Local Rural Development Research Articles

An Analytical Desk Review of the Implementation of Fiscal Decentralisation in Zambia: Challenges and Opportunities

Fiscal decentralization, coupled with effective intergovernmental fiscal relations, stands as a cornerstone in the evolution of modern governance structures. This paper analyzes the implementation of fiscal decentralisation in Zambia as part of its initiatives across diverse socio-economic and political contexts for accelerated national development. The review was guided by three objectives which were: to review the existing legislation that supports implementation of fiscal decentralisation in Zambia; to assess the revenue and expenditure autonomy assignments of fiscal decentralisation in Zambia; and to recommend a fiscal transfer system to be used to enhance the implementation of fiscal decentralisation in Zambia. The study is based on secondary data on fiscal decentralization collected in official sources of Zambia’s Ministry of Finance and National Planning, Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, and Cabinet Office – Decentralization Secretariat. All the data was processed by and used in the right format for the analysis of implementation of fiscal decentralization in Zambia. Through a combination of qualitative and quantitative methodologies, this study analysed the real level of fiscal decentralization made in Zambia. Key findings of the study was that Zambia does not have an institution to supervise fiscal decentralization except a desk at Cabinet Office – Decentralization Secretariat. Besides, Local authorities have little autonomy in administering revenues and expenses as such, one of them requires approval by the Minister of Local Government and Rural Development. This hampers innovation around revenue generation as there is no known parameter used to grant or deny approval. Additionally, some of the aspects of the Zambia Intergovernmental Fiscal Architecture have not been implemented thereby depriving local authorities of revenue. These include Matching grants, revenue sharing of tolls and Road Transport and Safety Agency (RATSA) fees which are supposed to be shared between Central Government and local authorities as road maintenance is a concurrent mandate and revenue sharing for national income collected by Central Government from local authority jurisdictions. Finally, the connection between the level of fiscal decentralization and the scheme of intergovernmental fiscal relations is very important, to ensure maximum effectiveness of local government financing. The quality of the distribution of funds provided by the scheme of intergovernmental fiscal relations and the level of fiscal decentralization has a direct relationship. Balancing these two mechanisms is the most important way to increase the quality of public services at the local level as a way of enhancing the implementation of the fiscal decentralization. Arising from the study’s finding, there is need for amendment and harmonization of legislation governing the devolution process and procedures in order to empower the designate entities to carry out their mandate without unnecessary cob-webs. The local authorities also need autonomy on revenue mobilization and expenditure which are devoid of central government interference and/or rent-seeking pursuits. Furthermore, there is need to balance the level of fiscal decentralization and the scheme of intergovernmental fiscal relations in order to improve the quality of funds distributed and the effectiveness and efficiency in local government financing.

Nutrient content and ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry metabolomic comparative analysis of Lithocarpus corneus and Lithocarpus pachylepis.

China possesses abundant species resources in genus Lithocarpus Blume, commonly known as "acorns." These nuts are traditional foods in China, holding significant potential for local specialty food and rural economic development. To explore their edible value, we compared the nutritional components and metabolites between the fruits of Lithocarpus corneus (YD) and Lithocarpus pachylepis (HL), which are cultivated widely in south of China. Non-targeted metabolomics analysis of YD and HL was performed using ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry technology. A total of eight classes of differential metabolites (DAMs) were detected: alkaloids, amino acids and peptides, carbohydrates, fatty acids, polyketides, shikimates and phenylpropanoids, terpenoids, and other metabolites. In the positive ion mode, 225 DAMs were identified, whereas in the negative ion mode, 116 DAMs were identified. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis showed that the differentially abundant metabolites were generally enriched in three pathways: aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism, and ABC transporters. The nutritional content of YD has higher moisture, fructose, and total flavonoid levels, but lower starch, protein, fat, glucose, sucrose, and total sugar content than HL. Additionally, YD contains more Ca, K, P, and Fe, but less Mg and Zn compared to HL. Analyses indicate that YD is nutrient-rich and beneficial, making it suitable for further development. Two species of Lithocarpus contain nandrolone, suggesting a new direction for specialty food development. The unique chemical composition and rich nutritional content of Lithocarpus fruits provide a theoretical basis for their development and application as food resources. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: L. corneus and L. pachylepis are traditional Chinese nuts, rich in starch, minerals, and flavonoids, making them suitable for consumption or use as food constituents. Their fruits contain various unique natural chemical compounds, indicating high application value and development potential.

