Examples of some ODA Research projects in Africa:

The contribution of fruit-eating primates to seed dispersal and natural regeneration after selective logging.
The search for satisfactory ways of naturally regenerating tropical rain forest has to consider the mechanisms of seed dispersal. This was the main objective of studies undertaken in selectively-logged areas of the Budongo Forest in Uganda. Dr Vernon Reynolds, Zoology Dept, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3RB.

Effects of climate and soil on the distribution and regeneration of timber trees in Ghana.
Sustaining the timber yield of a natural forest requires knowledge of tree species ecology. Field studies and trials have been attempting to discover the key determinants for the regeneration of Ghanaian rain forest timber species with a view to extending the existing range of valuable species either in high forest or by plantations. Dr M.D. Swaine and Dr l.J. Alexander, Institute of Tropical Biology, Dept of Plant and Soil Science, University of ~berdeen, Scotland, AB9 2TN.

Evaluation of planting spaced trees in cultivated fields on vertisolic soils under low rainfall, with special reference to soil conditions and crop yield in Nigeria.
Population pressures on the Sudano-Sahelian zone is leading to a decline in woody vegetation and to consequent soil degradation. Guidelines are being developed for tree planting on cultivated land, taking into account farmers' preferences. The initial impact of the trees on soil conditions and crop yield is being quantified. Mr F.L. Sinclair, School of Agriculture and Forest Sciences, University of Wales, Thoday, Bangor, LL57 2UW.

Forest extension and institutional change.
Experience indicates that if extension initiatives are to be fully effective, the administrative and managerial issues of the implementing organisation should be addressed as well as the procedures for delivering information to farmers. A conceptual framework and methodology for gathering the necessary information has been developed, and specific case histories studied, to guide institutional reorientation. Overseas Development Institute, Inner Circle, Regents Park, London, NW1 4NS.