In order for research to influence decision makers, different approaches to facilitate the impact pathways are possible. Multi-stakeholder Policy Formulation and Action Planning (MPAP) is one approach that can be used to facilitate long-term policy change. In this approach, stakeholders are engaged in a participatory manner and carefully guided through a series of processes to achieve the desired
... [Show full abstract] outcomes. In this report, we explain how the MPAP approach has been used to influence and/or change policies that govern urban agriculture (UA) practices in three African and two Asian cities. At the outset, a MPAP framework was converted into a generic set of operational guidelines, and further adapted to suit each city context. The multi-stakeholder (MS) fora included farmers, traders, social groups, researchers, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), and a range of governmental institutions and policymakers. Facilitation and outcome experiences of the process varied across the two regions and cities. Capacity building of stakeholders to understand and support the MPAP approach appeared to be crucial, but needed time for reflective learning. Lengthy capacity building on the theory of the MPAP approach was less well-received than hands-on learning. At the same time, poor analytical and documentation skills, poor communication facilities and inadequate infrastructure appeared to be an impediment to training and skill development. Rapid turnover of government stakeholders was another challenge to the learning process, although incentives provided were able to sustain involvement. The leadership role played by governmental institutions was seen as being key for policy advocacy and the dialogue process. When learning objectives and practical innovations were aligned with institutional mandates, support for the MPAP approach was highest. Gender involvement varied across the cities, but facilitation appeared to improve participation over time, especially in the case of India. Flexibility in process facilitation and implementation supported the achievement of various outcomes: In West Africa, UA was integrated into the national agriculture policy and the revision of city bylaws commenced (Ghana). UA was also included in student curricula in Ghana and Sierra Leone. A 'City Strategic Agenda' on UA was included in the city development plans in Accra (Ghana) and Freetown (Sierra Leone). Statements in support of UA were adopted at the provincial level in Gampaha in the Western Province of Sri Lanka and are currently being considered for the national agriculture policy. In India, activities successfully targeted the Twelfth Five Year Plan. Based on the experience gained, MPAP appears to be a useful programmatic approach to influence institutional decision making, policies and curricula. However, a 'light version' of the approach might be needed to support its wider adoption. Moreover, there are significant regional differences in how best to achieve policy change, which require careful attention in order to achieve the highest returns on investment in the facilitation of impact pathways.
