Investment Rating - The report does not provide a specific investment rating for the agricultural sector in Sub-Saharan Africa. Core Insights - The agricultural sector is crucial for the labor force and economic output in low-income countries, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, where it accounts for about 50% of the labor force [6] - The World Bank's LSMS-ISA program has been instrumental in collecting high-quality, nationally representative data on agricultural productivity and household welfare across seven Sub-Saharan African countries from 2008 to 2021 [2][7] - The harmonized panel dataset includes over 200,000 agricultural plot observations, over 400,000 individuals, and about 59,000 households, enabling in-depth analysis of agricultural dynamics and welfare outcomes [2][8] Summary by Sections Background and Summary - The agricultural sector is vital for poverty alleviation, food security, and economic development in Sub-Saharan Africa, where many extreme poor rely on agriculture for income [6] - The LSMS-ISA program addresses the historical lack of high-quality data necessary for informed research and policy interventions [7] Data Collection and Structure - The harmonized panel dataset (HP) covers seven countries: Ethiopia, Malawi, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Tanzania, and Uganda, representing 39% of the population and nearly a third of the poor in Sub-Saharan Africa [8] - The HP consists of four datasets: household, individual, agricultural plots, and crops on each plot, allowing for detailed analysis of agricultural productivity and household welfare [9][40] Survey Methodology - The HP includes 29 waves of longitudinal surveys conducted between 2008 and 2021, with varying timeframes across countries [12] - Surveys were designed to be nationally representative, employing a stratified two-stage probability sampling approach [18] Data Processing and Harmonization - The HP datasets were created by cleaning and harmonizing nearly 150 indicators, ensuring they are ready for analysis [9][41] - Key identifiers and geospatial variables are included to facilitate longitudinal tracking and integration with geospatial data [42][55] Agricultural and Household Variables - The datasets include a wide range of agricultural variables, such as crop production, labor inputs, and agricultural practices, as well as household welfare indicators like consumption and asset ownership [66] - The household-level dataset captures critical variables for analyzing livelihood outcomes, including access to electricity and household consumption values [66] Individual-Level Insights - The individual-level dataset provides demographic information, work and employment data, and anthropometric measurements for children, allowing for comprehensive analysis of household members' welfare [69]

Investment Rating - The report does not explicitly provide an investment rating for the sustainable rice market, but it highlights significant investment opportunities in sustainable rice cultivation and financing [15][18]. Core Insights - The sustainable rice market is integral to global food systems, with rice being a staple for 3.5 billion people and contributing to about one-fifth of the global calorie supply [10][11]. - The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is actively exploring investment opportunities in the rice sector, focusing on sustainable practices and climate-smart agricultural methods [15][34]. - The Sustainable Rice Platform (SRP) aims to promote sustainable rice cultivation and has seen increasing market presence, although the current SRP-verified portion of the market remains small [24][27]. Summary by Sections Executive Summary - Rice is crucial for food security and livelihoods, with significant contributions to global calorie supply and greenhouse gas emissions [10][14]. - The report emphasizes the need for sustainable practices to reduce methane emissions and enhance resilience in rice farming [14][15]. Introduction - Rice is a vital staple food globally, with over 1.5 billion people relying on it for their livelihoods, primarily in Asia and the Pacific [12][35]. - The report outlines the importance of rice in the World Bank Group's Climate Change Action Plan, focusing on sustainable farming systems [33][34]. Rice Supply Chain - The rice supply chain includes production, collection, milling, processing, and distribution, with various sourcing models employed by millers [75][99]. - Commercial rice mills are characterized by vertical integration, controlling multiple stages of the supply chain from farming to retail [99][100]. Key Impacts of Rice Cultivation - Rice cultivation significantly impacts greenhouse gas emissions, land use, and water consumption, necessitating sustainable practices to mitigate these effects [14][36]. The Sustainable Rice Platform - The SRP Assurance Scheme was launched to verify compliance with sustainable rice standards, with a small but growing area under verification [21][24]. - The SRP has gained traction in the retail market, with verified rice labels available in multiple countries [27]. Selected Financing Opportunities for Sustainable Rice - Supplier finance is identified as a potential investment opportunity to promote climate-smart practices in the rice sector [18][19]. - The GTSF program offers short-term financing linked to environmental and social performance, encouraging sustainable practices among suppliers [19][20]. Conclusion - The report suggests that further support for the sustainable rice market can be achieved through the deployment of financing instruments and the development of new modules for climate finance [28][30].

