The Mixteca Learning Landscape.
Country/Site
Mixteca Region of Oaxaca, Mexico
CopSyS contact (Name and email)
Santiago Lopez-RidauraS.L.Ridaura@cgiar.org
Country Coordinator (Name and email)
to be identified
1.Problem Definition
Are there clear complex challenges (wicked problems) that require a systemic and interdisciplinary approach?
Mixteca Region is highly vulnerable to climate change (drought and heat), high outmigration rate and one of the highest levels of poverty and malnutrition in Mexico. Past deforestation and overgrazing threaten the conservation of natural resources.
2. Disciplinary strength
Are there previous studies with strong disciplinary research and development efforts and main issues and single component options identified?
Mixteca has been intensively studied, from anthropological and social science studies to ecology and agronomic research trying to find options for sustainable intensification. Mixed crop-livestock systems predominate, and disciplinary work has been done in both components.
3. Data richness
Have previous and current R&D activities generated sufficient specific or disciplinary data?
An effort to systematize and share data began in 2024 and over 40 datasets have been compiled from different partners, ranging from climatic and GIS/Remote Sensing data, to on station and on-farm field trials, from household level surveys and modelling to forest dynamics. A data locating and sharing dashboard is under development.
4. Development partnership
Are there partner institutions engaged in developing the region through socio-technical innovations?
Long term relationships with local NGOs and farmers organizations as well as with State Government Official from the Ministry of Agriculture. Collaboration with NARES is also in place.
5. National investment plans aligned
Are there national investment plans aligned or prioritized?
Several social support programs and agriculture and natural resource management programs are set in place (e.g. reforestation, agricultural intensification, mechanization, livestock intensification and value chains, mechanization, fruit tree production), mainly in a disconnected fashion. A UNESCO geopark lies with then region.
6. Representativeness
Is the case study representative of a wider region or other sites?
Mixteca represents the highland semi-arid environments of Mexico and Central America. Similarities for semi-arid crop livestock integration exists with other regions of the world.
8. Donor interest
Are there donors interested in specific region/issue and prioritized for investment?
International donors have little interest in Mexico in general. The Mixteca, because of its high marginalization status, may become susceptible to funding. Funding from State government as well from local foundations and private partnerships are the current sources of funding.
File : Systems_Science_CapSha_Use_Case_v2_20250711.docx
Download
File : MixtecaLL.docx
Download