The effect of elephant grass ( Pennisetum Purpureum) in controlling soil erosion in Kondoa eroded area
Maliondo, S.M.S|Tangwa, J.L|Temu, R.P.C|Semu, E|Mvena, Z.S.K / 2000

This study was conducted in the Kondoa eroded area (KEA), Kondoa District, central Tanzania. The main objective was to evaluate the effect of elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum) in controlling soil erosion. Specific objectives were: to assess the extent of elephant grass coverage in the area; to assess the interaction of elephant grass with other plants; and to identify other plant species which have the same effect as elephant grass.The study was based on field observations on plots planted with or without elephant grass. The data obtained was analysed by Spearman’s Rank Correlation for independence of two groups of areas regarding the extent of erosion; the extent of improvement achieved; the vigour of the vegetation and the depth of A-horizon (cm). The study showed that land conservation measures in the study area had led to changes in land use practices. It was observed that some farmers are actively involved in planting elephant grass to combat soil degradation. However, some farmers are not using this species for the following reasons. First, the grass competes for soil moisture and nutrients with agricultural crops. Secondly, the species is a tall grass which when mature, shelters destructive birds, including Quelea quelea, which eat grain crops such as millet and sorghum. Thirdly, various diseases such as rust disease that can spread to agricultural crops infect the grass.It is concluded that elephant grass has much merit depending on where it is planted and what types of crops it is mixed with. Elephant grass is very valuable in controlling soil erosion in sand rivers where because of its special features, it can grow in sand with low nutrient status, and sprouts quickly and covers the area within a short period. Also for soil stabilisation, the study indicated that elephant grass is valuable in stabilising the contour ridges if the distance between adjacent crops is carefully selected. Lastly the study showed that apart from controlling soil erosion, elephant grass also serves as fodder as it has high protein content and also grows fast.To facilitate the increased use of elephant grass, it is recommended that short varieties, which are less competitive with adjacent crops, be planted, and farmers should be encouraged to use elephant grass in sand river stabilisation. This can later be succeeded with sugarcane, which has higher commercial value.