Agroforestry in the West African Sahel

In this report, traditional Sahelian systems of agroforestry are reviewed and ways in which modern approaches can help overcome problems of environmental degradation, plant and animal losses, and vulnerability to drought and economic adversity explored. After describing the desertification process in the Sahel, the report discusses energy flows and productivity in traditional Sahelian land use systems, including silvo-pastoral, agro-silvicultural, and agro-silvo-pastoral systems. Agroforestry"s economic and social benefits, flexibility, and acceptability are described. Various agroforestry applications are then analyzed, and actions that can be taken at the government, community, and individual household levels to promote agroforestry noted. A final chapter on institutional problems relating to the design and implementation of agroforestry programs indicates key directions for extension efforts sorely needed at the village level. Appended are 46 references to English, French, and German works (1879-1983); criteria for tree species selection and use; and a methodology for diagnosing and designing agroforestry land management systems.