Ammal Abukari | University for Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana (original) (raw)
Books by Ammal Abukari
Conversion of agricultural wastes into eco-friendly and low cost biochar is not only a smart recy... more Conversion of agricultural wastes into eco-friendly and low cost biochar is not only a smart recycling strategy but a panacea to environmental pollution management. Agricultural wastes biochar can be an effective alternative technique for controlling contaminants due to its low cost, high-efficiency, simple to use, ecological sustainability and reliability in terms of public safety. Biochars have made substantial breakthroughs in reducing greenhouse gases emissions, reducing soil nutrient leaching, sequester atmospheric carbon into the soil, increasing agricultural productivity, and reducing bioavailability of environmental contaminants. Recent advances in the understanding of biochars warrant a proper scientific evaluation of the relationship between its properties and impact on soil properties, environmental pollutant remediation, plant growth, yield, and resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. The main factors controlling biochar properties include the nature of feedstock, heat transfer rate, residence time and pyrolysis temperature. Biochar efficacy in pollutants management largely depends on its elemental composition, ion-exchange capacity, pore size distribution and surface area, which vary with the nature of feedstock, preparation conditions and procedures. The chapter explored the possibility of using biochar from agricultural wastes as a suitable alternative for the remediation of environmental pollutants, soil conditioning and the long-term biochar application in the environment.
Papers by Ammal Abukari
International Journal of Science and Research Archive, Dec 29, 2023
Fungal diseases cause serious seedling mortality in nurseries and threaten future seedling produc... more Fungal diseases cause serious seedling mortality in nurseries and threaten future seedling production for forest regeneration. To abate this menace, knowledge about them is key. Therefore, this study aimed at determining the incidence and severity of fungal diseases of forest seedlings in the Central Forest Nursery of Tamale, Ghana. Khaya senegalensis, Tectona grandis and Polyalthia longifolia in the nursery were infected with eight fungal pathogens and an unidentified fungus causing leaf blight, wilt, and dumping-off diseases. The pathogens included Rhizoctonia sp., Fusarium sp., Corrynespora sp., Colletotrichum sp., Cercospora sp., Phytophthora sp., Chaetomium sp., and Macrophomina sp. Rhizoctonia was the dominant pathogen isolated from all the leaves of the seedling species. Colletotrichum and Chaetomium were isolated from the leaves of Polyalthia longifolia. Cercospora and an unidentified spp. were found on the stems of Tectona grandis. Fusarium and Phytophthora were respectively found on Polyalthia longifolia and Khaya senegalensis stems. Chaetomium was identified on both Polyalthia longifolia and Khaya senegalensis stems. Cercospora and Fusarium were isolated from the roots of Tectona grandis and Polyalthia longifolia respectively while Macrophomina was associated with both Tectona grandis and Khaya senegalensis roots. Leaf blight recorded the highest disease incidence (76.7%) and affected all the three seedling species. Wilt disease showed low incidence (10.2-15.8 %) among the different seedling species. Dumping-off disease incidence (10.4%) was only recorded in Khaya senegalensis. The severities of the diseases identified were low (1-2) score except leaf blight of Tectona grandis and Polyalthia longifolia recording a moderate (3.0) severity score. It is recommended that appropriate disease management strategies be employed to prevent high incidences and severities.
Türk tarım - gıda bilim ve teknoloji dergisi, Jun 10, 2024
Environmental science and engineering, Dec 31, 2022
Magna Scientia Advanced Biology and Pharmacy, Dec 29, 2023
Contemporary Agriculture, May 31, 2022
The research examines micronutrient contents, soil carbon and nitrogen stocks of forested and def... more The research examines micronutrient contents, soil carbon and nitrogen stocks of forested and deforested sites at Bobiri forest reserve in the Ashanti region, Ghana. Each site had 12 soil profiles excavated, six of which were from natural forest areas and six were from deforested areas. The samples were taken at 0-15 cm, 15-50 cm and 50-80 cm depths and repeated thrice. The contents of DTPA-extractable micronutrients in the forested sites were higher than in the deforested sites at all soil depths. There were significant differences between the forested and deforested sites. The soils at 0-15 cm depth in the forested sites showed improved micronutrient contents, which largely declined with the soil depth. At the same time, there was no consistent pattern of distribution in the deforested soil. According to the findings, all three depths and sites tested had enough extractable Fe, Mn and Cu, however only 15-50 cm depth of forested and deforested sites had sufficient Zn. All the soil depths except 50-80 cm showed significant differences in soil organic carbon and nitrogen stocks in the forested sites compared to the deforested sites. The forested sites had the largest amount of total soil organic carbon stocks (365 Mg ha-1), whereas the deforested sites had the lowest amount (181 Mg ha-1). It was found that micronutrient content and distribution in the soils at the research sites were influenced by organic matter, clay and soil pH.
