Coraf Action no 15, July-September 2000
Content
Research Echoes
Keeping an Eye on the Fruit and Vegetable Market
Agronomy: the Role and Place of Biometrics
Suffering because of Weeds
West Africa. A Yam Research Project in the Making
Mixed Cropping for Improved Fallow
Irrigation. Phase Two
Biotechnology. An Ivorian Research laboratory
Congo. Coming to Grips With Forestry Research
Cassava Pests. When the Bell Tolls
Information-communication. Why Train Researchers?
Baobab: the Tree that Hides the Scrub
The Seventh Days for Science. The Agence universitaire de la francophonie Calls for Papers
Agriculture and Bioscience. CABI Review Conference in London
Coraf Life
Electronic Conference. WECARD Adopts New Working Method
West Africa. A Workshop on Livestock
Soil Fertility in Africa. The Initiatives Program
Forestry Research. Gabon Adopts a Strategic Plan
In the fields
Solar Energy. Are production Units Profitable?
Women Farmers Manage their Credit with Great success
Contribution. Growing Soybean in Côte d'Ivoire
Ségou. Smallholders Committed to Crop Protection
Mauritanie. A Leap Forward for Milk Production
Questions. Were Do You Find Camphor? How Do You Get Rid of Glant Red Ants? What is the
Best Technique for Maintining the Humidity Levels Required For Breeding Glant Smalls?
From Extension Work to Phytosanitary protection
Training Scholarships form the Centre écologique Albert Schweitzer
Coraf Action
Gaston G. Kokodé, coodinator from Benin
Marie-Antoinette Haba Sanoussi, coodinator form Guinea
To Be Read
Scheduled of Events
RESEARCH ECHOES
Keeping an Eye on the Fruit and Vegetable Market
In 1999, nearly eight hundred and forty-five thousand tons of fruits and vegetables were produced in Cameroon.
This is worth one hundred and fifty billion CFA francs and represents three per-cent of gross domestic product,
which is more than the earnings from cocoa and coffee. Animal consumption per person is nineteen kilogrammes of
fruits (fifty per-cent in July and September) and seventeen kilogrammes of vegetables, which is why the Institut
de recherche agricole pour le développement (IRAD) is interested in monitoring market trends. During 1999,
the fruits and vegetables research project monitored thirty products sold at thirty markets in the country, with
support from the Fonds d'aide et de coopération (FAC).
About 531 000 t of fruits, and nearly 315 460 t of vegetables are produced nationally. However, vegetables, mainly
onions, tomatoes, and leafy vegetables, generated 63% of revenue from horticultural production. The most important
fruit crops are bananas (52%), safou, and kola. According to the study, national production figures make up 16%
of export revenue (to Central Africa and Europe). Information on the major provinces that dominate inter-regional
trade flows is now available at a national level: the Extreme-North (onions) and the West (tomatoes and potatoes)
for vegetables, the West (avocado) and the Coast (safou, pineapple and citrus fruit) for fruits.
Fluctuating Prices
Finally, the study led to a better understanding of prices. Cucumber, cola, cabbage, and tomatoes are subject to
sharp price rises. Onion, gombo, and safou prices are subject to predictable variations. The prices of leafy vegetables,
citrus fruit, onions, and tomatoes are considered to be very unstable.
Contact: Ludovic Temple
IRAD, 2572, Yaoundé, Cameroon
Fax: +237 22 33 62
E-mail: irad-fruits@cammet.cm
Agronomy: the Role and Place of Biometrics
In West and Central Africa, the failure to integrate biometrics into agricultural development research institutes
is affecting the quality of research and results. To help overcome this major hurdle, the Centre d'étude
régional pour l'amélioration de l'adaptation à la sécheresse (CERAAS) has developed
necessary expertise for helping institutes draw up research projects or programs, prepare trials, manage data,
analyze and present results, and create decision-making tools.
When the objectives of a research project are analyzed, it is possible to determine the different experimental
stages necessary, define the resource requirements, and the appropriate methodology. Overcoming research constraints
depends on the use of a suitable methodological approach. The approach, combined with powerful experimental calculations,
can determine the likelihood of achieving the expected results. In addition, a better understanding of survey methods
and statistical software are essential for researchers, particularly for data analysis.
Method and Efficiency
A certain number of tools (input forms, spreadsheets) are required for data management, particularly a real database
of protocols, results, and analyses. The models needed for analysis, for presenting geographical data and decision-making,
such as geographical information systems, diagnostic and forecasting models should be developed.
CERAAS can cover all countries, host researchers, organize training programs, and provide advice by e-mail. National
and regional institutions, that have already used CERAAS' expertise, have noticed a real benefit in terms of method
and efficiency.
