One of the key challenges for AfSIS is how to measure soil functional properties on tens of thousands of georeferenced soil samples. Spectral diagnostics – the use of low cost, high throughput analytical techniques based on light reflectance – solves this problem. Infrared and x-ray spectroscopic analytical techniques that required minimal sample preparation are used as a front line screening tool. More expensive and time-consuming measurements of soil functional properties are then calibrated to the spectral measurements on a subset of samples.

We view human and institutional capacity strengthening as the key to building ownership of the project by national institutions and consequently ensuring sustainability of not only AfSIS, but also the science and technology advances behind it. Whereas the capacity building component will relate directly to activities of the project, impacts on policy in government and private institutions on soils monitoring, research, and extension are expected to provide a model for AGRA and its grantees to scale-out to other countries beyond the initial ones directly supported by AfSIS (Tanzania, Mali, Malawi, Nigeria and Kenya).