Turkish Journal of Agriculture - Food Science and Technology
This study was conducted in the Tolon district of Ghana to determine small-scale farmers' per... more This study was conducted in the Tolon district of Ghana to determine small-scale farmers' perceptions, motivation and problems faced by them in the adoption of agroforestry practices. Primary data were collected through a pre-structured questionnaire from a sample of 200 respondents who were selected using a multi-stage random sampling technique. Data analysis was done by using the percentage and total weighted score (TWS) method. Most of the farmers in the study area have a positive perception of the adoption of agroforestry practices. Crop diversification, high returns and risk minimisation were the major motivational factor, whereas small landholding size, lack of awareness and poor knowledge, poor market accessibility, lack of subsidy, credit facility, lack of good quality planting material and longer period for tree growth were the major problems faced by the farmers in the study area. Thus, the study suggested that farmers can be encouraged to practice agroforestry through...
Waste Disposal & Sustainable Energy
Turkish Journal of Agriculture - Food Science and Technology
This study compared the forage quality of Cajanus cajan, Stylosanthes mucronata, Tephrosia purpur... more This study compared the forage quality of Cajanus cajan, Stylosanthes mucronata, Tephrosia purpurea, and Securinega virosa in the savanna ecological zone of Ghana. The shrubs were cultivated using Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) and their growth were monitored. Leaf samples were hand-harvested at 7, 10, and 13 weeks after establishment, air-dried, pulverised, and used for laboratory analysis. Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K), Calcium (Ca), and Magnesium (Mg) were determined. N, P, K, Ca and Mg contents among the shrubs ranged from 0.74 - 0.79%, 1.32 - 1.99%, 7.63 - 10.09%, 2.22 - 3.06 and 1.08 - 1.38%, respectively. Stylosanthes mucronata was significantly lowest in both P (1.318%) and K (7.63%), whilst Securinega virosa was significantly highest in K (10.09%). Among the three maturity levels, N, P, K, Ca and Mg contents ranged from 0.31 – 1.05%, 1.51 - 1.93%, 7.46 - 10.43%, 2.63 - 2.67% and 1.28 - 1.30%, respectively. Except for P, which was significantly lowest ...
Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems
Through advancements in technology humans have cultivated more food, used more fossil fuel reserv... more Through advancements in technology humans have cultivated more food, used more fossil fuel reserves, polluted the environment, and caused climate change. This was not the case some few decades ago where indigenous technologies were used in exploiting natural resources. Unfortunately, the effects of climate change on the planet are no more distant reality. The melting of glaciers, rising sea levels, extreme rainfall, and prolonged drought are already being experienced. These have affected water resources, land, and food security across the world. The limits of conventional climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies call for the integration of indigenous knowledge and technologies for tackling climate change issues. This is because of the importance that indigenous knowledge and technologies have for identifying the impacts and as well providing effective adaption and mitigation strategies to climate change. Thus, this chapter explores the potential of indigenous knowledge an...
Indigenous People and Nature
Indigenous knowledge, practices, techniques, and skills have many benefits to mankind and the env... more Indigenous knowledge, practices, techniques, and skills have many benefits to mankind and the environment. Indigenous knowledge (IK) is knowledge held by indigenes of a particular local community or rural area. Given the necessary attention, this knowledge could potentially enhance ecosystem processes as well as population health. In spite of this, indigenous knowledge is gradually being replaced with foreign ones, which brings about cultural erosion. This chapter aims to illuminate the importance of indigenous knowledge and practices in achieving sustainable development. To achieve this, a systematic review was carried out to collate and discuss various applications of indigenous knowledge and practices for human development. Research studies included in the systematic review for this chapter were from reputable databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, and Web of Science. A total of 1470 research studies were downloaded, but only 51 research papers were in accordance with the selection criteria following the PRISMA) framework. The review was guided by article title, abstract, and keywords. The results showed that indigenous knowledge was the panacea to sustainable development, especially for the developing world. Indigenous knowledge benefits everyone and enhances food security as well as environmental quality. The integration of indigenous knowledge in development plans, policies, and programmes is recommended for the envisaged sustainable world.
