Role Of Partners Research Articles

Growing the global cancer care system: success stories from around the world and lessons for the future.

Despite major biomedical advancements in various realms of oncology, the benefits of these developments are not equitably distributed, particularly in underresourced settings. Although much work has described the challenges and systemic barriers in global cancer control, in this article we focus on success stories. This article describes clinical care delivered at Rwanda's Butaro Cancer Center of Excellence, the cancer research collaborations under India's National Cancer Grid, and the efforts of Latin America's Institute of Cancer of São Paulo in advancing cancer care and training. These examples highlight the potential of strategic collaborations and resource allocation strategies in improving cancer care globally. We emphasize the critical role of partnerships between physicians and allied health professionals, funders, and policy makers in enhancing access to treatment and infrastructure, advancing contextualized research and national guidelines, and establishing regional and global collaborations. We also draw attention to challenges faced in diverse global settings and outline benchmarks to measure success in the fight against cancer.

Influence of tree mycorrhizal type, tree species identity, and diversity on forest root-associated mycobiomes.

Understanding the complex interactions between trees and fungi is crucial for forest ecosystem management, yet the influence of tree mycorrhizal types, species identity, and diversity on tree-tree interactions and their root-associated fungal communities remains poorly understood. Our study addresses this gap by investigating root-associated fungal communities of different arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) and ectomycorrhizal (EcM) tree species pairs (TSPs) in a subtropical tree diversity experiment, spanning monospecific, two-species, and multi-species mixtures, utilizing Illumina sequencing of the ITS2 region. The study reveals that tree mycorrhizal type significantly impacts the alpha diversity of root-associated fungi in monospecific stands. Meanwhile, tree species identity's influence is modulated by overall tree diversity. Tree-related variables and spatial distance emerged as major drivers of variations in fungal community composition. Notably, in multi-species mixtures, compositional differences between root fungal communities of AM and EcM trees diminish, indicating a convergence of fungal communities irrespective of mycorrhizal type. Interestingly, dual mycorrhizal fungal communities were observed in these multi-species mixtures. This research underscores the pivotal role of mycorrhizal partnerships and the interplay of biotic and abiotic factors in shaping root fungal communities, particularly in varied tree diversity settings, and its implications for effective forest management and biodiversity conservation.

The Process of Internationalization of Universities and its Impact on Student’s Decision Making

As higher education institutions increasingly embrace a global outlook, this study aims to explore the complexities of internationalization and provide insights into how it shapes students' choices when selecting universities. The research seeks to contribute to an understanding of the interplay between university internationalization and student decision-making. The research initiates with an exploration of the internationalization process within universities, examining the motivations, strategies, and challenges faced by institutions as they navigate the global landscape. A central focus of this study is the examination of how the internationalization of universities influences the decision-making criteria of students. It also considers the role of global rankings, institutional reputation, and cross-border partnerships in shaping students' choices within an internationalized higher education framework. Received: 25 December 2023 / Accepted: 25 February 2024 / Published: 23 April 2024

Associations Between Stress, Health Behaviors, and Quality of Life in Young Couples During the Transition to Survivorship: Protocol for a Measurement Burst Study.

Cancer is a life-threatening, stressful event, particularly for young adults due to delays and disruptions in their developmental transitions. Cancer treatment can also cause adverse long-term effects, chronic conditions, psychological issues, and decreased quality of life (QoL) among young adults. Despite numerous health benefits of health behaviors (eg, physical activity, healthy eating, no smoking, no alcohol use, and quality sleep), young adult cancer survivors report poor health behavior profiles. Determining the associations of stress (either cancer-specific or day-to-day stress), health behaviors, and QoL as young adult survivors transition to survivorship is key to understanding and enhancing these survivors' health. It is also crucial to note that the effects of stress on health behaviors and QoL may manifest on a shorter time scale (eg, daily within-person level). Moreover, given that stress spills over into romantic relationships, it is important to identify the role of spouses or partners (hereafter partners) in these survivors' health behaviors and QoL. This study aims to investigate associations between stress, health behaviors, and QoL at both within- and between-person levels during the transition to survivorship in young adult cancer survivors and their partners, to identify the extent to which young adult survivors' and their partners' stress facilitates or hinders their own and each other's health behaviors and QoL. We aim to enroll 150 young adults (aged 25-39 years at the time of cancer diagnosis) who have recently completed cancer treatment, along with their partners. We will conduct a prospective longitudinal study using a measurement burst design. Participants (ie, survivors and their partners) will complete a daily web-based survey for 7 consecutive days (a "burst") 9 times over 2 years, with the bursts spaced 3 months apart. Participants will self-report their stress, health behaviors, and QoL. Additionally, participants will be asked to wear an accelerometer to assess their physical activity and sleep during the burst period. Finally, dietary intake (24-hour diet recalls) will be assessed during each burst via telephone by research staff. Participant enrollment began in January 2022. Recruitment and data collection are expected to conclude by December 2024 and December 2026, respectively. To the best of our knowledge, this will be the first study that determines the interdependence of health behaviors and QoL of young adult cancer survivors and their partners at both within- and between-person levels. This study is unique in its focus on the transition to cancer survivorship and its use of a measurement burst design. Results will guide the creation of a developmentally appropriate dyadic psychosocial or behavioral intervention that improves both young adult survivors' and their partners' health behaviors and QoL and potentially their physical health. DERR1-10.2196/53307.

