Why is the slash-and-burn method not a long-term solution for farmers in Sub-Saharan Africa?

Question

A) It is too expensive and time-consuming.
B) It only makes the soil fertile for a short time.
C) It is illegal and farmers can get into trouble.
D) It is not effective in producing enough crops.

Answer 1

The correct answer is B) It only makes the soil fertile for a short time.

The slash-and-burn method temporarily enhances soil fertility by adding nutrients from the ash of burned vegetation, but this effect diminishes over time. Continuous use of this method leads to soil degradation and reduced agricultural productivity, making it unsustainable for long-term farming practices in Sub-Saharan Africa.