Subsistence form of crop cultivation has been replaced by modern ways of agriculture in different countries of African countries. Discuss the ways used to modernize crop cultivation. (10 marks)

Here are the answers to the questions. 19. Subsistence form of crop cultivation has been replaced by modern ways of agriculture in different areas of African countries. Discuss the ways used in modern crop cultivation. [10 marks] Modern crop cultivation in Africa has adopted several advanced techniques to increase productivity, efficiency, and sustainability, moving away from traditional subsistence methods. These ways include: 1. Mechanization: The use of machinery such as tractors, plows, harvesters, and planters has replaced manual labor and animal power. This allows for faster land preparation, planting, and harvesting, covering larger areas and reducing labor costs, thereby increasing overall farm output. 2. Use of Improved Seeds and High-Yielding Varieties (HYVs): Modern agriculture utilizes genetically improved seeds that are resistant to diseases and pests, tolerant to adverse weather conditions (like drought), and capable of producing significantly higher yields per unit area compared to traditional seeds. This directly boosts food production. 3. Application of Fertilizers: Chemical and organic fertilizers are applied to replenish soil nutrients that are depleted by continuous cropping. This ensures optimal nutrient availability for crops, leading to healthier plants and increased yields. 4. Pest and Disease Control (Pesticides and Herbicides): Modern farming employs a range of pesticides, insecticides, and herbicides to protect crops from pests, diseases, and weeds. This minimizes crop losses, ensuring a higher percentage of the planted crop reaches maturity and is harvested. 5. Advanced Irrigation Systems: Modern irrigation techniques like drip irrigation, sprinklers, and center pivots deliver water more efficiently to crops, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. This reduces water wastage and allows for cultivation in areas that would otherwise be unsuitable due to insufficient rainfall. 6. Crop Rotation and Mixed Farming: While traditional, these practices are now often implemented with scientific planning. Crop rotation helps maintain soil fertility and break pest and disease cycles. Mixed farming, integrating crop cultivation with livestock, provides organic manure for crops and diversified income for farmers. 7. Agricultural Research and Extension Services: Modern agriculture benefits from ongoing research into new crop varieties, farming techniques, and pest management strategies. Extension services disseminate this knowledge to farmers, providing training and support to adopt modern practices effectively. 20. Study the photograph below and answer to the related questions. The photograph and the related questions for this section are not fully visible in the provided image. Please provide a clearer image of the photograph and the questions for a complete answer.