Dissertations / Theses: 'Agriculture and state - Malawi'

1

Nkhoma, Peter R. "Constituting Agricultural and Food Policy in Malawi| The Role of the State and International Donors in the Farm Input Subsidy Program (FISP)." Thesis, University of South Florida, 2016. http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=10243139.

Full text

Abstract:

ABSTRACT Numerous studies have been undertaken on the political economy of agricultural policies in developing countries. These studies have explained agricultural policies in terms of urban bias, economic reforms, and domestic politics. Recently, the emphasis has been on explanations that reference the existence of a rational-legal and patronage element within the African state. Such explanations tend to underplay the extent to which agricultural policies are devised in a context of power asymmetries between the state and international donors or financial institutions. In the Malawian context specifically, limited attention has been paid to the possibility that policies are a negotiated outcome of interactions informed by competing objectives at the state-donor interface. Accordingly, the proposed study will attempt to fill this existing gap in the literature. Malawi is currently at the center of policy debates regarding the state?s capacity to launch a uniquely African Green Revolution within a marketized and capitalist configuration. Such debates mark the continued underinvestment in agriculture on the African continent. The Malawi case, therefore, provides a unique opportunity to explore the extent to which state level efforts are either confounded or enabled by donors and international financial institutions. The specific successes and failures of the Malawi case speak to the question of how other countries in Sub-Saharan Africa might successfully address food production and food security issues. This dissertation will explore the overarching question of the role of the state and international donors in shaping agricultural and food security policies using Malawi?s farm input subsidy program as a case study. The main research methods to explore this question are qualitative, including interviews with various development stakeholders (government ministries, international development agencies, researchers from policy research and academic institutions, and civil society organizations) associated with agriculture and food policy-making, and textual analysis of publications associated with them. The research specifically targets key experts in the area of agriculture and food security. The findings indicate that policies have been greatly influenced by the competing ideologies of the state and donors, with each recognizing the problem but differing on the approach and modalities for solving food insecurity in Malawi. To this extent, there has been considerable inconsistency in policies with obvious negative outcomes. More recently, there has been an aligning of policy positions towards the use of social welfare programs and commercialization in addressing food insecurity. This alignment relates to policy positions on both the FISP and the configuration of the wider agricultural sector as manifest in the National Agricultural Policy, for example. The role of domestic politics vs. donors in policy processes has been in flux due to changes in the political and economic environment and configuration at specific junctures. The study also finds that evidence has been important in informing policy-making, more importantly, finance has had significant impact in attenuating the influence of domestic politics, so that the recently proposed and implemented reforms to FISP, although connected to considerable sociopolitical pressure from various quarters, have been largely precipitated by a serious fiscal crisis on the part of the government. To this extent, the state has assumed a pragmatic approach to policy-making i.e., one that is cognizant of the limitations imposed by finance and Malawi?s very harsh, challenging, and complex context.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

2

Kaunda, J. B. M. "Malawi : development policy and the centralised state : a study of Liwonde agricultural development." Thesis, University of East Anglia, 1988. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.233634.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

3

Nkhoma, Peter Rock. "Constituting Agricultural and Food Policy in Malawi: The Role of the State and International Donors in the Farm Input Subsidy Program (FISP)." Scholar Commons, 2016. http://scholarcommons.usf.edu/etd/6556.

Full text

Abstract:

Numerous studies have been undertaken on the political economy of agricultural policies in developing countries. These studies have explained agricultural policies in terms of urban bias, economic reforms, and domestic politics. Recently, the emphasis has been on explanations that reference the existence of a rational-legal and patronage element within the African state. Such explanations tend to underplay the extent to which agricultural policies are devised in a context of power asymmetries between the state and international donors or financial institutions. In the Malawian context specifically, limited attention has been paid to the possibility that policies are a negotiated outcome of interactions informed by competing objectives at the state-donor interface. Accordingly, the proposed study will attempt to fill this existing gap in the literature. Malawi is currently at the center of policy debates regarding the state’s capacity to launch a uniquely African Green Revolution within a marketized and capitalist configuration. Such debates mark the continued underinvestment in agriculture on the African continent. The Malawi case, therefore, provides a unique opportunity to explore the extent to which state level efforts are either confounded or enabled by donors and international financial institutions. The specific successes and failures of the Malawi case speak to the question of how other countries in Sub-Saharan Africa might successfully address food production and food security issues. This dissertation will explore the overarching question of the role of the state and international donors in shaping agricultural and food security policies using Malawi’s farm input subsidy program as a case study. The main research methods to explore this question are qualitative, including interviews with various development stakeholders (government ministries, international development agencies, researchers from policy research and academic institutions, and civil society organizations) associated with agriculture and food policy-making, and textual analysis of publications associated with them. The research specifically targets key experts in the area of agriculture and food security. The findings indicate that policies have been greatly influenced by the competing ideologies of the state and donors, with each recognizing the problem but differing on the approach and modalities for solving food insecurity in Malawi. To this extent, there has been considerable inconsistency in policies with obvious negative outcomes. More recently, there has been an aligning of policy positions towards the use of social welfare programs and commercialization in addressing food insecurity. This alignment relates to policy positions on both the FISP and the configuration of the wider agricultural sector as manifest in the National Agricultural Policy, for example. The role of domestic politics vs. donors in policy processes has been in flux due to changes in the political and economic environment and configuration at specific junctures. The study also finds that evidence has been important in informing policy-making, more importantly, finance has had significant impact in attenuating the influence of domestic politics, so that the recently proposed and implemented reforms to FISP, although connected to considerable sociopolitical pressure from various quarters, have been largely precipitated by a serious fiscal crisis on the part of the government. To this extent, the state has assumed a pragmatic approach to policy-making i.e., one that is cognizant of the limitations imposed by finance and Malawi’s very harsh, challenging, and complex context.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

4

Manda, Levison Zeleza. "Media and agriculture in Africa : a case study of agriculture radio programming in Malawi." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020925.

Full text

Abstract:

This thesis argues that although participatory communication for development has been extolled to be more effective than the monologic or top-down communication approaches associated with the modernization development paradigm, its influence in making Malawian smallholder farmers adopt radio-mediated innovations and technologies seems to be minimal and ought to be reconsidered for more effective communication for development models. The study used mostly qualitative methodology, with focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and a semi-structured questionnaire to gather verbal and statistical from the primary beneficiaries in order data to understand why three mass media interventions in Malawi had similar effects when only one of them was strictly participatory. It found, inter alia, that in two sites food security was the overriding factor that influenced the community members to adopt radio messages while in the third the participants were mostly driven by the desire to earn money, essentially because the area is food-secure. Thus, participation in radio production was found not to have any significant role in the acceptance and adoption of radio-mediated innovations by the farming communities. Based on the above findings, the study recommends a) an integrated communication for development (IC4D) model that combines top-down information dissemination techniques and participatory communication approaches since the two reinforce more than they oppose each other, and b) the formation of a Communication for Development (C4D) pool fund in Malawi to finance C4D activities. The C4D pool fund is theorised to be resourced by the Malawi government departments, local farmers ‘organisations, international NGOs, and UN bodies such as UNICEF, WHO, and the FAO.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

5

Chizimba, Martha. "Sustainable agricultural development in the Malawian smallholder agricultural sector: a case of Lilongwe District." Thesis, University of Fort Hare, 2010. http://hdl.handle.net/10353/365.

