(a) Differentiate between land ownership by leasehold and land ownership by freehold. [ 2 marks ] (b) Mention five ways in which non-governmental organizati...

Assessment: WAEC SSCE - Agricultural Science - 2015 (Essay) Subject: Agricultural Science

Question 1 Report

(a) Differentiate between land ownership by leasehold and land ownership by freehold. [ 2 marks ]

(b) Mention five ways in which non-governmental organizations contribute to agricultural
development in West Africa. [ 5 marks ]

(c) State four ways in which rural-urban migration has hindered agricultural development in West Africa. [ 4 marks ]

(d) Mention three socio-economic uses of land. [ 3 marks ]

(e) Explain two ways by which each of the following environmental factors affect agricultural production:

  1. Soil organisms;
  2. soil texture. [ 4 marks ]
Answer Details

(a) Leasehold versus freehold land ownership

In leasehold, an individual holds land for a fixed period on payment of rent to the owner, and the land reverts to the owner when the term expires. In freehold, the individual owns the land outright and permanently, with full title and the right to sell, lease or bequeath it.

(b) Five ways NGOs contribute to agricultural development in West Africa

  1. They provide credit/grants and inputs (seeds, fertilizer, tools) to farmers.
  2. They train farmers and offer extension/advisory services.
  3. They fund and sponsor agricultural research and projects.
  4. They help build rural infrastructure, storage and processing facilities.
  5. They assist in marketing produce and forming cooperatives, and give relief during disasters.

(c) Four ways rural-urban migration has hindered agricultural development

  1. It causes shortage of farm labour in the rural areas.
  2. It leaves mainly the aged and children on the farms, reducing productivity.
  3. It leads to abandonment of farmland and fall in food production.
  4. It reduces the adoption of improved practices as able-bodied, educated youths leave farming.

(d) Three socio-economic uses of land

  1. For building of houses, schools and hospitals.
  2. For recreation (parks, playgrounds) and worship.
  3. For siting of markets, industries and roads.

(e) Two ways each environmental factor affects agricultural production

Soil organisms:

  1. They decompose organic matter and release/recycle nutrients, improving fertility.
  2. Some (earthworms) improve aeration and drainage, while harmful ones cause plant diseases.

Soil texture:

  1. It determines water-holding capacity and drainage of the soil (sandy drains fast, clay holds water).
  2. It influences aeration, ease of tillage and root penetration, hence crop growth.

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