Q?method to map the diversity of stakeholder viewpoints along agricultural innovation systems: a case study on cattle genetic improvement in Niger

摘要

The complex balancebetween innovation and conservation regarding animal genetic resources makesit difficult to find mutually accepted improvement pathways between breeders,government agencies, and research and education institutions. This study mapsstakeholder viewpoints on cattle genetic improvement in Niger using theQ?method. Fifty-three statements derived from expert opinions and focus groupinterviews were ranked by 22 respondents along a?seven-grade scale expressingtheir degree of approval. The Q?method reveals a?limited consensus ondevelopment goals, overall strategy, and the present context of operation.Beyond this consensus, three discourses are identified that express distinctattitudes regarding the balance between conservation and progress, leading todistinct strategies. The first discourse fits with a?modernist vision andgovernment strategies established in the 2000s based on exotic crossbreedingand improved purebred Azawak. The second discourse lines up with the previouslivestock development strategy of Niger (before 2000) based on indigenousbreeds. The third discourse represents a?conservationist vision, with minorimportance in the present sampling. Tentative observations are proposed onthe consequences of this divide in opinions on livestock policies in Niger,including extension. The Q method appears effective in identifying theconcerns of stakeholders on complex agricultural innovation topics. Asa?sensing tool to follow-up policy implementation in similarly complexagricultural topics, the Q?method may inform adaptive extension and educationstrategies.