ethiopia. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, focused group discussions, and key informant interviews. Results indicated the functional status of digesters was better functional (58.81%), poorly functional (32.23%), and non-adopter (8.9%). Cattle head, follow-up and support, and frequency of extension contact were found to have a positive influence on the functional status of bio-digesters. While distance to a water source and distance to the nearest markets for appliances were found to have a significant and negative influence on the functional status, Improving institutional follow-up and accessing water sources and market centers in the vicinity of the household could improve the functional status of bio-digesters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exploiting the economic dividends of the mega-infrastructure investments related to the Belt and Road Initiative as a timely global South-South cooperation model, this study follows the New Structural Economics theory to examine the effects of the BRI membership on Africa's industrialization. A panel fixed effects and Instrumental Variable (IV) estimation methods were employed to conduct an in-depth empirical analysis of BRI's impacts on Africa's industrialization. The study utilized country and firm-level datasets to provide comprehensive macro and micro empirical evidence for 51 African countries from 2000 to 2022. The baseline macro-level findings show that BRI membership and infrastructure investments promoted the aggregate industry value-added share of GDP in Africa. Moreover, the firm-level results provide solid empirical evidence by showing significant annual sales growth of manufacturing firms in African BRI member countries. However, juxtaposing various industry specification measurements, the results did not provide empirical evidence that BRI boosts the narrowly defined manufacturing value added. Meanwhile, consistently withstanding rigorous robustness and heterogenous checks, the study findings provide evidence-based practical policy recommendations for the African economies. Designating BRI as a 21st-century industrialization-led development model, these policy recommendations have overarching implications for achieving economic transformation goals listed in the African Union Agenda 2063. Impact statement: The tiny research on the BRI industrialization strand produced huge controversies with inconclusive results. Another major limitation of these BRI industrialization studies is the ambiguous explanation of the BRI's mechanism of influence, which relies solely on the BRI membership indicator as the channel of effects. To improve this deficiency, the study contributes to the existing literature in two ways. First, the study includes the values of BRI infrastructure construction projects as a closer indicator of the BRI's channel of impact on African industrialization. Second, the study combines macro and micro-level empirical evidence and conducts BRI's deep and shallow industrialization analysis using a large sample of African economies. Employing the panel fixed effects empirical estimation method; the study baseline results show that BRI membership significantly improves African industrialization despite lagging. Furthermore, the Instrumental Variable (IV) results of the firm-level analysis provide solid micro-level empirical validation for the impact of BRI's macro-industrialization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the effect of immigration on Foreign Direct Investment in 21 African countries between 1990 and 2021. Using random effects, fixed effects, and heteroscedasticity-based identification methods in a dynamic panel model, we found that countries with higher levels of past Foreign Direct Investment inflows and a higher proportion of Foreign Direct Investment-bound immigrants are more appealing to new investors. These findings encourage a critical examination of immigration policy aimed at promptly admitting skilled and enterprising immigrants while remaining committed to ethical principles, promoting social equity, and safeguarding fundamental human rights. IMPACT STATEMENT: Immigrant investors who lead the way serve as strong drivers for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows to African countries. Our examination of 21 nations in Africa reveals that successfully attracting immigrant investors is linked to higher overall FDI. To maximize effectiveness, policymakers should concentrate on four crucial strategies: designing immigration policies that favor entrepreneurs, creating comprehensive support systems for post-investment needs, establishing special economic zones with tax benefits, and simplifying administrative procedures for initial investors. These specific interventions generate a self-sustaining cycle of FDI attraction, utilizing immigrant networks to propel long-term economic growth while upholding high ethical principles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Homegarden avocado cultivation offers a viable option for smallholder farmers to diversify their sources of income and food. This study examined the contribution of avocado cultivars to household income diversification and food security in the Jewe and Upper Gana kebeles of Central Ethiopia. Data were collected from 164 households using a semi-structured questionnaire and supplemented with focus group discussions. The results of this study indicated that Nabal, Hass, and Ettinger were the most commonly cultivated avocado cultivars. On average, the households owned four improved avocado trees. This study revealed that households had highly diversified income sources, with an average SID value of 0.63. The average fruit yields for the Nabal, Hass, and Ettinger cultivars ranged from 45 to 60 kg per household. These cultivars contributed approximately 14% and 10% of the household income sources and food consumption scores, respectively. This study found that, on average, households consumed 40 kg of Hass and 25 kg of Ettinger fruits, and sold 55 kg of Nabal and 25 kg of Ettinger fruits per harvest season. Improved avocado cultivation was positively associated with household income and food consumption. Local governments should encourage cultivation of these cultivars to enhance income and food security for farmers. IMPACT STATEMENT: The cultivation of improved avocado cultivars has sparked significant interest among Ethiopian smallholder farmers owing to the potential benefits offered by the different cultivars. This study examines how avocado cultivars contribute to household income diversification and food consumption among smallholder farmers in Central Ethiopia. The findings indicated that Nabal, Hass, and Ettinger were the most commonly grown avocado cultivars, which significantly contributed to household income sources and food consumption. Furthermore, 64% of the total avocado harvest was used to generate household income, while 36% was used for food consumption. Expanding these three avocado cultivars has the potential to maximise economic profits, enhance food and nutrition security, and support demand-driven avocado farming practices, both within the country and beyond. Consequently, these findings provide valuable information to local government agricultural extension experts, fruit tree development partners, avocado seedling production enterprises, and smallholder avocado farmers. The results can also guide policymakers in developing local-specific enabling policy frameworks that encourage the cultivation of these avocado cultivars on a wider scale, thereby enhancing food security and household income generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The revitalization of traditional medicine has intensified interest in medicinal plants; however, reliance on wild sources poses sustainability challenges. Despite the economic potential of medicinal plants, small farmers face challenges such as limited access to resources, capital, markets, and institutional support. The study examines the profitability of cultivating high-value medicinal plants by smallholder farmers in the Amatole District Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa. The research, based on data from 150 smallholder farmers (mostly literate women averaging 46 years old), shows a net farm income of ZAR 19,091.72 and a return on investment of 0.77 per growing period, indicating profitability despite obstacles. Factors influencing profitability include age, household size, farm size, and farming experience. Based on the study results, the study recommends policymakers and government interventions, such as improving market access, providing financial support, offering training, and enhancing institutional frameworks. It also stresses the importance of integrating cultural considerations and addressing knowledge gaps to empower smallholder farmers and optimize the economic benefits of medicinal plant cultivation, supporting sustainable rural development and economic growth. IMPACT STATEMENT: The research on Growing Wealth from Nature: Analyzing the Profitability and Determinants of High-Value Medicinal Plants in Smallholder Production Systems has significant implications for economic development and sustainable agriculture. This research study provides critical insights into the untapped economic potential of high-value medicinal plants within smallholder farming systems, emphasizing their role in driving sustainable rural development. By investigating the profitability and factors affecting medicinal plant cultivation, it addresses critical challenges in rural economies, especially in developing regions where smallholders are vital. The study demonstrates how farmers can capitalize on the high-value medicinal plant market to generate substantial income while promoting sustainable land use. It also highlights the potential of biodiversity conservation to drive rural prosperity, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional, resource-intensive farming. By identifying key profitability factors, such as market access, cultivation practices, and socio-economic conditions, the research provides actionable strategies to improve farmer livelihoods and scale production. In doing so, it contributes to both economic growth and environmental sustainability, offering a roadmap for policies that integrate biodiversity into smallholder economies, fostering long-term resilience and prosperity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on identifying the level and evolution of total factor productivity (TFP) and determining its role as a qualitative source of economic growth in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. This is an issue of particular importance because of the recent increases in external global crises, such as the Covid-19 pandemic, and large fluctuations in oil prices. In addition, there are existing internal challenges in the GCC countries, such as high rates of population growth, labor market pressures, a large-sized public sector, and an inefficient private sector. These challenges require achieving a qualitative improvement in the sources of economic growth by raising the efficiency of the use of available productive resources through relying on the growth of TFP as a primary driver of sustainable economic growth. The results of the study showed that the growth rates in TFP were generally negative and below the average international levels. This can be attributed to several reasons such as weak innovation and the adoption of a stagnant development model. The study presents some recommendations to address these challenges. IMPACT STATEMENT: Productivity plays a crucial role in the economic and social progress of nations. Economic growth in the GCC countries faces numerous challenges, including fluctuating oil prices, the rapid growth of the working-age population, stagnant productivity in the public sector, and geopolitical risks in the region. These challenges have made it increasingly difficult for these countries to rely heavily on oil revenues, highlighting the importance of transitioning to an economic model that emphasizes sustainable sources of growth. This shift involves raising productivity to create new economic dynamism, diversify income sources, and respond effectively to current and future market changes. In this study, we focus on Total Factor Productivity (TFP) analysis for several reasons: TFP is often interpreted as a measure of technological progress or innovation; it reflects better management practices; it can be used to assess the impact of various policies on economic efficiency; changes in TFP can help in understanding the sources of economic fluctuations and resilience; and it indicates the quality of policies and institutions that are fundamental to economic growth. By emphasizing TFP, the GCC countries can align their strategies with long-term visions such as Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and the UAE's Centennial 2071. