The AIAE Research Paper Series publishes some of the scientific output from the Institute's Research Programme and other research done by Associate Fellows. It provides a channel for the dissemination of scientific inquiry and critical analysis to the academia, scientific community, policy makers, civil society and interested readers. The Research Papers derive from rigorous conceptual, theoretical and empirical analyses, employing cutting-edge methods, tools and techniques. Papers in the Series are subjected to independent peer review and scientific validation by experts in the relevant disciplines and topics. The AIAE Research Paper Series seeks to engender high quality scientific and intellectual discourse on key development questions, and hence, enhance strategic understanding of policy and programmatic options.