Impact of agricultural science and technology innovation resources allocation on rural revitalization

China’s reform began in the countryside, and rural reform began in Anhui. This study uses Anhui Province, China as an example in analyzing the impact of agricultural science and technology innovation resource allocation on rural revitalization, particularly by constructing an econometric model. Results indicate that the allocation of agricultural science and technology innovation resources has a steady positive impact on rural revitalization. Improvements in the allocation of agricultural science and technology innovation resources can effectively promote the development of rural revitalization and the spatial spillover of rural development, thereby facilitating the promotion of the spillover of neighboring areas to local rural development. A nonlinear relationship exists between allocation of agricultural science and technology innovation resources and rural revitalization. Lastly, rural revitalization can only be promoted substantially when the allocation of agricultural science and technology innovation resources reaches a certain condition.

CONSTRAINTS FACED BY SARPANCHES: INSIGHTS, SUGGESTIONS AND EXTENSION STRATEGIES FOR IMPROVEMENT

This study investigates the challenges encountered by Sarpanches in local governance and proposes extension strategies to address them. Conducted in seven districts of South Gujarat, the research utilized a random sampling technique to select 210 Sarpanches. The relationship between Sarpanches profiles and their knowledge levels was analyzed, highlighting key determinants such as education, management efficiency, and group cohesiveness. Constraints were identified, quantified, and ranked based on frequency and percentage, revealing political interference as the primary challenge, followed by financial constraints and delays in technical approvals. Sarpanches suggested measures to overcome these constraints, including reducing political interference and enhancing funding sources. Tailored extension strategies were formulated through a participatory approach, emphasizing transparent decision-making and sustainable revenue generation. These findings underscore the importance of empowering Sarpanches to foster effective local governance and sustainable rural development. Policymakers should consider implementing these strategies to address the identified challenges comprehensively.

IMPACT OF DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS ON EMPOWERMENT OF RURAL WOMEN IN JIJEL

This research document aims to highlight the role of rural development programs approved by the State in order to restore development to the rural world and to empower rural women through various programs and policies which enabled them to exercise their development role, despite the great challenges they encounter. The rural renewal policy has changed the lives of rural women, since thanks to the support funds allocated by the State, which make it possible to encourage rural women to develop and create private investment projects in various fields, traditional industries, agricultural and other industries. The role of rural Algerian women in this support has become apparent. In order to integrate women in the rural world, the State has set up local rural development projects with the objective of developing and improving the standard of living of the rural world. And develop women in particular. These projects have contributed to developing the work of women in agricultural and artisanal activities. We have noticed that rural women can support themselves and their communities and help build thriving rural economies if they have the opportunity to produce.

Ex Ante Analysis of a Local Rural Development Policy Using the Gut Matrix

Objective: The objective is to examine the potential and limitations of a local rural development policy at the municipal level, analyzing the feasibility of building paths that can contribute to overcoming the obstacles faced by family farming at the local level. Theoretical Framework: Based on Karl Polanyi's theory, which postulates that agents, in response to the economic context in which they are immersed, adopt a variety of practices aimed at preserving their autonomy and improving their living conditions. Method: The study adopted a qualitative approach, using case study and exploratory methods. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with family farmers and observations. Results and Discussion: It was found that the project analyzed has the potential to meet its objectives. However, there were also some inconsistencies that need to be corrected in order for the project to be more assertive. Research implications: Highlights the importance of ex ante evaluation as a tool for identifying and mitigating potential challenges in social projects before they are implemented. It offers valuable insights for policymakers and project managers, guiding social initiatives. Originality/Value: Adds a contribution to the literature by highlighting the importance of adopting ex ante evaluation in social projects. The relevance of this research is evidenced by the ability of ex ante analysis to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the analyzed project, thus highlighting the importance of this approach to improve the effectiveness and assertiveness of similar initiatives.