Investment Rating - The report does not provide a specific investment rating for the industry. Core Insights - The paper introduces a new method for estimating a full-coverage spatial price index that incorporates both food and nonfood components, which is essential for accurate poverty analysis and welfare comparisons across different geographical areas [4][15][62]. - The methodology relies on household-level data typically available in budget surveys, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of cost-of-living variations and their implications for poverty measurement [15][62]. - The findings emphasize the importance of adjusting nominal welfare aggregates to account for spatial price differentials, which significantly affect poverty statistics and policy design [11][12][19]. Summary by Sections Introduction - The report highlights significant price differences for consumption goods across various regions, affecting household purchasing power [10][11]. - It notes that understanding these differences is crucial for welfare analysis and poverty reduction strategies [11][12]. Theoretical Framework - The paper establishes a theoretical basis for spatial deflation in poverty measurement, linking the use of multiple poverty lines to price adjustment mechanisms [20][21][26]. - It discusses the equivalence of strategies for poverty measurement based on spatial deflation versus nominal expenditures [21][26]. Empirical Strategies - The report outlines two empirical strategies for estimating poverty lines: one based on a single national poverty line and another using multiple poverty lines [42][44]. - It emphasizes the trade-offs between specificity and consistency in poverty measurement when using these strategies [53][54]. Full-Coverage Household-Level Spatial Price Index - The paper proposes a method to extend the coverage of spatial price indexes to include nonfood items, enhancing the accuracy of poverty assessments [59][62]. - It discusses the advantages and limitations of the proposed method, particularly in terms of data availability and the reliability of price observations [76][78].

Investment Rating - The report assesses the Sustainable Rice Platform (SRP) Standards System as credible, indicating alignment with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) Performance Standards, although some gaps exist [22][95]. Core Insights - The SRP aims to transform the global rice sector by promoting sustainable practices, with the potential to reduce methane emissions by at least 30% below 2020 levels by 2030 [14]. - The SRP operates a multistakeholder roundtable with over 100 members, focusing on sustainable rice farming practices and governance [15]. - The SRP Farm Standard is designed for farmers and smallholder groups, but does not include first processors, which may limit its applicability in larger operations [27][69]. Summary by Sections Executive Summary - Rice production is a significant contributor to methane emissions, and sustainable practices can mitigate environmental impacts while enhancing producer livelihoods [14]. Introduction - The report compares the SRP Farm Standard with the IFC Performance Standards, evaluating its assurance and governance processes [61][63]. Comparison of SRP Standard with IFC PS - The SRP Farm Standard aligns with key IFC Performance Standards, particularly in environmental and social risk management, labor conditions, and resource efficiency [22][95]. - Gaps identified include less extensive requirements in the SRP compared to the IFC standards, particularly regarding child labor definitions and community health [24][25][26]. Assurance and Governance - The SRP Standards System includes third-party verification, but the approval process for conformity assessment bodies lacks full independence [31]. - The SRP is working towards compliance with ISEAL Good Practice Codes, indicating a commitment to improving governance [37]. Market Position - The SRP has the lowest market penetration among peer systems, with only 46,280 hectares verified, representing 0.4% of globally traded rice [52]. - The SRP's operating budget is significantly smaller than its peers, which may impact its capacity for outreach and implementation [51].

