Farming systems research along the Senegal River Valley : final technical report 1985-1990 -- Mauritania agricultural research project II -- AGRES II, contract no. 682-0957-[C-00]-5129-00

The project achieved a number of its objectives, in some cases going beyond expectations. The academic component was successfully completed; 7 participants received degrees from U.S. universities -- five B.S. degrees and two M.S. degrees. The project also was effective in applying and disseminating the Farming Systems Research approach and methodology. A major achievement was the completion of a research strategy for CNRADA, the first of its kind for any Mauritanian institution. Long- and short-term advisors greatly assisted CNRADA"s researchers and administrative personnel in a number of ways: on-farm research was established; researchers, extension agents, and teachers at the Agricultural School (Kaedi) were trained and participated in various types of surveys; numerous technical reports were completed, several papers were presented, and some were published; and some headway was made in reforming CNRADA"s administration and budgetary controls. Other important accomplishments included the following. (1) Thirteen studies were completed, providing detailed data on farming systems, ecology, and food consumption patterns in the Senegal River Valley. Additional studies provided feedback data and information from farmers and development institutions. (2) Five research assistants received short-term, third-country training; four in-country training seminars and three study tours were organized and carried out. (3) A sorghum, millet, and maize germplasm collection was established, complete with photographs and descriptions. (4) Housing for four researchers, along with two storage facilities, were completed; two existing research stations were partially improved. (5) Rainfed and recessional agriculture research fields were established and secured. (6) Equipment was obtained for CNRADA, and staff trained in its use. (7) CNRADA"s library/document center was equipped and technical material added to its small collection. (8) Linkages between CNRADA and other national and international research agencies were strengthened. The major impediments to fulfilling all the project"s goals and to insuring the sustainability of its accomplishments were related to the political upheaval resulting from the outbreak of hostilities between Mauritania and Senegal in April 1989. This situation is still unresolved.