PARKIA BIGLOBOSA AND ITS EFFECTS ON GROUNDNUT AGRICULTURE IN LOWER CASAMANCE

Abstract

The groundnut sector in Casamance has undergone a significant crisis since the 1990s, marked by a substantial decline in production attributed to multiple challenges such as soil and seed capital degradation, exacerbated by the ongoing climate deterioration (Montfort, 2005; Ndéné, 2011). This crisis has particularly impacted agricultural systems in Casamance, with one of the primary causes being the widespread destruction of trees. This destructive practice, aimed at expanding dwellings and securing more arable land, has been identified as a major contributor to the prevailing constraints in groundnut cultivation (Chevalier, 1924; Solly et al., 2020). This study seeks to comprehensively analyze the crisis in the Casamance groundnut sector, focusing on the intricate interplay of factors leading to the drastic drop in production. By examining the historical context and the progression of challenges, the research aims to untangle the complex web of influences, including the detrimental impact of tree destruction on agricultural systems. The consequences of this crisis extend beyond immediate production losses, encompassing broader environmental implications and the sustainability of groundnut cultivation in the region. The findings of this study are crucial for informing targeted interventions and policies aimed at mitigating the crisis in the Casamance groundnut sector. By identifying the root causes and understanding the interconnected challenges, the research contributes valuable insights to the ongoing discourse on sustainable agriculture and land use in