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In the 1980s, mesquite (Prosopis juliflora) was considered an ideal anti-desertification tree due to its high capacity to stabilize sand dunes, survive inhospitable environments, and provide fuel, timber, fodder, and edible pods. However, once planted, the mesquite seedlings failed to take root on sand dunes, but rather, became well established in oases, where they contributed to the lowering of the water table and suppression of native vegetation. The invasion of mesquite not only changed the regional ecosystem, but has also caused livelihood degradation of local communities. The author seeks to learn from “mistakes” made unintentionally by scientists, administrators and NGO workers and go beyond criticism in order to continue doing high-quality scientific research.
Mesquite is a potential source of fuel wood to satisfy household energy requirements and increase the incomes of people in rural areas. This study was undertaken with the objectives of 1) comparing the carbonization efficiency of modern technologies with traditional Sudanese practices, 2) determining charcoal quality by determining the physicochemical properties, and 3) evaluating the advantages of charcoal briquettes. The metal kiln gave the highest conversion efficiency, followed by the barrel kiln and traditional earth mound. However, the metal kiln is too expensive for use at the village level. Therefore, we taught women to use the barrel kiln at the village level. As a first step, the researchers trained outreach workers to make charcoal using a barrel kiln. Appropriate technology should be implemented based on scientific evaluation and local feasibility.

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