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the critical role of structural transformation in African economies and its significance for inclusive growth, utilizing the African Transformation Index (ATI). The core focus is to understand how structural transformation influences economic growth and to highlight key factors driving this process. By employing a Cobb-Douglas production function and panel quantile regression analysis on data from 30 African countries from 2000 to 2022, the research aims to fill a gap in the literature on African economic development. The major findings reveal that the ATI positively impacts GDP per capita growth rates, especially at lower quantiles, indicating that structural transformation is vital for inclusive growth. Conversely, diversification negatively affects growth, highlighting the challenges of overly diversified economies. Additionally, export competitiveness and productivity improvements contribute positively to growth, while technology upgrading shows significant impact mainly at lower quantiles. Human well-being is identified as a crucial driver of growth, particularly at middle quantiles. The significance of these findings lies in their policy implications: prioritizing structural transformation, enhancing export competitiveness, improving productivity, and focusing on human well-being are essential for achieving sustainable and inclusive growth in Africa. This research provides empirical evidence on the importance of structural transformation and offers valuable insights for policymakers aiming to foster sustainable development in African economies. IMPACT STATEMENT: This study looks into the transformative potential of structural change in driving inclusive economic growth across African economies. By leveraging the African Transformation Index (ATI), our findings highlight how targeted structural reforms, improved export competitiveness, and productivity gains can significantly bolster GDP per capita, especially in countries with lower initial growth levels. The research reveals critical insights for policymakers: over-diversification may hinder growth, while a focus on key drivers like human well-being and technology upgrading at strategic economic stages can sustain long-term growth. These insights are essential for guiding policy frameworks that promote sustainable economic development, alleviate poverty, and foster inclusive growth throughout Africa. This study thus fills a critical knowledge gap, providing an empirical foundation for advancing structural transformation policies across the continent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The construction of the Suramadu bridge, the longest bridge in Indonesia connecting the islands of Java and Madura, aimed to stimulate regional economic growth in Madura and reduce disparity. However, 13 years after the construction, significant economic progress in Madura has yet to be seen. This study examines the impact of the bridge construction on the economic growth of Bangkalan, a Madura Island district closest to the bridge from 2010 to 2017. This study employed the synthetic control method (SCM) to construct a synthetic control unit that mimics Bangkalan's economic growth trajectory in the absence of the Suramadu bridge. The SCM allows for comparison of Bangkalan's economic growth trajectory with its synthetic control unit post the Suramadu bridge operation. The finding indicates that the Suramadu bridge provision lower the economic growth in Bangkalan. The finding underscores the imperative for careful infrastructure planning to yield optimal returns. Moreover, it advocates for a holistic approach wherein hard infrastructure initiatives are complemented by investments in soft infrastructure, particularly in education and healthcare sectors. Such integrated strategies are essential for realizing the full potential of infrastructure projects in driving sustainable economic growth. Impact Statement: This study examines the causal impact of infrastructure provision on regional economic growth in Indonesia. This research question is crucial for many developing countries like Indonesia, where public infrastructure is primarily funded through aid and public debt. The analysis indicates that infrastructure provision has, in fact, led to lower economic growth, challenging many previous studies that identify a positive impact of infrastructure development. This finding underscores the importance of effective infrastructure planning and suggests the necessity of complementary public investments to fully realize the potential benefits of infrastructure provision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing countries generally exhibit low 'saving' (flow concept) and 'savings' (stock concept) rates. The factors underlying household positive or negative saving behaviours in developed and developing countries are not new in the macroeconomic literature. Whereas some determinants are theoretically generic, others are country- or community-specific and worth investigating. In this study, the determinants of household saving behaviour are examined. We obtain the results using primary data from a household survey and a logit econometric model with its associated average marginal effects. Our evidence shows that household income, level of education completed, employment status, and households with launching children (or transitioning older adults) are primary drivers of household saving behaviour in Ghana. Further heterogeneous analysis shows that saving behaviour does not statistically differ by gender but by poverty headcount. In line with the findings of this study, relevant policy prescriptions are discussed. Impact statement: This study contributes to the ongoing discourse on household saving behaviour, specifically within the context of developing countries, by providing empirical evidence from Ghana. Utilising primary household survey data, the research identifies key factors such as income, education level, employment status, and household lifecycle stages (e.g., families with launching children or transitioning older adults) as critical determinants of saving behaviour. The findings offer actionable insights for policymakers in developing economies aiming to boost saving rates, reduce poverty, and promote financial stability. By demonstrating that household saving behaviour varies by poverty headcount rather than gender, the study underscores the need for targeted financial inclusion and education policies. The results are particularly relevant for economic development strategies in countries with similar socio-economic structures, offering a foundation for tailored interventions that can foster more resilient household financial practices. This paper's insights can shape future research and policy development aimed at addressing the unique saving dynamics in developing nations, ultimately contributing to improved macroeconomic stability and individual financial security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been widely documented that good governance reduces income inequality when it creates a conducive environment for quality human capital development. This study investigates the unconditional effects of human capital on income inequality and explores whether institutional quality mechanisms for corruption control and government effectiveness moderate the relationship. Results from the instrumental variable generalised method of moments estimator and data for an unbalanced panel data of 36 African over the period 2010-2020, shows that human capital increases income inequality. However, robust evidence from the interactive analysis reveals that corruption control and government effectiveness mitigate the income inequality-enhancing effect of human capital. This study underscores the need to improve structures and system government effectiveness and corruption control for human capital development to equalise income in Africa. Impact statement: This study provides valuable insights into the relationship between human capital development and income inequality in Africa, challenging the conventional belief that human capital alone reduces inequality. Using an instrumental variable generalized method of moments estimator and data from 35 African countries over the period 2010-2020, the research finds that human capital, on its own, tends to exacerbate income inequality. However, the study also reveals that effective governance mechanisms, particularly corruption control and government effectiveness, can mitigate this adverse effect. By highlighting the crucial role of institutional quality in moderating the relationship between human capital and inequality, this research offers actionable recommendations for policymakers. The findings underscore the importance of strengthening governance structures to ensure that investments in human capital contribute to more equitable income distribution across Africa. This study significantly advances the discourse on governance, inequality, and human capital development in the context of African economies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Smallholder banana farmers in Kenya grapple with declining farm productivity and low market prices in a fragmented, broker-dominated market. To address these challenges, the Kenya National Banana Development Strategy advocates for the adoption of contract farming. This research utilizes Difference-in-Differences (DID) regression analysis to assess the impacts of smallholder participation in banana contract farming on farm productivity and income. The empirical results reveal positive impacts, emphasizing the potential of contract farming to enhance productivity, increase incomes for smallholder farmers, and invigorate rural economies. These findings provide valuable insights into the efficacy of contract farming as a strategy for addressing challenges in banana farming. To maximize this potential, the study recommends policy interventions, including increased government support, improvements in infrastructure and market accessibility, reinforced institutional backing, and the promotion of sustainable practices. These measures aim to secure enduring benefits for both farmers and food marketing firms in Kenya. Impact Statement: This study examines the effectiveness of contract farming in addressing the struggles of Kenyan smallholder banana farmers. The study finds that participating in contract farming leads to increased farm productivity and income for these farmers. These findings highlight the potential of contract farming to revitalize rural economies. To maximize these benefits, the research recommends policy changes, such as increased government support and improved infrastructure, to create a sustainable and mutually beneficial system for both farmers and food companies in Kenya. