Soil fert net annual report for 2001

Abstract

The work of the Soil Fertility Research Network for Smallholder Maize-Based Farming Systems in Southern Africa (Soil Fert Net) strengthened significantly during 2001. Our new strategy for the period 2001-2003 (described in the 2000 Annual Report) was implemented. Funding from the Rockefeller Foundation increased to US$ 456600 for the period 1 December 2000 to 30 November 2001. Support to various forms of socio-economic work increased substantially. The time allocation for the Coordination Unit agricultural economist rose to 50%. Additionally, we recruited an agricultural economics research associate (Shephard Siziba). These pOSItions are based at CIMMYT-Zimbabwe. This report outlines new developments in Soil Fert Net during 2001, summarizes network research and technology promotion initiatives and describes a significantly expanded portfolio of networking events.