Achieving policy change in Ethiopia through a market systems approach

This case study describes how the Land Investment for Transformation (LIFT) programme pioneered an innovative strategy that applies a market systems approach to land certification. 

LIFT supports the Government of Ethiopia to print and distribute 14 million second-level land certificates (SLLCs) and streamlines the processes and procedures of the government’s land administration system (including the development of a digital land registry database). This has improved the security of tenure of over 6.5 million farmers.

To accelerate and maximise the productivity and income benefits of these land system interventions, LIFT has used the market systems approach to identify sustainable, market-friendly solutions that allow rural landholders to further increase investment in their land.  

• Read Ignacio Fiestas' blog Is the MSD approach right to achieve policy change?

Intervention description

The interventions included developing a digital land registry database and partnering with microfinance institutions to pilot new loan products using the SLLCs as collateral.

The pilot projects were successful, with farmers showing high demand for the individual loan products tailored to their specific needs, such as buying improved inputs and hiring labour for harvesting. The success of these pilots demonstrated that the SLLC-based loans could significantly improve farmers' productivity and incomes.

Evidence methodology

The evaluation employed a case study approach, including qualitative and quantitative data collection. Data were gathered through pilot studies, case studies, quarterly assessments and impact surveys. Stakeholder engagement included consultations with government officials, microfinance institutions and farmers.

The programme's success was measured by the uptake of SLLC-linked loans, changes in policy and the impact on farmers' productivity and income.