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Financial inclusion facilitates the exchange of information, reduces transaction costs, and lowers the barriers to the access of financial services. However, how this affects happiness remains unknown. The purpose of this study is to make bibliometric analysis between financial inclusion and happiness by using CiteSpace and find frontiers in the future by reviewing the literature at CiteSpace. In this study, 335 samples spanning from 2003 to 2023 were selected from the database of Web of Science. By using CiteSpace software and bibliometric methods, in this study, we can draw a map of author cooperation, institutional cooperation, keyword co-occurrence analysis, cluster analysis, and emergent word analysis in this field. Future research should focus on the influence of financial behavior on the relationship between financial inclusion and happiness. Digital financial inclusion may be a crucial factor in future research worldwide. These findings may be used as a reference for governments in policymaking. IMPACT STATEMENT: This study explores the relationship between financial inclusion and happiness using a bibliometric analysis over the past 20 years. By mapping global research trends, it highlights how financial inclusion, especially digital financial services, influences well-being. The findings are useful for policymakers, researchers, and financial institutions to better understand the benefits and risks of financial inclusion, ensuring that access to financial services leads to improved happiness and financial well-being. This study also suggests the need for future research to focus on financial literacy and cross-country comparisons to enhance policy effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As global consumption patterns continue to exert unprecedented pressure on ecological systems, the urgent need for sustainable development frameworks has become increasingly evident. This study explores the critical intersection of structural transformation and environmental quality within the context of Côte d'Ivoire, as the country navigates its National Development Plan aimed at structural transformation. Specifically, this research explores how structural changes across the agricultural, industrial, and service sectors impact environmental quality in Côte d'Ivoire. Employing a Nonlinear Autoregressive Distributed Lag (NARDL) model, it investigates the asymmetric effects of sectoral contributions to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) on the ecological footprint, distinguishing between positive and negative shocks during the period 1961–2021. The findings reveal that positive changes in the agricultural sector's share reduce the ecological footprint by 0.222% in the long term, with no significant short-term impact. Conversely, a 1% negative shock in the sector results in a 0.391% increase in the ecological footprint in the short term. For the industrial sector, a 1% increase in its share leads to a 0.178% reduction in the ecological footprint over the long term, while negative shocks show no significant impact. The service sector demonstrates a positive environmental outcome, where a 1% increase in value-added reduces the ecological footprint by 0.368% in the long term and by 0.288% in the short term. For policymakers, these results highlight the importance of promoting sustainable practices within the agricultural and industrial sectors to achieve long-term environmental goals in Côte d'Ivoire. These results are critical for the implementation of Côte d'Ivoire's National Development Plan, which emphasizes the important role of agriculture and industry in its economic transformation, while addressing environmental sustainability. Impact statement: This study provides important understanding into the relationship between structural transformation and environmental quality in Côte d'Ivoire. The research reveals how sectoral shifts in the agricultural, industrial, and service sectors influence the country's ecological footprint, with a focus on the asymmetric effects of these shifts on environmental outcomes. The findings show that while the agricultural and industrial sectors can reduce the ecological footprint over the long term, negative short-term impacts can arise from rapid sectoral changes, particularly in agriculture. A growing service sector appears to have positive environmental contributions. These results are particularly relevant for Côte d'Ivoire's policymakers, emphasizing the need to adopt sustainable practices across key sectors to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability. They also highlight the importance of promoting green growth strategies and aligning sector-specific policies with the country's long-term environmental objectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the role of social protection policies as a driver of inclusive growth. While some research argues that social protection policies empower marginalized groups, promote human capital, reduce inequality, alleviate poverty and contribute to long-term sustainable development, other studies contend that these policies can create disincentives and potentially exacerbate poverty. This inconclusive evidence may stem from the complex nature of these welfare indicators. We deviate from existing literature by examining the potential role of social protection policies on inclusive growth. As such, we aim to elucidate the inconclusive debate on the impact on social protection policies on welfare at the macro level. We used a panel of 48 countries in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) over the period 1990–2022. By using the least squares dummy variable corrected (LSDVC) estimator the results confirm that social protection policies significantly contribute to inclusive growth. This finding is consistent with the Rawlsian theory of justice. We also show that factors such as real effective exchange rate (REER), foreign direct investment (FDI), CO2 emissions and infrastructure positively influence inclusive growth whereas corruption and inflation exert a negative effect. The study underscores the urgency for policy interventions to reinvigorate social protection systems to facilitate inclusive growth in the SSA region. Impact statement: This study sheds light on the crucial role of social protection policies in fostering inclusive growth across Sub-Saharan Africa. By analyzing data spanning over three decades and utilizing advanced econometric techniques, the research reveals that well-structured social protection systems can significantly reduce inequality, uplift marginalized populations, and drive sustainable economic progress. The findings challenge the long-held belief that social protection merely creates disincentives for growth, demonstrating instead that these policies, when effectively implemented, serve as a cornerstone for equitable development. This work holds immediate relevance for policymakers, emphasizing the need for robust and adaptive social safety nets to support long-term inclusive growth, especially in regions grappling with economic disparity and vulnerability. It provides a blueprint for designing social interventions that empower societies to overcome structural inequalities, paving the way for shared prosperity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article highlights the determinants of financial inclusion within the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU), focusing on the moderating role of the male/female entrepreneurial rate. To this end, we collected quantitative data for the eight member countries from 2010 to 2020 and used a panel model to determine if total financial inclusion service points was influenced by the supply of service points of banks, MFIs, or e-money, after controlling for public governance and investment rate and whether the rate of female or male entrepreneurship moderates this relationship between the supply of banking, microfinance or e-money providers and total financial inclusion service points. We also check if the growth of the different service providers is impacted by competition from each other. Finally, we check whether there is reverse causality: whether female or male entrepreneurship is impacted by the provision or any specific financial service. Our analysis finds that e-money service providers have grown exponentially, banking service points modestly, while microfinance service points have reduced in the region. Our regression results confirm that e-money services positively impact total financial inclusion, unlike banks and MFIs, which have no significant impact. Using interactive variables, we find that male entrepreneurs tend to enhance the relationship of banking and e-money services to total financial inclusion. On the other hand, women's entrepreneurship reduces the relationship between microfinance and e-money services providers to total financial inclusion. Our check for reverse causality shows that the male and female entrepreneurship rates are affected negatively by microfinance service provision. Impact Statement: This work contributes to the understanding of the behavior of financial actors within developing countries such as those in the WAEMU. It thus offers an opportunity for decision-makers to take corrective measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to investigate the variations in efficiency, technology gap, and profitability of flower producers depending on their credit constraint position. A total of 160 flower farmers have been selected from Bangladesh by using a multistage sampling technique. Meta-frontier Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) is employed to estimate the efficiency differences and technological gaps depending on the credit constraint situation. At the same time, the Tobit regression model is used to estimate the factors influencing the meta-technical efficiency of flower farmers. Profitability differences depending on the credit constraint situation are identified using the gross margin and benefit cost ratio. The mean meta-technical efficiency for Marigold farmers is highest when unconstrained (0.73) and lowest when credit is constrained (0.64) relative to the meta-frontier, which indicates output could be increased by 27 and 36%, respectively, without increasing input. On the other side, the efficiency of credit-unconstrained rose farmers is slightly higher than that of constrained rose farmers. In addition, credit-constrained marigold farmers achieve the lowest technological gap ratio (0.64) compared to credit-unconstrained farmers. Sociodemographic and farm characteristics such as education, source of seed, land tenure, farm area, and age have a significant positive impact, while earning family members, types of flowers, and credit constraints have a significant negative effect on the technical efficiency of flower farmers. The profitability of credit-unconstrained marigold and rose farmers is higher than that of credit-constrained farmers. Facilitating the loan application process, easing the pre-conditions of loan acceptance, and adjusting the repayment schedule help to remove the credit-constrained situation. IMPACT STATEMENT: Bangladesh's floriculture industry has significant potential, but small-scale farmers face challenges due to limited access to credit. High interest rates and strict collateral requirements hinder their ability to improve technical efficiency, technological gap, and profitability. This study addresses the often-overlooked impact of credit constraints on flower farmers' efficiency, technological gap, and profitability. Farmers with access to credit are more efficient, as timely investment in inputs increases productivity and profitability. In contrast, limited credit access hampers input application, reducing both productivity and technical efficiency, trapping farmers in low-profit cycles, and increasing the technological gap. Researchers interested in the financial constraints in agriculture and their effect on productivity, efficiency, and profitability can gain valuable insights from this study. It also emphasizes the need for policymakers to enhance