Relying on LEADER? A place-based policy approach to the rural development of Finnish municipalities

In Finnish rural development, the role of municipalities has proven to be modest, even though the place-based policy approach in principle gives them an important position. The main part of municipal rural development involves cooperation with LEADER groups, to which municipalities give priority. In this study I ask: What explains the current status of municipalities in place-based rural development, that is, the dominance of LEADER and the small scale of the municipalities' own rural development? The methodology is based on critical realism, and the analysis draws from semi-structured interviews conducted in three municipalities. The aforementioned state of local rural development is called demi-regularity, which is the starting point of the research. Using a thematic analysis developed by Tom Fryer for critical realist research, the study proposes three causal explanations for this observation, namely the idea of responsible local communities, the development policy of the shrinking municipality, and the challenges of projectification. According to the findings, the increased role of villages in rural development does not necessarily support the involvement of municipalities, but rather the opposite. The study also shows that when municipalities are primarily looking for (economic) growth, they have difficulties in trusting the potential of rural areas, let alone exploiting it. On the other hand, the challenges of projectification do not characterise LEADER projects in the same way as other municipal project work, making it tempting to rely on LEADER in municipal rural development. Overall, the study shows how strongly and differently LEADER is rooted in place-based rural development in Finland. In order to bring municipalities back into the scene, a broader discussion on the actual preconditions of municipalities in place-based rural development is needed.

THE ROLE OF INFORMATION SYSTEMS IN ADVANCING SMART VILLAGES: A RURAL TOURISM CASE STUDY

Recent studies highlight the need for a deeper understanding of the ways in which information systems, local government policy and community involvement affect the development of rural tourism. By using Structural Equation Modelling and Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS), the current study aims to analyze the role of information systems, local government policy and local community engagement in rural tourism development. Using data from 69 participants in Watesjaya village, Bogor regency, the study analyzes multiple relationships among latent constructs. The data, encompassing variables such as system quality, information quality, local government policy, local community engagement, destination branding, and rural tourism development, undergoes meticulous reliability and validity assessments. Results from the SEM-PLS analysis unveil significant relationships and insights. Local community engagement emerges as a pivotal factor, positively influencing tourist satisfaction (0.499) and moderately affecting destination branding (0.239). However, local government policy exhibits a less pronounced positive impact on tourist satisfaction (0.069847) and a notable negative influence on destination branding (-0.300460), underscoring the need for policy realignment. Information quality paradoxically influences tourist satisfaction negatively (-0.185) and destination branding (-0.158), highlighting areas for strategic improvement. Meanwhile, information system quality positively affects tourist satisfaction (0.055) and significantly contributes to rural tourism development (0.783). This study provides a better understanding of stakeholders about rural tourism development by focusing on information system quality, information quality, local government policies, and local community engagement The study indicates that information system quality and local community engagement can be valuable indicators for boosting rural tourism development and improving tourist satisfaction.

South-South cooperation and food security: Evidence from Chinese agricultural technology demonstration Center in Africa

Using the Chinese Agriculture Technology Demonstration Center (ATDC) in Africa as a quasi-natural experiment, we examine the causal impacts of China’s aid on crop production in Africa. The data pertain to African country-by-crop panel data from 2000 to 2018. Leveraging the triple difference-in-differences method, we find that the ATDC leads to increased crop production and improved trade dependence. The positive effects are more pronounced for free-standing technical support and ATDCs operated by state-owned enterprises. Lastly, the ATDC has profound implications for local agriculture and rural development.

