Abstract:
The objective of the present study is to investigate the causes and effects of
non- sustainable agricultural development in West Darfur. Primary data for
the study were collected through use of structured interview schedules from
settled community residents, IDPs, returnees and women heads of
households in the targeted area. Interviews with key- informants (for trend
discussions) were also conducted. The research design involved in the first
part collection of data on target groups demographic characteristics. The
second part concentrated on identification and assessment of the perceptions
of farmers (residents, IDPs, returnees and women heads of households) of
main causes and effects of non-sustainable agricultural development. This
study, therefore, seeks to observe the adjustment and coping strategies of
individuals in the effected communities. It examines the communal conflicts
among the people. and government interventions. and the problems
associated with low agricultural production. The study employed principally
a qualitative analysis methodology: in-depth interviews, observations and
focus group discussions, among across section of 300 households drawn via
a snowballing sampling method in six localities (Elgenina, Habila, kulobus,
Zalengi, Wadi Salh and Nertittee) in West Darfur State.
Major finding of the study showed that the low agricultural production and
encroachment on farmland is forcing a lot of youths to migrate and seek
non- agricultural employment in urban centers, and to adopt deviant survival
strategies such as crimal activities. It was also observed, that low agricultural
productivity, encroachment on farmlands and community disputes and
conflicts over fertile land have increased, and the problems of internally
displaced person were inevitable. Lastly, government interventions were
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claimed by the respondents to be non- existent, slow and limited to
economic compensations in some communities. This study concludes and
recommends among other things, the need for the government, the farming
population, the scientific communities and international communities to help
in sustainable agricultural development and reduction of the damages to
natural resources emanating from conflicts.
