Soil Degradation in Eastern Africa
The soil is different here. When the rains come, I see so much erosion, gullies of water form and wash topsoil down into ditches and roads. When it's dry season, the soil hardens into an unbreakable, sun-fired crust. It looks infertile to me. My observation is supported by researchers who state 65% of the arable soil in East Africa is degraded. Individually, my neighbors consistently report that their crops do not produce as expected, but the connection of poor yields to soil health is not discussed, it is overlooked. Smallholder farmers face many challenges. Soil conservation techniques are viewed as an additional burden. Perhaps if soil conservation is seen as an opportunity to make new connections, it won’t be viewed as an individual responsibility. Farmers can organize engaging educational sessions, and they can form partnerships with international NGOs who are working in Uganda. Conserving soil is a great responsibility to shoulder. The reward is that earth-smart solutions implemented today are creating a better future for the next generation of farmers.
Ugandans Forum for Agricultural Advisory Services (UFAAS)
a subsidiary of the African Forum for Advisory Services (AFAAS)
I led a discussion about soil conservation with a group of extension agents from the Ugandan Forum for Agricultural Advisory Services (UFAAS) at TAF Agri-Tourism Farm, my host located in the Lira District. In addition to the attendee’s UFAAS duties, they are also farmers. They experience the challenges of farming in Northern Uganda first hand. It was a pleasure to talk with them and to learn more about East African soil challenges.
UFAAS members from Soroti
I am not here in Northern Uganda to give quick solutions. It took nature over 500 years to create 1 inch of topsoil in Africa. I do encourage scientific and cooperative thinking. As their primary resource, regenerating the soil is a commitment every farmer should accept. One farmer acting alone will not make much of an impact. If a small coalition of farmers begin promoting planet-based solutions on their private farms, there is a greater likelihood that community members will be influenced. Convincing the majority of the district farmers to implement activities that will regenerate the soil is a clear objective. A regional soil crisis deserves a regional solution. This process will take time, but adaptation by individual farmers working inconjunction to conserve their land is necessary for a sustainable agricultural future.
My first meeting with UFAAS Soroti branch was an engaging and good introductory meeting. I learned about their perspectives, and they learned about my passion for sustainable agriculture. We must continue our discussions in the future so we can support one another in bringing the message of sustainability and soil regeneration to regional smallholder farmers across the region.
