Research Publications (Systems Science)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://ir-dev.dut.ac.za/handle/10321/842

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Indigenous strategies and empirical models for adaptability of the maize-bean intercropping system to climate change
(UZ Foundatoin, 2016-12) Mapanda, S.; Chitja, J. M.; Duffy, Kevin Jan
This review article discusses on different ways of indigenous strategies and empirical models as an adaptation to climate change by smallholder farmers in Africa. Indigenous adaptation strategies are methods that enable individuals or communities to adjust to the impacts of climate change in local areas. Some of the strategies practiced are: zero tillage, mulching, soil management techniques, organic agriculture and fallow system of cultiva-tion, intercropping with legumes, early planting and use of tolerant varieties to drought, water conservation and crop diversification. Scientists developed many empirical models that are used to project the impact of climate change to agriculture. Some of the empirical models include: CERES-Maize Crop Model, Global Circulation Models (GCM) and histori-cal data records. There is also use of empirical evidence such as indigenous land unit framework, indigenous early warning systems, use of rainmakers, movement of birds, ants and crying of dogs by the indigenous smallholder farmers in Africa. Intercropping system is the best practice used as a strategy to climate change adaptability, and one of the most suitable intercropping systems is that of maize and bean. However, the current research findings revealed that there is a lack of consideration of indigenous knowledge that could enhance livelihoods that depend on natural resources directly affected by climate change.
Optimal control of maize foliar diseases using the plants population dynamics
(Taylor and Fancis, 2015-09-28) Collins, Obiora Cornelius; Duffy, Kevin Jan
Pathogens and insects can have important negative effects on yields of crops cultivated by humans. These effects can be important for the food security or financial well-being of individuals. In particular, maize is a very important staple crop worldwide and is vulnerable to diseases. We formulate here a mathematical model to evaluate the impacts of foliar diseases on the population dynamics of maize plants. Qualitative analyses of the important mathematical features of the model are carried out. We show how this methodology can be extended to reducing the spread of foliar diseases through effective control measures with minimum costs.