access to affordable credit by lowering interest rates and easing collateral requirements, which will help boost productivity and support the sustainable growth of Bangladesh's floriculture sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate and other shocks threaten the livelihoods of rice farmers in Vietnam, forcing them to diversify their livelihoods. This study investigates the diversification strategies of rice farmers in the Mekong Delta of Vietnam. Based on 405 rice farming households in Tien Giang, Dong Thap, and Can Tho provinces, the results of the Hausman test showed that the four strategies, namely rice farming only, on-farm activities (rice farming and other farming activities), rice and non-farm activities, and on-farm and non-farm activities, were used in this study. A multinomial logit regression was used to measure the influence of rice farmers' livelihood capital on their adaptive strategies. The results show that human capital (gender, household size, dependency ratio), social capital (extension visits, cooperatives' membership), natural capital (farm size, land rent, access to water for farming), physical capital (distance to markets, distance to district capital), and financial capital (fixed asset, access to credit, and government support) are significant factors affecting households' diversification decisions. Intervention programs should encourage farmers, especially women, to participate in cooperative and extension visits to improve their skills, access to credit, and income opportunities. Impact statement: Vietnamese rice households in the Mekong Delta are forced to diversify their sources of income due to the threat posed by climate change. The diversification tactics used by rice households in Vietnam's Mekong Delta are examined in this study. The Hausman test results, based on 405 rice households in the provinces of Tien Giang, Dong Thap, and Can Tho, indicated that four strategies were employed in this study: rice farming only, on-farm activities (rice farming and other farming activities), rice and non-farm activities, and on-farm and non-farm activities. The impact of livelihood capital on the adaptive strategies of rice farmers was assessed using a multinomial logit model. The findings showed that all major forms of capital—financial, social, physical, and natural—play substantial roles in influencing households' decisions to diversify. In order to increase farmers' skills, credit availability, and income prospects, intervention programs should urge farmers—especially women farmers—to take part in cooperative and extension visits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we aimed to assess gender disparities in access to agricultural extension services and the determinants of access to extension among male and female-headed households in Western Uganda. A cross-sectional survey was conducted to extract primary data from 200 farmers using a semi-structured questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Binary Logit model. Our findings revealed that majority of the male-headed households had access to extension compared to their female-headed household counterparts. This was also evident in the sources of agricultural extension. The socio-demographic characteristics of farmers also indicated that male-headed households were better off in many areas, for example, male-headed households boasted 498.83 kg/ha maize productivity, while households headed by females produced 405.36 kg/ha, indicating a 94 kg/ha yield gap. Similarly, adoption of agricultural practices was high among the male-headed households than their fellow female-headed counterparts. Finally, the estimates from the Binary Logit revealed that male-headed households' access to extension was influenced by age, education, farm size, crop diversity, and group membership. The predictor variables that significantly influenced female-headed households' access to extension include age, education, experience, household size, farm size, distance to extension, crop diversity, non-farm income, and credit access. The study concluded that there are gender disparities in agricultural extension as evident in the access to, sources and determinants of access to agricultural extension. To bridge the gender gap, the study advocates for more training and extension services to female-headed households regarding access to and sources of extension services. Impact statement: Extension service provision is one of the pillars of agricultural productivity among the smallholder farmers in Sub-Saharan Africa. The role of agricultural extension services involves linking farmers and the governments. Through extension services, smallholder farmers are able to acquire modern agricultural techniques that increases farm productivity. With increased farm productivity, farmers are able to come out of the catastrophic levels of food insecurity. Female headed households normally report less productivity of major crops, leading to food insecurity amongst them. This research work contributes to the global discussions on access to extension among the male and female headed households. The study presents results on the state of access to agricultural extension services as well as the determinants of access to extension among the male and female headed households. Our findings and recommendations can be adopted by relevant authorities to increase access to extension, leading to higher crop productivity among female headed households. In the long run, there will be a decline in food insecurity as a result of the increased crop productivity among the female headed households. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Financial Inclusion (FI) is one of the most important indicators of inclusive growth of an economy. This paper examines the status of FI in India by constructing a comprehensive financial inclusion index (FII). The data analysis indicates that states such as Goa, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Telangana performed well in FI. Further, a panel data regression model is estimated to know the determinants of financial inclusion in 27 Indian States for the period 2005 to 2020. The composite index can be used to monitor and assess financial inclusion over time and at the grass root level also. The estimated results show that per capita NSDP, literacy rate, urban population share, road length, and number of factories are perhaps the most important financial inclusion determinants. The novelty of this study is to provide a comprehensive understanding of financial inclusion levels across different states in India for two-decade period along with rural and urban financial inclusion levels. Impact statement: The study serves as a critical resource for understanding the dynamics of financial inclusion in India for the two decades period and offers valuable insights for policymakers by identifying key determinants and guide the development of targeted policies aimed at improving financial inclusion, which is essential for economic growth and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to establish whether the effect of stock market development on the growth of economies in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is conditioned by institutional quality threshold. To this end, we used the Hansen threshold estimation approach to assess any discontinuities in this relationship. Data are sourced from the World Development Indicators of the World Bank and cover the period from 2000–2020. We significantly contribute to the literature by examining the nonlinearities in the stock market development-growth nexus when institutional quality is the mediating variable. We established that, as long as institutional quality is below the threshold level, it serves as an impediment for financial markets to drive growth in the West African sub-region. A key implication is that the relationship between stock market development and economic growth in the West African sub-region is contemporaneous, and that the development of the stock market is relevant in the developmental agenda in the sub-region. Therefore, we recommend that at the policy level, countries in West Africa should design strategies that can improve their institutional structures in the areas of allocation of credit, increasing competition, and the implementation of proper regulations that will make it possible for financial markets to stimulate economic growth, as these seem to be important condition to drive growth in the long run. Impact statement: Improving the financial sector is important to guarantee the sustainability of economic growth. This is not different from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Regional blocs seek to accomplish this by developing robust and sound stock markets within a solid and healthy institutional framework. This study examines the effect of stock market developments under a strong institutional framework on the economic output of the ECOWAS region. The results show that a robust stock markets and ensuring more credit to the private sector can only improve the gross domestic product of ECOWAS member countries when there is a good institutional quality structure in place. This is crucial for ECOWAS member countries experiencing low manufacturing sector output. Robust institutional quality structures and enhanced credit to the private sector must be continually pursued by the ECOWAS to engender the growth of member economies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study interrogates the contribution of corporate social responsibility to community development from socioeconomic, environmental, ethical, and philanthropic perspectives. A total of 401 households were selected randomly and proportionally from the Southern Nations Nationalities and Peoples Regional State and Hawassa City from the Sidama Region. Survey data were collected from local communities using the paper-assisted personal interview (PAPI) technique. Interviews with government officials and focus group discussions with local community members. Data were analyzed using a mixed research approach, where quantitative data were analyzed using a structural equation model and descriptive statistics, and thematic analysis was used for qualitative data. The study found that CSR contributes to many aspects of local community development. Our empirical model confirms that proper implementation of CSR initiatives substantially contributes to social development β = 0.913, economic development β = 913, environmental sustainability β = 0.784, ethical aspect 0.767, Philanthropic activities β = 0.814, and overall local development β = 0.960 where p ≤ 0.001 statistically significant level. The study reasserts and reiterates the need to design appropriate policy instruments and law enforcement techniques, in addition to promulgating regulatory provisions and legal frameworks. The study sheds light on the imperativeness of CSR for smooth human-environment and business-resource relationships. The study contributes to literature, debate, and policy implications on emerging issues of CSR-business, and development discourses. IMPACT STATEMENT: Our study passionately explores how Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives by industries in Southern Ethiopia significantly enhance sustainable community development across socioeconomic, environmental, ethical, and philanthropic dimensions based on first-hand data. Well-implemented CSR programs lead to substantial improvements in social development, economic progress, environmental sustainability, ethical standards, and philanthropy. However, there is a critical need for well-designed policy instruments and regulatory enforcement to promote CSR and foster harmonious human-environment and business-resource relationships. Without this, industrial activities inevitably cause adverse effects, such as pollution and health damage, exacerbated by poor regulatory control and corruption. Industries must engage responsibly with local