Protocol for the Co-Design and Evaluation of an Integrated Crop-Livestock-Aquaculture System for Smallholder Resilience in Benin

{ "background": "Smallholder farmers in Benin face systemic challenges from climate variability and soil degradation. Existing agricultural interventions often address single components, neglecting synergistic opportunities within integrated systems. This protocol outlines a study to develop a context-specific, synergistic farming model.", "purpose and objectives": "The purpose is to co-design and evaluate a locally adapted integrated crop-livestock-aquaculture (ICLA) system. Primary objectives are to: 1) identify farmer-preferred system components and configurations via participatory workshops; 2) quantify agronomic and economic performance against conventional practices; and 3) assess impacts on dietary diversity and nutrient cycling.", "methodology": "A mixed-methods, phased approach will be used. Phase 1 employs focus group discussions and pairwise ranking for co-design in four agro-ecological zones. Phase 2 implements a randomised on-farm trial comparing the novel ICLA system with control plots. Key performance indicators (yield, income, soil organic carbon) will be analysed using a linear mixed model: Yij = \μ + Ti + Zj + (T \× Z)ij + \εij, where Yij is the response, $Ti$ treatment, $Zj$ zone, and \εᵢⱼ the error. Inference will be based on 95% confidence intervals with robust standard errors clustered at the village level.", "findings": "As a protocol, no empirical findings are presented. The anticipated primary outcome is a validated, replicable ICLA blueprint. A key expected directional result is a minimum 15% increase in net household income for adopters compared to non-adopters, with thematic analysis of co-design workshops expected to highlight water management as a critical constraint.", "conclusion": "The study is designed to generate robust evidence on whether a co-designed ICLA system can enhance resilience and productivity. It will provide a methodological framework for developing context-appropriate integrated systems.", "recommendations": "Future research should focus on the