Agricultural resource scarcity and distribution : a case study of crop production in Africa

In this report the authors focus on current yields of cereals (and in particular maize) and associated resource inputs. i.e. land, nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer, and animal manure availability across Africa and calculated production potentials and the soil water balance of maize and wheat under rainfed conditions optimally supplied with nutrients and protected against diseases. Maize yield gaps were determined per grid cell by combining current yield levels with calculated rainfed yield potentials. Average annual fresh water availabilities on the continental and national levels were calculated and seasonal water discharge was studied connecting upstream/downstream parts of a river basin in a case study area (Limpopo watershed). Finally, spatio socio economic indicators relevant for rural development in general an agricultural production in particular were identified and explored.