The Centre for Development Innovation (CDI) is an interdisciplinary and internationally focused unit of Wageningen University & Research centre.  The Centre works on processes of innovation and change through facilitating innovation, brokering knowledge and supporting capacity development. We help to link Wageningen UR’s expertise to the global challenges of sustainable and equitable development.  CDI works to inspire new forms of learning and collaboration between citizens, governments, businesses, NGOs and the scientific community. read more

Wide-scale commercialization of smallholder farming is foreseen to be a predominant source for agricultural growth in Ethiopia. The prevailing ‘hybrid maize model’ for private sector development is considered by some to be most appropriate in realizing African food security. However, contemporary lessons reveal the limitations of this linear model in the context of complex and robust agricultural systems in Africa. Integrated Seed Sector Development (ISSD) appreciates the unique challenges faced by a sector rich in diversity. The objective of the ISSD programme is to strengthen the development of a vibrant, commercial and pluralistic seed sector in Ethiopia. read more

Growing palm oil business and its consequences
Nearly 40% of all vegetable oil traded worldwide is palm oil. It is widely used in food, cosmetics, industry and as a biofuel. Already the world’s dominant oil, the demand is set to grow dramatically over the coming years, especially from China and India. Most palm oil is produced in tropical areas using land that was once rainforest. The ecological implications are significant, and there are also severe negative consequences for local and indigenous communities. This multi-stakeholder issue thus is fraught with power and conflict issues from local level right through to global level. read more