Study of the Cassava Production System in the Department of Tivaouane, Senegal

Abstract

Cassava plays an important role in improving food security and reducing poverty in rural areas. Despite its importance, its production in Senegal remains low compared to other African countries. Nowadays, it is confronted with numerous constraints. It is in this context that a study was conducted on the cassava production system in the Thiès "cassava granary" region, with the objective of examining farmers' cultivation practices. It was conducted in eight communes located in the department of Tivaouane, some of which are located in the Niayes agro-ecological zone and others in the central-northern groundnut basin. Surveys were conducted among the largest cassava producers in these communes. Analysis of the results showed that cassava is only grown in the rainy season with the same cultivation practices that have been used for years. Of the five varieties listed by the President of the Senegalese Cassava Interprofession, only four are grown in the areas surveyed. The Terrasse (43%) and Kombo (36%) varieties are grown more by our respondents in the Niayes area. Soya (75%) and Wallet "Parydiey" (20% of our sample) dominate in the central-northern groundnut basin.