Cultivating Empathy and Environmental Stewardship: Harnessing the Partnerships of Parents, Teachers and Communities for Sustainable Moral Development and Social Cohesion

Objective: This study aims to delve into how integrating the Islamic principle of Rahmatan Lil Alamin with the concept of empathy development can, through the collective efforts of parents, teachers, and communities, nurture empathy and environmental stewardship. This synergy aims at fostering sustainable moral development and social cohesion. Theoretical framework: Grounded in the Islamic principle of Rahmatan Lil Alamin, which advocates for mercy, love, and benevolence towards all creation, including our planet, this study intertwines this principle with the concept of empathy development. This emphasizes compassion and understanding between people and towards the environment. Drawing on theories of moral development, social cohesion, and environmental education, this framework seeks to explore the interconnectedness of these concepts within the study. Method: Employing a systematic literature review, this paper aims to establish a theoretical base and identify gaps within existing research on this subject. Results and conclusion: Anticipated findings suggest that the integration of Rahmatan Lil Alamin and empathy development into environmental management and education could highlight the crucial role of collaborative partnerships among parents, teachers, and communities. This collaboration is expected to foster a culture of environmental stewardship. The study's conclusion is poised to showcase how such an integrated approach can contribute to nurturing a culture that values stewardship of the environment. Implications of the research: The study has significant implications for environmental management, education, and social policy. Demonstrating the integration of Rahmatan Lil Alamin with empathy development could lead to more inclusive educational approaches to environmental stewardship, benefiting educators and practitioners alike. Originality/value: The distinctiveness of this study lies in its interdisciplinary approach, linking Islamic principles and empathy with environmental education and management. By showcasing how integration can lead to sustainable moral development and meet sustainability goals, the paper offers valuable insights for educational practitioners and policymakers worldwide.

Implementing a stakeholder capitalism approach through values-based leadership: case studies in the private, nonprofit and educational sectors

Purpose Stakeholder capitalism has gained attention among business practitioners and academia, often discussed within the context of corporate social responsibility, ethical practices and values-based leadership. Many societal institutions, including businesses and higher education institutions, have a role to play in the transition toward stakeholder capitalism. This study aims to discuss insights gained from a multiyear research and pedagogical project coordinated among a group of academics and an Israel-based holding company to study the implementation of a values-based leadership process focused on establishing a stakeholder-oriented model in a variety of organizations. Design/methodology/approach Conducted over a decadal period, this project relied on a qualitative case study methodology. The project was conceived as an exploratory and inductive study examining organizations that implemented a values-based leadership model and a university that used this model for curriculum and pedagogy. Semi-structured interviews, observations of leadership practices and operations, and substantive reviews of organizational documents informed the study’s iterative methodology. Findings The case studies presented explore the benefits of a stakeholder capitalism and values-based leadership transformation in organizations and highlight the importance of senior leadership engagement at the outset to set the tone and direction of implementation while also role modeling values-based behaviors for the organization. The utility of aligning the new values-based approach with existing elements of the organizational culture and priorities was also identified in addition to the benefit of individuals linking the new values initiative to their personal values and life. These practices, and a broader stakeholder dialogue on values, helped establish a transition that was inclusive within the organizational hierarchy and in its connections to the larger society. The cases also explored how stakeholder principles and values-based leadership models can be integrated into management education based on the outcomes of the organizational investigations. Originality/value These case studies offer insight into the implementation of a values-based leadership framework, which draws on stakeholder theory, in diverse organizations across a for-profit to non-profit spectrum. These studies also provide a unique opportunity to evaluate the implementation of a common values framework in different sectors. The cases further highlight the potential role of business-education sectoral partnerships in educating a workforce that is dedicated to business for good.