Rural Sustainability Research, 2020
In sub-Saharan Africa intensifying small-scale farming is essential in addressing poverty related... more In sub-Saharan Africa intensifying small-scale farming is essential in addressing poverty related issues in rural communities and the degradation of natural resources. Integrated Soil Fertility Management (ISFM) are the best practices used to improve the productivity of crops whilst maximizing agronomic efficiency of inputs applied and hence contributing to sustainable intensification. ISFM usually include the appropriate use of inorganic fertilizer and organic resources, good agronomic practices and appropriate use of germplasm. The survey was carried-out on the awareness of Integrated Soil Fertility Management practices in the Savelugu Municipal of Northern Ghana to study the awareness of integrated soil fertility management practices amongst farmers through the administration of questionnaires. A multistage method of sampling was used in selecting thirty (30) respondents randomly from five (5) selected communities namely Jana, Yapalsi, Diari, Nabogu and Gushie to make up a total ...
A thesis submitted to the Department of Agroforestry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Tec... more A thesis submitted to the Department of Agroforestry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science, 2014
Turkish Journal of Forestry | Türkiye Ormancılık Dergisi, 2020
This study aimed to determine the effect of cutting intensity on the recovery rate, growth, and b... more This study aimed to determine the effect of cutting intensity on the recovery rate, growth, and biomass production of selected savanna forage shrub species. The study was conducted at the University for Development Studies (UDS), Nyankpala Campus in the Tolon District of the Northern Region of Ghana. Cajanus cajan, Stylosanthes mucronata, Tephrosia purpureum and Securinega virosa were cut at 15 cm, 30 cm, and 60 cm above ground level a month after a standardizing cut and number of days to sprout, the number of shoots, plant height, and root collar diameter was recorded. The experiment was a randomized complete block design with four replications. Shrubs cut at 60 cm used less mean number of days (4.25) for sprouting and those cut at 15 cm took a longer period (4.92) to sprout. Plant height, number of shoots, and root collar diameter after cutting were highest for shrubs cut at 60 cm. Securinega virosa used less mean number of days (4.00) to sprout while S. mucronata used the highest mean number of days (5.44) after cutting. Total dry matter yield was significantly highest (123.90 g/plant) for shrubs cut at 60 cm but lowest for those cut at 15 cm (91.20 g/plant). Cajanus cajan recorded a significantly higher total dry matter (116.30 g/plant) while S. virosa had the lowest (93.00 g/plant). Our results suggest that cutting height significantly influences the rate of sprouting of shrubs after cutting, and the response to the cutting effect is species-dependent.
Biochar used in soils aims at intensifying the properties of soil and the transfer of amounts of ... more Biochar used in soils aims at intensifying the properties of soil and the transfer of amounts of conservative remnant energy centred fertilizers as well as the restoration of rich carbons. Biochar steadiness is vital to reckoning the effect of biochar modifications on atmospheric green gas (GHG) which remains unsatisfactory. The making and mixture of biochar in soils has a vital role in the mitigation of climate change. The objective of this paper was to review the influences of biochar on crop outputs and soil assets. It is needful for additional clarification on the improvement of biochar application to several crop yields to advance general recognition as a soil modification. The biochar feedstock used for production and pyrolysis condition and the application rate of biochar for crop productivity is described in the discussion. Furthermore, agronomic benefits and the strategies as well as the recommendations for the use of biochar is discussed. It is concluded that the use of bi...
Turkish Journal of Agriculture - Food Science and Technology, 2019
Soil moisture has a vital role in the cultivation of crops. Its sufficiency and availability to c... more Soil moisture has a vital role in the cultivation of crops. Its sufficiency and availability to crop- water supplies depends on the management practices of soil and amount of available water to the soil. This study examines the influence of rice husk biochar on the water holding capacity of soil in the savannah ecological zone of Ghana. Increasing rate of rice husk biochar increased water-holding capacity of soils. 4t/ha rice husk biochar showed higher significant differences among the treatments. It is recommended that 4t/ha rice husk biochar should be applied to increase the water-holding capacity of the soil.
