Policy Support to Establish a Digital Agricultural Information System for Climate-Resilient Food Security in Honduras

Project Summary:

The proposed KGGTF project aims to support the Government of Honduras (GoH) in developing a Digital Agricultural Information System. The GoH has shown a strong interest in developing a nationwide system to collect geospatial data combined with an agricultural database. This includes digital soil information, meteorological data, household data, crop cultivation data, and many others. Based on this digitized information platform, the GoH expects to provide more efficient agricultural extension services to its rural population, so that they can enhance food security and effectively respond to climate change. The government seeks collaboration with various donor countries and agencies, including the World Bank, USAID, USDA, IADB, GEF, CABEI, and more. 

List of Activities:

• Activity 1.1 Identify bottleneck and challenges in developing the system 

The study will identify existing data sources, assess data quality and accessibility, and identify any bottlenecks or challenges that hinder the effective use of agricultural information. This analysis will provide a comprehensive understanding of the strengths, weaknesses, and gaps in the current landscape, enabling informed decision-making during the development of the platform. Additionally, benchmarking studies of similar systems or platforms that consolidate agricultural information will be conducted. By studying existing successful models, best practices, and lessons learned from comparable platforms, valuable insights can be gained to inform the development of the consolidated platform. 

• Activity 1.2 Prepare a policy roadmap 

This activity involves developing a policy roadmap that outlines the strategic approach for the GoH to develop their consolidated agricultural information platform. The roadmap will be based on findings from Activity 1.1.  The roadmap will identify i) types of data to be collected, including GIS data, aerial imagery data, soil information (temperature, moisture, erosion, etc.), meteorological data, crop health, crop area and yields, pest management data, direct field measurements (soil testing, crop health assessments, area and yield components) and so on, ii) data collection methods, iii) strategies to effective utilization application of the data, iv) dissemination approach, v) other key considerations include regulation, data governance and stakeholder engagement.  

• Activity 1.3 Identify potential projects 

Following the research conducted through the project, potential projects by the GoH that align with project objectives will be identified. USAID and USDA have already expressed interest in investing in the information platform, presenting an opportunity for collaboration. The GoH will evaluate feasibility and seek impactful projects with sustainable outcomes. 

• Activity 1.4 Design the consolidated agricultural information platform 

Based on activities 1.1 and 1.2 a design proposal for a consolidated agricultural information platform will be developed. 

• Activity 2.1 Training and technical assistance 

Under this activity, officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (SAG) and the Honduras National Agricultural Information System (INFOAGRO) will receive comprehensive training and technical assistance. The training will be conducted by EPIS, a Korean state-owned institute specializing in agriculture-related projects, along with other relevant agencies and consulting firms associated with the project. This could be conducted mainly virtually, but also in-person combined with the workshop in Korea (Activity 3.2). The technical assistance will include following areas, but not limited to:  

-Understanding the agricultural information system and integrating it into policy-making processes. 

-Utilizing the collected data and effectively disseminating it to the public, ensuring accessibility and usability. 

• Activity 2.2 Conduct a Workshop 

An international workshop will be conducted, ideally in Korea. In particular, the workshop will provide policymakers and stakeholders with an opportunity to enhance their understanding of developing digital agriculture information system and engage in discussions regarding policy-level implications. EPIS will also facilitate the workshop and learning event, while the event will invite a wide range of Korean experts from RDA, KMITI, KREI, KCR among many others.  

Outcomes:

Outcome indicator 1.1. A roadmap prepared

Outcome indicator 1.2. The number of new projects identified, leveraging new partnerships

Outcome indicator 1.3. A design for the Consolidated Agricultural Information Platform

Outcome indicator 2.1. The number of training sessions conducted

Outcome indicator 2.2. The number of workshops conducted 

Collaboration with K-Partners and Others:

An international workshop will provide policymakers and stakeholders with an opportunity to enhance their understanding of developing digital agriculture information system and engage in discussions regarding policy-level implications. EPIS will also facilitate the workshop and learning event, while the event will invite a wide range of Korean experts from RDA, KMITI, KREI, KCR among many others.