MAIN CAUSES AND EFFECTS OF NON-SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT IN WEST DARFUR STATE

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 iv 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.