Abstract:
This study was done to assess and document the adoption status of Agroforestry systems and technologies in Kasulu District, Kigoma Region, Tanzania. Specifically, the study determined the current status of Agroforestry adoption by the communities in the district, identified agroforestry systems and technologies practiced, determined the factors influencing the adoption of agroforestry and the measures that would be required to improve its adoption in the district. Data collection methods involved reconnaissance, household and field surveys. Data collected were summarized and analysed using the SPSS and SAS Computer software. The findings show that by 2011, the adoption status of Agroforestry in Kasulu District was 91%. Three Agroforestry systems namely Agrosilviculture, Agrosilvopasture and Silvopasture are currently in use in the district with the Agrosilvicultural system (42%) being the most adopted system. Eight Agroforestry technologies were found to be adopted by the farmers of which the Homegardens (26%), Mixed intercropping (25%) and Integrated tree/pasture management (17%) technologies were the most adopted technologies. Brachystegia spiciforms and Pericopsis angolensis were the most preferred indigenous tree species whereas Senna siamea, Eucalyptus maidenii and Elais guinensis were the most preferred exotic species. Mangifera indica, Citrus sinensis and Persea americana were currently the most preferred fruit trees. Income generation, farmer’s awareness and access to extension services were some of the most critical factors that enhance farmers adoption of agroforestry, whereas lack of knowledge, land shortage and lack of monetary capital were the most limiting factors. Based on the results and discussion it was concluded that the extent of agroforestry adoption in the study area was high. It was then recommended to encourage farmers to maintain the existing agroforestry adoption reached, provide germplasm of the improved tree species, educate and sensitizing farmers to have individual or community tree nurseries that can be accessed easily by farmers.
