Water Productivity, the Yield Gap, and Nutrition: The Case of Ethiopia

The report uses a nutritional water productivity (NWP) framework to interpret the relationship between nutrition and water in the context of water challenges. It argues that higher yields of both staple and nutritious crops are possible in water-stressed areas, and that an agricultural transformation is necessary to promote healthy diets. Better coordination and timing of water and other inputs, such as fertilizers and improved seeds, is key to increasing productivity and reducing the threats of agriculture into other ecosystems. A diversified production system is required for food security, nutrition, and poverty alleviation, and strategic support for crops and other farm produce with high economic and nutritional value is needed.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 82 pages
Publication date: 30 June 2021
Publisher: Food & Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)

The report employs a nutritional water productivity (NWP) framework to explore the intricate relationship between nutrition and water in the face of water-related challenges. It makes a compelling argument that higher yields, both of staple and nutritious crops, can be achieved even in water-stressed areas. This necessitates an agricultural transformation that ensures a seamless connection between efforts to enhance water productivity and the promotion of healthy diets. By increasing water productivity and stabilizing yields at realistic levels, farmers can enhance their resilience and adapt to the changing climatic conditions. Effective coordination and timing of water, fertilizers, and improved seeds are crucial in optimizing productivity and mitigating the risks of further agricultural encroachment into other ecosystems. A diversified production system is vital for ensuring food security, improving nutrition, and alleviating poverty. There exists an opportunity to provide strategic support to crops and other farm produce with high economic and nutritional value. Farming systems can encompass a wide range of crops, from rainfed to irrigated agriculture, to cater to diverse needs and environments. To stimulate farmers and enable them to capitalize on the growing demand for such products, the development of markets, along with investments in cold storage, roads/transport, and food procurement programs that prioritize nutritious produce, will be essential. By fostering these market mechanisms and supporting farmers, we can contribute to a more sustainable and equitable food system that benefits both producers and consumers.

Weight: 333g
Dimension: 297 x 210 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789251341452