Investment Rating - The report does not provide a specific investment rating for the industry. Core Insights - The study highlights the prevalence of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and parenting stress among mothers of children aged 0-6 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, with higher rates observed in refugee, less-educated, and rural mothers compared to their counterparts [5][12][17] - Maternal mental health concerns are significantly linked to lower levels of early childhood development, indicating a need for policy improvements focused on at-risk communities [5][12][22] - The analysis reveals that exposure to various stressors, including food insecurity and domestic violence, exacerbates both maternal mental health and child development outcomes [5][12][22] Summary by Sections Introduction - The report discusses the challenges faced by families in fragile, conflict-affected settings, emphasizing the high rates of mental health burdens and their impact on early childhood development [12][13] - It notes that Pakistan hosts a significant number of refugees, particularly from Afghanistan, which adds to the complexity of mental health issues in the region [18][19] Methodology - A household survey was conducted in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, sampling 2,102 mother-child dyads to assess maternal mental health and early childhood development [23][59] - The study utilized validated instruments to measure maternal mental health and child development outcomes, ensuring a comprehensive analysis of the data collected [34][37][38] Results - The findings indicate that 58% of mothers in the sample had no formal education, and 6% of households were identified as refugee households [59][61] - The average child in the sample scored significantly below the global mean in developmental assessments, highlighting the urgent need for interventions [69][77] - Stressors such as food insecurity and domestic violence were prevalent, with 26% of the sample reporting meal skipping and 22% experiencing domestic violence [79]

Investment Rating - The report does not explicitly provide an investment rating for the industry. Core Insights - The World Bank Group (WBG) is perceived as increasingly effective in Brazil, with significant improvements in trust and familiarity among stakeholders compared to previous years [14][19][59]. - Stakeholders prioritize education, social protection, and climate change as key areas for WBG focus, reflecting a shift in development priorities over the past three years [49][50]. - Familiarity with the WBG correlates with more positive perceptions of its effectiveness and relevance in Brazil [25][26]. Summary by Sections Objectives - The survey aims to understand stakeholder perceptions of the WBG, focusing on familiarity, effectiveness, development priorities, and communication preferences [6]. Methodology Overview - The survey was conducted from February to May 2024, with a response rate of 19% from 858 potential participants, totaling 159 respondents [8]. Overall Context - Respondents emphasized the need for the WBG to prioritize reducing inequalities and enhancing collaboration among various sectors [11]. Overall Attitudes Toward the World Bank Group - The WBG received high trust ratings, particularly from academia and civil society, with an overall mean trust rating of 8.0 [19][30]. Key Performance Indicators - In FY24, the WBG's effectiveness ratings improved significantly across various indicators, including its role in development and alignment with Brazil's priorities [22][24]. World Bank Group's Support for Development Areas - Education remains the top priority for stakeholders, followed by social protection and climate change, indicating a shift in focus compared to FY19 [49]. Effectiveness of WBG's Sectoral Support - The WBG's work in environmental management and sanitation received the highest effectiveness ratings, with notable improvements in gender equity and social protection ratings compared to FY19 [50][52]. World Bank Group's Engagement on the Ground in Brazil - The WBG is increasingly viewed as an effective partner, with high ratings for accessibility and responsiveness, particularly from subnational governments [59][60]. World Bank Group's Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work - Financial resources are considered the most valuable aspect of the WBG's support, with a significant emphasis on technical assistance and implementation support [87][90]. Conclusion - The report highlights a positive trend in stakeholder perceptions of the WBG's effectiveness and relevance in Brazil, with a clear call for increased collaboration and focus on key development areas [78][86].

