ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book aims to illustrate different aspects and dimensions of integrated agricultural systems research where the focus is moving from farming systems to livelihood systems and institutional innovation. It provides examples of diversification of mono-cropping with vegetable production as a means of sustainable systems intensification. The book focuses on many of the Sustainable Development Goals and in particular for achieving the some goals. These are: reducing poverty, achieving food security, improved nutrition and sustainable agriculture, gender equity and empowering women, conserving and sustainably using aquatic resources and promoting sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems and reversing land degradation. The book explores the significance of gender in agricultural systems research for achieving global sustainable development outcomes, including poverty reduction, and increased food and nutrition security.
