All FSI Projects

Understanding Fertilizer Effectiveness and Adoption in Zambia

adobestock 30870261
corn woman virtualwayfarer hl
Photo credit: virtualwayfarer

Researchers

Rosamond Naylor
Principal Investigator
Bill Burke
Investigator

This project will focus on the potential role of fertilizer in the intensification of maize production amongst Zambian smallholders. Data to be analyzed during this research includes household survey data and linked soil analysis data. The specific contributions of the analysis will be threefold: 1) to provide estimates and determinants of yield response to various types of fertilizer, 2) to quantify the knowledge gained by using soil analysis and tailored statistical methods to estimate yield response, and 3) to analyze household behavior with respect to estimated yield response, particularly the seemingly irrational fertilizer adopters and non-adopters. The results of this research will provide critical information for the development of both short term and long term policy strategies in Zambia, and given the importance of fertilizer use for global food security in the long run, can inform further research in other regions as well.

Contact

Bill Burke