Pages: 21-34

Abstract

The interacting factors that determine the geomorphology and atmosphere status of the ‎earth are traceable to complex organic and inorganic interactions. The consequence of ‎these interactions in the present concern of climate change was highlighted. The ‎emphasis was on the Sahel Savannah threatened by desertification and hence ‎characterized by increased aridity, loss of arable land, poverty, starvation, low ‎productivity, low tree population, migration, child labor, human trafficking, etc ‎associated with the Sahel region of Wet Africa. Gum arabic based agroforestry model ‎developed and recommended by Rubber Research Institute of Nigeria is in line with the ‎FAO climate smart agriculture. In addition, there are pockets of successful arid zone ‎agriculture as evidence of turning the dry and bare arid zone to possible forest of trees, ‎shrubs, herbs, mixed farming and flourishing/sustainable socio-economic activities with ‎settled communities. The objective of this paper therefore was to present the ‎application of gum arabic based agroforestry in order to enhance tree population, green ‎ground cover and check wind/water erosion. In addition, it will enhance socio-economic ‎life of the people and hence ameliorate the challenges associated with social ‎dislocation. This model is recommended for consideration and implementation at ‎national, bilateral, multilateral, regional, international levels. The interest and support of ‎donor agencies to facilitate application of the climate smart gum arabic based ‎agroforestry in the Sahel zone of West Africa is hereby solicited‎.