Development of a Community-Based Communication Intervention among Latin Caregivers of Patients Coping with Cancer.

Background: Cancer affects the emotional well-being of patients and caregivers, highlighting the need for effective communication strategies. This study explores a community-based communication intervention for Latino caregiver-patient dyads coping with cancer. The acceptability of the intervention, along with its associated facilitators and barriers, are crucial considerations. Methods: Three focus group interviews involved healthcare providers, community partners, patients, and caregivers to discuss the communication needs of this population and the components of a communication intervention while identifying facilitators and barriers to the intervention. Qualitative thematic content analysis was conducted using Nvivo v12, ensuring reliability through independent analysis and consensus building. Results: Participants (89% female, average age of 53) included patients (30%), caregivers (30%), community partners (25%), and healthcare providers (15%), and they discussed the overall acceptability of adapting a communication intervention, where they emphasized benefits for caregivers and patients, primarily through support groups. Communication strategies accepted by participants include psychological support, cancer education, assertive communication skills, and methods for improved interactions with healthcare providers and extended family. Conclusions: Participants' responses align with the current literature, emphasizing problem-solving, mutual support, and communication strategies and underscoring the role of community partners. The study underlines the necessity for culturally tailored communication interventions for Latino families facing cancer.

Towards sustainable mangrove-shrimp aquaculture through capacity building and partnership in the Mekong River Delta

Vietnam, the world’s third-largest shrimp producer, witnessed a surge in shrimp farming when rice fields were converted into ponds, aiming to alleviate poverty in the Mekong River Delta (MRD). However, this growth significantly contributed to the decline of mangrove forests, as indicated by empirical and geospatial data. Local authorities have encouraged the application of “International Principles” to promote sustainable mangrove-shrimp aquaculture in MRD provinces. Tra Vinh, a province with a high rate of mangrove-shrimp farming, faces challenges in applying international standards, particularly for small-scale farmers. Understanding the circumstances in Tra Vinh is crucial not only for local farmers but also for stakeholders in the region. An in-depth review, local needs assessment, and a capacity-building program centred on the Asian Seafood Improvement Collaborative (ASIC) standards were conducted in Tra Vinh. The findings suggest that adhering to ecological/organic shrimp farming based on international standards is the right direction for local shrimp farmers. However, increased awareness alone does not guarantee a shift from traditional to internationally certified sustainable shrimp farming. The study highlights the role of private-private partnerships (PPPs) in facilitating the transition to sustainable mangrove-shrimp farming, emphasising that sustainable practices in the MRD are essential for household income, mangrove forest protection, environmental conservation, and climate resilience.

Smart Cities and Smart Supply Chain: Integration for Sustainable Urban Development.

As urbanization accelerates globally, the concept of smart cities emerges as a promising solution to address the multifaceted challenges of sustainable urban development. Smart cities leverage advanced technologies to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and quality of life for their residents. Concurrently, the evolution of supply chain management towards smart supply chains has gained traction, driven by the imperative of optimizing logistics, minimizing waste, and enhancing resilience. This paper explores the integration of smart cities and smart supply chains as a holistic approach to foster sustainable urban development. The integration of smart cities and smart supply chains presents a symbiotic relationship wherein advancements in one domain catalyze improvements in the other. Smart cities rely on seamless and efficient supply chain operations to ensure the smooth flow of goods and services, essential for meeting the needs of urban inhabitants. [1],[2] Conversely, smart supply chains benefit from the data-rich environment and infrastructure of smart cities to optimize routing, inventory management, and last-mile delivery, thereby reducing environmental impact and enhancing overall efficiency. Key components of this integration include the utilization of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, big data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and blockchain technology to enable real-time monitoring, predictive analytics, and transparent, secure transactions throughout the urban supply chain. By harnessing these technologies, cities can achieve significant improvements in resource utilization, energy efficiency, and carbon footprint reduction. Furthermore, the paper examines the role of public-private partnerships (PPPs) and regulatory frameworks in facilitating the integration of smart cities and smart supply chains. Collaborative efforts between government entities, industry stakeholders, and technology providers are essential to overcome barriers such as data privacy concerns, interoperability challenges, and investment constraints. In conclusion, the integration of smart cities and smart supply chains represents a promising pathway towards achieving the goals of sustainability, resilience, and prosperity in urban environments. By embracing innovative technologies and fostering collaboration, cities can pave the way for a more efficient, equitable, and environmentally conscious future.

