Diversity Of Techniques And Cultivation Practices Of Fonio Millet (Digitaria Exilis [Kippist] Stapf) In West Africa. A Review

Introduction. Unlike field crops, fonio, known to be a neglected plant, has not benefited sufficiently from formalized research on crop techniques. Based on systematic documentary research, this article presents a critical analysis of techniques practiced in fonio cultivation in Sub-Saharan Africa.Literature. Fonio is cultivated not only as a foodstuff, but also for its potential socio-cultural, therapeutic, and economic benefits, and even for use as forage. The cereal develops in a wide range of soil and climate conditions, with a preference for light soils that are rich in organic matter, and areas with an average annual rainfall of 900-1,000 mm. In producing countries, fonio varieties and cultivation techniques have remained traditional. Sowing is done mainly by broadcasting. Unlike other staple cereals, fonio is quite often grown without the application of chemical fertilizers or pesticides, and it appears to be a valuable biologic crop in agroecology. Yields are generally low and often less than 1 t.ha(-1). This is mainly due to the absence of improved varieties and appropriate crop practices, and to lodging phenomena, seed shattering and lack of grain filling.Conclusions. Fonio cultivation practices have remained traditional, characterized by difficult operations and low yields. Innovative research on varieties and cultivation techniques, and on mechanization and profitability, will remove constraints and promote an effective revival of production.