Design of micro-projects and macro-policies : examples from three of ATI"s projects in Africa

The first project, palm oil extraction in Cameroon, shows how trade restrictions and a domestic price floor have supported this sector, while inefficiencies in large-scale production by parastatals have opened up opportunities for artisanal production. The second project, improved charcoal stoves in Kenya, illustrates how public sector research and development and a benevolent government attitude toward the informal sector can lead to rapid production and marketing of a simple new technology. The final example, ferrocement fishing boats in Malawi, was unsuccessful because of low levels of investment and entrepreneurial capacity in the sector and the negative effects of controlled price ceilings for fish. (Author abstract, modified)