Development of an integrated assessment framework for agroforestry technologies: assessing sustainability, barriers, and impacts in the semi-arid region of Dodoma, Tanzania

Abstract

Land degradation continues to be a major concern for agriculture in developing countries, including Tanzania. Agroforestry is one solution that benefits food production and reduces land degradation. However, various challenges hinder its widespread adoption. This study uses an integrated assessment framework, combining MESMIS (an indicator-based sustainability assessment framework) and ScalA (a scaling-up assessment tool), to evaluate sustainability and constraints to the widespread implementation of agroforestry in semi-arid Tanzania. The main goals are to: 1) identify existing agroforestry technologies adopted by smallholder farmers; 2) evaluate farmers' perception of sustainability regarding each technology's environmental, economic, and social impact; and 3) identify constraints related to the widespread adoption. Results show that farmers consider the following four technologies as the most sustainable: (i) tied ridge + tree intercropping; (ii) contour planting + tree intercropping; (iii) Chololo pits + tree intercropping; and (iv) tree intercropping alone. The findings indicate that, although farmers perceive the technologies positively, adoption is also influenced by local climate, socio-economic status, and institutional factors. The study highlights that a positive perception alone cannot ensure widespread adoption, emphasizing the importance of considering contextual factors. Further testing and application of the proposed framework in similar and comparative settings is encouraged as it provides valuable guidance when evaluating different agroecosystems holistically.

Keywords

Agroforestry; impact assessment framework; farmers' perception; soil and water conservation; sustainability

Published in

International Journal of Agricultural Sustainability
2023, volume: 21, number: 1, article number: 2285161
Publisher: TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD

SLU Authors

• Lana, Marcos

  • Department of Crop Production Ecology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
    

Global goals (SDG)

SDG2 Zero hunger
SDG9 Industry, innovation and infrastructure
SDG15 Life on land

UKÄ Subject classification

Agricultural Science

Publication identifier

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/14735903.2023.2285161

Permanent link to this page (URI)

https://res.slu.se/id/publ/127347