Contact: David Boggio
CERAAS, BP 3320, Thiès-Escale, Senegal
Fax: +221 951 49 95
E-mail: ceraas@telecomplus.sn
Suffering because of Weeds
In the Congo, the water system is infested by water ferns (Salvinia molesta), water lettuce (Pistia stratoites),
and water hyacinth (Eichornia crassipes). The Ministry of Forestry Economics has set up a Programme national de
lutte biologique (PNLB), a national weed control program, to carry out research on aquatic weed control.
The biological control of water hyacinth and water lettuce began in 1999 with support from the Centre de lutte
biologique pour l'Afrique. Mushrooms were released on water lettuce in Oyo in the north, and in Nanga in the south.
In addition, materials and documentation were donated to the Congo, which has been deprived of laboratories because
of the civil war.
Contact: Grégoire Bani
PNLB, BP 2499, Brazzaville, Congo
West Africa. A Yam Research Project in the Making
There is no longer any doubt about the importance of yam cultivation so much, so that a regional research project
on the subject was called for. A joint project was set up in Cotonou by Benin, Togo, Ghana, Nigeria, and Côte
d'Ivoire at the end of 1999, with support from the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) based
in Ibadan, and the Fonds international de développement agricole (FIDA).
In order to increase yam production sustainably, project objectives include the production and distribution of
improved, high-yielding yam varieties, soil fertility management, crop protection, the creation of an information
system and collaboration with other projects.
The plan of action for 2000-2003 has been drawn up for the project.
Contact: Christophe Kouamé
CNRA, 01 BP 633 Bouaké 01, Côte d'Ivoire
Fax: +225 31 63 20 45
E-mail: cnracs@africaonline.co.ci
Contact: Gabriel Orkwor
NRCRI, P.M.B. 7006, Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria
E-mail: unamma@infoweb.abs.net
Mixed Cropping for Improved Fallow
In southern Mali, where shorter fallow periods and reduced fallowland are already threatening soil fertility and
local agricultural supplies (wood, fodder, etc.). As a result, the Institut d'économie rurale (IER) has
begun research on improving the productivity of fallowland.
Short fallow periods (two years), improved by mixed cropping with Gliricidia sepium and Stylosanthes hamata, have
increased fodder production and crop yields. Growing these crops repeatedly can double maize production. In addition,
one hectare of dried S. hamata can provide daily feed requirements for nearly seven cows (of 250 kg), during the
dry season (January-June). G. sepium can produce 60 kg/ha of nitrogen for the soil, the equivalent of 130 kg of
urea.
These mixed cropping and plant production techniques can already be adopted by farmers and livestock producers.
Contact: Harouna Yossi
IER, BP 438, Bamako, Mali
Fax: +223 22 27 73
Irrigation. Phase Two
Since 1996, West and Central African Council for Agricultural Research and Development's (WECARD) Pôle régional
de recherche sur les systèmes irrigués en zone soudano-sahélienne (PSI) has been working on
sustainable agricultural development in Mali, Mauritania, Niger, and Senegal. Three years later, WECARD has begun
to see concrete results (see preceding editions of Coraf Action). In order to assess the situation, WECARD organized
a meeting in Dakar, in December 1999, which brought together more than one hundred and twenty representatives from
farmer organizations, professional agricultural associations, scientific and financial partners, as well as some
fifty researchers from member countries, the Centre de coopération internationale en recherche agronomique
pour le développement (CIRAD), and the Institut de recherche pour le développement (IRD).
At the end of the seminar, the main recommendation was that the Pôle should continue its activities into
a second phase (2001-2004). To achieve this, WECARD should be strengthened by the West African Rice Development
Association (WARDA) and the International Water Management Institute (IWMI). Burkina is also invit the intensification
of rice irrigation, diversified cropping systems, technical management, social and land organization, and controlling
soil degradation.
Contact: Jean-Claude Legoupil
PSI, BP 8320, Dakar, Senegal
Fax: +221 825 39 63
E-mail: legoupil@sonatel.senet.net
Biotechnology. An Ivorian Research Laboratory
Biotechnology is likely to play an increasingly important role in the near future, particularly in the fields of
conservation, genetic improvement and plant protection. In preparation, the Centre national de recherche agronomique
(CNRA) in Côte d'Ivoire is getting ready by setting up a biotechnology laboratory made up of three research
units: molecular biology and genetics, molecular pathology, and in vitro culture.
Initial research will be on cocoa, coconut, rubber, oilpalm, sheabutter, cassava, and yam. Two researchers will
be recruited this year to strengthen the laboratory team of five. Twelve doctorate students are also expected to
join them as interns, as well as associate researchers from the sub-region.
These research units are linked to a sub-regional biotechnology and phytogenetic resource unit for training researchers
from the sub-region.
