2. Socio - economic and gender issues in draft animal technology.

This was a presentation by Mrs. Tabitha Ngamau, a Lady Farmer from Kenya and KENDAT (Kenya Network for Draught Animal Technology) Vice Chair. The objective of the presentation was to share her unique experiences, especially with research scientists present at the workshop. Her presentation was followed by intense discussion as participants took the chance to learn more about the farmer perspective. She covered a brief history of small holder farming in Kenya, the use of donkeys as a tradition by the small holder farmers, capacity building and self reliance mechanisms and the the role of women in small scale farming. Including her own personal and national experiences the discussion that followed was enlightening indeed.

3. Animal traction resources in Ghana.

This slide presentation by Emmanuel Bobobee of the University of Science and technology in Ghana showed exciting animal traction resources and activities in Ghana. Vast information was made available on draft animal availability , types of animal breeds, including pest and disease tolerant breeds, types and range of implements in use, artisan and manufacturing support and tillage practices among the small holder farmers using draft animal power.

4. Regional Conservation Tillage Network. The conservation tillage workshop held in Harare in June 1998 recommended the formation of a regional network in order to promote conservation tillage technologies and approaches in the region. A draft proposal for such a network was presented at this session by Dr. Kurt Steiner of Germany. The objective of this session was to exchange ideas further on needs for such a regional organization. Major issues discussed were:

• the need for yet another network and whether its activities could be accommodated in existing Networks such as ATNESA
• the structure of the network, scope of activities and membership including both individuals and institutions.

These issues were not finally resolved and participants agreed to continue discussion even after the workshop, led by Richard Fowler of South Africa and Kurt Steiner of Germany.

Proposed activities would be such as:

• collection of CONTIL data and setting up a regional databank,
• production of a newsletter either electronic or printed,
• information exchange within the region and between the regions such as with Latin America,
• holding of regular workshops and visits across localities and countries, to exchange CONTIL ideas and more to the benefit of national, regional and international efforts.