Regional Sustainability, 2021
Non-timber forest products (NTFPs) play a significant role in the improvement of the forestdepend... more Non-timber forest products (NTFPs) play a significant role in the improvement of the forestdependent people's livelihoods around the world, strengthening protection for the sustainable use of forests. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the influence of occupational category-wise (fuelwood collectors, farmers, small-scale businessmen, day labourers, and tea estate labourers) dependency on NTFPs and the role of NTFPs on household income around the Khadimnagar National Park (KNP) in northeastern Bangladesh. In 2014, 178 purposively selected respondents from four villages (out of 22 villages around the KNP) were interviewed face-to-face using a semi-structured questionnaire. The study observed that these forest-dependent communities utilized resources of the KNP mainly for domestic energy supply, household income, and house construction. Results showed that income from NTFPs made a significant contribution to family income. Income data analysis indicated that small-scale businessmen earned relatively more income from NTFPs, followed by tea estate labourers and day labourers. The study revealed significant negative relationships of the distance of households from the forest with the amount of NTFPs collected (P < 0.01) and monthly income from NTFPs (P < 0.01). Positive significant relationships were found between the amount of NTFPs collected and the time spent in NTFP collection (P < 0.001), as well as between monthly income from NTFPs and family size (P < 0.001). The fuelwood collectors and farmers collected significantly greater amounts of NTFPs per trip (P < 0.001) than other occupational categories. The households that were moderately to highly dependent on NTFPs collected significantly higher amounts of NTFPs per trip (P < 0.01) than the households that were moderately dependent and less dependent on NTFPs. Community dependence on KNP's resources, community's appreciation of the KNP's ecosystem services for villagers' livelihoods, and community's high levels of concern for forest conservation provided a foundation for the sustainable management of the KNP. The study findings will be useful for designing an effective forest management plan and policy for NTFP management and forest conservation with the active involvement of the forest-dependent people in northeastern Bangladesh.
Conversion of agricultural wastes into eco-friendly and low cost biochar is not only a smart recy... more Conversion of agricultural wastes into eco-friendly and low cost biochar is not only a smart recycling strategy but a panacea to environmental pollution management. Agricultural wastes biochar can be an effective alternative technique for controlling contaminants due to its low cost, high-efficiency, simple to use, ecological sustainability and reliability in terms of public safety. Biochars have made substantial breakthroughs in reducing greenhouse gases emissions, reducing soil nutrient leaching, sequester atmospheric carbon into the soil, increasing agricultural productivity, and reducing bioavailability of environmental contaminants. Recent advances in the understanding of biochars warrant a proper scientific evaluation of the relationship between its properties and impact on soil properties, environmental pollutant remediation, plant growth, yield, and resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. The main factors controlling biochar properties include the nature of feedstock, hea...
Abstract. Ammal A, Mariam M. 2020. Contribution of non-timber forest products to livelihood of ru... more Abstract. Ammal A, Mariam M. 2020. Contribution of non-timber forest products to livelihood of rural communities in Kumbungu District of Northern Ghana. Asian J For 4: 10-14. This survey concentrated on the contribution of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) to the livelihood of rural communities in the Kumbungu District of Ghana. Data were collected by structured questionnaires and verbal interviews to obtain information from sampled members of the communities' in the Kumbungu District of Northern Ghana. Personal interviews and direct observation were carried out. 200 structured questionnaires were administered randomly to respondents in 5 selected communities in Kumbungu District. The selected communities were Cheyohi, Kpalchi, Kokpeng, Zuolanyili, and Garizew. 40 questionnaires were administered in each community and this was used to prompt information on the uses of NTFPs in the study area. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (tables, charts, and graphs). The find...
In most sub-Sahara African (SSA) countries there are increasing demands for the use of agricultur... more In most sub-Sahara African (SSA) countries there are increasing demands for the use of agricultural land and forest products. This results in the deterioration of agricultural productivity and the degradation of agricultural lands. Technologies in Agroforestry (AF) have been recommended in the tropics as one of the answers to productivity and the shortage of land owing to both forestry and agricultural products as a potential of agroforestry. The rate of agroforestry technologies adoption is not promising in Ghana although interventions of agroforestry have been practiced for many years. Limited and little education on the technology's ability to improve food security, decline poverty, and its socio-economics has led to its less adoption. This survey is however conducted in the Sagnarigu district of northern Ghana to determine the factors that influences the rate of adoption of agroforestry technologies and how agroforestry has the potential to contribute to food security. Data ...
