The African Network for Soil Biology and Fertility: New Challenges and Opportunities
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Date
2004
Authors
Mugendi, D.N.
Bationo, A.
Kimetu, J.
Ikerra, S.
Kimani, S.
Odendo, M.
Silver, M.
Swift, M.J.
Sanginga, N.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Academy Science Publishers
Abstract
Soil fertility degradation has been described as the single most
important constraint to food security in sub-Saharan Africa
(SSA). Soil fertility decline is not just a problem of nutrient
deficiency but also of 1)Inappropriate germplasm and cropping
system design. 2) Interactions with pests and diseases. 3) The
linkage between poverty and land degradation. 4) Often perverse
national and global policies with respect to incentives, and 5)
Institutional failures. Tackling soil fertility issues thus requires
a long-term perspective and a holistic approach. The African
Network for Soil Biology and Fertility (AfNet)of Tropical Soil
Biology and Fertility institute of CIATwhose ultimate goal is to
strengthen and sustain stakeholder capacity to generate, share
and apply soil fertility management knowledge and skills to
contribute to the welfare of farming communities is devoted to
overcoming this challenge. This African-wide network has over
200 members from National Agricultural Research and
Extension Services (NARES) and universities from vanous
disciplines mainly soil science. social science and technology
exchange. This paper is an highlight of AfNet's main activities
which include: Network field research activities. information
and documentation. training and capacity building.
Description
Book Chapter