Technology and agricultural productivity in the Sahel

Increased productivity will require widespread diffusion of improved soil and water management practices such as tied-ridges, animal traction, and fertilization which can stimulate sustainable growth but which may not be viable unless used together. Improved soil and water management is also required to produce a more fertile agronomic environment receptive to new high-yielding crop varieties. However, adoption of the improved techniques is constrained by several factors - environmental conditions, farmers" resources, the inability to make complementary investments that would make technology adoption profitable, marketing channels, and institutional/policy arrangements. Adoption rates can improve if new farming practices enhance soil and water rates at a modest cost, reduce the risk of food and capital loss during poor weather years, and relieve seasonal labor constraints. However, tandem improvements are necessary in input and product markets, rural institutions, and policies to stimulate adoption by creating opportunities and incentives at the farm level. (Author abstract, modified)