Peter Efande/ Asong Sylvester
16 October 2007
Barombi Kang (Meme)- The Institute of Agricultural Research for Development (IRAD) Barombi Kang in Kumba has organised an 'Open Day' to educate the various farming groups in Meme division on the use of the NPK-fertilizer to grow maize, rice, cocoa, coffee and plums.
IRAD Barombi Kang's action is timely owing to the general cry in the area to improve on the already aging soil. Dr. Takow Julius Agbor, Director of the IRAD Barombi Kang Centre underscored the need of the area in agriculture and harped out the necessary solutions. As such, IRAD sort for funds and the HIPC project provided CFA 4 million.
IRAD Barombi Kang has ploughed over 0.3825 hectares in Barombi where corn, rice, cocoa, coffee, eru and plums are grown. During the September 6, 2007 'Open Day', the IRAD management educated the farmers on the techniques of handling aging soil in the cultivation of maize and other crops. The over 500 farmers learnt that aging soil needs to be fertilized and treated before any tillage.
Concerning corn planting, IRAD experts explained that in order to expect high yields, the farmer has to ensure the effective application of the NPK-fertilizer. Three stages are required in the process. First stage: 8 grams of the NPK-fertilizer should be applied 10 days after planting. Second stage: when the corn is already 30 days in the soil, you apply 14 grams of the NPK-fertilizer. Third stage: ensure that the farm is well weeded; then you apply 20 grams of the NPK-fertilizer respecting the surrounding range of its matured leaves. The same techniques apply to all crops.
Dr. Takow Julius Agbor warned against using second generation seeds. He called on farmers to come to IRAD for first hybrid seeds. He decried the acute shortage of IRAD staff; many have gone on retirement without replacement. He complained that funding for research was too slow to come and sometimes comes after the planting season.
It should be noted that four high yielding cocoa hybrids have been released to MINADER for multiplication and distribution to farmers at subsidised rates. Improved maize seeds from two varieties have also been identified doing well in the area, alongside New Rice for Africa (NERICA) and the local Check (Chinese).
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