Comparing conventional and conservation agriculture for multi-seasonal maize production in the Zambezi Region, Namibia

Abstract

Half of Namibia’s population resides in rural areas, and many rely on small-scale farming. Crop production declines in the region over recent decades have been associated with the degradation of soils as a result of conventional farming methods. Conservation agriculture has been identified as a smart agricultural technique that can remedy challenges around agricultural land degradation and climatic uncertainty. This study undertook an experimental trial in farmers’ crop fields in the Zambezi Region to compare the maize yield performance of conventional and conservation agriculture methods. I collected data from experimental research plots on four participating farming clusters. Data collection commenced during the 2016/2017 cropping season and continued through the 2019/2020 cropping season. I found no statistically significant difference in the average yield of maize biomass across seasons and within the growing season between the two primary tillage systems examined (conventional mould board plough and conservation agriculture using rippers). However, there was a significant difference in the average maize grain yield across treatments (plough, ripper, and ripper intercropped) in the 2018 cropping season. My findings indicate that conservation agriculture can offer a viable alternative to conventional methods, despite implemental inconsistencies. Based on my findings, I also encourage the pursuit of longer-term studies that might better capture soil recovery processes and other long-term effects. This will help compile a more comprehensive evidence base and prepare for a potential transition to conservation agriculture in Namibia.