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Abstract
Although several studies have been conducted to determine the viability of conservation
agriculture in Sub-Saharan Africa, almost all such studies are fragmented – often country
specific – and with undue emphasis on output effects. However, assessment of the
attractiveness of these technologies in Sub-Saharan Africa requires a detailed case-by-case
comparison of changes in output and input costs and benefits. This paper reviews a set of
responses known collectively as “conservation” or “sustainable” agriculture. Though
definitions vary, these technologies typically involve agricultural management practices that
prevent degradation of soil and water resources and thereby permit sustainable farm
productivity without environmental degradation.