How do municipal strategies work in rural development: A critical realist case study

Municipal strategies are important for rural localities, as from a governance perspective they pool resources and bring actors together in cooperation. For Finnish municipalities, the strategy is statutory, making it a potential tool in rural governance. Based on a political ethnographic case study in Finland, we ask: How do municipal strategies act as a means of rural development and what are the main obstacles and incentives in this endeavour? Applying critical realism, the research examines the causality of three mechanisms in municipal strategy work: the conception of rural potential, leadership and the municipal economy. Our study indicates that municipalities' development measures treat rural areas selectively, and villages do not yet appear as key agents in municipal strategy work. Strategy processes rest mostly on local leaders and rural development is restricted by the scarcity of municipal financial resources. To strengthen the role of municipalities in rural governance, greater strategic importance should be given to rural areas and their communities, and the strategy work in a municipality should be generally stabilised.

Public Perception on the Level of Effectiveness of Climate Change Communication Channels in Ghana: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Climate change communication remains a vital issue globally in view of the increasing concerns on the adverse impacts of climate change. Using a total of 327 Ghanaians, this research investigated public perception on the level of effectiveness of climate change communication channels in the country. Simple random and convenience sampling methods were employed to select respondents who filled a set of questionnaires. In analyzing the data, cross tabulation, means, standard deviations, Mann-Whitney U test and Kruskal Wallis test were employed. Though many respondents believed climate change is already harming local communities, they were dissatisfied with the existing institutional, legal and regulatory frameworks for addressing climate change impacts. Also, the respondents believed that local authorities, the media and political officeholders were not actively addressing climate change impacts. Radio, television, and social media platforms were perceived as generally effective climate change communication channels in Ghana. However, respondents were lowly satisfied with the overall level of effectiveness of climate change communication channels in the country. Significant differences existed in the views of respondents on the effectiveness of climate change communication channels used in Ghana based on gender (Z score=-2.022, P<0.5). Similarly, there were significant differences in the views of respondents on the effectiveness of climate change communication channels and their level of education (X2 =23.763, P<0.05). The Ministry of Environment, Science and Innovation should team up with the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, and the Ministry of Information to develop a more comprehensive program aimed at promoting behavior and social change towards climate change adaptation and mitigation. The Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies should liaise with community radios to come up with measures to promote the use of climate change communication channels based on the unique demographic characteristics and socio-cultural contexts of target audience.

Economic and Social Factors' Impact on Desa Kebun Kelapa's Financial Performance

This case study examines the influence of economic and social components on village financial performance. At the village level, economic and social factors are two important components that can influence financial welfare and efficiency. In this context, this research focuses on villages in areas inhabited kebun kelapa village. Quantitative analysis is used for both primary and secondary data. Primary data was collected through direct interviews with the head, treasurer and other related staff in the village. Secondary data consists of village financial documents and relevant economic statistics. Multiple linear regression was used to analyze data to determine the influence of economic and social factors on cooperative performance. These results can provide a better understanding of how economic and societal factors influence village financial performance. They can also provide policy recommendations that can help villages with coconut plantations improve their economic performance. In terms of local resource management and rural development, this research is very important.

An Analysis of Local Government Financial Autonomy as the Bedrock to National Development (Case Study of Bauchi Local Government)

This study analyzes the link between local government financial autonomy and rural development. The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of local government financial autonomy on rural development and the extent at which poor capital funding has affected the fate of rural development the empirical evidence from Bauchi Local Government of Bauchi state. The research utilizes both primary and secondary data, the primary data were collected through questionnaire and interview. The sample technique use in this work is the Taro Yamane sample derivation. The work employed descriptive statistics using ordinary least square in SPSS to analyze the hypothesis in order to achieve the objectives of the study. The study finds out that there is a negative effect of poor capital funding on the lives of the local populace. Hence, the study concludes that the local governments need financial autonomy in order to be able to perform theft administrative duties

An Exploration of the Link Between Civic Engagement and Community Development in Lusaka District Zambia

In a democratic nation like Zambia, Civic engagement is expected to improve the wellbeing of the people in the community. Given the expected outcome of Civic engagement, this article explored the link between Civic engagement and community development in Lusaka district, Zambia. The study rids on case study design to generate evidence on the link between civic engagement and community development. The objective of this article was to explore the link between civic engagement and community development. Data was generated from a total sample of 23 participants. Finding of this research were that civic engagement act as a reflection of citizen’s ownership of community development, interface in solving community problems and facilitator in preferential option for those in absolute poverty. Findings also revealed that civic engagement helps to strengthen national governance. Therefore, this article concludes that in order to make democracy a reality and meaningful, civic life should result into community transformation. The article recommends that there is need for Ministry of local government and rural development to enhance and create more structures were citizens can interface more often with civic leaders.