Full text

Abstract:

Even though agriculture is the backbone of Malawi‟s economy, food insecurity has remained a continuous threat among the poor. Until the 1980s, Malawi had been achieving national food security through an extensive system of agricultural inputs and marketing subsidies. However, these subsidies were removed and at the same time, the agricultural credit system collapsed. Consequently, agricultural productivity in Malawi remained low, poverty remained pervasive and food insecurity remains a main constraint to national and household food security. Therefore, the success of the agricultural sector in Malawi is very critical for raising the living standards and for food self-sufficiency. In this vein, the study hypothesized that Malawi can only achieve sustainable agricultural development if its agricultural policies are focused towards intensifying agricultural productivity through active participation of smallholder farmers. The major aim of the study was to contribute towards an improved understanding of how the issues of sustainable agricultural development have been addressed in Malawi and how they have influenced the lives of smallholder farmers. The analysis of the results revealed that even though what was implemented in the 1970s to early 1980s was financially unsustainable, but it provided some solutions to the fundamental challenges of smallholder development in Malawi. However, the liberalisations eroded whatever economic benefits achieved then. Never the less, the re-introduction of the agricultural input subsidies restored back the means of production leading to significant transformation of the country from a net importer to a net food exporter. On the other hand, although the agricultural input subsidy programme is being commended for having helped in achieving food security, the study revealed that the programme requires complementary services of credit, extension, research and market to support it. This will provide an exit strategy, which can enable the producers to sell their produce at higher prices sufficient enough for them to afford agricultural inputs without subsidies.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

6

Dzimbiri, Lewis Baison. "Industrial relations, the state and strike activity in Malawi." Thesis, Keele University, 2002. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.251402.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

7

Javdani, Marie S. "Stop the Bleeding, Heal the Wound: The Role of Fertilizer Subsidies in Food Security, Zomba District, Malawi." Thesis, University of Oregon, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/1794/10060.

Full text

Abstract:

xiv, 126 p. : ill., map. A print copy of this thesis is available through the UO Libraries. Search the library catalog for the location and call number.
The government of Malawi is being lauded internationally for having ostensibly eliminated hunger within its borders through a subsidy that makes available chemical fertilizers to smallholder farmers. Development scholarship and policy have recently turned toward promoting a "new" Green Revolution in Africa for the establishment of food security and the advancement of economic development. Many view the increased use of chemical fertilizer in Malawian agriculture and the resultant rise in maize yieldsdescribed by such publications as the New York Times as the "Malawi Mirac1e"-as evidence that the prescribed NGR is indeed a recipe for success. This thesis places the subsidy in its historical and theoretical framework and discusses the extent to which production-end strategies accomplish the goals of food security. Also discussed are nonproduction measures that are essential to creating a reliable and accessible food system.
Committee in Charge: Peter A. Walker, Chair; Derrick L. Hindery

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

8

Sahle, Eunice Njeri. "Democratisation in Malawi, state, economic structure and neo-liberal hegemony." Thesis, National Library of Canada = Bibliothèque nationale du Canada, 2001. http://www.collectionscanada.ca/obj/s4/f2/dsk3/ftp05/NQ63452.pdf.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

9

Silungwe, Chikosa Mozesi. "The land question in Malawi : law, responsibilization and the state." Thesis, University of Warwick, 2010. http://wrap.warwick.ac.uk/53165/.

Full text

Abstract:

This thesis argues that the land question in Malawi can be resolved through the emergence of a responsibilized State under people–generated responsibilization. People–generated responsibilization is a holistic, bottom–up approach to tackling asymmetrical access to, and ownership of, land in the country. This, it is suggested, must entail proactive, people–based action for a triangulated approach to land reform involving law, macroeconomic frameworks like poverty reduction strategies, and the adherence to the terms of governing under the Constitution. The broad context of the research is that since the mid–1990s, Malawi has joined the ‘new wave’ of land reform. The new wave takes place amidst the re– conceptualization of ‘development’ in development discourse through a supposedly decentred focus on economic growth. The new donor consensus is that land reform must be more human–centred and foster pro–poor economic growth. It is in this environment that Malawi adopted the National Land Policy in 2002. The Policy is meant to guide the country’s land reform and contribute to sustained economic growth. The new wave is problematic since it perpetuates land reform approaches of the law and development movement whereby land reform becomes land law reform. The ‘customary’ space is subjected to a process of formalization and privatization of the right to property in land ostensibly to boost economic growth. This approach is narrow and undermines the resolution of a land question. Using the Foucauldian ‘idea’ of governmentality, the thesis examines situations and processes that have entrenched the land question in Malawi. There is a multiverse of the parochial interests of the State, the Bretton Woods Institutions, ‘commercial’ farmers, and the land deprived. The narrow focus on land law reform demonstrates the dominance of market as value and entrenches the land question in Malawi.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

10

Pelletier, Bernard 1964. "Management practices, soil quality and maize yield in smallholder farming systems of central Malawi." Thesis, McGill University, 2000. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=37809.

Full text

Abstract:

The effect of management practices used by smallholder farmers to improve soil quality and increase maize yield was examined in an 80 ha. micro-watershed of central Malawi. Because of the complexity inherent in smallholder farming systems, this research proposed the combination of participatory methods with analytical techniques developed in field ecology, such as multivariate and spatial analysis. During a Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA), farmers identified factors potentially influencing soil quality and maize yield. One hundred and seventy-six (176) plots were located in twenty-nine (29) fields and characterized for management practices and biophysical characteristics. Soil samples were collected at each plot and analysed for a suite of properties. The maize yield was measured for both 1996--97 and 1997--98 seasons. A formal survey was used to gather information on household characteristics. Results showed that management practices that were promoted by a previous extension project, such as alley cropping and the planting of grass on contour ridges, were strongly correlated and found mainly in fields located closer to house compounds. Farmers with a higher proportion of their land under wetland gardens tended to use less agroforestry. Food security was associated with households that were able to purchase inorganic fertilizers, had larger landholding size, and owned livestock and woodlots. The effect of management practices on maize yield and soil quality was partially confounded with characteristics of the plot, such as slope, degradation level, number of years under cultivation or pest damage. Higher maize yield was observed in plots that were better managed, as expressed by the combination of different management practices, lower pest incidence, fewer erosion signs and higher soil fertility. Some positive effects of alley cropping on soil quality were observed in plots that were cultivated for a longer period and located on flatter land. This study demo

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

11

Chikafa, Kondwani Watson. "The efficacy of agricultural subsidies as social protection measures in rural Malawi." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021173.

