How non-research investments affect research impact: the case of maize technology adoption in southern Mali

Addresses two key questions: (1) what is the profitability, or rate of return (ROR), to investments in maize research and diffusion at the farm and national levels; and (2) what factors have encouraged and constrained the impact of maize investments?

Found that the adoption of the improved maize package was particularly rapid during the period 1980-86, when an attractive guaranteed price was offered and extension activities were reinforced by a maize project that included the establishment of a seed multiplication program. Whilst this was effective in terms of boosting adoption rates, it was not financially sustainable. When the subsidy was removed, farmers switched back to other varieties, more suitable for direct food-security needs.

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