DESERTIFICATION Flashcards
Explain the circumstances of the desertification narrative during the period of colonialism.
Colonists blamed nomadic natives for desertification due to a lack of understanding. This justified taking control of their lands and resources. Led to laws for the settling of nomads, with their grazing controlled and afforestation occurring.
Why did African governments replicate colonial drylands policies?
The ideas travelled from post-colonial bureaucrats and into post-colonial organisations.
The ideas were adopted by international aid agencies.
New African governments used these ideas to strengthen control over land and resources.
Why can inappropriate afforestation cause more harm than good?
4
Removes the idea of personal responsibility.
Soil/sand cannot host vegetation, decreasing quality and encouraging desertification.
Uses more water.
Salinisation from over-irrigation.