Conversion of agricultural wastes into eco-friendly and low cost biochar is not only a smart recy... more Conversion of agricultural wastes into eco-friendly and low cost biochar is not only a smart recycling strategy but a panacea to environmental pollution management. Agricultural wastes biochar can be an effective alternative technique for controlling contaminants due to its low cost, high-efficiency, simple to use, ecological sustainability and reliability in terms of public safety. Biochars have made substantial breakthroughs in reducing greenhouse gases emissions, reducing soil nutrient leaching, sequester atmospheric carbon into the soil, increasing agricultural productivity, and reducing bioavailability of environmental contaminants. Recent advances in the understanding of biochars warrant a proper scientific evaluation of the relationship between its properties and impact on soil properties, environmental pollutant remediation, plant growth, yield, and resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. The main factors controlling biochar properties include the nature of feedstock, heat transfer rate, residence time and pyrolysis temperature. Biochar efficacy in pollutants management largely depends on its elemental composition, ion-exchange capacity, pore size distribution and surface area, which vary with the nature of feedstock, preparation conditions and procedures. The chapter explored the possibility of using biochar from agricultural wastes as a suitable alternative for the remediation of environmental pollutants, soil conditioning and the long-term biochar application in the environment.
International Journal of Science and Research Archive, Dec 29, 2023
Fungal diseases cause serious seedling mortality in nurseries and threaten future seedling produc... more Fungal diseases cause serious seedling mortality in nurseries and threaten future seedling production for forest regeneration. To abate this menace, knowledge about them is key. Therefore, this study aimed at determining the incidence and severity of fungal diseases of forest seedlings in the Central Forest Nursery of Tamale, Ghana. Khaya senegalensis, Tectona grandis and Polyalthia longifolia in the nursery were infected with eight fungal pathogens and an unidentified fungus causing leaf blight, wilt, and dumping-off diseases. The pathogens included Rhizoctonia sp., Fusarium sp., Corrynespora sp., Colletotrichum sp., Cercospora sp., Phytophthora sp., Chaetomium sp., and Macrophomina sp. Rhizoctonia was the dominant pathogen isolated from all the leaves of the seedling species. Colletotrichum and Chaetomium were isolated from the leaves of Polyalthia longifolia. Cercospora and an unidentified spp. were found on the stems of Tectona grandis. Fusarium and Phytophthora were respectively found on Polyalthia longifolia and Khaya senegalensis stems. Chaetomium was identified on both Polyalthia longifolia and Khaya senegalensis stems. Cercospora and Fusarium were isolated from the roots of Tectona grandis and Polyalthia longifolia respectively while Macrophomina was associated with both Tectona grandis and Khaya senegalensis roots. Leaf blight recorded the highest disease incidence (76.7%) and affected all the three seedling species. Wilt disease showed low incidence (10.2-15.8 %) among the different seedling species. Dumping-off disease incidence (10.4%) was only recorded in Khaya senegalensis. The severities of the diseases identified were low (1-2) score except leaf blight of Tectona grandis and Polyalthia longifolia recording a moderate (3.0) severity score. It is recommended that appropriate disease management strategies be employed to prevent high incidences and severities.
Türk tarım - gıda bilim ve teknoloji dergisi, Jun 10, 2024
Environmental science and engineering, Dec 31, 2022
Magna Scientia Advanced Biology and Pharmacy, Dec 29, 2023
Contemporary Agriculture, May 31, 2022
The research examines micronutrient contents, soil carbon and nitrogen stocks of forested and def... more The research examines micronutrient contents, soil carbon and nitrogen stocks of forested and deforested sites at Bobiri forest reserve in the Ashanti region, Ghana. Each site had 12 soil profiles excavated, six of which were from natural forest areas and six were from deforested areas. The samples were taken at 0-15 cm, 15-50 cm and 50-80 cm depths and repeated thrice. The contents of DTPA-extractable micronutrients in the forested sites were higher than in the deforested sites at all soil depths. There were significant differences between the forested and deforested sites. The soils at 0-15 cm depth in the forested sites showed improved micronutrient contents, which largely declined with the soil depth. At the same time, there was no consistent pattern of distribution in the deforested soil. According to the findings, all three depths and sites tested had enough extractable Fe, Mn and Cu, however only 15-50 cm depth of forested and deforested sites had sufficient Zn. All the soil depths except 50-80 cm showed significant differences in soil organic carbon and nitrogen stocks in the forested sites compared to the deforested sites. The forested sites had the largest amount of total soil organic carbon stocks (365 Mg ha-1), whereas the deforested sites had the lowest amount (181 Mg ha-1). It was found that micronutrient content and distribution in the soils at the research sites were influenced by organic matter, clay and soil pH.
