Soil fertility management in the Sahel: A challenge to
farmers and researchers
Low soil fertility is a major constraint to food production in
the West African Sahel. The predominantly
acid sandy soils are prone to erosion by wind and water.
Special Research Programme 308 at the
University of Hohenheim (Germany), which is funded by the
'Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft', has
undertaken collaborative research with the ICRISAT Sahelian
Center in Niger. The aim is to increase food
production for a rapidly growing population. The video 'Soil
fertility management in the Sahel: a
challenge to farmers and researchers' shows several examples
of traditional techniques of soil
conservation and soil fertility management. These include the
use of household refuse, the application of
large amounts of animal manure (coralling) and crop residues
to the parts of fields most in danger, and
the burning of organic matter and the use of the resulting
ashes. Under the circumstances of the West
African Sahel, such as high rates of population growth and
farmers with limited resources, the constraints
of the traditional technique are revealed. Agricultural
on-station experiments conducted to improve millet
grain production are therefore suited to the needs and
possibilities of the farming population. The film
shows, for instance, improved techniques of mulch management,
and concentrated application of very low
doses of inorganic fertilizers, the latter being based on
local farmers' techniques.
This video is intended for researchers, extensionists,
teachers, and students interested in sustainable
agriculture. The narration is in English. Duration 22 minutes.
The video (VHS format) can be ordered for
the equivalent of DM 25, including mailing costs, from:
Dr J. Greiling, Special Research Programme 308, University of
Hohenheim (793), 70593 Stuttgart,
Germany. Fax: +49-711-4593315.
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