Abstract
This case study examines the development, scaling and emerging outcomes of biofortified beans in Kenya, codeveloped by the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) and other national partners with support from the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT through the Pan-Africa Bean Research Alliance (PABRA), HarvestPlus and other partners. Conducted as part of the CGIAR Kenya Country Evaluation, it uses a qualitative, realist approach drawing on document review, available quantitative data and consultations with 52 stakeholders. The innovation is well aligned with national priorities, and six biofortified varieties have been released since 2017, although dissemination remains concentrated on one variety, Nyota. A long-term partnership model combining national leadership with regional collaboration has enabled progress from variety release to farmer production and commercial and institutional markets. However, evidence on sustained adoption and on nutrition, livelihood and resilience outcomes in Kenya remains limited. The case highlights the value of CGIAR science embedded in nationally owned partnerships and identifies three opportunities: using the PABRA experience for learning across CGIAR, deploying the wider varietal portfolio to suit local contexts, and generating stronger outcome evidence.
Citation
Haussmann, B. I.G., Theuri, G., Agwara, H., Culver, K. 2026. CGIAR Kenya Country Evaluation: Case Study Report on Biofortified Beans. Rome: CGIAR Independent Advisory and Evaluation Service (IAES)
Author(s)
Bettina I.G. Haussmann, George Theuri, Hezekiah Agwara, Keri Culver
Publisher
CGIAR Independent Advisory and Evaluation Service (IAES), Evaluation Function
