Abstract

Soil fertility decline remains a major constraint to agricultural productivity in tropical regions, particularly in large-scale community farming schemes. In Senegal, the Community Agricultural Estates (DAC) established under the PRODAC program aim to promote youth employment and intensify agricultural production, yet their sustainability strongly depends on soil quality. This study aimed to characterize the agro-pedological properties and assess the crop suitability of soils in the SEFA Community Agricultural Estate, located in the Sédhiou region (southern Senegal), with a focus on maize cultivation. A total of 26 soil samples were collected at a depth of 0–30 cm from five representative land-use units (Open Field, Greenhouse, Pivot, Xelcom Tarpaulin, and CAC). Physical and chemical analyses included particle size distribution, pH, electrical conductivity (EC), organic matter (OM), available phosphorus, exchangeable bases, cation exchange capacity (CEC), and base saturation. Results revealed a strong dominance of clay-textured soils, moderately acidic to acidic pH values (5.2–6.4), and low salinity levels (EC < 500 µS/cm). Organic matter contents were generally low to moderate, except in pivot-irrigated plots, while available phosphorus levels were largely deficient in most parcels. CEC values were high, indicating good nutrient retention potential, although acidity limited nutrient availability. The overall land suitability assessment showed moderate to low suitability for maize, mainly constrained by soil acidity, low organic matter, and phosphorus deficiency. Soil amendment through liming, organic matter inputs, and adapted phosphorus fertilization is therefore recommended to enhance soil productivity and ensure sustainable management of the SEFA DAC.