Limits to the applicability of the innovation platform approach for agricultural development in West Africa: Socio-economic factors constrain stakeholder engagement and confidence

We conclude that the IAR4D approach is perceived to work well in high rainfall zones, for smallholders with a relatively high current level of well-being, who have larger and more productive farms, and who are already engaged with markets. The approach does not appear to work well in more arid regions for poorer smallholders, who are often not able to provide food for their families for 12 months of every year. The IAR4D focus on social networking into markets appears to be relevant for producers who wish to strengthen or diversify existing market relationships, but is not perceived to be sufficiently relevant by smallholders for whom achieving reliable subsistence and averting starvation remains the priority.