Agricultural development and food production in East Africa: The role ofwater availability, environmental degradation, and institutional quality

How can East Africa produce more food while facing growing water scarcity, climate pressures, and institutional challenges? A new study examines agricultural production across 15 East African countries between 2002 and 2022, revealing that investment in agricultural development and reliable water availability are the strongest drivers of increased food production. The research also highlights the importance of agricultural employment and cultivated land, while showing that governance reforms alone do not automatically translate into higher agricultural output. Drawing on robust econometric analysis, the study offers practical policy recommendations for strengthening irrigation, investing in agricultural innovation, improving land and water management, and building more resilient food systems. These findings provide timely evidence for policymakers, researchers, and development partners working to advance food security and climate resilience across East Africa.