Contact: Abdourahmane Sangaré
CNRA, 01 BP 1740 Abidjan 01, Côte d'Ivoire
Fax: +225 23 45 33 05
E-mail: cnrabke@africaonline.co.ci
Congo. Coming to Grips with Forestry Research
The Unité de recherche sur la productivité des plantations industrielles (UR2PI) is a Congolese association
whose objective is to promote research into fast-growing forest-tree species (eucalyptus, pine, acacia). UR2PI
is currently managing more than four hundred plantations in Kouilou (southern region), extending over one thousand
hectares. Every year, forty hectares are used for trials.
Research into hybrid varieties such as Eucalyptus urophylla grandis and Eucalyptus urophylla pellita involves clonal
tests and genetic resources management. Forestry and environmental research are focused on the development of fast-growing
species and sustainable production systems. The aim is to develop appropriate technology and assess the impact
that plantations have on moisture balance and soil fertility.
UR2PI was set up by the Direction de la recherche scientifique et technique (DGRST), Eucalyptus du Congo (ECO sa)
(the former Unité d'afforestation industrielle du Congo), and the Centre de coopération internationale
en recherche agronomique pour le développement (CIRAD).
Contact: J.P. Bouillet
UR2PI, BP 1291, Pointe-Noire, Congo
Fax: +242 94 47 95
Cassava Pests. When the Bell Tolls
The scale insect, Phenacoccus manihoti, is a serious threat to cassava production in the Congo. In 1992, the Centre
de recherche sur l'amélioration génétique des plantes (CERAG) discovered the "miracle
cure" for this pest: its natural enemy, Epidinocarsis lopezi, a hymenopterous parasite.
In one year, the initial releases of E. lopezi destroyed 70% of the P. manihoti population. Researchers also discovered
that new releases increased the number of parasites which reduced the pest's phenomenal growth rate.
This successful completion of biological control has encouraged the use of E. lopezi for future research purposes,
but this does not mean that existing resources are neglected.
Contact: Thomas Nganga
CERAG, BP 2499, Brazzaville, Congo
Information-communication. Why Train Researchers?
In West Africa, researchers find it difficult to write scientific articles, and have them published. They are often
unaware of the standards that apply to scientific editing and publishing, and they often lack information on specialist
journals. They work in an environment that does not encourage publication. For this reason, the Institut togolais
de recherche agronomique (ITRA) organized a course on scientific writing for about twenty of its researchers in
Lomé, at the end of 1999.
The course focused mainly on the rules that apply to scientific publishing, how to publish scientific articles
for non-specialists, and the oral presentations of research results. The course was taught by trainers from the
Institut national de recherche agronomique du Niger (INRAN) and the Institut de l'environnement et des recherches
agricoles (INERA) in Burkina. At the end of the course, researchers were selected to pass on the training.
The workshop was organized with support from the Centre technique de coopération agricole et rurale (CTA)
and the World Bank. ITRA also aimed to use the workshop as a way of raising its profile within the national and
international scientific community.
Contact: Bah Seiti Rabiou
ITRA, BP 1163, Lomé, Togo
Fax: +228 25 15 59
E-mail: itra@cafe.tg
Baobab: the Tree that Hides the Scrub
The Senegalese are falling back on wild plants, such as fruit from forest-tree species like the baobab (Adansonia
digitata), because of the cereal deficit. As a result, the Centre national de recherches forestières (CNRF)
of the Institut sénégalais de recherches agricoles (ISRA) is planning to carry out research into
the domestic production and development of certain fruit-bearing trees. The aim is to make an inventory of available
resources, create high-yielding hybrid varieties, put together technical itineries, develop conservation and processing
techniques for wild produce, and disseminate research results. These activities should encourage the development
of products and by-products, and the creation of small and large-scale processing units.
Although, the baobab is resistant to drought and strong winds, it does not grow in the desert or in humid forest
zones. It flourishes in the scrub of semi-arid zones in Africa. In Senegal, this multipurpose species grows on
light, sandy or calcareous soil and reaches a height of 30 meters or more. It is eaten by humans and animals, and
is used for medicinal and craft purposes, fishing, as well as in and around the home. It can be grafted and grown
from stem cuttings. It also grows from seed that germinates 3-5 weeks after direct sowing. There are on average
2 200 seeds/kg. The seed contains more protein than groundnuts, and more lysine (an essential amino acid for growth)
than leguminous plants. Seed is boiled in water for twenty-four hours or in sulphuric acid for twelve hours then
soaked in cold water for about twenty minutes.
Daily Calcium Requirements
The fruit pulp (breadfruit ripening between January and April in the Sahel zone) is very rich in glucides, calcium,
phosphorous, potassium, glucose, vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin PP (niacin), vitamin B1 (thiamin), and even contains
more vitamin C (ascorbic acid) than an orange.
