In the remote village of Ouro Andre in North Cameroon, a groundbreaking agricultural method is transforming farming practices. This small village, situated near restricted hunting zones, is witnessing a significant shift thanks to the Zai farming technique. This traditional West African practice is rejuvenating soil fertility and elevating crop yields, presenting a sustainable solution to local agricultural challenges. The transition to Zai farming represents more than just a change in technique—it signifies a major step towards ecological and economic sustainability in a region facing severe environmental and social pressures.
The Zai Farming Technique Explained
Below are detail information about Zai Technique:
What is the Zai Technique?
The Zai technique, also known as tassa, is an age-old method designed to restore soil fertility and boost agricultural output. Originating from West Africa, it is particularly suited to arid and semi-arid regions where soil quality is often compromised. The process involves creating small pits—typically 70 to 80 centimeters apart, 20 centimeters deep, and 25 centimeters wide. These pits are then filled with a mixture of compost, grains, and rainwater, enhancing soil fertility and moisture retention.
How Does It Function?
The Zai technique works by concentrating organic materials and nutrients in small pits, which helps to mitigate soil erosion and improve water retention. During rainfall, water collects in these pits rather than running off, allowing it to permeate the soil. This not only helps retain moisture but also facilitates the decomposition of compost, enriching the soil. The presence of organic matter in the pits further enhances soil structure and fertility, leading to improved crop yields.
Case Study: Pierre Adamou’s Experience
Let’s explore detail by case study:
A Farmer’s Story
Pierre Adamou, a 48-year-old farmer from Ouro Andre, showcases the effectiveness of the Zai technique. Equipped with a machete and a sack of maize, Adamou heads to his farm about 5 kilometers away. He uses the Zai technique and applies composted manure on half a hectare of land during the rainy season.
The Impact
Prior to adopting the Zai method, Adamou’s maize harvests were modest, yielding only 2 to 3 bags per half-hectare. Since implementing Zai, his yield has risen to approximately 7 bags per half-hectare. This significant increase has improved Adamou’s financial stability, allowing him to better support his family and invest in livestock. The shift to Zai has not only enhanced his productivity but also reduced his reliance on expensive chemical fertilizers.
Environmental and Regional Challenges
Here are some challenges they maybe face:
Pressures on North Cameroon’s Environment
North Cameroon faces numerous environmental challenges, exacerbated by factors such as population growth, deforestation, and climate change. The region’s semi-arid climate, with less than 100 millimeters of rainfall per month, coupled with increased demand for farmland and firewood, has led to significant land degradation.
Effects of the Boko Haram Insurgency
The Boko Haram insurgency has intensified these pressures, leading to large-scale displacement and increased strain on natural resources. As displaced populations encroach upon protected areas like Bénoué National Park, deforestation and habitat destruction become more pronounced. This encroachment disrupts wildlife corridors and contributes to further environmental degradation.
Restoration Efforts
In response to these challenges, various restoration initiatives are underway. The Cameroon government and international organizations are working together on projects like AFR100 and the Bonn Challenge, aiming to restore millions of hectares of degraded land by 2030. These efforts focus on stabilizing agricultural practices, restoring soil fertility, and supporting environmental conservation.
FODER’s Contribution
The Forests and Rural Development (FODER) organization is at the forefront of these restoration efforts. By promoting the Zai technique through demonstration farms and farmer training, FODER is facilitating the adoption of this method and supporting broader ecological goals. These initiatives help stabilize agricultural practices, restore soil health, and contribute to environmental preservation.
Broader Implications of the Zai Technique
Let’s explore detail below:
Economic and Social Benefits
The economic advantages of the Zai technique extend beyond individual farmers. Improved soil fertility and higher crop yields contribute to local food security and economic stability. Farmers like Aiessatou, president of the Jilkakak cooperative, have reported impressive results. Aiessatou’s maize yields have increased threefold from 10 to 30 bags per hectare, demonstrating the technique’s potential to enhance agricultural productivity and improve livelihoods.
Environmental Advantages
The Zai technique also provides significant environmental benefits. By reducing soil erosion and improving water retention, it helps preserve soil health and combat land degradation. This aligns with broader conservation objectives, particularly in regions like Bénoué National Park, where protecting natural habitats is essential for biodiversity conservation.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Here are some challenges and future prospects:
Adoption Challenges
Despite its benefits, the Zai technique faces several challenges. Some farmers are hesitant to adopt it due to the physical labor involved and the initial cost of compost. Blaise Djoweh, a local farmer, has expressed a preference for chemical fertilizers despite their higher cost, citing the perceived labor intensity of Zai.
Collaborative Solutions
To address these challenges, organizations like FODER are promoting collaborative farming approaches. By forming cooperatives, farmers can share resources and reduce individual workloads. Additionally, ongoing research aims to improve traditional techniques and integrate new innovations, such as biochar and ReviTec technology, to enhance soil restoration efforts.
Government and NGO Involvement
The Cameroonian government, in collaboration with NGOs and research institutions, is committed to advancing land restoration initiatives. National strategies and targeted projects are being implemented to integrate the Zai technique and other sustainable practices into broader environmental and agricultural policies.
Conclusion
The Zai farming technique represents a transformative approach to soil fertility and agricultural sustainability in North Cameroon. By enhancing soil health, boosting crop yields, and supporting environmental conservation, Zai offers a promising path forward for addressing the region’s agricultural and ecological challenges. As more farmers embrace this technique and collaborative efforts expand, the potential for positive change grows, contributing to both economic stability and environmental preservation in this unique and challenging environment.
