Integrated soil management is an essential condition for agricultural development in West Africa. Such an approach combines improved soil hydraulic measures, organic fertility measures, and inorganic fertilizers and soil amendments. The synergetic effects which result from this combination are indispensable for achieving the productivity increases needed to cope with the increasing pressure of population. Current (neo-liberal and ecological-participationist) policy approaches are unable to realize the transition towards integrated soil management technologies. The time lags involved in learning to use new technologies, in the adaptation of technologies to local circumstances, and in reaping the benefits of soil fertility investments call for (at least temporary) support of agricultural incomes.
| Original language | English |
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| Place of Publication | Wageningen |
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| Publisher | ISRIC |
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| Number of pages | 23 |
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| Publication status | Published - 1997 |
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