The dried leaves are eaten or sold as they are or as a powder. They are rich in calcium, iron, protein, lipids,
and vitamin A (see number fourteenth of Coraf action). Thirty-three grammes of dry matter provides an adult's daily
calcium requirements. Young leaves are an important source of fodder.
Contact: Samba Arona Ndiaye Samba
CNRF, BP 2312, Dakar, Senegal
Fax: +221 832 96 17
E-mail: bathie@syfed.refer.sn
The Seventh Days for Science. The Agence universitaire de la francophonie Calls for Papers
Major changes, that have already begun to appear in biology, shall take place over the next few years as a result
of the incredible developments that have been made in molecular and genetic technology, biological models, biotechnology,
and information and communications technology.
Research can be conducted much more quickly with molecular biology. It has become easier to understand the major
biological mechanisms. New genetic techniques are creating new types of plants. In addition, the increased number
of research programs has meant that a considerable amount of data will be available to researchers.
As a result, the Agence universitaire de la francophonie's (AUF) network for plant biotechnology, improved plant
breeding and food security, is organizing its seventh days for science from 3-5 July 2000 in Montpellier. This
meeting will focus on biological models for plant breeding to examine the issues and prospects of the remarkable
progress that has been made.
For more information, please contact the administrative secretariat at the Association des universités partiellement
ou entièrement de langue française-Universités des réseaux d'expression française
(AUPELF-UREF).
Contact: S. Hamon
AUPELF-UREF 2000, 34070 Montpellier, France
Fax: +33 04 67 45 57 97
E-mail: aupelf-uref2000@alphavisa.com
Agriculture and Bioscience. CABI Review Conference in London
The Centre for Agriculture and Bioscience International (CABI) held its fourteenth triennal Review Conference in
London, at the end of 1999. Participants included representatives from the forty CABI member countries - including
thirteen African countries -, scientific partners and major donors. The Britain Under-secretary of State for International
Development and the Director General of the South African Department of Agriculture were present at the opening
ceremony.
The action plans for the period 2000-2002, concerning the programmes for Publishing and Bioscience, the Information
and Development, were agreed on. Members called upon CABI to find the necessary funding to enable member countries
to use the data from CABI specimen collections (arthropods, fungi, plant bacteria, and nematodes), and to improve
the capacities of members to use their own national collections. Participants also agreed to help organize regional
workshops, in order to draw up strategies and action plans for using microbial resources, that include genetic
technology.
An International Pest Control Initiative
The CABI strategy of diffusing information to developing countries, via the Internet, was approved. Development
agencies were encouraged to support regional initiatives. They should also support sustainable information programs.
The possibility of drawing up an international initiative to control the increased threat from dangerous animal
and plant species was discussed at the Conference. In addition, an international conference is planned to look
at how aid programmes take pest control into account. Sub-regional training programs and collaborative projects
with BioNet International are also envisaged.
Contact: Jane Frances Asaba
CABI, P.O. Box 633, Nairobi, Kenya
Fax: +254 2 522150
E-mail: j.asaba@cabi.org
CORAF LIFE
Electronic Conference. WECARD Adopts New Working Method
The West and Central African Council for Agricultural Research and Development (WECARD) (or Conseil Ouest et Centre
africain pour la recherche et le développement agricoles (CORAF) held its first electronic conference in
February 2000. At the request of stakeholders in agricultural production, several working groups spent six weeks
debating the priorities of the Strategic Plan for Agricultural Research and Development. This took place in Bangui
during the twelveth WECARD General Assembly meeting (see thirteenth number of Coraf Action).
This first on-line conference meant that more people could take part in the discussions organized in fifteen working
groups led by facilitators. Participants, who could sign up for more than one group, pointed out the problems,
and made recommendations. These discussions should lead to a consensus on each of the subjects raised.
The conference will be followed by a validation meeting to be held in April 2000, in Dakar.
The Fifteen Working Groups and Facilitators
Agricultural policy, V.M. Manyong and Soudhir Wanmali
Agro-pastoral, Adoméfa Kossi and Shirley Tarawali
Biotechnology and genetic resources, Raymond Vodouhé
Biomathematics, David Boggio and A. Adam
Annual and perennial crops, J. Godcowski and Christian Sales
Cereals, Charles Thé and B. Ouendéba
Fruit, Plantain and vegetable crops, Ekow Akayeampong
Cereal legumes, R. Shilling and C.A. Fatokun
Information, communication, training, Bob Eaglesfield and Jean-François Giovannetti
Irrigated systems, Jean-Claude Legoupil and Wilfried Hundertmark
Livestock and fisheries, Adoméfa Kossi and Seydil Moctar Touré
Natural resources, L. Nétoyo, G. Tian and F. Lompo
Institutional partnerships, Daniel Annerose and Andrew Uriyo
Periurban systems, Christian Nolte and Paule Moustier
Tubers, Robert Asiedu and Jean-Luc Marchand
Contact the address below for more information.
