Evaluation of the cost of sylvo-pastoral site development operations: The case of a half-moon site in the Ouallam/ Niger department

Abstract

In Niger in general, and in its western part in particular, natural ecosystems have been undergoing continuous degradation for decades. In response, unprecedented efforts are being made to reclaim degraded land. This article assesses the cost of creating one hectare of sylvo-pastoral land in the rural communes of Simiri and Tondikiwindi (Ouallam department, Niger). Based on interviews, the cost was assessed by identifying the players involved and the equipment used. Daily remuneration, equipment depreciation, market price and load calculations were used to establish the monetary value of the cost. The people who carry out the work in the field are essentially the beneficiaries, who provide the labour and the technical supervisors. One hectare requires 105 diggers, 2 plotters and equipment. The direct and indirect monetary costs of developing one hectare of sylvo-pastoral half-moon site are estimated at 163,555 and 116,500 CFA francs respectively. The year of implementation covers the essential costs. This work has enabled us to understand the human resources and costs involved in developing a sylvo-pastoral site.