Researchers from the Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL), the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), and partner institutions tested the effectiveness of an innovative training programme based on interactive voice recordings (IVR) on intercropping, mulching, composting, and integrated pest management. Using a randomized controlled trial with farmers in Mali, the study found that IVR training improved farmers' awareness, confidence, and actual adoption of agroecological practices, with adoption effects ranging from 12% to 97% depending on the practice.
"The results highlight the potential for low-cost, accessible digital tools to support agroecological transitions," explain the researchers. "Mulching and integrated pest management showed particularly high adoption rates, demonstrating that farmers are ready to implement these practices when information is delivered in a format they can easily access and understand."
The approach is particularly promising for resource-constrained regions like the Sahel, where internet access and literacy may be limited but mobile phone coverage is widespread. By focusing on the complexity of agroecological systems rather than individual technologies, the IVR programme helped farmers develop the knowledge and confidence to apply holistic, sustainable farming approaches.
Citation: Grovermann, C., Wossen, T., Blockeel, J., Beye, A., Abdoulaye, T., & Gräub, B. (2026). From advice to action: Experimental evidence on agroecology messaging in Mali. Journal of Environmental Management, S0301479726016270. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jenvman.2026.016270
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