Contact: Marcel Nwalozie
WECARD, BP 8237, Dakar-Yoff, Senegal
Fax: +221 825 55 69
E-mail: marcel.nwalozie@coraf.org
Internet: www.coraf.org
West Africa. A Workshop on Livestock
A workshop on integrated approaches to livestock research and development in West Africa was organized in Dakar
at the end of 1999. It aimed to identify the national and sub-regional priorities, and to integrate them into the
International Trypanotolerance Centre (ITC) Medium-Term Plan (2000-2003). The West and Central African Council
for Agricultural Research and Development (WECARD) (or Conseil Ouest et Centre africain pour la recherche et le
développement agricoles (CORAF) helped organize the workshop, as part of its program for collaborative research
and the development of animal production in West and Central Africa. Representatives came from National Agricultural
Research Systems (NARS) in the Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Senegal, the Centre international de recherche-développement
sur l'élevage en zone sub-humide (CIRDES), and the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI).
At the national level, participants called on ITC to organize masters and doctoral courses for NARS personnel for
capacities building. At the sub-regional level, ITC was also asked to consider the priorities to national and subregional
policies by working in close collaboration with the NARS.
Finally, the workshop recommended that ITC should take into account the environmental impact of research and research
findings.
The final report may be obtained from the following address:
Contact: Raffaele Mattioli, Dieter Mehlitz
ITC, P.M.B. 14, Banjul,
Fax: +220 46 2924
Soil Fertility in Africa. The Initiative's Program
The African Soil Fertility Initiative (SFI) launched in 1996 (see sixth number of Coraf Action) has been characterized
by poor coordination, and a lack of involvement on the part of the private sector and NonGovernmental Organizations.
In sub-Saharan Africa, collaboration between national policy and technical organizations has been weak. The World
Bank and the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) convened all the national, regional,
and international partners in Rome, at the end of 1998, to find solutions. The meeting adopted major measures,
including a definition of a new SFI program.
This program intends to promote dialogue among African decision-makers and donors, strengthen capacities through
increased collaboration among national stakeholders (public services, research institutes, development agencies,
industries, community organizations, NGOs, civilians). Integrated national and regional programs, national action
plans, as well as financial resource transfers are planned.
Finally, an information and communication system is to be put in place.
Contact: Ndiaga Mbaye
WECARD, BP 8237, Dakar-Yoff, Senegal
Fax: +221 825 96 18
E-mail: ndiaga@sonatel.senet.net
Forestry Research. Gabon Adopts a Strategic Plan
In Gabon, sustainable development can only be achieved if forestry research activities focus on improving the use
of ecosystems. The first national workshop, organized in November 1999 in Libreville, by the Institut de recherches
agronomiques et forestières (IRAF) and the Projet sur les forêts et l'environnement (PFE), adopted
a Strategic Plan for Forestry Research. Other workshops will follow, so that this important study can be finalized.
The Strategic Plan encourages research programs to improve their knowledge of forestry resources, their sustainable
management, the forestry development, forestry economics, the biometrics.
Contact: Koumba Nzaou Paul
IRAF, BP 2246, Libreville, Gabon
Fax: +241 73 08 59
IN THE FIELDS
Solar Energy. Are Production Units Profitable?
An improved solar dryer for domestic and semi-industrial use has been developed in 1999 by the Institut de recherche
en sciences appliquées et technologies (IRSAT) in Burkina Faso, and the Association Burkinabè d'Action
communautaire (ABAC). In 1999, the model was disseminated widely in twenty of Burkina's thirty provinces. The Groupe
de recherche et d'échanges Technologiques (GRET) in Burkina Faso, the Groupe énergies renouvelables
et environnement (GERES) in France, and the Centre écologique Albert Schweitzer (CEAS) in Suisse have been
involved in manufacturing and disseminating the technology for drying fresh agricultural products (mango, in particular)
(see fourteenth number of Coraf action). The experiment has been so successful, judging from the substantial income
that has been generated, that women, the main users, have launched production associations, and small, semi-industrial
or craft units that manufacture products for local and export markets.
The demand for foodstuffs, both in terms of quality and quantity, has been modified by the rapid pace of urban
growth. To ensure that their projects are profitable producer associations have to be extremely well organized.
They also have to develop products for sale as well as subsistence, and put emphasis on training. Producer groups
have also had to consider production methods, availability of raw materials, existence of market outlets, climate
(in the dry season only certain products need drying), and the economic situation. The present markets for solar
dryers include local people and government officials, urban markets, restaurants, and markets in neighboring coastal
countries.