communities to benefit them while promoting efficient communication. This research offers valuable insights for policymakers, scholars, and practitioners on the importance of CSR in achieving sustainable development goals, emphasizing its relevance in contemporary business and development discourse and providing substantial implications for policy and practice in emerging economies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Financial inclusion and gender equality are the key constituents of the principle of "leaving no one behind" upheld by the Sustainable Development Goals, which emphasise a holistic approach for the sustainable development of all. Financial inclusion and gender equality are interrelated factors that can influence economic growth in complex ways. In addition to their independent impact on economic growth, there is an active interaction between the two which also plays an important role in determining the level of economic growth. This interaction has been neglected by the existing literature. Based on this gap, the paper investigates the existence and type of this interaction between financial inclusion and gender equality in determining economic growth for a group of 48 developing countries for the period 2004–2019 using the Generalised Method of Moments. The study found a complementary interaction between gender equality and financial inclusion, such that improvements in financial inclusion in the presence of better gender parity have a multiplicative effect on economic growth and vice versa. The study concludes that gender equality creates various pull and push factors for better financial inclusion. Similarly, financial inclusion eliminates gender inequality in access to financial products, exacerbating the influence on economic growth both individually and collectively. Impact statement: This study looks at the complementary role of financial inclusion and gender equality in promoting economic growth in developing countries. The study employs a panel data analysis of 48 countries from 2004 to 2019 using the Generalized Method of Moments to find a substantial complimentary relationship between financial inclusion and gender equality. The findings show that innovations in financial inclusion, combined with greater gender equality, have a multiplier effect on economic development. This study emphasizes the need to increase financial inclusion and gender equality as interconnected methods for achieving sustainable economic growth. The policy implications are considerable, implying that attempts to increase financial inclusion should be complemented by actions to improve gender equality, assuring inclusive and equitable economic growth. This work adds to the current literature by addressing a previously overlooked interaction, providing new perspectives for policymakers, economists, and development practitioners working to promote economic development in developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Utilizing three recent waves of Demographic and Health Surveys data from nationally representative samples, this study employs the Alkire and Foster methodology to gauge the Multidimensional Poverty Index in Ethiopia. Examining various factors including living standards, healthcare, and education access, analysis extends to subpopulation groups. By employing an ordered probit model after data restructuring, trends and determinants of multidimensional poverty at national and sub-population levels are assessed. Key factors impacting multidimensional poverty include location, household head's demographics (sex, literacy, and age), family size, land area, and region of residence. Despite a notable decrease in households in multidimensional poverty, vulnerability to poverty is on the rise. While multidimensional poverty remains predominantly rural, vulnerability in urban households escalates. Empirical evidence supports growing economic disparity in Ethiopia. Regional disparities are evident, with Somali and Afar regions being the hardest poverty hit. Household size demonstrates a non-linear effect on poverty. This study underscores practical and theoretical implications for poverty alleviation strategies. IMPACT STATEMENT: This article offers a critical analysis of multidimensional poverty in Ethiopia, employing data from the 2011, 2016, and 2019 Demographic and Health Surveys. By applying the Alkire and Foster methodology and an ordered probit model, the study highlights trends and determinants of poverty across different subpopulations. It reveals a concerning increase in the vulnerability of households, despite a decline in multidimensional poverty rates. The findings underscore stark urban-rural disparities and the regressive nature of poverty reduction, with wealthier groups disproportionately benefiting. Regional disparities are also emphasized, particularly in Somali and Afar regions, where poverty remains most severe. The study advocates for targeted, inclusive policy measures such as rural development programs, urban economic reforms, and gender empowerment initiatives. By identifying critical areas for intervention, this research informs policy development aimed at sustaining poverty reduction and preventing relapse into poverty, ensuring equitable benefits of economic growth across all segments of the population. The insights provided have significant implications for crafting effective poverty alleviation strategies and fostering sustainable development in Ethiopia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the study is to determine the most relevant method of a time series analysis to identify the cyclicality in the development of regional economies. In pursuit of the goal, a comparative approach was employed, focusing on the utilization of Gross Regional Product (GRP) indicators from the regions within the Central Federal District of the Russian Federation. Statistical and econometric methods were also employed to analyze the changes in these indicators over time (from 1998 to 2019). The relevance of this study manifests in its capacity to elucidate the cyclic processes within the development of regional economies, thereby enabling the identification of strategies to influence them toward the attainment of sustainable and balanced development goals. The study revealed that the majority of the examined regions remain in the lowest quartile of Gross Regional Product (GRP), while two regions consistently feature in the highest GRP quartile. The research findings hold practical implications for policy decisions and regional development strategies, aiding in understanding economic dynamics and supporting the implementation of effective management measures to bolster regional development. Based on the research findings, it is recommended to intensify support for regions with low GDP by providing additional investments and infrastructural development, as well as adapting successful development strategies. Political decisions should be grounded in cyclical trends, taking into account the needs and opportunities of each region. Future research efforts may focus on refining the spectral analysis method for a more precise and reliable analysis of GRP dynamics at the regional level. Impact statement: This research has shown that the distribution of growth in the gross regional product is not statistically normal and therefore it is necessary to complement traditional narrative statistics with other methods. The results of our spectral analysis confirmed our hypothesis about the usefulness of this method. An introduced model for spectral analysis of GRP treats it as a specific case of the regression model using discrete Fourier transformation. Considering the persistent trend of low levels of regional product in certain regions juxtaposed with consistently high levels in others, we recommend the development of a national strategy encompassing specialized programs to support and foster the regions in the lowest quartile of regional product. Policymakers should actively incentivize investments in regions with low levels of regional product, directing financial and other resources to bolster economic growth and infrastructural development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the effects of distortion of agricultural price incentives on agricultural value added in East Africa. The World Bank, IFPRI, FAO, and CSP are the sources of data. The dataset ranges from 1981 to 2018, and the error-corrected LSDV model is used to analyze the data. The results indicate that agricultural price incentives have positive and significant effects on agricultural value-added. Aggregate nominal assistance coefficient, exportable agricultural products nominal assistance coefficient, and nominal rate of protection have increased agricultural value-added significantly. Agricultural price incentives targeting different levels of value addition have larger effects than those targeting aggregate outputs. This implies that agricultural incentive policies and market conditions in support of local producers are vital to enhancing AVA in East Africa. Besides, larger areas of arable land, lower agricultural employment, a smaller population size, a larger GDP, less spending on education, and a better-performing polity contribute to a significant increase in the regional agricultural value added. The results generally imply that agricultural price incentives are vital to accelerating agricultural value addition in East Africa. Governments in this region should thus consider revising agricultural policies in a pro-agricultural way to further accelerate regional growth in agricultural value-added. Enhancing agricultural price support needs to be a crucial element of policy revisions in the region. Impact Statement: In East Africa, agriculture is the main source of employment for a large section of the population. However, agricultural incentives have been reportedly distorted against agriculture, and sectoral income has been low. Consequently, farmers' income from agricultural value addition has been low. This study reports the effects of the distortion of agricultural incentives on agricultural value added in East Africa. The study shows that favorable agricultural incentives enhance agricultural value-added. The findings have strong implications for the region's smallholders, who are the subject of heavy taxation, either directly or indirectly. It will have far-reaching consequences for the poor, who rely on agriculture for a living. In particular, the findings influence regional anti-agricultural policy design, which is vital for the regional goal of achieving inclusive growth and structural transformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Livelihood diversification is relevant in poverty reduction, improve food security and a means of coping mechanism and risk management for survival of households. The research intended to examine the dynamics of livelihood diversification and food security over time, investigate the determinant factors of participation rate among household heads on livelihood diversification and to examine its effect on food security of rural and town households of Ethiopia based on the secondary data of Ethiopia living standard measurement survey. Balanced panel data employed enclosing a total 3729 samples representing national level of Ethiopia. The study used the descriptive analysis, Simpson diversification index and random effect logit model. Dynamics of livelihood diversification and food security observed over time. The random logistic regression model revealed that, household size, gender (female) and distance to market affect the livelihood diversification positively & significantly. Whereas, Age of household head, location (rural), distance to main road, credit access, assistance and experience of shocks influenced the probability of livelihood diversification negatively and significantly. Households who experienced shock and engaged in diversified livelihood have lower food security