Turkish Journal of Agriculture - Food Science and Technology
This study was conducted in the Tolon district of Ghana to determine small-scale farmers' per... more This study was conducted in the Tolon district of Ghana to determine small-scale farmers' perceptions, motivation and problems faced by them in the adoption of agroforestry practices. Primary data were collected through a pre-structured questionnaire from a sample of 200 respondents who were selected using a multi-stage random sampling technique. Data analysis was done by using the percentage and total weighted score (TWS) method. Most of the farmers in the study area have a positive perception of the adoption of agroforestry practices. Crop diversification, high returns and risk minimisation were the major motivational factor, whereas small landholding size, lack of awareness and poor knowledge, poor market accessibility, lack of subsidy, credit facility, lack of good quality planting material and longer period for tree growth were the major problems faced by the farmers in the study area. Thus, the study suggested that farmers can be encouraged to practice agroforestry through...
Waste Disposal & Sustainable Energy
Turkish Journal of Agriculture - Food Science and Technology
This study compared the forage quality of Cajanus cajan, Stylosanthes mucronata, Tephrosia purpur... more This study compared the forage quality of Cajanus cajan, Stylosanthes mucronata, Tephrosia purpurea, and Securinega virosa in the savanna ecological zone of Ghana. The shrubs were cultivated using Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) and their growth were monitored. Leaf samples were hand-harvested at 7, 10, and 13 weeks after establishment, air-dried, pulverised, and used for laboratory analysis. Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K), Calcium (Ca), and Magnesium (Mg) were determined. N, P, K, Ca and Mg contents among the shrubs ranged from 0.74 - 0.79%, 1.32 - 1.99%, 7.63 - 10.09%, 2.22 - 3.06 and 1.08 - 1.38%, respectively. Stylosanthes mucronata was significantly lowest in both P (1.318%) and K (7.63%), whilst Securinega virosa was significantly highest in K (10.09%). Among the three maturity levels, N, P, K, Ca and Mg contents ranged from 0.31 – 1.05%, 1.51 - 1.93%, 7.46 - 10.43%, 2.63 - 2.67% and 1.28 - 1.30%, respectively. Except for P, which was significantly lowest ...
Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems
Through advancements in technology humans have cultivated more food, used more fossil fuel reserv... more Through advancements in technology humans have cultivated more food, used more fossil fuel reserves, polluted the environment, and caused climate change. This was not the case some few decades ago where indigenous technologies were used in exploiting natural resources. Unfortunately, the effects of climate change on the planet are no more distant reality. The melting of glaciers, rising sea levels, extreme rainfall, and prolonged drought are already being experienced. These have affected water resources, land, and food security across the world. The limits of conventional climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies call for the integration of indigenous knowledge and technologies for tackling climate change issues. This is because of the importance that indigenous knowledge and technologies have for identifying the impacts and as well providing effective adaption and mitigation strategies to climate change. Thus, this chapter explores the potential of indigenous knowledge an...
Indigenous People and Nature
Indigenous knowledge, practices, techniques, and skills have many benefits to mankind and the env... more Indigenous knowledge, practices, techniques, and skills have many benefits to mankind and the environment. Indigenous knowledge (IK) is knowledge held by indigenes of a particular local community or rural area. Given the necessary attention, this knowledge could potentially enhance ecosystem processes as well as population health. In spite of this, indigenous knowledge is gradually being replaced with foreign ones, which brings about cultural erosion. This chapter aims to illuminate the importance of indigenous knowledge and practices in achieving sustainable development. To achieve this, a systematic review was carried out to collate and discuss various applications of indigenous knowledge and practices for human development. Research studies included in the systematic review for this chapter were from reputable databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, and Web of Science. A total of 1470 research studies were downloaded, but only 51 research papers were in accordance with the selection criteria following the PRISMA) framework. The review was guided by article title, abstract, and keywords. The results showed that indigenous knowledge was the panacea to sustainable development, especially for the developing world. Indigenous knowledge benefits everyone and enhances food security as well as environmental quality. The integration of indigenous knowledge in development plans, policies, and programmes is recommended for the envisaged sustainable world.
