Browsing by Author "Joro, Faith"

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    Factors influencing adoption of agroforestry practices in the lake Victoria region, Tanzania: a case of Tarime District
    (University of Dar es Salaam, 2015) Joro, Faith
    Agroforestry is among the sustainable land use management system that is being emphasized in most African countries. However, adoption of agroforestry practices is still low despite the efforts made by different organizations. This study seeks to establish factors influencing adoption of agroforestry practices in the Lake Victoria region of Tanzania with special focus on Tarime district. Three villages in Nyamwaga ward namely Nyamaga, Keisangura, Kimusi were selected for the case study. Primary data collection methods included key informant and household interviews, focus group discussion, direct field observation. Secondary data was obtained from various published and unpublished materials from University library, internet and District office. All these focused on the factors influencing adoption of agroforestry practices. Findings from the study show that most of farmers have adopted woodlots, boundary tree planting, home garden, alley cropping and hedge planting. Benefits from practicing such practices were mentioned to range from fodder, fruits, food, timber, building poles as well as soil fertility improvement and income that is obtained from selling of the products obtained from agroforestry. Results further show that age of farmers, farm size, and contact with extension staff, awareness on agroforestry, land ownership, income level, family size and belonging to an agricultural organization to have influence in the adoption of agroforestry practices. However, gender and education level had no significant influence in the adoption of agroforestry practice indicating that most farmers are and have been adopting irrespective of gender and level of education. Challenges which faced the farmers included crop pests and diseases, difficulties in mechanization as well as competition for nutrients and moisture. Lack of knowledge, lack of tree seeds, low capital and small land size owned by the farmers constrained adoption of agroforestry practices. Overall agroforestry practices should be encouraged so as to help in improving lives of rural communities and ensure environmental sustainability.