ABSTRACT
Soil erosion is widely perceived to be a major problem in sub-Saharan Africa. Most agency reports and government publications highlight the degradation of soils as a major development challenge, but soil and water conservation (SWC) efforts in Africa have had a chequered history. From the early colonial era to the present, attempts have been made to introduce SWC measures in a wide range of settings, yet many have failed. This overview chapter asks why this is so, and whether there is an alternative approach which builds on local traditions in soil and water management. Drawing on the wide range of case studies presented in this volume, this overview asks the following questions:
• What are the key characteristics of locally managed SWC systems? • What are the conditions for their successful adoption and expansion? • How can development approaches be more effective in promoting the pro-
cess of local-level SWC technology development?
