MAASP has been collecting data through AKIS (Agricultural Knowledge and Information System) during the first phase of the project. Due to the need to assist NEA staff in identifying the farming systems and communication pattern in each municipality in which they work, MAASP undertook a training activity to expand and develop the overall AKIS activities through the PRA (Participatory Rural Appraisal) methodology. This methodology includes knowledge on activities to appraise farming systems of the municipalities for crops, labour and money through using different tools.
This process was divided in three phases. Phase I consisted of passing core PRA knowledge and tools to a number of NEA advisors and MAASP local organizers on a three-day workshop. From the various PRA tools the following were practiced during the training:
• Farming System Mapping,
• Seasonal Calendar,
• Key Informant Interviews,
• Transect walks,
• Community Timeline Mapping,
• Focus Group Discussions.
Phase II started by participants carrying out a Pilot practical application of the six PRA tools in five villages (supported by LOs). During this period they communicated the response and challenges from the field to MAASP and received continuous support and guidance in return. Based on the information gathered from the field, the application of the PRA tools was reviewed and their effectiveness was evaluated at the two-day reinforcement workshop that followed. The workshop was designed to assess the application of PRA skills for applying the six PRA tools and to provide the participants with additional knowledge, experience and means to strengthen these skills in collecting data and information about farming systems by sharing the best practices from the field.
Participants will use these skills in Phase III in 2009 when they cascade the PRA tools knowledge and skills to the NEA staff within their regions under mentorship of MAASP. At the end of this phase every NEA dispersed office will have a map of the farming system, seasonal map, matrix of the communication system and notes on interviewing key informants on different priority topics. This data will then be used to assist in the planning of projects for year 2009.
| Client: | MAASP | | Origin of funding: | SIDA | | Date: | July 2008– December 2008 | | Partners: | None | | Types of Services Provided: | Preparation and Delivery of training on PRA Methodology; Feedback and Support during the pilot implementation; Reinforce the knowledge; Mentoring, monitoring and evaluation. | |