Rural Sustainability Research, 2020
In sub-Saharan Africa intensifying small-scale farming is essential in addressing poverty related... more In sub-Saharan Africa intensifying small-scale farming is essential in addressing poverty related issues in rural communities and the degradation of natural resources. Integrated Soil Fertility Management (ISFM) are the best practices used to improve the productivity of crops whilst maximizing agronomic efficiency of inputs applied and hence contributing to sustainable intensification. ISFM usually include the appropriate use of inorganic fertilizer and organic resources, good agronomic practices and appropriate use of germplasm. The survey was carried-out on the awareness of Integrated Soil Fertility Management practices in the Savelugu Municipal of Northern Ghana to study the awareness of integrated soil fertility management practices amongst farmers through the administration of questionnaires. A multistage method of sampling was used in selecting thirty (30) respondents randomly from five (5) selected communities namely Jana, Yapalsi, Diari, Nabogu and Gushie to make up a total ...
A thesis submitted to the Department of Agroforestry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Tec... more A thesis submitted to the Department of Agroforestry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science, 2014
Turkish Journal of Forestry | Türkiye Ormancılık Dergisi, 2020
This study aimed to determine the effect of cutting intensity on the recovery rate, growth, and b... more This study aimed to determine the effect of cutting intensity on the recovery rate, growth, and biomass production of selected savanna forage shrub species. The study was conducted at the University for Development Studies (UDS), Nyankpala Campus in the Tolon District of the Northern Region of Ghana. Cajanus cajan, Stylosanthes mucronata, Tephrosia purpureum and Securinega virosa were cut at 15 cm, 30 cm, and 60 cm above ground level a month after a standardizing cut and number of days to sprout, the number of shoots, plant height, and root collar diameter was recorded. The experiment was a randomized complete block design with four replications. Shrubs cut at 60 cm used less mean number of days (4.25) for sprouting and those cut at 15 cm took a longer period (4.92) to sprout. Plant height, number of shoots, and root collar diameter after cutting were highest for shrubs cut at 60 cm. Securinega virosa used less mean number of days (4.00) to sprout while S. mucronata used the highest mean number of days (5.44) after cutting. Total dry matter yield was significantly highest (123.90 g/plant) for shrubs cut at 60 cm but lowest for those cut at 15 cm (91.20 g/plant). Cajanus cajan recorded a significantly higher total dry matter (116.30 g/plant) while S. virosa had the lowest (93.00 g/plant). Our results suggest that cutting height significantly influences the rate of sprouting of shrubs after cutting, and the response to the cutting effect is species-dependent.
Biochar used in soils aims at intensifying the properties of soil and the transfer of amounts of ... more Biochar used in soils aims at intensifying the properties of soil and the transfer of amounts of conservative remnant energy centred fertilizers as well as the restoration of rich carbons. Biochar steadiness is vital to reckoning the effect of biochar modifications on atmospheric green gas (GHG) which remains unsatisfactory. The making and mixture of biochar in soils has a vital role in the mitigation of climate change. The objective of this paper was to review the influences of biochar on crop outputs and soil assets. It is needful for additional clarification on the improvement of biochar application to several crop yields to advance general recognition as a soil modification. The biochar feedstock used for production and pyrolysis condition and the application rate of biochar for crop productivity is described in the discussion. Furthermore, agronomic benefits and the strategies as well as the recommendations for the use of biochar is discussed. It is concluded that the use of bi...
Turkish Journal of Agriculture - Food Science and Technology, 2019
Soil moisture has a vital role in the cultivation of crops. Its sufficiency and availability to c... more Soil moisture has a vital role in the cultivation of crops. Its sufficiency and availability to crop- water supplies depends on the management practices of soil and amount of available water to the soil. This study examines the influence of rice husk biochar on the water holding capacity of soil in the savannah ecological zone of Ghana. Increasing rate of rice husk biochar increased water-holding capacity of soils. 4t/ha rice husk biochar showed higher significant differences among the treatments. It is recommended that 4t/ha rice husk biochar should be applied to increase the water-holding capacity of the soil.
