Agroforestry study visit to West Africa

A study visit to Côte d'Ivoire was organized by CTA in collaboration with the Institut des Savanes (IDESSA) from 16-27 September 1996. It was an opportunity for participants to study the present and potential contribution of agroforestry to agricultural production systems. The practical application of research and development to the rural areas was a central theme of this visit, which was based on the humid and sub-humid agroecological zones of West and Central Africa. Agroforestry was also studied within the context of large industrial plantations, which are of major economic importance to the region. Taking part in the study visit were 20 experts from ten countries within the region, and representatives of regional organizations (CEDEAO , CO RAF, UDEAC) and agricultural development agencies (NGOs). Participants were able to study agroforestry developments in Côte d'Ivoire, both in the savanna and the forest zones. They were able to gain an insight into the potential of agroforestry as an alternative to slash-and-burn and as a mechanism for conserving forest species. Many different agroforestry techniques were studied and many ideas discussed. The principal themes covered by the visits were: management of natural vegetation; alley cropping; soil conservation; agroforestry and large industrial plantations; agroforestry and small livestock; training and information exchange; agroforestry and farmer resettlement programmes; and research, extension and farmer links. Participants drew up recommendations regarding the organization and structures required for information and training, research and support services. Key requirements identified included the need for a multidisciplinary approach; the need for cooperation between institutions; the need for economic studies relating to agroforestry techniques; the need for more effective links between research, development and the farming community and, finally, the need to take account of farmer knowledge and to use a participatory approach when developing new agroforestry techniques.study visit to Côte d'Ivoire was organized by CTA in collaboration with the Institut des Savanes (IDESSA) from 16-27 September 199