normally difficult to accurately estimate the answer—see Section 1Hh, “Land Area
Measurement”, page 74.- Are the farmers certain that they will be able to cultivate the same land in future
years? ie Do they have security of tenure/ownership?
Security of tenure is often one of the biggest problems. If farmers cannot be certain to
cultivate the land for more than one or two seasons they will be most interested in
growing early maturing, reliable annuals. Aspects such as crop rotation, green manure,
organic matter in the soil, tree planting etc will be of little or no relevance for them. - Nutrition
- Does the “normal” food of the beneficiaries contain a balanced diet?
Investigate the diet, and if possible consult with nutritionists and/or medical staff.
round, or only in certain months?
Consider the introduction or promotion of crops which could provide the appropriate
vitamins, especially during the dry months before the rains.
Examples: dark green leaves for Vitamin A, tomatoes and fruit for Vitamin C, etc.- Seed
varieties available locally? Is it certified by any official agency?
If positive, estimate how much seed can be purchased locally without disrupting local
market prices. If negative, investigate the feasibility of importing seed, including timing
of arrival in country, import/customs and logistic constraints etc.- Are the varieties which are available proven to be adapted to the area?
Consult the Ministry of Agriculture, local seed suppliers, agencies and NGOs involved
with agriculture etc. - What is the normally used seed rate?
Estimate for each crop grown locally. One good way to do this is to show farmers 5 kg,
say, of seed and ask them how much land this would plant. Often the seed rate is a
theoretical figure because the seed is planted as an intercrop in a mixed cropping
system —see Section 1Hb, “Mixed Cropping”, page 66. - When will the seed be available, both local and imported seed?
Calculate the time available and needed for transport and distribution in advance of the
planting season. - What are the prices, for both local and imported seed?
Compare prices (CIF to distribution points) between local and imported seed. Note any
significant changes in local market prices, though big variations from month to month
are common even in normal circumstances (normally lowest just after harvest).
high quality and if timely delivery is assured.320 TONY WINCH
Agriculture. Take the time to probe this important, and often contentious, issue; it is
- Are there any vitamin deficiency problems? Do the symptoms occur all the year
- Which seed of different crops and varieties is most in demand? (These may not
necessarily be the most commonly grown crops). Is good quality seed of adapted
More expensive suppliers are often preferable (justifiable) if their seed is guaranteed