Regional Sustainability, 2021
Non-timber forest products (NTFPs) play a significant role in the improvement of the forestdepend... more Non-timber forest products (NTFPs) play a significant role in the improvement of the forestdependent people's livelihoods around the world, strengthening protection for the sustainable use of forests. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the influence of occupational category-wise (fuelwood collectors, farmers, small-scale businessmen, day labourers, and tea estate labourers) dependency on NTFPs and the role of NTFPs on household income around the Khadimnagar National Park (KNP) in northeastern Bangladesh. In 2014, 178 purposively selected respondents from four villages (out of 22 villages around the KNP) were interviewed face-to-face using a semi-structured questionnaire. The study observed that these forest-dependent communities utilized resources of the KNP mainly for domestic energy supply, household income, and house construction. Results showed that income from NTFPs made a significant contribution to family income. Income data analysis indicated that small-scale businessmen earned relatively more income from NTFPs, followed by tea estate labourers and day labourers. The study revealed significant negative relationships of the distance of households from the forest with the amount of NTFPs collected (P < 0.01) and monthly income from NTFPs (P < 0.01). Positive significant relationships were found between the amount of NTFPs collected and the time spent in NTFP collection (P < 0.001), as well as between monthly income from NTFPs and family size (P < 0.001). The fuelwood collectors and farmers collected significantly greater amounts of NTFPs per trip (P < 0.001) than other occupational categories. The households that were moderately to highly dependent on NTFPs collected significantly higher amounts of NTFPs per trip (P < 0.01) than the households that were moderately dependent and less dependent on NTFPs. Community dependence on KNP's resources, community's appreciation of the KNP's ecosystem services for villagers' livelihoods, and community's high levels of concern for forest conservation provided a foundation for the sustainable management of the KNP. The study findings will be useful for designing an effective forest management plan and policy for NTFP management and forest conservation with the active involvement of the forest-dependent people in northeastern Bangladesh.
Conversion of agricultural wastes into eco-friendly and low cost biochar is not only a smart recy... more Conversion of agricultural wastes into eco-friendly and low cost biochar is not only a smart recycling strategy but a panacea to environmental pollution management. Agricultural wastes biochar can be an effective alternative technique for controlling contaminants due to its low cost, high-efficiency, simple to use, ecological sustainability and reliability in terms of public safety. Biochars have made substantial breakthroughs in reducing greenhouse gases emissions, reducing soil nutrient leaching, sequester atmospheric carbon into the soil, increasing agricultural productivity, and reducing bioavailability of environmental contaminants. Recent advances in the understanding of biochars warrant a proper scientific evaluation of the relationship between its properties and impact on soil properties, environmental pollutant remediation, plant growth, yield, and resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. The main factors controlling biochar properties include the nature of feedstock, hea...
Abstract. Ammal A, Mariam M. 2020. Contribution of non-timber forest products to livelihood of ru... more Abstract. Ammal A, Mariam M. 2020. Contribution of non-timber forest products to livelihood of rural communities in Kumbungu District of Northern Ghana. Asian J For 4: 10-14. This survey concentrated on the contribution of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) to the livelihood of rural communities in the Kumbungu District of Ghana. Data were collected by structured questionnaires and verbal interviews to obtain information from sampled members of the communities' in the Kumbungu District of Northern Ghana. Personal interviews and direct observation were carried out. 200 structured questionnaires were administered randomly to respondents in 5 selected communities in Kumbungu District. The selected communities were Cheyohi, Kpalchi, Kokpeng, Zuolanyili, and Garizew. 40 questionnaires were administered in each community and this was used to prompt information on the uses of NTFPs in the study area. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (tables, charts, and graphs). The find...
In most sub-Sahara African (SSA) countries there are increasing demands for the use of agricultur... more In most sub-Sahara African (SSA) countries there are increasing demands for the use of agricultural land and forest products. This results in the deterioration of agricultural productivity and the degradation of agricultural lands. Technologies in Agroforestry (AF) have been recommended in the tropics as one of the answers to productivity and the shortage of land owing to both forestry and agricultural products as a potential of agroforestry. The rate of agroforestry technologies adoption is not promising in Ghana although interventions of agroforestry have been practiced for many years. Limited and little education on the technology's ability to improve food security, decline poverty, and its socio-economics has led to its less adoption. This survey is however conducted in the Sagnarigu district of northern Ghana to determine the factors that influences the rate of adoption of agroforestry technologies and how agroforestry has the potential to contribute to food security. Data ...
Frontiers, 2021
Through advancements in technology humans have cultivated more food, used more fossil fuel reserv... more Through advancements in technology humans have cultivated more food, used more fossil fuel reserves, polluted the environment, and caused climate change. This was not the case some few decades ago where indigenous technologies were used in exploiting natural resources. Unfortunately, the effects of climate change on the planet are no more distant reality. The melting of glaciers, rising sea levels, extreme rainfall, and prolonged drought are already being experienced. These have affected water resources, land, and food security across the world. The limits of conventional climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies call for the integration of indigenous knowledge and technologies for tackling climate change issues. This is because of the importance that indigenous knowledge and technologies have for identifying the impacts and as well providing effective adaption and mitigation strategies to climate change. Thus, this chapter explores the potential of indigenous knowledge an...