ASSESSMENT OF THE CONTRIBUTION OF AGROFORESTRY TO HOUSEHOLD FOOD SECURITY AMONG SMALLHOLDER FARMERS IN KUBO SOUTH AND SAMBURU WARDS, KWALE COUNTY, KENYA

Abstract

This study investigated the contribution of agroforestry to household food security in Kwale County. The study objectives were to determine the status of agroforestry and, household food security, as well as the relationship between agroforestry and household food security. Descriptive cross-sectional survey research design was applied, with multistage sampling procedure, which comprised of purposive and random sampling for selection of the study sites and respondents from different villages in Kubo south and Samburu wards, Kwale County. The sample size for the study comprised of 270 smallholders and 10 key informants. The study used a combination of instruments, namely, structured questionnaires, Focus Group Discussions, observation and interview schedules. Descriptive statistics and regression analysis were used to test relationship between agroforestry and household food security. The study found that 14.1 % were food secure, 2.96 % households mildly food insecure, 54.81 % were moderately food insecure and 27.41 % were severely food insecure. Majority of farmers practice agrosilvopastoral system of agroforestry due to the multiplicity of social, economic and environmental benefits they derive from it. The results further indicated that challenges facing agroforestry farmers include poor access to credit, inadequate extension services, wildlife destruction, pests and diseases and inadequate markets for agroforestry products. Land size (p≤0.05), Agroforestry system practiced (p≤0.05), Tree species planted (p≤0.05), Tree planting arrangements (p≤0.05), Inputs received/applied land size (p≤0.05) were found to be statistically significant in determining household food security and were fitted in the final regression model. The study concludes that there is high degree of food insecurity among smallholder farmers and recommends concerted efforts by farmers and agro investors with the support of both county and national governments to intensify the practice and uptake of agroforestry. Similarly, increasing access to agro vi inputs for agroforestry, as well as allocating more land for agroforestry practices, appropriate tree species selection, dissemination and adoption of best agroforestry practices based on research findings, is critical for improved household food security.