TOPOGRAPHIC VARIATIONS AND IMPLICATIONS FOR AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION: LESSONS FROM THE MBVEN RURAL LANDSCAPE, NORTH WEST CAMEROON

Abstract

Topographic variations have major implications on agricultural production globally. These
variations often call for a number of adaptive strategies by farmers to maximize yields. This
paper examines the positive and negative implications of topography on farming sub division in
Mbven sub-division of the North West region of Cameroon. It analyses in detail the topographic
dynamics of the Mvem rural area and its landscape in a bid to identify the various physical
features like mountains, valleys, alluvial plains and how they affect faming activities. The paper
further examines the manner in which the varied topographic landscape has influenced its
drainage pattern while linking the flow pattern of such rivers to the various farming adaptive
strategies used by the famers to counteract the negative impact of topography on farming
activities. To achieve these objectives, the study made use of primary data obtained from
questionnaires administration and interviews and secondary data from published articles,
publications of academic and professional organizations, newspapers, journals and magazines.
The research findings unearthed the fact that topographic variations have implications on the
yields of various crops from the different topographic layouts where farms are located. As a
response to this, farmers have carried out adaptation strategies which seem more successful in
some areas though with the need of some modifications and application of modem strategies. To
this effect, the research identifies the need for farmers, local authorities and government to
remain glued on the role topography plays in agriculture. This implies that positive attributes of
topography to agriculture be improved and protected while the negative attributes are mitigated
in order to enhance agricultural production so as to ensure food security.