COLLEGE OF LEADERSHIP AND GOVERNANCE

SCHOOL OF POLICY STUDIES

DEPARTEMENT OF POLICY ANALYSIS

Course Title: Development Theories, polices and Issues

(MDP5023)

Individual Assignment On ;

Why should any analysis of development problems place heavy

emphasis on the study of agricultural systems, especially peasant
agriculture, and the rural sector

Name: Ayele Adinew ID No ECSU2200667

Submitted to; Mesfin

Seyoum ,Ph.D

Program; summer, Year 2016

E.C

Summation date August

2016 E.C

Addis Ababa,
Ethiopia
1. Introduction

In almost all developing countries, the majority (between 60 and 65%) of the total population
lives in rural areas .Their main occupation is subsistence farming or peasant farming. Most of
these rural residents survive little and are often inadequate for agricultural activities. This
stagnant and often regressive economic life in rural areas creates major problems such as
poverty, inequality and high rates of population growth in developing countries and constitutes
a significant obstacle in the way of these countries to achieve economic growth in the true
sense. With a large part of the population confined to rural areas and engaged in agricultural
activities, developing countries, if they want real development and even a self-sufficient basis,
must include rural areas in general and the agricultural sector in particular in its development.
Plans and formulates specific policies that respond to the problems of these two [Link],given
the large number of people who live in rural areas and who live in absolute poverty and who
practice mainly subsistence agriculture, any analysis of development problems must emphasize
the study of the agricultural system, especially the rural agriculture and the rural sector only
then the fruits of development can reach the majority of the world's [Link]
agricultural sector continues to play a crucial role for development, especially in low-income
countries, where it is important both in terms of total income and total labor force. Agriculture
contributes to income growth and poverty reduction in developing countries by generating
income and employment in rural areas and providing affordable food in urban arrears.
Agriculture is the main source of income for 86% of these rural households. About 75 % of the
poor still live in rural areas and derive most of their income from the agricultural sector and
related activities.
Agriculture provides food, income and employment and can therefore be an engine of growth
in agricultural developing countries and an effective tool for reducing poverty in countries in
transition. The balance between agriculture and industry is an important, albeit difficult,
dimension of development policy. Agriculture contributes to income growth and poverty
reduction in developing countries by generating providing affordable food in urban areas.
Agricultural prices have failed or had limited success .Even when unilateral policies succeeded
in stabilizing domestic prices, they increased the volatility of international prices, which
eventually led to a vicious circle of similar reactions from other countries. Since the main
objective of stabilization and "food security" policies is to mitigate the impact on the poorest
income groups (those most affected by changes in food prices), the emphasis should be on
mitigation and risk management strategies for these groups. There is evidence that certain
social protection and insurance policies can offset agricultural price shocks and help poor
households prevent food insecurity and cope with their characteristic income shocks. However,
the best tools to protect small farmers from income shocks are ex ante measures, such as
increasing productivity, which reduce the risk of shocks in the first place.
2. Analyzing development problems through the lens of agricultural systems,

particularly peasant agriculture and the rural sector.

The analysis of development problems necessitates a comprehensive understanding of

agriculture systems, particularly peasant agriculture and the rural sector , for several interrelated
reasons. This emphasis is crucial because agriculture serves as a foundation element of many
economies, especially in developing countries. Below are the key reasons why agricultural
systems should be prioritized in development analysis:

1. Food Security and Nutrition: Agriculture is intrinsically linked to food production.

Understanding agricultural systems, especially those operated by peasant farmers, is essential for
addressing food security and ensuring that communities have access to nutritious food. Peasant
agriculture often employs diverse cropping systems that enhance food sovereignty and
nutritional outcomes (Altieri, 2009).

2. Economic Contribution: The rural sector and peasant agriculture play a significant role
in the economies of many developing countries. They contribute to GDP, provide employment,
and drive local economies. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO),
agriculture accounts for a substantial part of employment in developing nations, which
underlines the importance of analyzing agricultural productivity and sustainability for overall
economic development (FAO,2017).