Sustainable Rural Development through Local Cultural Heritage Capitalization—Analyzing the Cultural Tourism Potential in Rural Romanian Areas: A Case Study of Hărman Commune of Brașov Region in Romania

This paper explores the issues connected between rural sustainable development in formerly state-socialist countries and the local cultural heritage of rural areas. It pays specific attention to the potential of cultural tourism which can enhance local rural development. This paper is a case study of the Hărman commune, and this area is investigated in depth. It is one of the most important rural and cultural areas located in Brașov County of Romania, a country with an impressive cultural heritage concentrated in its rural areas. The study uses a mixed-method analysis combining quantitative and qualitative research (focus groups, interviews, oral histories, and personal conversions), participatory ethnographic observation, and logical framework analysis (LFA). The main findings of the study illustrate that the Hărman commune has an important cultural heritage which could be more capitalized on in the future through the lens of cultural tourism to ensure local sustainability and to open up new perspectives in terms of local development, connecting rural and cultural tourism with other economic activities. Furthermore, the main findings of this study represent, beyond an informative platform for the local actors in rural development, an inspiring instrument that could frame new policies in local rural sustainable development and fertile backgrounds for new debates in local rural sustainability, enriching local agendas on rural sustainable development through cultural heritage capitalization and cultural tourism.

LA MULTIFUNCIONALIDAD DE LAS ORGANIZACIONES ASOCIATIVAS RURALES

<p><strong>Background</strong>. Rural associative organizations (RAOs) have been considered as key actors for rural and agricultural development. In fact, the RAOs are characterized by their flexibility, since they can perform various functions in rural territories that can be economic, productive, political, social and environmental. <strong>Objective. </strong>This study used a literature review in order to determine the multifunctionality of RAOs based on the typification of organizational models, through a qualitative process of grouping categories and variables, in order to enrich theoretical conceptualization and future research analysis. <strong>Methodology</strong>. A systematic study of the literature was carried out in the global databases: ScienceDirect, Elsevier, EBSCO, SCOPUS, Springer, Wiley and Google Scholar, Scielo and REDALYC, using as key search terms in both Spanish and English: rural associativity, associativity rural cooperative, rural associative enterprises, dimensions of associativity, agrarian associations, associative forms and family farming, associativity and public policies, producer organizations, associativity and chains. <strong>Results. </strong>The study made it possible to determine four multifunctional models of RAOs: (i) Associative model as an intermediary in innovation; (ii) Rural agribusiness associative model; (iii) Associative model promoting leadership and empowerment; (iv) Associative model for local agri-food supply. <strong>Implications</strong>. The RAOs models proposed in this study are framed within key strategic functions that can be used to promote associativity in relation to the specific needs of the territories. This has implications for public policy at the local and micro-regional level. <strong>Conclusions</strong>. Despite the existence of extensive contributions on rural associativity generating various study frameworks, the state of the art and systematic and critical analysis allowed the grouping of four multifunctional models of RAOs. Each associative model pursues different purposes that, of course, can be transversal, but which are limited to specific strategic functions to promote different initiatives in the context of local rural development, as well as for the design of public policies with a territorial approach, within the framework of the availability of association capabilities and public-private institutions.<strong></strong></p>

Endangered indigenous knowledge: Assessing locally adopted tree conservation practices in Aleta Wondo district, Sidama regional state, Ethiopia

