Contribution to catalysing research for development on key concerns with respect to rural livelihoods

Abstract

FJRD, 4 (2) presents a couple of articles covering topical global themes that are deemed to have significant impact on socioeconomic development and betterment of rural livelihoods. These   (a) Nutritional security; (b) zoonotic diseases; (c) Livestock & crop improvement; &, (d) Women in socio-economic development, agribusiness & collective marketing. Global and Africa’s continental level frameworks, particularly the SDGs & Agenda 2063 – The Africa We Want, respectively, are replete and abounding with concerns on each of these themes. The frameworks provisions aim at a call to action for all stakeholders and actors to develop and implement appropriate interventions. In line with this desired end Iview, the publication of peer-reviewed articles in this Issues on these key thematic areas is for purposes of sharing information to advance knowledge for application as well enhance research. This editorial piece highlights some of the gaps in research and knowledge applications for each of the thematic threads presented in the 8 papers of the AFJRD, Vol. 4 & Issue 2. These gaps include (a) ethical considerations to prevent & exclude entry of invasive alien species; (b) the need to establish mechanisms for systematic data collections and analysis as well as provision of tools and approaches in the control of zoonotic diseases; (c) strengthening the evidence base to support policy decision and interventions for women economic empowerment projects / programmes; &, (d) the need to focus efforts on conservation, in livestock –crop improvement programmes, of breeds & crop varieties that have potential to secure ecosystem integrity.