Soil Degradation in Northern Cameroon

The majority of the population in Northern Cameroon-particularly those living in rural areas-derive their income primarily from agriculture. However, soil quality is deteriorating, and crop yields are often inconsistent. This study aims to assess the current state of degradation of the physical, chemical, and biological properties of the soil, as well as its impact on agricultural production in Djalingo-Kapsiki, Lagdo District. The methodology was based on field observations, surveys of farmers, soil sampling, and laboratory analysis of the samples. The main findings reveal that the physical properties of the soil make it prone to leaching. Soil pH levels are relatively neutral, while soil NPK content is low and biological activity is not at its optimum. Erosion and human activities exacerbate the degradation of these properties. Over a 10-year period, from 2010 to 2019, it appears that the average yield for each agricultural sector has declined by a total of approximately 17 percent. Certain land management strategies can mitigate this phenomenon if implemented.