Indigenous knowledge on 'siella' and its role in the farming systems of northern Ghana

Abstract

An informal survey covering 32 villages in the Northern, Upper East, and Upper West Regions and involving over 250 men, women, and children was conducted to ascertain the indigenous knowledge on 'siella', a soil type licked by domestic animals and wild life. Samples of the soil were collected in several locations and analyzed for available macro- and micro-mineral content. The soil was found to be alkaline. Sodium and potassium content was 10-15 times higher than that in ordinary soils of the zone. Variation in mineral content was high across locations ranging from 0.0 to 6.83 mg/kg for phosphorus, and 64.97 to 7,485.5 mg/kg for calcium. The soils were found to be totally devoid of phosphorus in locations within the Upper West, and micro-mineral concentration was low in all locations. The soil is well known in the northern part of Ghana and is believed to play a vital role in the health and productivity of animals. Cows on 'siella' give birth to heavier calves and milk better. The soil has curative properties and stops diarrhoea. It is also believed to give good health and strength to aged humans.


Ghana Jnl.agric. Sci Vol.32(1), 1999: 59-68