Participatory research and sustainable development in the Sahelo-Sudanian region |
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Authors: | M Piraux A Buldgen M Fall R Compère |
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Institution: | 1. Seconded by Human Capital and Mobility Programme, DG XII, European Commission to CIRAD-SAR, Unité génie agronomique et mécanisation (GAM), 73, rue JF Breton , F-34090, Montpellier, France;2. Unité de Zootechnie, Faculté universitaire des sciences agronomiques de Gembloux, 2, passage des Déportés , B-5030, Gembloux, Belgium;3. Ecole nationale supérieure d'agriculture (ENSA), route de Khombole , BP 296 (RP), Thiès, Senegal |
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Abstract: | SUMMARY A participatory research programme was conducted in the groundnut basin of Senegal, where there was a need to intensify the local farming systems. The research yielded a set of technical references and profitable innovations, which were introduced through specific development actions. The technology transfer aims at the establishment of sustainable farming systems and takes into account the climatic risks and innovation costs. Identification of research themes and implementation of results was based on various analyses: climatic analysis at regional level (establishment of climatic zones) and identification of constraints at farm level. Farmers' interests and the research results were combined to define suitable interventions for each surveyed farm, with the aim of increasing farm income and restoring soil fertility. The research also yielded elements for formulating an appropriate and realistic agricultural policy for the region. Clearly, the development of livestock farming activities is essential in bringing new economic life into the region and increasing the sustainability of farming systems in erratic climatic conditions. |
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Keywords: | groundnut basin Senegal sustainable development methodology crop intensification farms constraints rural diagnosis |
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