Recent Trends in the Practice of Transhumance in the Korola Sub-Watershed in the Sudanian Zone of Mali

Abstract

Introduction: Faced with strong agricultural pressure and severe environmental constraints, some livestock farmers are turning to agro-pastoralism, sedentary or semi-transhumant livestock farming. Because of climatic hazards, the sub-humid zone has seen a rush of livestock, and agriculture has developed considerably, with mobility still the most appropriate system for feeding herds. Aims of the Study: The study describes farming practices in the Korola sub-watershed in the Sudanian zone of Mali. Research Methodology: Surveys and censuses of indigenous and transhumant herds were conducted in the Korola sub-watershed. Data were collected through surveys of sedentary agro-pastoralists and transhumants. Information relating to the structure of the cattle herd, breeding practices including herd mobility and to characterize the pastoral resources of the study area was collected.  Statement of the Research Problem: The study reveals the high number of cattle due to their contribution to the socio-economic development of agro-pastoralists through the integration of agriculture and livestock (animal traction, production of organic manure) and hoarding to secure people's incomes. The number of transhumant groups identified was highest in Dembela (196), followed by Blendio (166) and Nièna (37) with an average of 133. The herd's concentration was higher in the Dembela area (115696) than in the other municipalities, at 94136 in Blendio and 16173 in Nièna. The estimated numbers were highest in July (132298 cattle), followed by August and March with 29177 and 25690 cattle, respectively. The main area of origin was the RCI, with 188 groups, followed by Ségou (43), Kignan (22), and Beleko (17). The Republic of Ivory Coast (108), Ségou (72), Beleko (44), and Konina with 28 groups. Recommendation/Conclusion: According to agro-breeders, this situation has had negative impacts on pastoral resources, the reduction of pastoral space, the disappearance of some forage species (woody and herbaceous), the early drying up of some rivers, and the degradation of plant cover thus exacerbating conflicts between Indigenous and non-indigenous people. The study recommends the introduction of woody forage species such as Pterocarpus erinaceus, Khaya senegalensis, Afzelia africana, and Ficus gnaphalocarpa, which could help improve forage availability and soil fertility.