Full text

Abstract:

Social protection measures are poverty reduction interventions implemented to assist in reducing poverty shocks of communities. This study considered the Farm Input Subsidy Programme (FISP) that has been implemented in Malawi with the aim of reducing poverty amongst subsistence farmers by providing them with subsidized farm inputs. The study was conducted in the rural area of Lilongwe District, under Traditional Authority Kabudula. The study mainly focussed on the outcomes of implementing the FISP and it entails whether or not the poverty reduction intervention is really achieving its goals. Thus, the study greatly evaluates the effectiveness of subsidizing farm inputs in reducing poverty amongst households in rural communities characterised by subsistence farming. This study was mainly qualitative in nature and data was collected through interviews and Focus Group Discussions. Some quantitative data for specific trends of national indicators was collected through document. Mainly, content analysis was used to analyse the qualitative data and descriptive statistical analysis with the aid of Microsoft Excel was engaged to analyse the quantitative data. The study found that that FISP assist in household food security only in the short term. Among the reasons cited, the package size received by households has become smaller with sharing tendencies that have been devised to help households that do not receive the inputs or qualify to receive them. This practice is compromising the agricultural productivity in terms of quantities as it lasts only in the short-term before the next harvest. When households’ food reserves are depleted, households become food insecure and poverty sets in again. The study thus reveals that FISP implementation is not operating as a sustainable programme as its intended goal is not being achieved in the long-term. The study also found that coupled with the fact that there is no clear policy guidelines on graduation and that there is continued benefitting of the same beneficiaries, FISP is nowhere close to its phasing-out stage in social protection perspective.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

12

Kanyangale, Macdonald Isaac. "Conveniencing the family in agri-based processing enterprise : a grounded theory study of strategic leaders' cultural assumptions and strategising activities." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002798.

Full text

Abstract:

As leaders of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), strategic leaders are responsible for strategising, the approach to which is influenced by their cultural paradigm. The effects of this strategising are manifested in the day-to-day activities of these leaders. This study aims to build an understanding of the shared cultural assumptions of strategic leaders in agri-based processing SMEs and how these assumptions affect the strategising activities that are adopted when addressing critical incidents related to the internal integration and external adaptation of the SME. Using Strauss and Corbin‟s (1990) grounded theory method, this study develops a theory titled Conveniencing the Family in Business, which is induced from critical incidents. A sample of critical incidents was gathered from 44 qualitative interviews conducted with strategic leaders of various agri-based processing SMEs operating in Malawi. This study found that strategic leaders display persistent and stable pragmatic business survival mind sets, but dynamic cultural assumptions about relationships with organisation members. The cultural influence of these assumptions is manifested in two distinctive and alternative processes making up the theory of conveniencing the family in business. These are the humanising and commodifying of relationships with organisation members, and they are evident in hostile and friendly business environments, respectively. Humanising of relationships with all members of the organisation builds and capitalises on inclusive, organisation-wide social capital that secures the future of the business. On the other hand, commodifying of relationships with non-family organisation members weakens collective support, which becomes mainly dependent on family and friendship ties. Thus, commodifying of relationships serves to perpetuate the close integration of business activity and family requirements to ultimately convenience the family in business, and represents the desired modus operandi of strategic leaders. As strategic leaders of SMEs have not yet conceptualised this, providing them with the conceptual theory developed here may be helpful towards a consistent re-orientation of the internal organisational support in a way that does not exclude but rather harnesses the wider solidarity of organisation members. The process explained by this theory is iterative, dynamic and distinguishes patterns of relationships amongst organisation members, which either enhances or compromises their collective support for the leaders and the enterprise. This by implication affects the performance of the enterprise. The results of this study are discussed from the perspective of social exchange and social capital theory, thereby contributing to the understanding of the strategising activities of strategic leaders, as well as the processes of building or destroying social capital in this type of enterprise.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

13

Paul, John Mussa. "Analysis of community-based coping and adaptation strategies to climate variability and change for sustainable rural livelihoods : a case study of Kaunda Village in T/A Simlemba, Kasungu District, Malawi." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012322.

Full text

Abstract:

Rural communities in Malawi are experiencing adverse climatic hazards which are attributed to climate variability and change. The frequent events being experienced include floods, dry spells and seasonal droughts. Rural livelihoods are severely affected because of their sensitivity to these phenomena. The research has analyzed community-based coping and adaptation strategies for sustainable livelihoods among the rural poor in Kaunda village, T/A Simlemba in Kasungu district, Malawi. The research data was collected from groups of male and female participants which also included a group of traditional leaders living in the area. The study used Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) methods such as Focus Group Discussions using the associated tools of resource mapping, transect walks, timelines and livelihood ranking to collect the data. The research findings have revealed that the major climate events experienced in Kaunda village are seasonal droughts and dry spells which have significantly impacted agriculture as a major livelihood activity in Malawi. The study has also revealed the community-based coping and adaptation strategies employed by the people. Recommendations made in this study have highlighted the need to support vulnerable rural communities with resilient and secure livelihoods.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

14

Hancock, Wayne Mitchell. "Towards a farming systems approach to tree nut research in Malawi /." View thesis, 1992. http://library.uws.edu.au/adt-NUWS/public/adt-NUWS20030616.121740/index.html.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

15

Nakhumwa, Candida. "Smallholder market access : the case of groundnut sector in Malawi." Thesis, University of Greenwich, 2015. http://gala.gre.ac.uk/18144/.

Full text

Abstract:

This thesis focussed on assessing smallholder groundnut farmers and traders’ access to markets through quality improvement and also, determine the socio-economic factors that influence groundnut farmers when deciding to adopt quality management techniques and the extent/or level of involvement. The following research questions were tested: whether Malawi smallholder groundnut farmers have poor or limited access to markets; whether smallholder farmers face unequal bargaining relations with traders due perhaps to lack of competition in trading channels; whether belonging to a farmer organisation provides a framework whereby the prospects of higher prices could lead to higher quality regulated by the association? Qualitative analysis was used to map out the main processes, key actors and relationships within the various groundnut value chains. Price spread method was used to assess market efficiency in price for the various groundnut market channels. Finally, a Selective Tobit model was used to assess factors that influence smallholder farmers to adopt technologies on quality management and decide the extent of adoption. The study results indicated that smallholder farmers manage to sell all their groundnuts brought to the market. This means that smallholder farmers do not really have problems accessing the markets. However, there is a limited availability of structured groundnut markets that offer premium price as an incentive for farmers to invest in quality management. Another important finding is that belonging to an organised farmer organisation enabled smallholder farmers to access better agricultural services such as research, extension and quality certified seed. However, it was not enough to persuade the farmers to venture into collective marketing. The results suggest that the provision of economic incentives such as premium prices persuaded farmers to engage in collective action and also invest in quality management. There is convergence of prices for less quality sensitive regional markets and quality sensitive EU markets. As such, exporters have no incentive to invest more in quality management targeting EU markets. Selective Tobit model results showed that farmers value most profitability-related variables such as land allocated, structured markets and prices when deciding level of involvement in quality management. The study results also indicate that groundnut market in Malawi is efficient in price as demonstrated by the Market Efficiency Index of greater than one. Gross margin analysis also indicated that, on average, groundnuts producers have good returns to labour if compared to the current national minimum wage rate of US$1.2 per day.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

16

Perlepes, Dimitris P. "Agriculture and the State in Greece." Thesis, University of Essex, 1989. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.303485.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

17

Gordon, Ellen M. Homeland Security Advisor and Emergency Management Administrator author (civilian). "Multi-state initiatives--agriculture security preparedness /." Monterey, Calif. : Springfield, Va. : Naval Postgraduate School ; Available from National Technical Information Service, 2004. http://library.nps.navy.mil/uhtbin/hyperion/04Jun%5FGordon.pdf.