Exciting Profits
From 1992-1997, 3 000 solar dryers were in operation, earning 750 millions CFA francs or 150 millions CFA francs
per year. A dryer used for one to two hours a day lasts for six to nine months. Each hour of work is paid at a
rate of 400 CFA francs. A loan for purchasing a solar dryer (48 000 CFA francs per dryer) can be repaid in a very
short period, as illustrated by two examples of a small production unit and a craft unit. One dryer produced 12
kg of dried onions at the rate of 1.2 kg every three days. The corresponding profits amounted to 10 050 CFA francs
per month, the loan can be repaid in five months.
In Bobo-Dioulasso, a womenís group has four solar dryers for processing potatoes, tomatoes, and mangoes.
Sixty-five kilogrammes of dried products, obtained from 650 kg of raw materials were sold for a profit of 51 300
CFA francs, which meant that the loan could be reimbursed in four months.
Involving Community-Based Lending Structures
There is to be a second phase (1999-2000) during which 7 000 dryers will be distributed to produce 250 t of dried
foodstuffs, which should earn 600 millions CFA francs. These forecasts seem plausible, given that there is an average
solar panel area of 0.6 m2, a useful life of six months, daily sunshine producing 5 kW hours, and energy yields
of 400%. Therefore, 8 000 dryers should produce 1 728 mW hours of useful energy, the equivalent of 136 000 kg/bottled
gas. This project is supported by the Caisse Française de développement (CFD), the European Union
(EU), the Agence inter-gouvernementale de la francophonie AUF).
To achieve this target, training will be increased, craftsmen will be organized, community-based lending structures
will be informed and involved, products will be promoted to encourage consumers to buy them, and new markets found.
However, it is important not to lose sight of the fact that the demand for quality products outstrips supply, production
levels are still very low, and only zones with surplus agricultural produce can use this technology.
Next article: Is there an alternative to these industrial units?
Contact: Thérèse Onadja, Christian Legay
ABAC-GERES, 01 BP 4071 Ouagadougou 01
Fax: +226 26 02 18
E-mail: geres@fasonet.bf
Women Farmers Manager Their Credit with Great Success
In Benin, poor communities in the Southern region want to escape from the vicious cycle of poverty, but they lack
access to the necessary credits to develop agricultural production. In order to succeed, they need a credit system
tailored to their needs and technical assistance to help them become independent. The Institut africain d'application
des méthodes de développement (IAMD) in Benin, supported by the Catholic Relief Services (CRS), has
been working with several producer associations, with results since 1994 that have been encouraging in a short
space of time.
IAMD determined the type of credit, its duration, conditions for repayment and approvals. It also determined savings
and interest rates, as well as the number of beneficiaries. Although, men are not excluded from the system, IAMD
assistance is mainly targeted at women. In order to be eligible for the credit, each candidate must belong to a
group within his or her association, thereby benefiting from peer support.
In the Department of Ouémé, which is located in the suburbs of Porto-Novo, 27 groups with 1 100 members
have benefited from credit worth 27,100 millions CFA francs. In May 1999, 340 women received a total of 11,250
millions CFA francs at the rate of 32 000 CFA francs each every two months. After three campaigns, the women had
repaid 100% of their credit and saved a little over 3 millions CFA francs.
A similar program was set up in the commune of Gakpé, and eight groups of women farmers have become autonomous.
To further strengthen the group cohesion and capacity of group management, IAMD set up a functional literacy program.
Contact: Ludovic Atrokpo
IAMD, 03 BP 1468, Cotonou
Benin
Contribution. Growing Soybean in Côte d'Ivoire
In the eleventh, thirteenth, and fourteenth editions of Coraf Action, A. L. N'Cho and Christophe Kouamé,
from the Centre national de recherche agronomique (CNRA) in Côte d'Ivoire, and Georgette A. Konan from the
Centre suisse de recherche scientifique (CSRS) reported on the development of edible soybean production and use
in Côte d'Ivoire.
Christine M. Soro-Giordanie, a rural extension worker and a regular reader of Coraf Action, points out that there
are two types of soybean: green and white. The thin, black pods of green soybean contain 10-15 seeds that are even
smaller than cowpea. She sowed a handful of seeds on an experimental plot which yielded 500 gm just two months
later. Green soybean is easy to cook, like a vegetable, and can be eaten raw in salads with other raw vegetables.
Christine learnt to her cost - after three trials - that unless white soybean seeds were well preserved, they lose
their capacity to germinate after nine months.
Contact: Soro-Giordanie M. Christine
Ferkéssédougou, BP 71, Côte d'Ivoire
Ségou. Smallholders Committed to Crop Protection
In the Ségou region in Mali, valuable lessons are being learnt from the Office Riz Ségou (ORS), Agricultural
Production Units (UPA) in three villages, and the International Centre for Research in Agroforestry (ICRAF). Smallholders
are being encouraged to grow vegetables and produce and plant windbreaks to protect plots from animals.
