R.E. Kenne^1,, W. Fogang Noubep¹, P. Azinwi Tamfuh^{1, 2}, D. Lekemo Mbaveng¹, S.A. Kom Tchuente³, R.K. Enang¹, G.M. Ndzana¹, H. Ntangmo Tsafack⁴, E. Temgoua1¹, D. Bitom¹

Managing fecal sludge waste is crucial to prevent potential environmental harm, and one promising approach is its transformation into organic soil amendments. This study aimed to evaluate the quality of compost derived from various organic waste sources and assess its impact on soil fertility, maize growth, yield, and economic viability. Four distinct compost types were generated using two primary organic waste sources: household solid waste (C1) and fecal sludge (FS) combined with solid household waste (SHW) in different proportions (C2, C3, and C4). These composts were then applied at varying rates to maize plots in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications, resulting in ten treatment groups. The findings revealed a progressive improvement in the physico-chemical properties of the composts from C1 to C4. Notably, phosphorus (P) content increased from 0.29±0.03 (C1) to 0.54±0.07 (C4), and the pH levels shifted from 7.72±0.61 (C2) to 8.00±0.57 (C1). Total nitrogen (TN) ranged between 1.08±0.01 (C1) and 1.23±0.02% (C4). All compost types positively influenced soil parameters. However, the application of 20 t.ha^-1 of C1 resulted in greater above-ground biomass (48.23±12.64 t.ha^-1), while the application of 20 t.ha^-1 of C3 yielded the tallest maize plants (195.88± 7.35cm). Notably, compost C4 at a rate of 10 t.ha^-1 exhibited the highest maize production and economic returns (7.95±0.26 t.ha^-1, BCR = 2.81). In summary, treatment T7 (10 t.ha^-1 of C4 compost) is recommended for achieving enhanced maize production and increased profitability. This study underscores the potential benefits of using organic composts, particularly those derived from fecal sludge and household waste, to enhance soil quality and crop yields in agricultural contexts.

composting, fecal sludge, household waste, soil amendment, crop production, Dschang