3. Poverty Alleviation: A significant portion of the world’s poor live in rural areas and
depends on agriculture for their livelihoods. Understanding the dynamics of peasant agriculture
can provide insights into effective poverty alleviation strategies. Programs aimed at improving
agricultural productivity and access to markets can empower rural communities and enhance
their economic resilience (World Bank, 2008).
4. Cultural and Social Dimensions: Peasant agriculture is often deeply rooted in local
cultures and traditions. Studying these agricultural systems can reveal valuable insights into
social structures, land rights, and community organization. The preservation of traditional
knowledge and practices in agriculture can also promote biodiversity and sustainable practices
(Wiggins&Keeley, 2015).

5. Environmental Sustainability: Agricultural practices have a significant impact on the

environment. Emphasizing the study of agricultural systems allows for the exploration of
sustainable practices that can mitigate environmental degradation, promote biodiversity, and
address climate change. Peasant agriculture often utilizes agro ecological practices that maintain
ecological balance and enhance resilience to climate impacts (Gliessman,2015).

6. Policy Implications: Policy making in the agricultural sector can greatly influence rural
development. Analyzing agricultural systems helps policy makers understand the needs and
challenges of peasant farmers, leading to more effective interventions. This includes land reform,
access to credit, and infrastructure development that can enhance agricultural productivity and
rural livelihoods (IFAD,2016).

7. Globalization and Market Access: The integration of rural economies into global
markets presents both opportunities and challenges for peasant agriculture. Analyzing how
peasant farmers navigate these markets can inform strategies that support fair trade and equitable
access store sources (Bello, 2004).

8. Resilience Against Climate Change: Climate change poses significant threats to

Agricultural productivity worldwide, especially in vulnerable regions reliant on peasant farming
practices. By analyzing agricultural systems through this lens, researchers can develop strategies
aimed at increasing resilience among rural communities against climate related shocks.
9. Innovation and Technology: peasant agriculture can be as source of innovation, as
farmers develop locally adapted solutions to challenges. Analyzing these practices can reveal
pathways for technology transfer and capacity building.

10. Interconnectedness with Other Sectors: agriculture is linked to various sectors,

including health, education, and infrastructure. Understanding agricultural allows for a holistic
approach to development that considers these interconnections.

3. In conclusion

In summary, any analysis of development problems should place a heavy emphasis on

agricultural systems, especially peasant agriculture, and the rural sector because they are central
to economic stability, food security, environmental sustainability, social cohesion, and poverty
reduction. Understanding these systems can lead to more effective policies and interventions that
promote sustainable and inclusive development.

Lastly, placing heavy emphasis on the study of agricultural systems, especially peasant
agriculture and the rural sector, is essential for a holistic understanding of development
problems. It allows for the identification of tailored solutions that address food security,
economic development, poverty alleviation, social and cultural dynamics, environmental
sustainability, effective policymaking, the impacts of globalization, resilience against climate
change impacts, innovation and technology and interconnectedness with other sectors. It is
essential for formulating effective strategies to promote sustainable growth and improve the
quality of life in rural areas.
 4. References

 Altieri, M.A. (2009). Agroecology: Principles and Strategies for Designing Sustainable
Farming Systems .University of California Press.

 Bello, W.(2004).Deglobalization:Ideas for a New World [Link] Books.

 FAO. (2017).The State of Food andAgriculture2017: Leveraging Food Systems for

Inclusive Rural Transformation. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United
Nations.

 Gliessman,S.R.(2015). Agroecology: The Ecology of Sustainable Food Systems CRC

Press.

 IFAD.(2016).Rural Development Report 2016: Fostering Inclusive Rural Transformation.

International Fund for Agricultural Development.

 Wiggins,S.,& Keeley,J.(2015).The Role of Agriculture in Economic Development .

Overseas Development Institute.

 World Bank. (2008).World Development Report 2008: Agriculture for Development.

World Bank Publications.