ABSTRACT
Maintaining soil health in Africa A. O. Ogunkunle, University of Ibadan, Nigeria; and V. O. Chude, National Program for Food Security, Nigeria
1 Introduction
2 Consequences of land degradation
3 Soil quality, food security and soil health
4 Strategies for sustainability
5 Sustainable soil management systems
6 Maintaining soil health in practice
7 Impacts of soil health principles and practices in sub-Saharan Africa
8 Conclusion
9 Where to look for further information
10 References
1.1 Land use in Africa Land is the true wealth of any nation or region, with the African continent not being an exception. Africa is characterized by a rich diversity of natural ecosystem resources, including soil, vegetation, water and genetic diversity. Together, these constitute the region’s main natural capital. It is from these assets that the provision of food, water, wood, fibre, industrial products and essential ecosystem services and functions are derived. These resources must be sustainably managed and maintained in order to support African populations into the future. It is from the land that 60% of the people directly derive their livelihoods – from agriculture, freshwater fisheries, forestry and other natural resources (FAO, 2004).
