Identifying leverage points to transition dysfunctional irrigation schemes towards complex adaptive systems. (1st October 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: van Rooyen, André F.; Moyo, Martin; Bjornlund, Henning; Dube, Thabani; Parry, Karen; Stirzaker, Richard
• Is Part Of: International journal of water resources development. Volume 36(2020)Supplement 1
• Page Start: S171
• Page End: S198
• Publication Date: 2020-10-01
• Subjects: Small-scale irrigation -- complex adaptive systems -- leverage points -- system diagnostics -- Zimbabwe; Water resources development -- Periodicals; Water-supply, Agricultural -- Periodicals; 333.91005
• DOI: 10.1080/07900627.2020.1747409
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0790-0627

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This article explores the value of Ostrom's socio-ecological systems framework and Meadows's leverage point hierarchy, as structured diagnostics, to define systemic problems and avoid approaches based on linear thinking. These frameworks were applied as an ex post analysis of an irrigation scheme in Zimbabwe, drawing on the scheme's baseline condition and the intervention outcomes. Strong leverage points, particularly those driving feedback mechanisms and institutional design, interacted with other intervention points, initiating systemic change. This analysis suggests that dysfunctional schemes can be transitioned towards complex adaptive systems by using agricultural innovation platforms to identify systemic challenges and intervention points.