Full text

Abstract:

Thesis (M.A. in Security Studies (Homeland Security and Defense))--Naval Postgraduate School, June 2004.
Thesis advisor(s): Paul Stockton. Includes bibliographical references (p. 41-42). Also available online.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

18

Murdoch, J. L. "The state and agriculture in Wales." Thesis, Aberystwyth University, 1988. http://hdl.handle.net/2160/d157a6c4-d1a5-436d-88dc-9ac70a1115d9.

Full text

Abstract:

The thesis examines the role of the state in the agriculture sector with particular emphasis on policy formation and it's effects on rural Wales. Sociological theories of the state are examined and an 'institutional' approach is adopted which focusses attention on the institutional actors in the policy process. Policy is made by these actors albeit under certain external constraints. A brief analysis of state intervention in the UK is provided. This is treated historically and traces the-changing pattern of state involvement in the industry. Likewise, the UK policy process is briefly examined and the main institutional actors are identified. At the Welsh level, the effects of state intervention on the structure of Welsh agriculture are documented. This is also treated historically. Attention is then directed to the Welsh institutional actors and their role in the agricultural policy process. In particular, the role of the Farmers' Unions is examined, looking closely at their relationships with state agencies. The activities of non-agricultural state agencies operating in rural Wales are also examined. The question is asked whether the traditional dominance of agricultural policy in the Welsh rural areas is about to come to an end. While some evidence is put forward to support this, the situation is by no means clear and no definitive answer can be provided. In conclusion, it is argued that the effects of past agricultural policies on the communities of rural Wales have been extremely damaging, and some reorientation of policy is clearly needed. However, the institutional. analysis indicates that such a reorientation will be extremely difficult to achieve.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

19

Gordon, Ellen M. "Multi-state initiatives: agriculture security preparedness." Thesis, Monterey, California. Naval Postgraduate School, 2004. http://hdl.handle.net/10945/1584.

Full text

Abstract:

CHDS State/Local
Approved for public release, distribution is unlimited
To defend American agriculture against foreign or domestic terrorism, it is essential that states build multi-state partnerships to provide for the collaborative plans, programs and operations needed to protect the nations food security. The National Homeland Security Strategy puts states on the front lines in the war against terrorism---including the struggle to secure the agriculture industry from potentially devastating attack. The issues surrounding agro-terrorism are vast and complex and the resources of the Federal government to address these issues are limited and overextended. If states attempt to address this threat independently, important opportunities to reduce vulnerability and enhance capability will be lost. To achieve the capabilities needed for agro terrorism detection, mitigation, preparedness and response, states must collaborate to build the partnerships and programs their citizens require. This thesis argues multi-state partnerships are critical to defeating this threat as well as providing a robust response to an attack. Whether intentionally introduced or naturally occurring , infectious diseases can easily cross state borders before an outbreak is even detected. States must be prepared to act quickly to mitigate the effects of any crisis. There is a significant opportunity for states to strengthen their abilities to provide for a stronger agriculture counter terrorism preparedness system. The states can further their ability to combat attacks on agriculture actively by demonstrating leadership in implementing administrative agreements and ultimately adopting compact(s) between states as well as with the private sector.
Civilian, Homeland Security Advisor and Emergency Management Administrator, Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management Division

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

20

Chirwa, Ephraim Wadonda. "Privatization and economic efficiency in Malawi manufacturing : mixed enterprises in oligopolistic industries." Thesis, University of East Anglia, 2000. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.327528.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

21

Mulwafu, Wapulumuka Oliver. "The state, conservation and sustainability in a peasant economy in Malawi, 1860-1964 /." Diss., ON-CAMPUS Access For University of Minnesota, Twin Cities Click on "Connect to Digital Dissertations", 2000. http://www.lib.umn.edu/articles/proquest.phtml.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

22

Chapweteka, Isaac. "The current state of injury related care for Malawi super league football players." Thesis, University of the Western Cape, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/11394/3867.

Full text

Abstract:

>Magister Scientiae - MSc
The study aimed at identifying the current state of injury related care for Malawi super league football players. To achieve this the study determined the average time taken by soccer players in Malawi to return to active participation following an injury, identified the type of treatment received by football players, determined the management of football injuries by team doctors in Malawi, established the responsibilities of football coaches in the management of injuries in Malawi and established the financial and medical support received by football players after sustaining an injury

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

23

Russ, Katheryn Niles. "Pinpointing production constraints faced by female-headed households in rural Malawi." Thesis, This resource online, 1996. http://scholar.lib.vt.edu/theses/available/etd-10022008-063206/.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

24

Arakelyan, Irina. "Climate-smart agriculture and rural livelihoods : the case of the dairy sector in Malawi." Thesis, University of Edinburgh, 2017. http://hdl.handle.net/1842/28796.

Full text

Abstract:

Over the last decade climate-smart agriculture (CSA) has been promoted as a new approach to deal with the impacts of climate change on agriculture while simultaneously trying to mitigate emissions and improve food security. This approach suggests that these multiple goals – adaptation, mitigation and food security - could be achieved simultaneously by adopting specific technologies. At its core, CSA describes agricultural interventions that can 1) sustainably increase agricultural productivity, and hence food security and farm incomes; 2) help adapt and build resilience of agricultural systems to climate change; and 3) reduce greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture (including crops, livestock and fisheries). The main focus of CSA is on smallholder producers, many of whom are already marginalized by existing food production systems, their livelihoods increasingly affected by changes in climate. Unsustainable agricultural practices are common amongst these groups. However, there is an increasing awareness of the need to sustain the natural resource base in order to maintain or increase productivity. Malawi is one of the poorest and least developed countries in the world, with chronic food insecurity affecting large parts of the population, and climate variability increasingly noticeable across the country. Agriculture is practiced predominantly on small holdings, with more than 80% of the population depending on land-based income. In this context, the introduction of climate-smart projects and technologies with the potential to deliver triple wins could improve farmers’ incomes and food security, increase their resilience to climate change impacts, as well as deliver global benefits via climate change mitigation. This dissertation looks at the adoption levels of various, potentially climate-smart agricultural practices by smallholder dairy farmers in Malawi, with the view of establishing the current level of engagement in these practices, and identifying the factors that influence adoption. Results show the importance of the socio-economic and institutional factors in explaining the probability of adopting different agricultural practices. In particular, the findings indicate the importance of well-informed and targeted extension support as one of the major enabling factors for the adoption of improved practices. The findings further show that farmers’ climate change perceptions play a key role in the adoption of climate-smart practices. Overall, the thesis concludes that a number of currently unsustainable dairy farm management practices could be improved upon to achieve double or triple-win benefits within a reasonably short timescale, many of them at low cost. In addition, limited adoption rates of several sustainable practices that are already in place could be improved with the provision of more training, knowledge sharing and extension advice and support on the benefits of these practices. However, the thesis argues that before implementing projects and policies that promise triple wins, a careful evaluation of benefits, including mitigation, adaptation, and food security, and risks must be carried out, as triple wins will not be achievable in many cases due to the local and external constraints including lack of skills and knowledge, and lack of funding. In this respect, whether climate-smart agriculture could become a globally sustainable approach to the climate change problem in agriculture, remains to be seen.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

25

Chinseu, Edna Loga. "Smallholder farmers' dis-adoption of agricultural technologies : the case of conservation agriculture in Malawi." Thesis, University of Leeds, 2018. http://etheses.whiterose.ac.uk/20773/.

