| Summary: | Cropland degradation in South Kivu, D.R. Congo : farmers’ perceptions and farm characteristics
Description of the subject. As compared to neighboring countries in the African Great Lakes Region, there is a glaring lack of up-to-date information regarding the status of land degradation in the Kivu Ridge in the D.R. Congo.
Objectives. This study aims at characterizing the severity of soil degradation in South Kivu and how it is affected by the diversity of biophysical and socio-economic contexts and the choice of crops and cropping practices.
Methods. In four territories of the Kivu Ridge, 720 small farmers were surveyed regarding the level and forms of land degradation, as well as crops and cultural practices. A classification of households was carried out.
Results. Farms were characterized by their small size and their overall poverty. Overall, the status of degradation was perceived as medium, but it was severe to very severe for one third of farms. Soil erosion, nutrient depletion and organic matter were the main types of degradation. Demographic pressure partly explains the differences observed between watersheds. The poorest households had on average the highest levels of degradation. Some practices (ridging) or crops (cassava, coffee, and market gardening) seemed preferentially associated with certain levels of degradation, although no clear causal relationships could be established because of the predominance of crop associations.
Conclusions. The survey revealed a problematic situation, particularly affecting the poorest households, which should encourage more investment in soil conservation.
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