There are about 6 100 inhabitants in Konodimini, Banankoroni, and Dougoucouna, 3 280 men and women who are working
on the project. They are grouped together in a UPA, and have access to 680 ploughs, harrows, cultivators, oxen
and carts of which they own 375.
As a result, 150 ha of cassava fields farmed by 310 smallholders have been protected with live hedges. From 1996-1999,
some smallholders used live hedges of Acacia nilotica (red gum), Acacia senegal (white gum), ZIziphus mauritiana,
Bauhina rufesens (" guéssémé "), and Lawsonia inermis to protect over 40 ha.
The women, on the other hand, who cultivate about 40 ha of market garden crops - tomato, chili, okra, eggplant,
tobacco -, still have to deal with the problem of wandering animals, except for those from Kondimini village who
have planted live hedges.
Smallholders from all three villages have been taught how to produce and plant live hedges.
Contact: Ndiaga Mbaye
WECARD, BP 8237, Dakar-Yoff, Senegal
Fax: +221 825 55 69
E-mail: ndiaga@sonatel.senet.net
Mauritania. A Leap Forward for Milk Production
In Mauritania, livestock producers broke a record by producing three hundred and sixty thousands tons of milk produced
in 1992. Camel breeders came top of the list with milk production levels of one hundred and ninety thousands tons,
cattle breeders with one hundred and forty-five thousands tons, followed by small ruminant producers with twenty-five
thousands tons.
Like other cities, the semiurban areas of Nouakchott have witnessed the development of dairy production (see twelveth
number of Coraf Action). Since 1989, an industrial dairy processing and marketing unit, " Laitière
de Mauritanie ", has been selling pasteurized and fermented milk, cheese, butter, and cream.
The milk collection center, located nearly 200 km away from the capital, has encouraged the establishment of milk
cooperatives, which has encouraged dairy farmers to settle.
Contact: Ahmed O. Mohamed
CNERV, BP 167, Nouakchott, Mauritania
Fax: +222 25 28 03
E-mail: cnrv10@calvapro.fr
Questions. Were Do You Find Camphor?
Christine M. Soro-Giordanie, a rural extension worker and a regular reader of Coraf Action, wants to set up a medicinal
plant garden on her farm, and is looking for camphor plantlings or seeds. Camphor soothes aching muscles which
many farmers suffer from because of their hard physical work.
How Do You Get Rid of Giant Red Ants?
An army of red ants has invaded the farm. Christine's husband kills them by feeding them toads that have been killed.
However, it is just as difficult to catch toads (especially, at night) as it is to find anteaters which prey on
ants.
What Is the Best Technique for Maintaining the Humidity Levels Required for Breeding Giant Snails?
Christine's farm is in an area of savanna scrubland, in the North of Côte d'Ivoire. She intends to breed
giant snails. In the dry season, however, it is not humid enough. She wants to use passion fruit to increase humidity,
although this does not guarantee stable levels of humidity.
Contact: Soro-Giordanie M. Christine
Ferkéssédougou, BP 71, Côte d'Ivoire
From Extension Work to Phytosanitary Protection
In Mali, research has always endeavoured to be in step with smallholder concerns. From on-farm trials to the dissemination
of results, there is but one step and in 1999, the Institut d'économie rurale (IER) and the Projet sur l'environnement,
les systèmes de production et la gestion des ressources naturelles (ESPGRN) made the link between the two.
In the Ségou region, joint action involved the creation of varieties (particularly for Striga-resistant
sorghum and cowpea), improved cropping practices, soil fertility, phytosanitary treatment, and processing.
New varieties of millet (" touroniou C1 ", " benkadinion ", " Guéfoué "),
sorghum (" Séguétana "), cowpea (" gorom gorom ", " sangaraka ", "
korobalen "), and groundnut (47-10, JL-24) have been developed and disseminated to smallholders. Mixed cropping
with millet and cowpea and animal traction are recommended for growing these varieties. Organic manure is also
recommended (composting and improved pens). Cereal seeds were treated with an insecticide composed of metalaxyl,
carboxim, and furathiocarb.
In addition, a weaning mix is also made from millet and cowpea flour.
Contact: Ndiaga Mbaye
WECARD, BP 8237, Dakar-Yoff, Senegal
Fax: +221 825 55 69
E-mail: ndiaga.mbaye@coraf.org
Training Scholarships from the Centre écologique Albert Schweitzer
The Centre écologique Albert Schweitzer (CEAS) in Burkina Faso is organizing short-term training programs
for stakeholders in the agricultural sector. Courses on food processing for entrepreneurs, professionals, and women's
associations will take place in June 2000. Training on appropriate technology for craftsmen, cabinet makers, and
welders will be held in June, September, and November 2000. Courses in agroecology and the environment designed
for farmers, technicians or agricultural extension workers will be held in May, September and December 2000.
