On needs and deeds in agrometeorology in tropical Africa

This paper surveys what is successfully going on in problem oriented partic ipatory agrometeorology in tropical Africa. It suggests the priorities and requirements for research, education and services. With distinct emphasis o n Nigeria, it is shown that there is progress in African agrometeorology, a lthough some work is hidden in grey literature. Successes in research and e ducation are strongly related to external support. There are much more need s than deeds in operational agrometeorology in tropical Africa, because the agricultural environment is endangered in many places and in many ways. It is also concluded that on-farm validations of new approaches and technolog ies, that take traditional and more recent local expertise into account, ar e needed above all. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.