Investment Rating - The report does not explicitly provide an investment rating for the World Bank Group's activities in Costa Rica Core Insights - The survey indicates a slight improvement in stakeholders' familiarity and trust towards the World Bank Group (WBG) compared to previous years, with mean familiarity ratings increasing from 5.7 in FY21 to 6.5 in FY24 [14][24] - Stakeholders prioritize education, transport infrastructure, and crime and violence as key areas for WBG focus, with transport infrastructure rising significantly from 9% in FY21 to 43% in FY24 [60][63] - The WBG is perceived as a long-term partner, with a mean rating of 7.6 for being a long-term partner and 7.1 for openness in sharing data [70][71] Objectives - The survey aims to understand stakeholders' perceptions of the WBG, including familiarity, trust, effectiveness, and alignment with Costa Rica's development priorities [7] Methodology Overview - The survey was conducted from February to May 2024, with 647 potential participants and a response rate of 35%, resulting in 225 completed surveys [9][8] Overall Context - Respondents expressed a desire for better communication of WBG actions and more effective results-based management in projects [21][12] Key Performance Indicators - In FY24, respondents rated the WBG's relevance, effectiveness, and alignment with development priorities slightly higher than in FY21, although these increases were not statistically significant [24][26] Stakeholder Familiarity - Respondents from the Office of the President and media reported the highest familiarity with the WBG, while the private sector showed significantly lower familiarity ratings [14][15] Trust Ratings - Trust ratings for the WBG improved, with respondents from academia and civil society giving the highest ratings, while the media and national government received the lowest [18][19] Development Areas - Education remains the top priority for WBG resources, with significant increases in the prioritization of transport infrastructure and crime and violence [60][63] Effectiveness Ratings - The WBG's effectiveness in various sectors received mixed ratings, with macroeconomic stability rated highest, while transport and climate change saw declines compared to FY21 [65] Engagement and Collaboration - Stakeholders expressed a need for the WBG to collaborate more with local governments, civil society, and the private sector to enhance its impact [87][89] Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work - Respondents value the WBG's financial resources and technical assistance, with a strong emphasis on accountability in lending practices [94][96]

Investment Rating - The report does not explicitly provide an investment rating for the World Bank Group's activities in Uruguay. Core Insights - The survey indicates a consistent level of familiarity with the World Bank Group (WBG) among stakeholders in Uruguay, with a mean familiarity rating of 6.2 in FY24, compared to 6.7 in FY20 [13][21]. - Trust in the WBG has improved, with a mean trust rating of 7.4 in FY24, compared to 7.1 in FY20 [17][36]. - Stakeholders from government institutions and bilateral or multilateral agencies generally have more positive perceptions of the WBG compared to those from academia and media [24][31]. Summary by Sections Objectives - The survey aimed to understand stakeholder perceptions of the WBG, focusing on familiarity, trust, effectiveness, alignment with development priorities, and communication preferences [6]. Methodology Overview - The survey was conducted from March to May 2024, with 850 potential participants and a response rate of 24%, resulting in 203 completed surveys [8]. Overall Context - Stakeholders expressed a desire for the WBG to increase its presence in Uruguay and collaborate more closely with local entities [11][19]. Overall Attitudes Toward the World Bank Group - The WBG's effectiveness in helping Uruguay achieve development results received a mean rating of 7.2, indicating a positive perception of its role [21][22]. Key Performance Indicators - The WBG's alignment with Uruguay's development priorities received a mean rating of 7.0, showing that stakeholders believe the WBG's work is relevant [21][39]. World Bank Group's Support for Development Areas - Education was identified as the top priority for WBG focus, followed by social inclusion and environmental management [51][49]. Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work - Financial resources and technical assistance were considered the most valuable aspects of the WBG's support, with 59% of respondents highlighting financial resources as crucial [82][83]. World Bank Group's Engagement on the Ground in Uruguay - The WBG is perceived as an open and flexible partner, with high ratings for responsiveness and accessibility [60][62]. Stakeholder Trends across Performance Indicators - Government institutions and the private sector rated the WBG higher across various performance indicators compared to academia and civil society [46][24]. Effectiveness of WBG's Sectoral Support - The WBG's work in energy received the highest effectiveness ratings, while transport was rated lower than in previous years [55][56]. Conclusion - The report highlights a generally positive perception of the WBG among Uruguayan stakeholders, with areas for improvement identified in collaboration and communication strategies [76][80].

