Answer to Question #199471 in History for PHILIP

Question

With examples, discuss the appropriateness of composting as a technology in African agriculture.

Answer 1

Benefits of Composting for Agriculture in African Countries.

Organic waste accounts for a great percentage of total solid waste in the environment. This waste has had negative impacts to human and animal health especially when disposed into water bodies. The good thing is that with modern technology, this organic waste can be transformed into very useful and environmental friendly materials. The nutrients contained in organic waste can be used by farmers to increase soil fertility. This in turn yields high productivity. 

Compost is the final products that comes from the breaking down of organic waste. Agriculture in African countries has been of great benefits in terms of increase in crop productivity and cost effectiveness. Compost increased the capacity of the soil to hold water. This means that it is effective when used in the dry parts to Africa. By increasing productivity of idle land, agriculture output increases leading to more exports for the African countries. In Ghana, wastes from goats is being used as manure in farms. This has greatly reduced the use of pesticides and fertilizers in agriculture. Similar use of compost has been experienced in Kenya using households waste, vegetable from markets and avocado waste. In Tanzania, waste from crops and manure is used as food for fish. If handled well, much benefic can be achieved from organic waste.