Grain yield response of fonio (Digitaria exilis) varieties to fertilizer and cost- effectiveness under two different production systems in The Gambia

Fonio is an easy crop to grow because it grows well even on poor sandy soils, as well as in areas with low rainfall. The crop can withstand long dry spells during the production season which are becoming a common occurrence in the West African sub-region. In The Gambia, the common name for the crop is “Findi”. It is commonly grown in fields that were previously cultivated with groundnut. Fonio is one of the oldest cereal crops grown in the country; however, its cultivation has drastically declined to the extent that it is currently considered a minor crop in the country. Fonio is a very fast-growing crop and matures earlier than most cereals. Its ability to withstand dry spells and its high nutritive value makes it an ideal climate-smart crop. For this reason, there is renewed momentum in promoting the crop in the country. Despite these renewed efforts in its promotion, there still exists a huge gap in terms of information on improved production practices that could help uplift the existing low yields. Appropriate agronomic practices that can boost fonio productivity are not well documented at national level. To gather information on the input requirements and utilizations, adaptability and productivity of fonio in The Gambia, experiments were conducted in 2018 and 2019 with the aim of generating important production information that could guide efficient production and enhance productivity. Results obtained showed that fonio responded positively to application of fertilizer. Application of 100 kg ha -1 comprising half NPK (15-15-15) and half urea was sufficient to produce financially beneficial yields. Results also indicated that “Findiba”, which is a landrace may not be suitable for cultivation anymore due to its long growth period amidst the short and erratic nature of the rainfall. The Momo and the Momosato varieties which are of shorter durations and high-yielding are more suitable in the existing climatic conditions of the country.