Investment Rating - The report does not explicitly provide an investment rating for the industry Core Insights - The World Bank has established rated criteria as the default approach for new international procurement in the transport sector, effective from September 1, 2023, focusing on evaluating non-price attributes such as quality, risks, sustainability, and technical aspects [10][12] - Rated criteria have been widely used for over 30 years in public procurement, allowing for a true value assessment that emphasizes quality and risk management [11] - The guidance and tools for implementing rated criteria are included in the updated procurement regulations and standard procurement documents [12] Summary by Sections Establishment of Rated Criteria - Rated criteria are mandatory for evaluating bids in new international procurements, focusing on non-price attributes [10][12] - The number of rated criteria varies based on project complexity, risks, and borrower experience [12] Types of Evaluation Criteria - Different evaluation criteria are used to assess bids, including process criteria, qualification criteria, minimum requirements, and qualitative rated criteria [14][16] - The evaluation approach is informed by the Project Procurement Strategy for Development (PPSD) [15] Technical vs Financial Cost Weighting - The weighting of technical versus financial costs is determined based on specific project risks and opportunities, with equal weighting in high-risk, high-value procurements [28] Rated Criteria - Rated criteria assess quality, sustainability, and innovation in bids, focusing on the methodology prepared by bidders [29][30] - A minimum quality threshold may be established to ensure only bids meeting quality standards are considered [32] Prequalification and Selection Criteria - Prequalification is used to assess minimum qualification criteria on a pass/fail basis, while initial selection evaluates bidders against rated criteria [25][26] - The evaluation process includes assessing management capabilities, technical performance, and qualitative aspects of bids [19][21] Road Safety Management - The report emphasizes the importance of road safety management in contractor selection, incorporating standards like ISO 39001 and the FIA Safety Index [64][65] - A comprehensive road safety management plan is essential for evaluating bidders' capabilities in managing road safety during contract implementation [70][73]

Investment Rating - The report does not explicitly provide an investment rating for the industry. Core Insights - The report emphasizes the significant potential of digitalization in enhancing the effectiveness, efficiency, and quality of Human Development (HD) services across the Europe and Central Asia (ECA) region, particularly in education, health, and social protection sectors [24][30][34]. Summary by Sections 1. Introduction - Digital Human Development services integrate information technology with service delivery, facilitating a comprehensive digital transformation that includes identification systems, management information systems, communication platforms, data analytics, mobile applications, interoperability frameworks, and cybersecurity measures [30][31]. 2. Digitalization of Human Development Services - Digitalization promises substantial improvements in service delivery effectiveness and quality, with a focus on enhancing access and efficiency in education, health, and social protection sectors [24][34]. - The report identifies critical success factors for digitalization, including the establishment of digital foundations such as high-speed internet access and modern data hosting capacity, followed by the development of digital enablers like strategy development and digital skills [52][56]. 2.1 Digital Foundations - High-speed internet access and modern data hosting capabilities are essential for effective digital service delivery across all sectors [50][56]. - Internet usage in ECA has increased, with 84% of the population using the internet in 2022, although there are significant disparities in access among countries [56][58]. 2.2 Digital Enablers - The report highlights the importance of developing interoperable and safe data platforms, which include digital identity systems, digital payments, and data sharing capabilities [24][52]. - Digital skills development is crucial for the effective adoption and use of digital technologies, with a focus on enhancing both basic and high-level digital competencies [52][56]. 3. Key Takeaways and Ways Forward - The report outlines several key takeaways for advancing digitalization, including the need for cohesive national digital strategies, robust policy frameworks, and cross-sector collaboration to avoid fragmentation and duplication of efforts [24][26]. - Investments in digital infrastructure, security, and building public trust through effective communication about data use and protection are essential for successful digital transformation [26][28].