than being a diversified alone. Policy makers and other stakeholders need to integrate on implementations of livelihood strategies to improve food security, building resilience and vibrant economy. Impact statement: This study investigated the determinants of household participation to livelihood diversification and the nexus between livelihood diversification and household food security in Ethiopia focusing on rural and small town context. The study used survey dataset collected by the living standard measurement study of the World Bank group in Collaboration with the Ethiopian Central statistical Agency. the data collection covered a wide range of representative sample in the country (a total 3729 samples) and the authors analysed the dynamics in food security over three waves of the survey (i.e. 2011/12, 2012/13 and 2015/16) which is critical policy concern stage in the Ethiopian development planning period (Ethiopia's first growth and transformation plan). The dynamics is observed over the comparison of the survey waves in Ethiopia. The result revealed that, compared with the first wave, 70.9% stayed driving income from one income source 15.9% and 13.2% of them moved to less and high-level diversifications in the second wave respectively. The transition level of food security increased by 10.7% and 3.6% in wave two and three compared with the first wave. Simpson Diversification Index suggested that the pattern and extent falls between 0.00 and 0.84. About 72.5% of respondents reported as relies only in one income source (i.e., agriculture). There was variability of trends of shocks over time which was observed highest score in wave three. Household that experiences shock and engaged in less diversified livelihood have lower food security status than being a diversified alone. Policy makers and other stakeholders need to integrate on implementations of livelihood strategies to increase food security, building resilience and vibrant economy. Thus, this study has the significance to policy makers, practitioners and academicians as it gives take ways to each depending on their respective interest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to compare household food security and its determinants among PSNP beneficiary, graduated, and non-beneficiary. Data was collected from 396 sample households using a structured questionnaire and key informant interview. Binary Probit regression was used to analyse the determinants of household food security. Household food security was measured using Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES) and Household Hunger Scale (HHS). The study found significant differences in household food security among beneficiary, graduated and non-beneficiary both in FIES and HHS. The mean raw scores of FIES and HHS for graduated households were lower than both beneficiary and non-beneficiary households. Graduated households had the highest percentage of food secure households (67.4%), followed by non-beneficiary households (61.5%) and beneficiary households (34.3%). The binary probit model showed the number of clinic visits by household head was the only factor that negatively associated with all the three groups. The number of years benefited from PSNP had a negative influence on both beneficiary and graduated households' food security. Whereas livestock had a positive effect on the food security of both graduated and non-beneficiary households, unlike dependency ratio. Livelihood zone, drought, and credit were only associated with beneficiary household food security, while crop diversification determined only graduated households' food security. Hence, the findings suggest that policymakers and practitioners should focus on improving access to health care, limit the duration of PSNP participation, promote crop diversification, and provide proper credit use training to enhance household food security. Impact statement: Effective food security interventions play a significant role in addressing chronic food insecurity. In Ethiopia, Productive Safety Net Program (PSNP) has been implemented to provide predictable and reliable support to chronically food insecure households. Hence, this study compared the household food security and its determinants among PSNP beneficiary, graduated, and non-beneficiary. The findings showed that the household food security status of PSNP beneficiary, graduated, and non-beneficiary were significantly different. Graduated households had better household food security status than both beneficiary and non-beneficiary households. Moreover, the factors that determine the household food security status also vary among PSNP beneficiary, graduated, and non-beneficiary. The number of years benefited from PSNP had a negative effect on both beneficiary and graduated households' food security. Comparing graduated households to current beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries provides insights on the long-term effects of PSNP. This study helps policymakers and practitioners to make changes on PSNP and design effective food security intervention considering the differences in food security status and determinants among PSNP beneficiary, graduated and non-beneficiary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital financial services play a crucial role in breaking down traditional barriers to financial access, promoting greater financial inclusion, and providing marginalized groups with equal access. These services offer innovative strategies designed to address the unique financial barriers and empower women to achieve financial access and independence. This study aims to examine the influence of the adoption of digital financial services on enhancing women's financial independence. This study examines the responses of 426 women in North India using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) as its research approach. This study also employs the PLS Predict technique to evaluate the ability of the model to predict women's financial autonomy. The findings demonstrate a significant and favourable relationship between the utilization of digital financial services and the improvement of women's ability to make financial decisions. This study contributes to the discussion on promoting gender equality and economic empowerment, aligning with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5; showcasing the potential of information and communication technology (ICT) in advancing women's economic and social empowerment. The results offer vital perspectives for policymakers, financial service providers, and development agencies, emphasizing the substantial influence of digital financial services in promoting gender parity and enhancing women's socio-economic circumstances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of digital financial systems, especially mobile money, has significantly changed the financial services space in sub-Saharan Africa in ways that promote financial inclusion among the poor, including those in rural communities. Focusing on mobile money, which is the main avenue for digital financial services for rural households in Ghana, this study investigates whether digital finance affects rural households' livelihood diversification, using a nationally representative data on Ghana. Employing several econometric methods, including instrumental variable techniques to address potential endogeneity bias, the study finds mobile money to be positively associated with households' choice of non-farm business as a livelihood option as well as their engagement in livestock production. However, we find a negative relationship between mobile money and diversification in crop production including the extent to which households engaged in the crop sector are able to diversify crop production. The implication is that when rural households have access to mobile money services, they produce fewer number of different crops while exploring non-farm activities and livestock production as additional livelihood options. The results underscore the need to address constraints that limit rural households' access to digital financial tools, especially mobile money, in Ghana and in similar developing country contexts. Impact Statement: This study employs a nationally representative micro-data from rural Ghana to investigate the effect of digital finance on livelihood diversification using several econometric methods including instrumental variables to address potential endogeneity bias. The study represents a significant attempt at addressing an important gap in the existing literature which is about whether digital finance brings any value addition to livelihood diversification efforts by rural households. The key finding is that when rural agricultural households have access to digital financial services through mobile money, they produce fewer different crops, while exploring non-farm activities and livestock production as additional livelihood options. The finding implies that access to digital finance may influence rural households' ability to reallocate productive resources to areas that yield higher returns to their livelihoods and/or mitigate the risk of income loss. Expanding upon this finding with an exploration of the key correlates of diversification and access to digital finance, the study shows that addressing constraints to access to digital finance or mobile money (particularly, the limited mobile phone connectivity, electricity access or supply challenges, and low education or digital illiteracy in rural areas) is important for deepening livelihood diversification in rural Ghana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper defines total factor productivity as a function of a nation's intellectual capital. By developing a simple model, it explored the long-run relationship between intellectual capital and total factor productivity. The value of total factor productivity for each country was computed from Penn World Tables 10 using the residual method, and an index of intellectual capital was constructed from several indicators taken from world development indicators. Using a common correlated effect approach, a panel of 29 countries over 31 years was estimated using various dynamic macro panel models. The result confirmed the existence of a positive and significant link between total factor productivity and intellectual capital index. This implies that a potential source of productivity difference lies with a nation's research and development, human capital, processing, and marketing capabilities in boosting the general innovation process. Thus, national and regional development policies need to consider ways to improve broader innovation. Future research on total factor productivity needs to consider things outside the box. IMPACT STATEMENT: The essential causes of productivity has been a formidable question since enlightenment. In classical and pre-classical periods, the difference in productivity was attributed to differences in geographical and people's attitude to work and luxury. In neoclassical, productiveness was an effect of natural force inside material objects and hence, consider differences in material accumulation as cause of productivity difference. Following the failure of material accumulation, the difference was considered as residual or total factor productivity by exogenous growth models and later confined to technological ideas and its spillover effects by the new endogenous growth models. However, none of these could explain the twin productivity puzzles. In this paper, intellectual capital was hypothesized as an integral factor underlying the scatteredly presumed drivers of differences in productivity across countries. It also provided an empirical justification for an existence of consistent link between total factor productivity and intellectual capital across nations at all levels of development in all economic regions. This implies, the previously fragmented concepts and factors are now the characteristics of