Agricultural Development in Asia and Africa: Essays in Honor of Keijiro Otsuka

This Open Access book explores the multifaceted nature of agricultural and rural development in Asia and examines the extent to which the Asian experience is being replicated in contemporary Africa. The common pathways are borrowed technology from abroad and adaptive research in rice farming; secured property rights on natural resources; adoption of ICTs; investments in human capital, including training; and launching of the high-value agriculture.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 387 pages
Publication date: 02 December 2022
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This Open Access book delves into the intricate tapestry of agricultural and rural development in Asia, shedding light on the extent to which the Asian experience is being replicated in contemporary Africa. Comprising the insightful contributions of esteemed scholars, this volume offers a comprehensive compilation of research conducted through extensive household-level surveys across various regions of Asia and Africa. The central revelation that emerges from this profound exploration is that African agricultural development has followed remarkably similar pathways to its Asian counterpart. These common pathways encompass a range of strategies, including the adoption of technology from abroad, the implementation of adaptive research in rice farming, the establishment of secure property rights over natural resources, the integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICTs), investments in human capital through training programs, and the initiation of high-value agriculture initiatives.

In both continents, agricultural development began in the crop sector, which possessed a remarkable ability to stimulate the dynamic growth of other sectors within rural communities. This interconnectedness fostered a holistic and sustainable approach to rural development, ensuring the well-being and prosperity of both farmers and their communities.

The insights and findings presented in this book offer valuable lessons for policymakers, development practitioners, and scholars alike. They emphasize the importance of adopting a holistic and context-specific approach to agricultural development, recognizing the unique challenges and opportunities that each continent presents. By learning from the experiences of Asia and Africa, we can foster a more inclusive and sustainable future for agricultural growth and rural development across the globe.

Weight: 646g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811955440
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023