Letter of Inquiry on AID Agricultural Research Activities

GAO surveyed the agricultural research activities of the Agency for International Development (AID). Prior reports and studies by GAO, the AID Bureau for International Food and Agricultural Development, and the AID Technical Program Committee for Agriculture highlighted problems relating to agricultural research and made recommendations for improving AID agricultural research activities. The current survey shows, however, that many of these problems still exist. In particular, AID needs to: (1) develop an integrated research strategy; (2) identify and classify research; (3) place greater emphasis on research relevance, quality, and use; and (4) have more agriculturally trained staff members. GAO asked for AID comments and information on specific action planned to address these problem areas.