Analysing the Role of Public-private Partnership in Road and Highways in India

Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) in Indian roadways represent the worlds' largest program of private sector investment in road development and operations. PPPs in roadways in India developed between 2000-2020 account for a total length of 144,070 kilometers and amount to investments more than ₹2,575 billion . As a crucial element in the nation’s infrastructure, the road network plays a critical role in fostering economic activities, trade, and connectivity. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are strategic collaboration between public and private organizations that are designed to improve efficiency, generate resources, and eliminate impediments in the creation and maintenance of infrastructure. The study starts by emphasizing the significance of PPPs in the Indian context. It then examines various PPP models, their functions, and evaluates their effectiveness, focusing particularly on India's road and highways sector. As the research unfolds, it scrupulously analyses the current status of road infrastructure in India. The paper sails through success and failure stories, aiming to extract valuable lessons and insights. The paper concludes by assessing the overall success of PPPs in contributing to the development of Indian roads, offering insights for future policy decisions and implementation strategies.

УПРАВЛІННЯ ВЕНЧУРНИМ ФОНДОМ В КОНТЕКСТІ МІЖНАРОДНОГО ПАРТНЕРСТВА

Formulation of the problem. In today's globalized world, venture capital plays a key role in stimulating innovation and the development of new technologies. The growing importance of venture financing draws attention to the management of venture funds, especially in the context of international partnerships. However, despite the potential benefits of international cooperation, there are numerous challenges that make it difficult to effectively manage venture capital funds in such an environment. The purpose of the article is to study modern approaches and strategies of venture fund management in the context of international partnership with the aim of identifying key factors that affect the success of investment projects, consideration of challenges and opportunities arising from cooperation between different countries and regions, determination of optimal approaches to effective management of venture capital assets in the international environment. The object of the study is the key factors affecting the success of investment projects in the international venture environment, as well as practical recommendations for fund managers, investors and regulators in order to improve venture capital management strategies and increase the competitiveness of international investment projects. The methodological basis of the research was the logical methods of information processing, statistical analysis, comparison. The main hypothesis of the study is that there is a direct relationship between the degree of success of venture fund management and the level of cooperation and mutual understanding between partners from different countries and regions. In addition, it is assumed that the implementation of optimal management strategies aimed at maximizing the potential opportunities of international partnership and reducing risks will allow to increase the effectiveness of venture investments on an international scale. Presenting main material. The role of international partnership in venture investing is studied through the analysis of the impact of international partnership on the development of the venture market and the determination of the challenges of managing a venture fund in an international context. The importance of global pooling of resources and expertise for investing in promising startups and technological projects has been proven. The problems of cultural and legal differences between the partner countries are characterized. Strategies for managing venture assets in an international environment are proposed. Originality and practical significance of the research. The study provides an original perspective on venture fund management, considered in the context of international partnerships. The proposed approach allows taking into account cultural, legal and economic differences between partner countries. The given recommendations can be used by fund managers to improve strategies for managing venture assets in the context of international partnerships. Investors will receive information on the key factors and risks associated with international venture investing, which will help them make more informed decisions about the allocation of their investments. Conclusions. The study shows that successful management of a venture fund requires not only technical competence, but also the ability to work effectively in international cooperation and take into account the specific features of different markets. Recommendations are given on optimizing management strategies and reducing risks to achieve successful investment results in international venture business.

Evaluating Local Government Policy Innovations: A Case Study of Surabaya's Efforts in Combating Stunting and Enhancing Public Health Services Quality

This research aims to evaluate regional innovations in implementing Surabaya City government policies to reduce stunting rates and improve the quality of public health services. A qualitative descriptive method was used with a case study approach involving field observations and structured interviews. The research results show the success of Posyandu Prima in reducing stunting rates significantly in the last two years. The Surabaya City Government has proven effective in managing this program's human resources and budget. The active involvement of Great Surabaya Cadres (KSH) and non-governmental organizations also contributed greatly to the program's success. Cross-sector collaboration plays an important role in supporting implementation. Institutional characteristics, such as commitment to public health and ability to collaborate, also matter. Theoretically, this research shows that synergy between the parties involved and government commitment can achieve significant results in handling the stunting problem. In conclusion, the Prima Posyandu Program has proven successful in reducing stunting rates and improving the quality of public health services in Surabaya. Additionally, the collaborative efforts between community stakeholders, healthcare providers, and governmental bodies underscore the crucial role of multi-sectoral partnerships in addressing complex public health issues like stunting. This synergy fosters comprehensive approaches that combine local knowledge, resources, and policy support to effectively combat stunting and enhance the well-being of communities. Thus, the Prima Posyandu Program's success is a compelling example of how concerted action and sustained commitment can yield tangible improvements in population health outcomes.

