The economic viability of phosphorus fertilization in southwestern Niger: A dynamic approach incorporating agronomic principles
Abstract
The fertility of sandy soils in Niger is very low and declining. These soils are especially poor in phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N). As a consequence, yields of millet, the main food crop, are low. These yields are also variable due to a low and variable supply of moisture. In spite of the low fertility of these soils which cover a large area of Niger's agricultural area, the use of chemical fertilizers has remained limited. A model of farmer decision-making under uncertainty was developed to investigate the value of three alternative sources of P and the desirable soil fertility to maintain in the management of sandy soils in Niger under millet cultivation. The products investigated are simple superphosphate (SSP), partially acidulated phosphate rock from the Tapoa area (PAPR) and ground phosphate rock from Tahoua (PRT). Although not currently available, PAPR and PRT offer an opportunity to reduce the reliance of Niger on imported SSP. This research has shown that moderate chemical fertilization is a viable soil fertility management strategy for growing millet on sandy soils in Niger. Due to its superior solubility, SSP is the best source of P among the three products considered. Improving the solubility of the alternative products or offering them at a cost that reflects their lower solubility would make them more attractive to farmers. Millet response to N application is closely tied to the availability of moisture. This results in a highly variable response to this input, which combined with the relatively low returns associated with the use of N makes it difficult for farmers to apply N profitably under current moisture conditions.
Degree
Ph.D.
Advisors
Deuson, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Agricultural economics
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