Abstract

Southern Cameroon, laying within the humid lowlands of the tropics, is facing a general steady environmental degradation characteristic of developing countries of the region. Productivity of small-scale farmers, both in terms of cash and food crops, is on the decline. The agroforestry approach of incorporating woody perennials (trees and shrubs) into existing farming systems constitutes a sound practice, given the potential of trees to increase soil fertility, build up organic matter, and buffer soil acidity. This project will develop agroforestry technologies, in collaboration with the Alley Farming Network for Tropical Africa (AFNETA) (3-P-88-0025) for adoption by small farmers aimed at improving soil fertility and hence crop production, while strengthening Cameroon scientists' ability to conduct agroforestry research. Specifically, researchers will screen multipurpose tree species; evaluate improved management regimes in tree/crop systems; design, test, and disseminate prototype systems and technologies to enhance the farmers' expected performance of existing land use systems; and provide training for national scientists.

Post-Project Summary

A field survey to obtain farmers' information about indigenous multipurpose tree species that they considered suitable for soil fertility improvement, fodder production, etc., was undertaken. Based on the results of the survey, the eight most promising species out of a total of 60 species enumerated by the
farmers were selected for phenological and propagation study. A vigour phenology trial designed to test the adaptability and suitability of exotic multipurpose trees to local conditions was established. Results indicated that Calliandra calothyrsus was the best of all the species tested in the study. It produced high biomass, grew fast, had high nutrient value, improved soil chemical properties, and grew well on both poor and fertile soils. A trial was initiated to assess the potential of various multipurpose trees in fertility maintenance and to examine the level of mulch requirement with a view to determining suitable tree species and hedge spacing requirements to improve crop yield in hedgerow intercropping systems. Mulch from Calliandra calothyrsus and Cassia siamea was shown to sustain high maize yield. The project was instrumental in institutionalizing an agroforestry research unit within IRA. It also strengthened the Institute through formal and informal training. Support continued in a second phase (91-0199).

Recipient Institution(s)