Studies on systems of agricultural innovation in Kenya and other African countries have shown that the concept of innovation exists in form of technologies, products, processes and organizational forms. Notable also is the existence of indigenous systems of innovation which have not been considered in development of modern innovations. In other instances, this concept of innovation has not been operationally explored in terms of its capacity to improve agricultural productivity which would culminate into a food secure nation and economically empowered farmers. Despite the existence of various organizations dealing with systems of innovation, there are weak linkages between them and more so, along the commodity value chains.

John Wyeth, Steve Ashley

This report considers whether the DFID agriculture policy remains relevant in the light of the recent food crisis and where and why consideration might be given for changes to be made. It is not an evaluation and it does not suggest a new policy but aims to provide direction and identify issues and some alternative ways in which the policy might evolve, especially in its relationship with food security.