intellectual capital. The new insight could simplify the theoretical complexities and empirical inconsistencies in productivity literature. It could also beneficial for national and regional policy makers to broader their view beyond technological innovation in order to improve productivity and catch-up process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigated GVC and exchange rate comovements from 1990 to 2018. The study employed a continuous wavelet coherence procedure to investigate the time-frequency dependence of global value chain (GVC) participation and exchange rates relationship in Africa. We find from the study that there is interdependency between exchange rates and global value chain participation only in the very short term for all selected countries. The study finds interdependent and well-governed networks continue to experience muted effects of exchange rate effects on GVC participation while independent firms in countries participating in GVC forward integration are negatively impacted. Impact statement: The use of continuous wavelet coherence technique to monitor global value chain (GVC) participation levels amidst extreme market volatility offers unprecedented insights for both countries and firms. By enabling the measurement of interdependency between exchange rates and African economies' participation in GVCs, this approach facilitates informed decision-making and risk management strategies. It empowers stakeholders to gauge the impact of macroeconomic variables, particularly exchange rates, on GVC involvement, thereby fostering adaptability and resilience in an ever-changing economic landscape. Ultimately, this innovation enhances the ability of nations and businesses to navigate volatile market conditions and optimize their engagement in global value chains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the impact of Eurobonds on carbon dioxide emissions in Africa using a panel dataset. The paper reconsidered the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) and integrated it into Eurobond Environmental Kuznets Curve (EEKC). This study modelled a panel dataset spanning from 2007 to 2018 using all 17 sovereign African countries that have issued Eurobonds. The findings highlight a significant scientific value in exploring Eurobonds as a financing option to reduce carbon dioxide emissions in Africa. Specifically, the study reveals a positive relationship between Eurobond issuance and carbon dioxide emissions at the initial stage of the EEKC. By including the square term of Eurobond, the research identifies the existence of the EEKC in Africa, which supports the EKC theory. These results contribute to the growing body of literature on climate change mitigation and financing strategies in the context of African economies. Moreover, this study fills a critical void in the literature by introducing Eurobonds into the climate financing debate, emphasizing their potential role in financing climate-resilient activities. The study recommends that the issuing of Eurobonds should be linked to climate resilient activities, enabling funds to be directly invested in green sectors of the economy. This novel perspective on Eurobonds as a tool for environmentally sustainable projects adds scientific significance to the discourse on climate finance and sustainable development in Africa. Impact Statement: The paper "Climate Change Mitigation with Eurobonds: An Environmental Kuznets Curve Analysis" presents a groundbreaking examination of Eurobond issuance's impact on carbon emissions in African countries. By integrating the Environmental Kuznets Curve theory with Eurobond financing, it uncovers insights into Eurobonds' potential for climate change mitigation and sustainable development. This research contributes significantly to climate finance and environmental sustainability discussions by analyzing panel data from 2007 to 2018 across 17 African nations. Initially, Eurobond-funded projects increase carbon emissions, in line with the Environmental Kuznets Curve hypothesis. However, as economies progress, Eurobonds correlate with reduced emissions, suggesting the emergence of an "Eurobond Environmental Kuznets Curve." These findings offer vital guidance for policymakers, advocating for aligning Eurobond issuance with environmental goals and promoting eco-friendly projects. They emphasize the importance of tailored policies that evolve with African countries' economic growth stages, alongside investments in education, domestic initiatives, and environmentally-conscious foreign direct investment. This research lays the groundwork for informed decision-making in climate finance and sustainable development strategies, vital for steering towards more environmentally sustainable paths. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study investigates the relationship between innovation (INN) and foreign direct investment (FDI) attraction across 66 developing countries from 2013 to 2021. Adopting the Difference Generalized Method of Moments estimation, the study reveals a statistically positive INN-FDI nexus. Panel Granger causality analysis further indicates a bidirectional between the two variables. Additionally, via feature importance analysis, it is evident that market size, labor resources, and financial development play a critical role in strongly influencing FDI inflows, while innovation shows smaller magnitude. Furthermore, trade openness demonstrates a significantly positive impact on FDI with low impact, while inflation has an insignificantly negative effect on FDI. Policy implications are also discussed. Impact Statement: Developing countries, particularly those seeking to attract foreign direct investment (FDI), consider paying attention to the innovation (INN) factor. Alongside traditional factors such as market size and abundant labor force are strengths of FDI attraction for developing countries, new models should be continually developed. In this context, the researcher hypothesizes that multinational enterprises are interested in new resources related to INN to meet their production requirements. Indeed, INN and its efficacy in attracting FDI in developing countries, which pay less resources to allocate innovation, remains unproven. Drawing upon data from the global innovation index, the experimental findings of this research show the bidirectional FDI-INN nexus and suggest that policies aimed at attracting FDI should prioritize those based on advanced technologies. Additionally, via feature importance analysis, market size and labor force cannot be ignored in the analyzed context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper uses a structural approach to analyse economic convergence within the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) countries. This Regional Economic Community has recorded several postponements of the convergence horizon defined by the Economic Commission. However, it is a framework that is supposed to lead to economic growth and living conditions. So, we estimate a structural convergence model over 1996–2021 for the WAEMU panel of countries. We apply the Generalized Moment Method to address the endogeneity issue in evaluating the coefficient. The analysis confirms no economic convergence within WAEMU countries during this period. This finding means that the economic structures of the WAEMU countries do not come closer over time. Therefore, policymakers must continue implementing initiatives to harmonise regional policies and reinvigorate the regional economic program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many researches have been conducted to provide theoretical explanations and/or empirical evidence of how globalization affects environmental quality. However, theoretical explanations have not reached consensus, empirical research has not yet clarified the possible effects in developing countries particularly. For Saudi Arabia from 1981 to 2018, we tested the environmental Kuznets curve hypothesis (EKC). We studied the impact of globalization on the ecological footprint (ECP) relying on the QARDL approach. Four globalization indicators are used namely: social (GLOBS), economic (GLOBE), political (GLOBP), and total globalization (GLOBG). Based on QARDL results, it appears that all quantiles show a statistically significant and negative sign for error correction parameter. These results affirm that the related variables and ecological footprint in Saudi Arabia are reverting to a long-term equilibrium. In the long-run, the results of the study suggest that GLOBG, as well as GLOBE, will lead to increased ECP across all the quantiles. However, the fluctuations in GLOBP and GLOBS negatively affect ecological footprint in higher quantiles. Additionally, the QARDL results confirmed that the Saudi economy has an inverted U-Shaped curve. In the short-run, ECP is negatively affected by four globalization indicators in middle and upper quantiles. Sustainable development and environmental policy can be advanced using the guidelines found in this research. Based on the findings, the government and political system in Saudi Arabia should pay more attention to global and economic globalization to achieve sustainable environmental goals in the long run. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of microfinance institution (MFIs) activities on household revenue in Northern Ghana is of significant importance, particularly in light of the high levels of poverty in the region. The objective of this research is to explore the factors that influence the amount of loans granted to beneficiaries of three microfinance systems, namely the informal, semi-formal, and formal institutions, in the Upper West Region. This seeks to identify the factors that influence households' credit access from microfinance systems. To achieve this objective, primary data collected through a questionnaire was analysed using the Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) estimation technique. The model was initially run using data from the three microfinance systems and then separately estimated for each system. The study found consistency in the variables that affect the amount of loans received by borrowers across all systems. Age, household size, interest rate charged by the institution, and group membership were found to have a negative relationship with the amount of loan received by borrowers. The study recommends that microfinance institutions in the Upper West Region focus on reducing the geographical distance between the institution and potential borrowers, providing access to microfinance information and education, and extending repayment periods to increase the loan amount borrowers receive. Moreover, the study suggests that microfinance institutions in the region should factor in the influence of interest rates on loan accessibility and adopt measures to counteract any negative consequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the role of non-oil institutional sectors in the economic growth of the Saudi economy during the years 1970–2020, using vector auto regression, impulse response function, and variance decomposition. The results of study support the impact of the oil and non-oil sectors (private and public) on the economic growth in Saudi Arabia. The results show that the growth of the oil sector is more vulnerable to shocks, negatively reflecting economic growth for long periods. However, growth in the non-oil sector is stable and reduces the negative shocks on economic growth. Both the private and public sectors contribute to economic stability. The study recommends continuing efforts to diversify the economy and enhance the cooperation and mutual linkages among different sectors, especially the public and private sectors, to contribute in the economic growth coherent with Vision 2030. