Abstract
{ "background": "Public health surveillance systems are critical for food security and agricultural planning, yet methodological limitations often impede accurate measurement of their impact on agricultural yields. In Senegal, the integration of epidemiological data with agricultural outputs remains underdeveloped, creating a gap in evidence for policy optimisation.", "purpose and objectives": "This case study aims to methodologically evaluate the country's public health surveillance infrastructure by developing and applying a panel-data model to estimate its contribution to yield optimisation. The objective is to provide a replicable framework for quantifying the agricultural benefits of health interventions.", "methodology": "A longitudinal case study design was employed, utilising district-level administrative data. The core analysis specified a two-way fixed effects panel model: $Y{it} = \\beta0 + \\beta1 H{it} + \\theta X{it} + \\mui + \\lambdat + \\epsilon{it}$, where $Y$ is yield, $H$ is a composite surveillance index, and $X$ is a vector of controls. Inference was based on cluster-robust standard errors.", "findings": "The analysis indicates a positive and statistically significant association between enhanced surveillance metrics and agricultural yield. A one-standard-deviation improvement in the surveillance index was associated with an approximate 4.7% yield increase (95% CI: 1.2, 8.3). The mechanism appears linked to improved labour availability and targeted input use.", "conclusion": "Methodologically robust integration of public health and agricultural data can reveal significant, quantifiable benefits of surveillance systems for food production. The case demonstrates that health system investments have direct, measurable co-benefits for agricultural performance.", "recommendations": "Implement integrated data platforms linking health and agricultural ministries. Allocate resources for routine panel data collection and analysis. Use the presented modelling framework for ongoing cost-benefit analyses of surveillance programmes.", "key words": "public health surveillance, agricultural yields, panel data, fixed effects, Senegal, methodological evaluation", "contribution statement