Can a Light-Touch Graduation Model Enhance Livelihood Outcomes? Evidence from Ethiopia

Jessica Leight, Harold Alderman, Daniel Gilligan, Melissa Hidrobo and Michael Mulford

ABSTRACT

This paper presents evidence from a randomized trial of a lighter-touch graduation model implemented in rural Ethiopia. Three years post-baseline, the intervention resulted in increases in assets, savings, and cash income from livestock, though there is no shift in consumption or household food security. The effects of training and savings groups alone are minimal.