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study addresses critical gaps in the existing literature by investigating housing affordability in developing countries and integrating quality considerations into standard affordability measures. Using survey data from a random sample of 670 households in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, we conducted a distributional analysis to examine disparity in housing affordability and regression analysis to investigate factors influencing housing affordability. Our results reveal significant disparities in housing expenditure within HCMC households. On average, housing expenditure accounts for 12.78% of total household income, with renters bearing a disproportionate burden, as rent alone consumes a 27.19% of their income. The highest income quintile dedicates three times more to housing expenditure and consumption than the lowest quintile. The highest housing expenditure quintile covers 90% expenditure, while enjoying 50% of the housing consumption value. Regression results illustrate that housing expenditure and consumption are responsive to long-term income fluctuations, and more responsive to short-term income changes when comparing to results from the distributional analysis. Regressions also reveal no gender-based disparities in housing affordability. Our findings suggest a gender-neutral, affordable housing programs focusing on low-income renters, and the incorporation of flexible payment plans to address income fluctuations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Whereas in the Global North the energy transition narrative focuses on the idea of 'global sustainability', in the Global South it is increasingly connected to old and new challenges that derive from dependence on natural resource extractivism and rentierism. In vast regions of South America, for instance, fossil fuels extractivism and the idea of (post-)development are inextricable. On the one hand, capitalist modernisation, energy security, and even political stability hinge on domestic use of fossil fuels and the rent generated by their exports. On the other hand, the idea of ending extractivism, which is again topical in Latin America, invites policymakers to dream on post-development and the possibility of converging toward the 'green' energy transition. This contribution builds on insights from Ecuador and Colombia, as paradigmatic examples, to address the juncture triggered by the energy transition in the Global South. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present evidence of how researchers from developing countries are represented in three areas of research: conference presentations, articles in journals, and citations. We find that the bulk of research on development and development policies in the South is conducted by researchers from the North. Southern universities represents 9% of conference presenters, while 57% of conference presenters are from Northern universities. There has been no evidence of improvements over time. Fewer than one in six of the articles published in top 20 development journals from 1990 to 2019 were by Southern researchers, while close to three-quarters were by Northern researchers. The remaining 11% were collaborations by Southern and Northern researchers. Additionally, there are also fewer citations per article for Southern-authored articles than for Northern-authored articles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A recent trend in gender and development research has been to equip local researchers with the skills to design and implement research projects that meaningfully resonate with them and their communities. In 2017, the International Women's Development Agency initiated a three-year research project on women's pathways to leadership as a collaborative exercise with women's grassroots organizations based in Cambodia, Myanmar, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and Timor-Leste, supported by established research practitioners (the authors). Taking Hollingsworth's argument that teaching is itself a form of research, we present our findings on teaching non-traditional researchers in development contexts. We argue that a hallmark of feminist pedagogy must be critical reflection both on the structural conditions in which research is designed and implemented and on personal teaching practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this volume, the contributors take affect and emotions as a means to cast 'development' in fresh light. Recognising that the affective dimensions of life are a critical part of social, political and economic organisation, each contribution draws upon theories of affect and emotion to enrich understandings of power within development studies. This introductory essay critically reflects on dominant understandings of power in the field, outlining how these can be augmented, or rethought, through attention to affect and emotions. It proposes new lines of enquiry that bring a necessary dynamism to the analysis of power in three ways, revealing how emotion and affect: (a) sustain or potentially challenge broader social and economic conditions; (b) influence processes of self-formation; and (c) reinforce or potentially disrupt social hierarchies. We aim to advance a research agenda that draws upon affect theory to enhance understandings of development with a focus on power's sedimentation and disruption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The publication of a controversial article in Third World Quarterly and the consequent unveiling and critical questioning of journal practices continue to engender strong negative feelings for many scholars. At a critical juncture within the publication process of this collection, we faced an ethical dilemma regarding how to maintain political and ethical commitments while manoeuvring within a sometimes hostile academic environment. Here we examine the dilemma and its resolutions to reflect on configurations of power in academia. Through the lenses of (dis)comfort, judgement and solidarity, we examine the affective intensities that shaped our individual and collective decisions. Reflections on the process reveal the need to attend to how affects shape the resolution of shared ethical dilemmas in ways that reinforce structural (dis)advantages. We argue that 'comfort', achieved through solidarities, allows for the navigation of the ethical-political in ways open to multiple possibilities. Decolonial practice should attend to affective practices that privilege some claims over others and limit the capacity of future scholars to shape the ethical terrain of development studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This article examines the characteristics of the resource-led development project in Azerbaijan, including the policies of the Azerbaijani government and their consequences. It makes three contributions to the literature on critical development studies. First, it fills an empirical lacuna by discussing the case of Azerbaijan. Second, it expands upon the criticisms of statist-developmentalist models raised in the literature by demonstrating how the patrimonial rent distribution strategy of the Azerbaijani government plundered resource rents through state-owned enterprises and government-connected private companies, and crippled education and healthcare through underfunding and commodification. Third, as part of an examination of the recent attempts of the Azerbaijani government to diversify the economy and move to the post-oil era, it sheds light on some of the economic development challenges faced by a unique case of a resource-rich country with a closing window of energy resources. The arguments are illustrated and supported from sources pertaining to the political and economic situation in Azerbaijan, the activities of the transnational oil corporations, and US and UK foreign policies in the Caspian Sea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are increasingly applied to support evidence-based decisions across disciplines, including the global development and humanitarian sector. However, higher education programmes in development-related fields rarely integrate GIS as a teaching and learning component. This paper describes a GIS module collaboratively developed for a Vietnamese undergraduate development studies curriculum. It explores opportunities and barriers to its implementation by examining feedback from students and academic staff. Based on the experience and findings, a set of recommendations are put forward, opening up a debate about GIS education in development studies in the Global South and how this may be facilitated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Feminism provides a key analytical space for theory-building and re-centring historically marginalised narratives and epistemologies. However, the preponderance of women in feminist scholarship has been construed by some as meaning that feminism excludes the interest of men. Situated within a critical discourse analysis and drawing on interviews with men and key informant interviews with women, this essay investigates people's attitudes towards feminism in Ghana (with the concomitant discourses around what is African and what is Western). Feminism was largely perceived by most men and women as a dangerously feminising and Western construct, capable of destabilising the cultural exceptionalism of Ghanaian society. However, a few men appear to have embodied 'progressive' thinking about feminism and alternative constructions of masculinity. For such participants, embracing feminism comes at no cost to men and their manhood. They admit that men have benefited from a patriarchal system, which comes with opportunities and privileges; hence, the struggle for a better and gender equitable society continues. They propose the use and adoption of feminism as an important tool to precipitate shifts in how men approach both their relationships with women, and their own masculine identities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are growing numbers of business—development hybrids that combine a commercial orientation with an intent to deliver development goals. Yet, within development studies research to date, there has been limited conceptualization of these organizations. Borrowing from the extensive literature in other disciplines, this paper argues that the concept of institutional logics can be used as a basis for understanding business—development hybrids. The lens of institutional logics is used to analyze two hybrid case studies of 'impact sourcing' that outsource IT work to disadvantaged groups in Pakistan and India. Synergies between business and development logics were managed by combining those logics, but tensions between the two required techniques of compromising or decoupling the logics. Organizations also managed the logics by presenting a more business-oriented face to clients and a more development-oriented face to workers, by protecting their development logic from commercial pressures, and by seeking to institutionalize both logics. Implications are considered for practice and for future development research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reviews and revives a longstanding conversation about race and development studies, which was prominently explored in a collection of papers on race and racism in the journal Progress in Development Studies back in 2006. This revival is timely in the context of a global call to decolonise higher education. Given the central logic of race and racism in European colonialism, and the decolonial argument that colonialism continues in the production and value of knowledge, I examine the presence and absence of race and racism in discussions of decolonising higher education and in development studies. Through a systematic review and content analysis of papers published in six major development studies journals over the past 13 years, I identify where and how race is present in current development scholarship and explore the implications of this for a decolonial turn in development studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]