Bio-diversity

This project seeks to strengthen the capacity of women by providing the requisite skills to enhance agricultural production, natural resource management, energy conservation, and livelihood generation. Sustainable practices will strengthen current group activities which center on gender empowerment, fighting HIV/AIDS, and income generation. Project activities combat threats to local biodiversity and land fertility. Soil degradation in the project area will be curbed by the use of organic compost, crop/livestock integration, the introduction of leguminous plants, and the cessation of slash and burn techniques. Organic compost will consist of local natural waste and leguminous plant foliage, as well as cane rat and pig manure. Leguminous plants further provide fast-growing sources for fuel wood needs. Conservation will also be achieved through the domestication of the endangered cane rat. This activity will result in population increase by periodic releases, income generation through sale, and a source of manure for compost. Pig production further contributes to income generation and organic compost. Locally-adapted maize varieties address biodiversity concerns and improve farming efficiency. Building on current networking strengths, the proposal also seeks to disseminate best environmental practices through peer exchange, a documentation centre, and a monthly newsletter. Increased farming efficiency, income, and energy sourc

Cameroon