The role of microbial partners in heavy metal metabolism in plants: a review.

Heavy metal pollution threatens plant growth and development as well as ecological stability. Here, we synthesize current research on the interplay between plants and their microbial symbionts under heavy metal stress, highlighting the mechanisms employed by microbes to enhance plant tolerance and resilience. Several key strategies such as bioavailability alteration, chelation, detoxification, induced systemic tolerance, horizontal gene transfer, and methylation and demethylation, are examined, alongside the genetic and molecular basis governing these plant-microbe interactions. However, the complexity of plant-microbe interactions, coupled with our limited understanding of the associated mechanisms, presents challenges in their practical application. Thus, this review underscores the necessity of a more detailed understanding of how plants and microbes interact and the importance of using a combined approach from different scientific fields to maximize the benefits of these microbial processes. By advancing our knowledge of plant-microbe synergies in the metabolism of heavy metals, we can develop more effective bioremediation strategies to combat the contamination of soil by heavy metals.

Readers, Writers, and Everything in Between: Considering Co-Creative Relationships on Digital Storytelling Platform

This paper uses the notion of the empowered reader in hypertext to think about the role of readers and creative partners in constructing art and digital storytelling. Using the Indian digital storytelling platform 'Voices of Rural India' as a field site, this research considers the role of the fan and other facilitators of digital storytelling as being central to the production process. While there has been argument for including the work of fans as a form of labor, I argue instead for calling this a co-creative partnership, in the vein of Banks and Humphrey (2008). In doing so, I resist the urge to label all forms of production as labor and consider instead the fruits this creative relationship may bear. This paper also looks closely at the idea of volunteerism in the context of Voices of Rural India and the ways in which volunteer work can become a form of unpaid labor in the context of digital storytelling. Overall, this paper seeks to empower the practice of reading and argue for its necessity and worth in the wider infrastructure of digital storytelling and creative production, while also promoting the notion of creative partnership and shared storytelling.

Insights and recommendations for working collaboratively and improving care in Alzheimer's disease: Learnings from the Finding Alzheimer's Solutions Together (F.A.S.T.) Council.

Collaborations between patient organisations (POs) and the pharmaceutical industry can help identify and address the unmet needs of people living with a disease. In Alzheimer's disease (AD), the scale and complexity of the current unmet needs call for a broad and cross-sectoral collaboration, including people living with Alzheimer's(PLWA), their care partnersand the wider research community. This study aimed to describe learnings from the Finding Alzheimer's Solutions Together (F.A.S.T.) Council, a collaboration between POs and Roche, convened to better understand the unmet needs of PLWA and their care partners. 1. Learnings from the collaboration, including clarifying objectives and members' expectations upfront, and establishing a set of guiding values and engagement principles. 2. Insights and recommendations for improving care in AD, including a wide range of unmet needs and potential solutions, systematically captured throughout the PLWA journey. These have resulted in several published reports and other outcomes, including (1) 'Portraits of care', highlighting the role of care partners, and the impact of coronavirus disease 2019 on care; (2) Clinical trial guidebook, recommending how PLWA and care partner experience can be incorporated into trial design; (3) 'Commitments Catalogue', highlighting progress by governmental organisations in achieving their commitments; and (4) a report to guide policy on improving diversity, equity and inclusion in clinical trials. Close collaboration between POs and the pharmaceutical industry in AD can enable effective research, in which PLWA and care partners are engaged as 'experts through experience' to help identify key unmet needs and co-create solutions with the wider AD research community. This paper and the work undertaken by the F.A.S.T. Council may act as a blueprint for meaningful collaboration between POs and the pharmaceutical industry. The paper reports the collaboration between POs, the F.A.S.T. Counciland Roche to progress towards a future in which PLWA can live fulfilling lives with their disease managed well. Not applicable.

