Statistics workshop confirms need for improved manure management

[Rwanda]

A FAO organized regional workshop on the estimation of statistics on nitrogen inputs from livestock manure in Sub-Saharan Africa confirms the necessity of improving manure management practices in the region. Improved data are indispensable for evidence-based decision making in agriculture.

Manure plays an important role in sustaining agricultural production, particularly in extensive (low inputs) systems, where it provides a cheap, readily available resource that helps to replenish soil nutrients and maintain soil fertility. As shown in the graphs, in Africa in 2012 only 4% of the manure nitrogen was applied to soils, whereas 83% was left on pastures. Improving manure handling practices of overnight kraals and manure storage will increase the nitrogen availability for soil fertilization and subsequently enhance crop production and food security.