Full text

Abstract:

Dis-adoption of conservation agriculture (CA) remains a perplexing challenge in development efforts aiming to enhance sustainable agricultural production. While international development partners, governments and non-governmental organisations are actively promoting CA across sub-Saharan Africa, increasing evidence shows that farmers practice the technology for a short time, and then often dis-adopt. Due to limited scholarly attention to date, reasons for dis-adoption are not well known. Examining underlying reasons for smallholders’ dis-adoption is imperative to improve delivery of CA, achieve sustained adoption, improve agricultural production and ensure enduring impacts of agricultural development interventions more broadly. This research investigates why smallholders dis-adopt CA in Malawi by examining institutional arrangements of CA promoters, relevant national policies and farmers’ experiences and perception of CA. A mixed methods approach was used, involving key informant interviews, policy analysis, household questionnaire surveys, and focus group discussions across two study Districts. Findings reveal that complex, multi-dimensional and multi-layered drivers across the CA innovation system underlie CA dis-adoption decisions. Shortfalls in institutional arrangements play a critical role in dis-adoption as they promulgate unfavourable experiences and perceptions among farmers during CA implementation. Limited engagement of smallholders in project design and implementation diminishes local ownership and commitment while inadequate resources constrain extension service support. The study shows that smallholder farmers encounter various social, technological and economic challenges, which coupled with unfulfilled expectations, lead to dis-adoption. Findings suggest that to address CA dis-adoption in Malawi and similar contexts in sub-Saharan Africa, there is a need to: (1) collaboratively design projects to suit local needs, preferences and context; (2) emphasise environmental and climate resilience benefits of CA rather than economic benefits; (3) apply longer-term, flexible, low-cost and inclusive project management options; and (4) create an enabling policy and institutional environment for sustained CA adoption.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

26

Nyondo, Christone R. J. "The spatial integration of agricultural markets in Malawi : the case of maize and dry beans." Thesis, University of Kent, 2014. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.633642.

Full text

Abstract:

The main objective of this study is to investigate the nature of price relationships existing amongst geographically separated agricultural commodity markets in Malawi. Market liberalisation provides the overarching framework on which this investigation is based. The liberalisation of commodity markets is assumed to facilitate the integration of geographically separated markets, increase gains from trade and the general welfare of the cOuntry. The investigation is performed using modern cointegration techniques. The cOintegration techniques applied in this thesis are based on the concept of spatial price equilibrium (SPE) initially proposed by Samuelson in 1952 and threshold cointegration techniques. The two categories of cointegration techniques, linear and non-linear, have been ) applied to the analysis of dry beans and maize markets in Malawi. For linear cointegration techniques, the Johansens' (1988) model and the Engle-Granger (1987) model have been applied (see chapters 6 to 8); while for non-linear model techniques, two types of threshold cOintegration (TAR and M-TAR) models have been applied (see chapter 8). Both linear and non-linear models investigate different aspects of price behaviour in the dry beans and maize markets. The analysis uses monthly price averages for the January 2000 and January 2012 period. The dry beans and maize markets have been selected for analysis because of their distinct characteristics. The most prominent distinguishing characteristic between them is that dry beans markets are fully liberalised while maize markets are partially liberalised. The dry beans market fully satisfies the key assumptions of the market liberalisation concept. Therefore, the a priori expectation is that the dry beans market is perfectly integrated. The principal maize market is not expected to be perfectly integrated because it is not fully liberalised. These distinctions between the two markets provide some sort of a 'natural experiment' on which the assumption that market liberalisation facilitates market integration can be tested.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

27

Chingaipe, Ng'oma Henry. "Business and the state in Malawi : the politics of institutional formation, maintenance and change." Thesis, University of York, 2010. http://etheses.whiterose.ac.uk/1507/.

Full text

Abstract:

This dissertation analyses the institutional and organisational evolution of state-business relations in Malawi, from the colonial period (1891-1963) to the first decade of multiparty democracy (1994-2004), through the period of one-party authoritarianism (1964-1993). It contributes to three areas of political science. Firstly, it adds to empirical knowledge on the politics of state formation and state-building by illuminating how institutions governing state-business relations have been central to the evolution, form and character of the Malawian state. It provides some insights for building the capacity of states, especially in southern Africa, to deliver coherent and credible economic policies. Secondly, it demonstrates how the distribution and exercise of power between state and business elites, and the relative financial and political importance of the private business sector to the state, shape the institutional and organisational forms of state-business relations. It shows that these relations are profoundly political rather than technocratic products and reformers need to be more aware of this. Thirdly, it contributes to historical institutionalism by suggesting that the concept of critical junctures should be defined based on people’s expectations for, rather than effects of, institutional change; that history should be emphasised not just for explaining institutional continuities as is done by most historical institutionalists but also institutional discontinuities; and that in explaining existing patterns of institutions researchers need to be concerned more with the most recent predecessor institutions rather than going too far in the past. The analysis is organised in seven chapters, grouped into three parts. The first part presents the research problem, reviews the literature and outlines the methodological approach. The second part provides empirical narratives of state-business relations in each of the three periods. The third part spells out the implications of the work for the understanding of the politics of Malawian state-business relations, for state-business relations generally and historical institutionalism.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

28

Montpetit, Eric. "Policy making performance, policy change, and political institutions : the formulation of an environmental policy for the agricultural sector in France, the United States and Canada /." *McMaster only, 1999.

Find full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

29

Halimani, T. E. "Production systems, phenotypic and genetic differentiation of pig genetic resources in Zimbabwe, Malawi and South Africa." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/18108.

Full text

Abstract:

