Jatropha as a Biofuel Crop and the Economy of Appearances: Experiences from Kenya

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Periodical article

Title:	Jatropha as a Biofuel Crop and the Economy of Appearances: Experiences from Kenya
Author:	Hunsberger, C.
Year:	2014
Periodical:	Review of African Political Economy
Volume:	41
Issue:	140
Pages:	216-231
Geographic term:	Kenya
Discipline:	Agriculture & Animal Husbandry
Subjects:	Jatropha Biofuel Agriculture - extension
Abstract:	'Jatropha curcas', an oilseed shrub, raised hopes that it could produce biofuel in a 'sustainable' manner, though early results fell short of these expectations. Drawing on field research from 2009, this article examines the political economy of jatropha in Kenya using the observation that start-up enterprises perpetuate 'myth' and 'spectacle' to build momentum fits patterns observed in this case. Jatropha's promoters reinforced an optimistic discourse, defended it against dissent and linked jatropha to global, national and local goals. However, the emergence of stronger critiques raises questions about how long its positive appearances can be maintained. (ASC-Documentation)