Environmental quality cannot be maintained unless locally adopted indigenous knowledge of environmental conservation practices is duly considered. This study is, therefore, aimed to assess major indigenous practices and threats of indigenous tree conservation practices of Sidama people particularly focusing on Aleta Wondo district. It was also intended to investigating the factors influencing the continuity of practices in the vicinity. In order to collect the data, the local elders and rural development work agents were consulted as primary data sources. Both published and unpublished materials such as documents, journals, articles, books and official reports were accessed as secondary data sources. The research was conducted primarily by employing qualitative methods both for data collection and analysis. Based on the collected data, the major indigenous tree conservation practices in the study area include the places like kakkalo site, grave yard, sacred site, Gudumale and agro-forestry in the farm garden. It has also been identified that indigenous practices of conserving larger trees is declining due to the influences of religion, increasing living cost, education system and population growth. Moreover, no significant intervention was found exercised to tackle the problem. As a result, it is recommended that such locally adopted conservation practices should be addressed effectively in formulation and implementation of nationwide policies and strategies.

Unearthing Elements Associated with Electoral Violence in Kanyama Constituency of Lusaka District, Zambia

This study explored elements associated with electoral violence in Kanyama Constituency of Lusaka District, Zambia. The study rids on case study design which was employed on a targeted population that comprised 28 participants. The data were generated through interviews and document review. The main findings of this research were that electoral violence was associated with low socio-economic status, hunger for power, political immaturity and cadreism, selectivity in the application of the law by the law enforcement agencies, low education background and ethnicity. Further, the study found that high population density coupled with bad road network was difficult to police during election period. Therefore, this study concludes that electoral violence impacts the electoral process negatively as electorates are subjected to exercise their political rights under hostile conditions. Thus, among others, it is recommended that the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development should speed up the process of creation and enhancing of youth skills training centers so as to help them acquire necessary surviving skills in lower income Constituencies as youths were cited to be perpetrators of violence due to them being exposed to poverty and high levels of unemployment.

ANÁLISE DA COMPRA DE ALIMENTOS DA AGRICULTURA FAMILIAR PELO PROGRAMA DE ALIMENTAÇÃO ESCOLAR

Introduction: The correct execution of the National School Feeding Program can constitute an opportunity for articulation between family farming and the agricultural, economic and social development of the region, in this sense the objective of this study is to analyze the execution of the PNAE regarding the purchase of food from family farming. Method: Cross-sectional study developed from secondary data in the public domain. Data were collected from 75 Brazilian municipalities spread across the five regions of the country regarding the management of the PNAE in 2019. To evaluate the purchase, the reference of a minimum of 30% of the resources transferred by the FNDE was used, as recommended in Law No. 11,947/2009. Results: 21% of the analyzed municipalities failed to reach the minimum of 30%, the South was more prominent in the scope of this legal device and the northeast region leads the inadequacies, the large municipalities were the ones that most distanced themselves from the analyzed normative apparatus, the unfeasibility of regular and constant supply of foodstuffs was the justification that stood out for the non-compliance of 30% and most municipalities made a public call. Final considerations: Although there is a list of challenges and obstacles for the management of the PNAE not to materialize the recommendations of the legislation, there is a scenario of positive and successful results both for family farming and for local rural development and for achieving the objectives from the program.

Research on Rural Leaders, High-Stability Agriculture and Collective Economy as the Path Choice of Rural Revitalization: Practical Exploration Based on Local Rural Development

Purpose - This paper aims to seek the specific path of rural revitalization from the practical experience of local rural development in China. Design/Methodology/Approach - Using the case study method, the authors selected some representative villages in the process of rural social development in China, such as Xiaogang village in Anhui province, Dazhai village in Shanxi province and Liuzhuang village in Henan province, as the main analysis cases, at the same time, the author uses Huaxi Village, Yunnan Dayingjie, Henan Nanjie, Hebei Zhoujiazhuang and Zhejiang Tengtou village as supplementary materials to extract the paths of rural revitalization at the present stage through the analysis and comparison of the main cases. Findings - This article found that rural leaders, high-yield and stable agriculture, and the collective economy as a rural revitalization of the “Troika” is the Absolute way to achieve rural revival. Research Implications - Based on China’s local development, this paper summed up the experience and lessons of local development can better explore the new era of rural revitalization path.