African Composites Studies (Applied Science/Tech) | 21 August 2006
Evaluation of Soil Erosion Control and Crop Yields Improvement Techniques Among Smallholder Farmers in Malian Savanna Regions,
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Abstract
This study examines soil erosion control and crop yield improvement techniques among smallholder farmers in Mali's savanna regions, focusing on a period from to . A mixed-method approach was employed, integrating qualitative interviews with quantitative data from farmer surveys to analyse the effectiveness of water-saving techniques on soil health and productivity. The findings indicate that the adoption of contour farming significantly reduced soil erosion by up to 40% in targeted plots compared to conventional tillage methods. Crop yields improved by an average of 25% among farmers who adopted these techniques, particularly in maize and sorghum crops. Water-saving techniques have a substantial positive impact on both soil erosion control and crop yield enhancement for smallholder farmers in Mali’s savanna regions. Policy recommendations include promoting government subsidies for the adoption of contour farming and other water-saving measures, alongside training programmes to enhance farmer knowledge and skills in sustainable agricultural practices.