Additional information may be obtained from CEAS. Applications should be submitted thirty days before the training
course selected.
Contact: Eulalie Kambiré
CEAS, 01 BP 3306 Ouagadougou 01, Burkina Faso
Tel: +226 34 30 08
Fax: +226 34 10 65
E-mail: ceas-rb@fasonet.bf
Coraf Action. Gaston G. Kokodé, coordinator from Benin
Biometrician, Head of Documentation, Training and Publication at the Institut national de recherche agronomique
du Bénin (INRAB), Gaston G. Kokodé coordinates national communication network for the WECARD regional
information newsletter, Coraf Action, in Benin. He is responsible for collecting and editing articles. In each
network member institution, a correspondent is designated to help the coordinator by providing articles.
Since the coordinator edits all articles for Coraf Action, authors based in Benin are requested to send articles
to his address, wherever possible.
Contact: Gaston G. Kokodé
INRAB, 01 BP 884, Cotonou, Benin
Fax: +229 30 07 35
+229 30 37 70
Tel: +229 30 02 64
+229 30 07 23
E-mail: inrabdg3@bow.intnet.bj
Coraf Action. Marie-Antoinette Haba Sanoussi, coordinator from Guinea
Agronomist, Head of Department for Information and Validation at the Institut de recherche agronomique de Guinée
(IRAG), Marie-Antoinette Haba Sanoussi coordinates national communication network for the WECARD regional information
newsletter, Coraf Action, in Guinea. She is responsible for collecting and editing articles. In each network member
institution, a correspondent is designated to help the coordinator by providing articles.
Since the coordinator edits all articles for Coraf Action, authors based in Guinea are requested to send articles
to her address, wherever possible.
Contact: Marie-Antoinette Haba Sanoussi
IRAG, BP 1523, Conakry, Guinea
Fax: +224 41 57 58
Tel: +224 45 42 62
+224 41 10 62
E-mail: irag@mirinet.net.gn
TO BE READ
Guide pour l'identification et la luttre contre les principales adventices du riz = A Manual for the
Identification and Control of Major Weeds Affecting Rice. By Ismaëla Kane and Aly Sy. 1998, 73 pages.
Published by the direction de la recherche, de la formation et de la vulgarisation (DRFV), BP 175, Nouakchott,
Mauritania.
Abstract
This publication is an inventory of weeds that are a major constraint to the development and productivity of the
rice crop in Mauritania. Agronomists, extension workers, and farmers may use it to identify weeds.
Agriculture périurbaine en Afrique sub-saharienne. Actes de l'atelier international, du 20 au 24 avril
1998, Montpellier, France = Periurban Agriculture in sub-Saharan Africa. International workshop recommendations,
20-24 April 1998, Montpellier, France. By Paule Moustier, Alain Mbaye, Hubert De Bon, Hubert Guérin, and
Jacques Faye.1999, 278 pages, ISBN 2-87614-371-2, ISSN 1264-112X. Published by the Centre de coopération
internationale en recherche agronomique pour le développement (CIRAD), BP 5035, 34032 Montpellier Cedex
1, France, and by the West and Central African Council for Agricultural Research and Development (WECARD) (or Conseil
Ouest et Centre africain pour la recherche et le développement agricoles (CORAF), BP 8237, Dakar-Yoff, Senegal.
Abstract
This publication presents the findings of CIRAD and WECARD researchers on the dynamics of peri-urban production
systems, particularly in Dakar, Brazzaville, Yaoundé, and Maroua. Contributions cover an analysis of farming
operations, sustainable resource management, and guaranteeing stakeholder income.
SCHEDULED OF EVENDS
WECARD Meetings
The Executive Committee of the West and Central African Council for Agricultural Research and Development (WECARD)
(or Conseil Ouest et Centre Africain pour la recherche et le développement agricoles (CORAF) shall meet
in Praia, from 17-19 April 2000.
The Steering Committee meeting of the Pôle régional de recherche appliquée au développement
des savanes d'Afrique centrale (PRASAC) shall be held in Bangui, from 17-22 April 2000
Other Meetings
A workshop to reflect on the second phase of the Consortium pour la mise en valeur durable des agroécosystèmes
de bas-fonds en Afrique sub-saharienne (CBF) will be held in Mbé (Côte d'Ivoire), from 3-7 April
2000.
The annual meeting on the vision of the Special Program for African Agricultural Research (SPAAR) and the Forum
for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) will be held in Conakry, from 10-15 April 2000
