INCIDENCES SOCIOECONOMIQUES DES PRATIQUES DE GESTION DURABLE DES TERRES AGRICOLES DANS LA COMMUNE DE SINENDE AU BENIN

Abstract

Land degradation threatens agriculture in Sub-Saharan Africa. This study assesses the determinants of adoption and the socio-economic impact of Sustainable Land Management (SLM) practices for maize production in Sinendé, a semi-arid commune in Northern Benin. A mixed-methods approach combined a quantitative survey of 150 stratified farm households (including 30% female-headed households) and 15 qualitative interviews with key stakeholders. Analyses (logistic/linear regression, cost comparison) were performed using R.

Key findings indicate that access to agricultural credit is the main enabling factor for SLM adoption (OR ≈ 1.65). Conversely, support from extension agents shows a negative correlation, while conventional socio-demographic factors are non-significant. SLM adoption reduces maize production costs by approximately 25%. Economically, organic fertilization offers the highest profitability (net margin, capital productivity), whereas organo-mineral fertilization maximizes yield per hectare. The combined application of multiple SLM measures is positively correlated with increased farm income.

SLM practices are economically beneficial in Sinendé, but their adoption is hindered by financial barriers and the potential inadequacy of extension services. Recommendations include improving access to suitable credit, reforming agricultural advisory services to integrate local knowledge, and encouraging combinations of SLM practices tailored to farmers’ objectives. Integrating these elements into public policies is crucial for sustainable and resilient agriculture.