65.
The map on p. 35 would be more useful if placed nearer the beginning of the text and accompanied by a caption explaining the numbers. A useful bibliography and list of all publications in the series are included.
Aspects of Agro-Pastoralism in East Africa. Research Report No. 51. By Per Brandstr~m, Jan Hultin, Jan Lindstr6m. Uppsala: Scandinavian Institute of African Studies. Review by Frank FilZo, University of FZorida.
Agro-pastoralism refers to a society in which animal husbandry occurs
in combination with agriculture. This report analyses some of the variations that have developed within this general mode in East Africa. It is the premise of the authors that the differing ecological-socio-economic linkages
that have evolved are to be viewed as "variations on a common agro-pastoral theme."
The thematic element considered invariant is the interdependency of agriculture and animal husbandry within one and the same societal context. Agriculture is the economic base, while livestock are of utmost importance not only for subsistence, but also for the integration and reproduction of the social system. This interdependency is given a variety of expression in East Africa, and examples which illustrate this diversity of social form are presented. The authors suggest that the variations among agro-pastoral groups can be viewed in terms of differing degrees of specialization and exchange within/between societies, ethnic groups, and households.
Attention is given to the problem of human and livestock population pressures exerted on the ecological niches of a number of agro-pastoral societies. Examples of methods of adjustment to overcrowding are discussed. Principally, it is the complexity of this problem, the occurrence of which is likely to increase in frequency and severity, which is emphasized.
The stated intention of the authors is for this report to be a "prestudy," to raise questions for further research. Combining simple theoretical models with a number of empirical examples, they accomplish this purpose admirably.
DiversityRegionalism and National Unity. Research Report No. 54. By Mohamed Omer Beshir. Uppsala: Scandinavian Institute of African Studies, 1979. Review by Frank Fillo, University of Florida.
A chronic condition characterizing many African nations is the conflict between regional and national interests. This conflict and its possible resolution is the theme of this report.