MODERNIZATION OF HIGHER EDUCATION SYSTEM MANAGEMENT: INNOVATIONS, CHALLENGES, AND OPPORTUNITIES

The modernization of higher education system management is an imperative process driven by rapid technological advancements, evolving pedagogical approaches, and the changing landscape of global education. This article explores the innovative strategies, challenges, and opportunities associated with the modernization of higher education system management. It discusses the adoption of digital technologies, data-driven decision-making, quality assurance mechanisms, and theimportance of fostering a culture of innovation and adaptability within higher education institutions. Furthermore, it examines the role of stakeholders, including policymakers, administrators, faculty, students, and industry partners, in shaping the future of higher education management.

Food Waste Reduction in Europe: Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships Lessons for the Global South.

Food waste is a critical global issue with significant environmental, economic, and social consequences. This paper investigates the efficacy of multi-stakeholder partnerships in addressing food waste, with a specific focus on lessons learned from initiatives taken in Europe for application in the Global South. This study uses qualitative research methods, that involves review of existing literatures and a case study analysis of the initiatives taken by the International Food Waste Coalition (IFWC). This study evaluates the impact of multi-stakeholder partnerships in food waste reduction efforts. Key themes such as collaboration, measurement, innovation, and policy advocacy emerge as critical factors in multi-stakeholder partnerships’ effectiveness. By examining the strategies and outcomes of the IFWC, this paper provides insights and recommendations applicable to regions facing similar challenges. The findings contribute to ongoing discussions on food waste management and sustainable development, emphasizing the pivotal role of multi-stakeholder partnerships in promoting collaboration between different stakeholders from different sectors all around the world and driving meaningful change on a global scale.

Exploring theoretical constructs of smart cities and ICT infrastructure: Comparative analysis of development strategies in Africa-US Urban areas

This review paper explores smart cities' theoretical constructs and comparative development strategies, focusing on the juxtaposition between African and US urban areas. It delves into the evolution of smart city concepts, highlighting how Information and Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure serves as the cornerstone for enhancing urban management and service delivery. Through a comparative analysis, the paper reveals divergent strategic approaches, innovation ecosystems, and the prioritization of sustainability and inclusivity in smart city initiatives across the two regions. It underscores the significance of tailoring smart city development to local contexts, ensuring equitable access to technology, and the pivotal role of public-private partnerships. The paper concludes with implications for urban planners, policymakers, and technology developers, suggesting future research directions to bridge existing gaps and address emerging smart city trends.

A Needs Assessment Approach for Adolescent and Young Adult Sexual and Gender Diverse Cancer Survivors.

Sexual and gender diverse (SGD) adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors are an increasing and vulnerable group with unique needs that often remain unmet in the healthcare system. This paper describes the conceptualization and development of a community-based organization dedicated to serving SGD AYAs, in addition to reporting on the results of a community-led needs assessment. A total of 56 SGD AYA community members completed the online survey. Most participants were between the ages of 26 to 33, identified as white, cisgender, bisexual women, and had hematologic malignancies. Identified unmet needs of SGD AYAs included the following: sexual health and family planning; gender affirmation; financial stability; and emotional support. Areas within the community organization were identified as gaps, areas of expansion, and assets. Results highlight the role of community and academic partnerships in improving cancer care delivery for SGD AYA cancer survivors.

Breaking ground: transformative partnerships for inclusive bean breeding in Zimbabwe

Common bean is often considered a woman’s crop because they play important roles from production to marketing. However, breeding programs often focus on farmers without adequate attention to the interconnectedness between gender and other socioeconomic variables and how they influence varietal and trait preferences of other value chain actors. This study analyzed gendered differences in bean production and trade, implications of socioeconomic conditions on bean production and marketing, and the role of partnerships in closing gender gaps in the bean value chain in Zimbabwe. The results obtained from the analysis of survey data collected from 131 farmers and 18 trades revealed beans as a dual-purpose crop for male and female farmers and traders. Varietal and trait preferences were the same for both male and female farmers and traders but were prioritized differently. While female farmers prioritized cooking time, men farmers prioritized biofortification and market traits. Whereas male traders equally preferred price, color, and appearance, female traders prioritized price over color and appearance. Poverty and marital statuses of respondents influenced the number of varieties preferred by male and female farmers. We found that the effectiveness of partnerships in closing gender gaps in marketing is variety specific. While having partners closed the gender gaps in the marketing of the NUA45 variety, such partnerships did not have the same effect on closing gender gaps in the marketing of Cherry, Gloria, and other varieties. The results show that considering socioeconomic characteristics of actors and partnerships can reduce gender disparities in the bean value chain. Therefore, breeding programs should recognize the interconnectedness between socioeconomic variables and gender when developing breeding products.