Thesis (PhD (Animal Sciences))--Stellenbosch University, 2011.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Local pigs in Southern Africa are an important component of resource-based subsistence farming systems and contribute substantially to the improvement of livelihoods of farmers. The objective of the study was to characterise indigenous pigs through the following specific objectives: to characterise the production systems, to give a physical description and to evaluate the genetic differentiation of the indigenous pigs. Surveys were carried out in Chirumhanzu and Mutoko Districts of Zimbabwe, Afred Nzo, OR Tambo and Vhembe districts of South Africa. Blood samples were collected in all of the above and additional three districts in Malawi (Mchinji, Dedza and Salima). The first study showed that most of the indigenous pigs were kept by women. The farmers kept small herd sizes (<7 pigs) to match the available resources. Income was the main determinant of farmer production objectives and breed preference. Several constraints that would militate against in situ conservation included poor quality and quantity of feeds, diseases, lack of housing, lack of markets and lack of support services. The pigs were generally small and black resembling the Windsnyer-Mukota type of pigs. The pigs apparently had a high foraging ability and high thermo-tolerance that made them suitable for production in low-intensity management free range production systems. These types of pigs were distributed throughout the study area. A microsatellite analysis showed high diversity but very little population differentiation among the pig populations from Southern Africa, with 93 % of variety occurring within subpopulations. Development of markets can be a feasible way of mainstreaming the indigenous pigs into the general economy. This will achieve the twin objectives of conserving and improving the breed while, at the same time, benefitting the farmers that keep these genetic resources. Farmers faced similar production constraints and the pigs were similar across the study areas.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Plaaslike varke speel ‘n belangrike rol in hulpbron-gebaseerde bestaansboederye in Suider- Afrika, en maak ‘n aansienlike bydrae tot verbetering van die lewensbestaan van bestaansboere. Die studie het die volgende doelwitte: om die produksie van inheemse varke te karakteriseer, die varke fisies te beskryf, en om die genetiese differensiasie van die inheemse varke te evalueer. Opnames is uitgevoer in die Chirumhanzu en Mutoko distrikte van Zimbabwe, Afred Nzo, OR Tambo en Vhembe distrikte in Suid-Afrika. Bloedmonsters is in al die bogenoemde en nog drie distrikte in Malawi (Mchinji, Dedza en Salima) versamel. Die eerste studie het getoon dat die meeste inheemse varke deur vroue aangehou word. Die boere het klein trop groottes vir aanpasbaarheid by die beskikbare hulpbronne. Inkomste en varkras voorkeur was die hoof bepalende faktore vir hierdie boere se produksie doelwitte. Verskeie beperkings wat bots teen in situ instandhouding sluit in swak kwaliteit- en kwantiteit voere, siektes, gebrek aan behuising, die gebrek aan markte en die gebrek aan ondersteunende dienste. Die varke is oor die algemeen klein en swart en vertoon soos die Windsnyer-Mukoto tipe varke. Hierdie varke het blykbaar ‘n hoë voer-soekende vermoë en hitte-verdraagsaamheid wat hulle geskik maak vir die produksie in lae-intensiteit bestuur en vry-weidende produksie sisteme. Hierdie tipe varke was versprei oor die studie area. ‘n Mikrosatelliet analise het aangedui dat daar hoë genetiese variasie is binne die vark populasie, maar daar is klein differensiasie tussen die verskillende vark populasies van Suider-Afrika, met 93% variasie wat voorkom binne sub-populasies. Die ontwikkeling van markte kan ‘n haalbare manier wees om die inheemse varke toegang te gee tot die algemene ekonomie. Hiermee kan beide doelwitte, bewaring en verbetering van hierdie varkras, tergelyktydig bereik word, ten goede van die boere wat hierdie genetiese hulpbronne aanhou.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

30

Kibble, Stephen Lloyd. "The external role of the South African State : the case of labour migration from Malawi." Thesis, University of Leeds, 1989. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.237838.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

31

Moosbrugger, Lorelei K. "Institutions with environmental consequences : the politics of agrochemical policy-making /." Diss., Connect to a 24 p. preview or request complete full text in PDF format. Access restricted to UC IP addresses, 2001. http://wwwlib.umi.com/cr/ucsd/fullcit?p3027042.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

32

Conrad, Abigail. "We are farmers| Agriculture, food security, and adaptive capacity among permaculture and conventional farmers in central Malawi." Thesis, American University, 2015. http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=3668010.

Full text

Abstract:

Small-scale family farming to meet household food and livelihood needs is a central activity for most households in rural Malawi. Food insecurity and malnutrition are persistent problems for these farmers. Conventional agriculture techniques and maize production are the focus of most household farming, government agriculture policy, and agricultural development programs. However, conventional agriculture and maize production are expensive and unreliable in the short term, and environmentally and financially unsustainable in the long term. As an alternative, some NGOs and farmers in Malawi use permaculture, an agroecology design and low external input agriculture system. Previous research and NGO reports have pointed to benefits and constraints to permaculture adoption in Malawi.

For this dissertation, I investigated the relationships between agriculture practices and food security among smallholder conventional and permaculture farmers in Lilongwe Rural District in Malawi in partnership with two implementing permaculture organizations. Building on political ecology, the anthropology of food, structural violence, and permaculture literatures, I analyzed the impact of permaculture practice on farmers' agricultural practices, diet, and food security. This analysis showed that farmers who used permaculture experienced agricultural, environmental, livelihood, and food and nutrition security benefits in comparison to farmers who solely used conventional agriculture. These benefits were important given the context of structural violence in which farmers face systemic risk to impoverishment, food insecurity, and malnutrition. However, the benefits of permaculture use were constrained by the broader agro-food system, resource entitlements, and other structural constraints. The findings of this study add to our understanding of how smallholder farmers in Malawi can maneuver within the broader agro-food system, while pointing to potential strategies that farmers and organizations can use to try to address existing constraints.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

33

Gacitúa, Marío Estanislao A. "Disarticulated agricultural growth : a comparative study of two Chilean regions /." This resource online, 1992. http://scholar.lib.vt.edu/theses/available/etd-06062008-170551/.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

34

Xu, Qing. "China's agricultural reforms : experience, empirical evidence and tendency /." Title page, abstract and table of contents only, 2004. http://web4.library.adelaide.edu.au/theses/09PH/09phx9.pdf.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

35

Wambugu, Stella Njoki. "Farmers' health and agriculture in low income economies : investigating farm households and wider health interactions in rural Malawi." Thesis, SOAS, University of London, 2017. http://eprints.soas.ac.uk/24945/.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

36

Fajersson, Maria. "Utveckling av redskap för tillverkning av majsmjöl i Muthumba." Thesis, Malmö högskola, Fakulteten för teknik och samhälle (TS), 2012. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:mau:diva-20179.

Full text

Abstract:

