These effects may also arise from the implications of economic policies and other political decisions which neglect the development of rural areas. Land tenure systems and unsustainable land use. Existing agro-pastoral practices are predominantly dependent on natural rainfall. This is seasonal and decreases generally from the south to the north. It is beyond the control of land users.
Irrigated agriculture is practised only in selected areas and on a relatively small scale.
Given the variations in climate experienced in recent years, the future of rainfed agriculture is under serious threat in some areas. The timber industry is seriously threatened in some areas by the over-exploitation of certain tropical hardwoods which are in high demand on international markets. There are direct and underlying causes of deforestation. Direct causes include land clearing for agriculture, logging activities, tree burning for charcoal production, firewood collection and human settlement and related infrastructure construction. These activities are increasing throughout the region and represent a serious threat for the future of primary forests.