Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Daniel D
Published on 2024-02-18 15:12:26
The upcoming rainy season in Cameroon has led to farmers resorting to questionable practices, such as the widespread burning of ‘Ankara’, sparking concerns about the farmers’ awareness of climate change and environmental pollution.
Desmond Mawai is one such farmer who is setting fire to a pile of cleared grasses on his family farm in preparation for the rainy season. He knows that this isn’t the best practice, but with the rainy season approaching, he feels that he doesn’t have time to let the grass decay naturally. The smoke from the flames not only affects the sky but also takes a toll on Desmond’s health as he struggles to cough and his eyes turn red.
However, not all farmers adopt this method. Mama Josephine, a 42-year-old farmer with decades of experience, tailors her approach based on the crops she intends to plant. She burns grass for some crops, such as egusi, but opts to bury the grass for others, such as corn. However, the unpredictable weather patterns leave her anxious about the optimal time for planting.
The widespread practice of Ankara burning among Cameroonian rural farmers is believed to enhance soil fertility, but it is environmentally destructive and poses health risks. Environmental ambassador Audrey Njonwi Sanda has called for a ban on the burning of grass and ‘Ankara’ and for severe penalties for defaulters due to its destructive effects on soil fertility and the ozone layer.
The Pan African Institute for Development West Africa reported that soil fertility has tremendously reduced due to poor farming practices, such as Ankara burning. This has led to poor yields for farmers like Tagoumenta Raoul, who has experienced subpar harvests due to delayed rain and excessive sun caused by climate change.
Raoul also highlights other farming practices that contribute to poor yields, such as planting numerous crops on a single ridge. Despite investing in fertilizers and other chemicals, the desired results have not been achieved. This emphasizes the need for farmers to reconsider their farming methods to ensure better yields.
Overall, the burning of ‘Ankara’ and the effects of climate change are posing significant challenges for farmers in Cameroon. It is essential for farmers to be aware of the impact of their practices on the environment and to consider more sustainable methods to ensure the long-term success of their farming endeavors.
Read the original article(French) on Mimi Mefo Info