Följande uppsats redogör för ett produktutvecklingsprojekt som har resulterat i ett förslag till ett handredskap för framställning av majsmjöl, tänkt att användas av kvinnorna i Malawi. Dock har det huvudsakliga fokuset i projektet varit metoder för produktutveckling för utvecklingsländer. Problemområdet som projektet har fokuserat på; framställning av majsmjöl, valdes efter en studie i Malawi. Problemområdet valdes eftersom det är ett viktigt område, då 50 procent av människornas kaloriintag i Malawi består av majs. Målgruppen för projektet är kvinnorna i byn Muthumba, som framställer majsmjölet idag. Framställningen av majsmjöl sker i flera olika etapper. När majsen slutligen ska malas till majsmjöl har byborna att välja mellan att vandra till ett annat samhälle, som har elektricitet, för att få sin majs mald i en maskin, eller att stöta majsen i en mortel, vilket kräver två personers styrka och tid. Att ta majsen till det andra samhället innebär att byborna får vandra med majsen på huvudet i timtal, då majoriteten av byborna inte innehar något transportmedel. Projektet kan delas in i tre olika etapper. Teoriläsning inför resan. Observationer och intervjuer i Malawi under 8 dagar. Denna etapp var planerad till 21 dagar, men på grund av sjukdom fick studien avbrytas tidigare, syftet med studien var att observera ett problemområde. Den sista etappen utfördes i Sverige. Den innehöll teoriläsning, kompletterande intervjuer samt utveckling av redskapet. Uppsatsen behandlar litteratur kring ämnet produktutveckling/design för utvecklingsländer samt metoder för detta. Saker som framkom var att förståelse för människan och dess livssituation är avgörande för hur lyckat slutresultatet blir. När ämnet design för utvecklingsländer diskuteras finns det många olika åsikter i ämnet, och den här uppsatsen tar upp några. Projektet resulterade i ett handdrivet verktyg, riktat till kvinnorna byn Muthumba i södra Malawi. Redskapet krossar majsen genom valsning. Några av de metoder som använts för att få fram nya sätt att framställa majsmjölet är idégenereringsmetoder, hämta inspiration på nya platser, intervjuer och skissning. En annan viktig del i utvecklingsarbetet har varit att göra funktionsmodeller för att testa olika funktioner.
The following essay describes a product development project, which has resulted in a proposal for production of maize flour, intended for use by women in Malawi. The main focus of the project has been methods of product development for developing countries. The problem area that the project has focused on is: the production of maize flour, this was chosen after a study in Malawi. The problem area was chosen since it is an important area; 50 percent of the people's calorie intake in Malawi consists of corn. The target groups are women in the village Muthumba, a producer of maize flour today.Production of maize flour is done in several steps. When the maize will be grinded in to maize flour, the villagers can choose to walk to another village, which has electricity, to get their maize grinded or they have to pound the maize in a mortar, which requires the energy and time of two people. To take the maize to the other society means that the villages have to walk with the maize on their head for hours, as the majority of villagers do not own a bike.The project can be divided into three stages: theory studies before the trip, observations and interviews in Malawi for 8 days (this phase was scheduled for 21 days, but due to illness was the study stopped earlier, the purpose of this study was to observe a problem area) and the final stage, realization, was conducted in Sweden. The third stage included theory sessions, additional interviews and developing the tool.The essay reviews the literature on the subject of what to consider in the development/design for developing countries and methods for this. Understandings that emerged were the incredible importance of deeper insight in humans and their life situation. When the topic design for developing countries is discussed, there are many different opinions on the subject, and this essay considers some.The result of the project is a hand-powered tool. The target group is the women in the village Muthumba, in south of Malawi. The tool grinds the maize by rolling. Some of the methods used to develop new ways to produce corn flour are brainstormings, finding inspiration in new places, interviews and drafting. Another important part of the development has been to make functional models to test various functions.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

37

Wellman, David B. "Econometric models of local area agriculture /." free to MU campus, to others for purchase, 2001. http://wwwlib.umi.com/cr/mo/fullcit?p3025660.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

38

Silver, Jade. "Food Security on Maui: Reinventing Agriculture in the Aloha State." Scholarship @ Claremont, 2013. http://scholarship.claremont.edu/scripps_theses/143.

Full text

Abstract:

This thesis focuses on the past, present, and future of food sustainability on Maui. It begins by explaining ancient Hawaiian agriculture and how this complex system of agriculture was deeply rooted in the customs and traditions of the Hawaiian people. The second section explores how this sustainable agricultural system changed after the arrival of Captain Cook in 1778. After western settlement, land that was once a communal resource became privatized. As land ownership shifted, the traditional subsistence agricultural system of Hawai’i began to change. Export crops such as sugar cane and pineapple became more widespread. As these crops shifted the way land was utilized in Hawai’i, the islands reduced the amount of crops grown for local consumption and became increasingly reliant on imported foods. The last section stresses the necessity of increasing the production of locally grown food on Maui. It discusses the locally grown food movement that has developed on Maui, and addresses the obstacles that prevent more food from being grown locally. Lastly, it suggests strategies to increase the amount of food produced for local consumption so that Maui can secure a more sustainable agricultural future.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

39

Garvey, Ann Peters. "State tools to update and strengthen statutes for agriculture emergencies." Thesis, Monterey, Calif. : Springfield, Va. : Naval Postgraduate School ; Available from National Technical Information Service, 2006. http://library.nps.navy.mil/uhtbin/hyperion/06Mar%5FGarvey.pdf.

Full text

Abstract:

Thesis (M.A. in Security Studies (Homaland Security and Defense))--Naval Postgraduate School, March 2006.
Thesis Advisor(s): Ellen M. Gordon. "March 2006." Includes bibliographical references (p. 65-66). Also available online.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

40

Kinzo, M. D. "Small producers and the state : Agriculture on the Amazon frontier." Thesis, University of Manchester, 1986. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.376572.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

41

Kadyakapita, Mozecie Spector John. "A critical realist exploration of the emergence, development, management and sustainability of a Christian private institution of higher education in Malawi." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001818.

Full text

Abstract:

This study was prompted by an interest in exploring ways in which the development of private higher education in Malawi could be more sustainable. It examines the challenges that private institutions of higher education face in different contexts and the underlying causes of these challenges. The aim of the study was to explore the emergence of private higher education (PHE) in Malawi, its management, development, the challenges it faces and the generative mechanisms of these challenges. The research is a case study of one of the earliest private institutions of higher education in Malawi. The institution is owned and operated by a Christian church organisation that has been operating a network of private primary and secondary schools and health centres since its establishment in Malawi in the early 1890s. Critical realism is used as an underlabourer for its stance on ontological, epistemological and ethical assumptions of reality and its views on agency and structure. Two theoretical frameworks - complexity theory and transformational leadership theories - are used as lenses to help make sense of the nature of social organisations and also as heuristic devices for organising and making sense of data. Data were collected using qualitative interviews, archival document content analysis and observation. Twenty participants were purposefully selected for interviews. The participants comprised a senior officer at the MoEST headquarters, proprietors, members of the top management team of the institution, administrative assistants, heads of academic and nonacademic departments, teachers and non-teaching staff and students. Abstracted data were analysed using inductive, abductive and retroductive modes of inference. The study established that the emergence of private higher education in Malawi was generated by a number of mechanisms. These include the need to survive the threat to socioeconomic development posed by global trends in scientific and technological issues that heavily rely on access to the knowledge economy; the need to respond to demand for equity and access to higher education; the need to carry out the mission of the Christian church; government’s failure to expand and widen access to higher education; and the agential need to survive economic demands. The research findings indicate that a critical challenge that the emergence of private higher education faced was the lack of adequate and efficient structures and systems in the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology to expeditiously process applications to establish and accredit, monitor and control the development of private higher education institutions. It was also found that the challenges that the private higher education faces include high level of authoritarian governance and management practices, weak institutional management and control systems and structure, secularisation, lack of adequate funds to meet operation and capital development costs, facilities and resources to support teaching – learning functions, learner support facilities and services and a critical shortage of appropriately qualified administrative and academic personnel. The underlying causes of the challenges include the perceived threat to personal power and survival; fear of apostasy and secularisation; cultural values, adverse socioeconomic conditions; lack of diverse sources of funding, ineffective communication skills; weak governance systems and structures; low level of self-control; unfavourable attitudes towards educational institutions and the need to restore equity. To make private institutions of higher learning more sustainable, the study recommends that governance practices be guided by clear structures, policies and guidelines in the interest of transparency and accountability. It also recommends that government works in close partnership with private providers, reviews unfair policies concerning government scholarships, subsidizes the cost of materials for instruction and infrastructure development, and provides technical assistance to prospective and active providers. Lastly, the study recommends that private providers form an association so as to share experiences and to collectively deal with issues of common interest and concern.
Adobe Acrobat 9.53 Paper Capture Plug-in

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

42

Schöne, Jens. "Frühling auf dem Lande? die Kollektivierung der DDR-Landwirtschaft /." Berlin : Links, 2005. http://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/58549350.html.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

43

Manchur, Wendy A. "From thirsty soils to spirit hills, a case study of indigenous natural resource management for sustainable agriculture in Malawi." Thesis, National Library of Canada = Bibliothèque nationale du Canada, 1997. http://www.collectionscanada.ca/obj/s4/f2/dsk2/ftp04/mq24879.pdf.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

44

Moyo, Boyson Henry Zondiwe. "The use and role of indigenous knowledge in small-scale agricultural systems in Africa : the case of farmers in northern Malawi." Thesis, University of Glasgow, 2010. http://theses.gla.ac.uk/2022/.

