This report takes a fresh look at the important contribution of agriculture to pro-poor growth. After two decades of decline, investments in agriculture are now on the rise. This major reversal in national policies, as well as donor programmes, reflects an increased awareness of the vital contribution of agriculture to pro-poor growth and the stark reality that 75% of the world’s poor live in rural areas. This policy guidance for donors identifies a new agriculture agenda for enabling pro-poor growth. It recognises new challenges – such as HIV/AIDS, natural resource degradation, global competition, demographic change and migration – but also new opportunities through spatial and occupational diversity. It also identifies the key priorities for action in the new agenda: enhancing sector productivity and market opportunities; promoting diversified livelihoods; and reducing risk and vulnerability.
Promoting Pro-Poor Growth Agriculture