Systems-oriented Innovation towards Sustainable Smallholder Mixed Farming

npj Sustainable Agriculture 2026 Open access

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Authors: Valentina Martínez-Ramón, Santiago López-Ridaura, Alessandra Cossu, Mazvita Chiduwa, Sabine Homann-Kee Tui, Powell Mponela, Nirman Shrestha, Timothy J. Krupnik, Nurudeen Abdul Rahman, Mateete Bekunda, Kindu Mekonnen, Randall S. Ritzema
+14 more Mary Atieno Otieno, Tamiru Amanu Abetu, Mattis Höft, Kim van Wijngaarden, Sanderijn Meijer, Daan Andreas, Lois Veenings, Margherita Senesi, Yifan Wang, Gerrie WJ van de Ven, Katrien Descheemaeker, Jerry Glover, Sieglinde Snapp, Jeroen C. J. Groot
DOI: 10.1038/s44264-025-00114-9
Cited by: 5
References: 52

Abstract

Existing innovation approaches in smallholder mixed farming systems (MFS) often fall short by overlooking system complexity and local contexts. This Perspective calls for more responsible and effective co-design of MFS innovations. We outline distinct (socio-)technical innovation pathways, to better comprehend their opportunities and trade-offs. Drawing on case studies from Sub-Saharan Africa and South and South-East Asia, we identify three key enablers for MFS innovation approaches: systems thinking, participatory processes, and context-sensitivity. Together, these elements can help unlock the potential of MFS to improve livelihoods and advance landscape sustainability across the Global South.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Agricultural Innovations and Practices Agricultural Systems and Practices Urban Agriculture and Sustainability

Publication details

Journal / source
npj Sustainable Agriculture
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Volume
4
Issue
1
Publication date
9 January 2026
Language
EN