Full text

Abstract:

This thesis examines the role and use of indigenous knowledge within small-scale agricultural systems in Africa and its relevance in development practice and theory. Using development programmes that have been implemented in the study area from the colonial to the recent times, many of which were largely underpinned by modernisation theory and practice, indigenous knowledge theory and practice is analysed for its role in development processes. The roles of the private sector, NGOs and the government are analysed, based on a chronology of development programmes that were underpinned in many instances by the influences of the major development theories and the subsequent introduction of the structural adjustment programmes by the IMF and the World Bank. Particular emphasis is placed on farmers’ responses to externally induced development programmes, designed by experts for farmers to adopt. In their assessment of these externally driven development programmes, there is a manifestation of the extent of the resilience of local knowledge to its displacement by Western knowledge. Scientifically proven technologies are assessed by farmers for their effectiveness under their farming practices that take into account a range of environmental, socio-cultural and economic factors. Indigenous knowledge is frequently found to be effective in resisting those changes that are undesirable and of little relevance at both farm and community levels. For farmers, knowledge that is useful and of practical use is adopted, or adapted, only when it is assessed, and, in many cases, this is only after trials have been successfully completed. Knowledge that is of little benefit to farmers is discarded irrespective of its type (indigenous or Western), or its source. This study forms the basis for understanding the importance of indigenous knowledge in development practice arising from its existence at farm level and the fact that it is continuously being fined-tuned to suit specific conditions and situations, which are in turn affected by socio-cultural, economic and environmental factors. The findings of this study also show that there are many benefits from using indigenous knowledge in development practice that include the empowerment of local people through their participation in development programmes. Indigenous knowledge is also found to be resilient and beneficial to farmers regardless of income level by reducing their costs of production, to be adaptable to different environmental and economic circumstances, and to provide for a more sustainable use of resources in farming. There is, however, a need for further studies in indigenous knowledge utilisation to enable researchers to keep pace with changes that occur at the local level if development theory and practice are to utilise indigenous knowledge fully and successfully.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

45

Raish, Carol. "Domestic animals and stability in pre-state farming societies /." Oxford : Tempus reparatum, 1992. http://catalogue.bnf.fr/ark:/12148/cb356941544.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

46

Bagour, Mohammed Hussien. "Measuring and predicting steady state infiltration rates for Arizona irrigated soils." Diss., The University of Arizona, 2001. http://hdl.handle.net/10150/279790.

Full text

Abstract:

Five methods to measure the saturated hydraulic conductivity of Arizona irrigated soils were evaluated using the in-situ single ring, double ring, compact constant head permeameter methods, and with tempe cells (soil cores) in the laboratory. Ten Arizona irrigated soils were studied, and the textures of these soils ranged from sand to silty clay. Three water qualities were evaluated, namely the local water, gypsum in local water, and gypsum water (0.005M CaSO₄ · 2H₂O solution). Sites were selected to provide soils having a wide range of soil characteristics and detailed laboratory and field morphology data were measured including soil texture, bulk density, soil aggregation, stickiness, plasticity, moisture retention at various tensions, ECₑ, and pHₑ. The results showed that the double ring method was the better in-situ method. The relationships between soil properties and K(sat) were evaluated, and soil properties were examined as predictor variables for K(sat) in stepwise multiple-regression. Stepwise multiple-regression criteria were set at a probability of F to enter ≤ 0.5 and probability of F to remove ≥ 0.1. Six models are presented that can be used in predicting K(sat). Each model has a subset of field and laboratory predictor variables selected based on stepwise multiple-regression criteria, and with some personal judgment. Casewise diagnostics were used to test model performances.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

47

Jensen, Mari N. "A Living Microbial Observatory: Research in Kartchner Caverns State Park®." College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, University of Arizona (Tucson, AZ), 2007. http://hdl.handle.net/10150/622140.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

48

Bloomberg, Brooke. "Considerations for Kansas State University’s College of Agriculture obtaining AAALAC accreditation." Kansas State University, 2010. http://hdl.handle.net/2097/4754.

Full text

Abstract:

Master of Science
Department of Anatomy and Physiology
Lisa C. Freeman
Kansas State University uses a variety of animals to fulfill the University’s research and teaching mission. K-State maintains a single Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) to oversee the use of all vertebrate animals used in research and teaching at K-State. K-State’s program is AAALAC accredited. The Association for the Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care, International (AAALAC) is a non-profit organization with the mission to promote the humane care of animals used in research and teaching. AAALAC is a private member association that evaluates and accredits member organizations by utilizing a peer review process. Accreditation signifies that an animal care and use program goes beyond meeting minimum standards required by law and strives for excellence to better meet the needs of the animals in their care. However, K-State’s accreditation is university-limited, meaning not all colleges that use animals for research and teaching are accredited. The College of Agriculture is not included in the accreditation even though it supports 15 animal facilities within the Department of Animal Science & Industry (AS&I) and 2 facilities located at Agricultural Experiment Stations (AES). Species housed in these facilities include; cattle, horses, swine, sheep, goats, and poultry. AAALAC reports that accreditation of agricultural animal programs lags behind other animal research and teaching programs. This may be due to multiple factors such as; minimal research funding sources require institutions to be accredited, minimal funding to make necessary facility upgrades, and a lack of conviction of how accreditation may benefit an agricultural animal program. This paper begins to discuss the scope of the program, identify common deficiencies, and provide suggestions for program improvement. As public pressure increases to improve care of animals in research and agricultural settings, it would benefit K-State to accredit all the institution’s animal facilities. The IACUC is a key player in this effort but support from K-State institutional leadership and the College of Agriculture is paramount. Those at K-State know the importance of the care we provide the animals in our facilities, but obtaining AAALAC accreditation will show our peers, supporting institutions, and our students that we strive for excellence in care of all our animals.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

49

Shipp, Dallas. "Resistance to modernity : the relevancy and integrity of agrarian criticism in the early 20th century /." Lynchburg, VA : Liberty University, 2007. http://digitalcommons.liberty.edu.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

50

Siisii, Clara N. "The European Union supply and demand for barley and corn : an econometric policy analysis study /." free to MU campus, to others for purchase, 2000. http://wwwlib.umi.com/cr/mo/fullcit?p9988700.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'Agriculture and state - Malawi'

Create a spot-on reference in APA, MLA, Chicago, Harvard, and other styles