tuhimbise peace (bem/2530/21/drj) a dissertation …

THE ROLE OF AGRO-FORESTRy IN POVERTY REDUCTION IN

KABALE DISTRICT:

A CASE STUDY OF KYANAMIR& SUB-COUNTY

TUHIMBISE PEACE

(BEM/2530/21/DrJ)

A DISSERTATION SUBMITTED IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AWARD OF THE DEGREE OF

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ENVIRONMENTAL

MANAGEMENT OF KAMPALA

INTERNATIONAL

UNIVERSITY.

OCTOBER, 2007.

DECLARATION

I, Tuhimbise Peace, declare that the information in this dissertation is a result of

my own independent work and it has not been presented for any degree award at

any University.

Tuhimbise Peace

(Student)

Date:....~

11

APPROVAL

This is to certify that this dissertation has been submitted for examination with my

approval as a University Supervisor.

Signed ~ Date...~.’ 1 J ~Ms Anne Tumushabe

DEDICATION

This dissertation is dedicated to my late father, Mr. Bigari Enos who was not able

to see me complete this study. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

iv

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

I thank the Almighty God who has been seeing me through this study. Without his

support, all could have been in vain.

I am heavily indebted to my supervisor Ms Anne Turnushabe for her purposeful

guidance towards this successful completion of the research study. She

encouraged and guided me a lot in this study. I learnt a lot from her criticisms and

concern.

I am also grateful to the staff at the International Centre for Research in Agro

forestry (ICRAF) in Kabale for having identified for me where to collect field

data. I am equally grateful to the farmers of Kyanamira Sub-county who filled my

questionnaires without complaining.

Finally, I am grateful to my husband Dr. Chris Bakuneeta for the encouragement

and finances that turned this study into a reality. I am very grateful to my dear

children (Howard, Audrey, Lynn, Martin and Leakey) who had to miss me a lot

during this study.

V

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

Content Page

Declaration

Approval

Dedication iv

Acknowledgment v

Table of contents vi

List of Tables and Figures ix

List of Acronyms Abbreviations x

Abstract

CHAPTER ONE:

1 .0 Introduction i

1.1 Background to the study i

1.2 Statement of the problem 2

1.3 Objectives of the study 3

1.4 Research questions 3

1.5 Scope ofthe study 4

1.6 Justification of the study 4

1.7 Significance of the study 4

1.8 Limitations of the study s

CHAPTER TWO: LITEkATURE REVIEW

2.1 Agro-forestry goods and services being commercialized /marketed in

Kabale 6

2.2 The opportunities of using Agro-forestry in Poverty reduction 8

2.3 Ways in which agro-forestry can be improved to help reduce poverty 11

vi

CHAPTER THREE: METHODOLOGY,

3.1 Introduction 14

3.2 Research Design 14

3.3 TheSample 14

3.3.1 Sample selection 15

3.3.2 Sample size 15

3.4 Data collection 15

3.4. 1 Questionnaires 15

3.4.2 Interviewing~ 16

3.4.3 Direct Observation 16

3.5 Research Instruments 16

3.6 Data Presentation and Analysis 16

CHAPTER FOUR: DATA PRESENTATION AND ANLYSIS

4.1 Introduction 17

4.2 Which agro-forestry goods and services are being commercialized /

marketed in Kabale 18

4.3 What are the opportunities of using Agro-forestry in poverty reduction.... 19

4.4 In what ways can Ago-forestry be improved in Kyanamira Sub-county to

help reduce poverty2 23

CHAPTER FIVE:

SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS,

5.1 Summary 26

5.2 Conclusions 27

5.3 Recommendations 28

References 30

vii

APPENDICES:

I Questionnaire for Farmers in Kabale 32

II Questionnaire to Local Council Leaders 34

III Questionnaire to Agro-forestry Staff in Kabale 36

IV Questionnaire to Government Officials in Kabale District 38

V Interview Guide for Women 40

VI Interview guide for Elders 41

VII Letter of Introduction from the researcher to the respondents 42

VIII Letter of introduction from the University 43

IX Map of Uganda showing Kabale District 44

X Map of Kabale District showing its Sub-counties 45

viii

LIST OF TABLES

Table (i) Responses 17

Table (ii) Products 18

Table (iii) Impact 20

Table (iv) Benefits 20

Table (v) Income generation 21

Table (vi) Beneficiaries 21

Table (vii) Opportunities 22

Table (viii) What agro~forestry staff should do 23

Table (ix) What the government should do 24

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1 Agro-forestry goods and services being commercialized/markecl....19

ix

LIST OF ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

ICRAF International Centre for Research in Agro-forestry

AFRENA Agro-forestry Research Network for Africa

NAADS National Agricultural Advisory System

PMA Plan for Modernization of Agriculture

NARO National Agriculture Research Organization

UNDP United Nations Development Project

IFAD International Fund for Agricultural Development

x

ABSTRACT

The research was carried out in Kyanamira Sub-county Kabale district. It was

aimed at finding out the role of Agro-forestry in poverty reduction in Kabale

district.

It was based on the following objectives:

To find out which Agro-forestry goods and services are being

commercialized/marketed.

To find out the opportunities of using Agro-forestry initiatives to reduce poverty

To find out ways in which agro-forestry can be improved to help reduce poverty.

The study included all the farmers in Kyanamira Sub-county practicing Agro

forestry and 120 respondents were used.

Questionnaires, interviews and direct observations were used to collect data.

It was discovered that the major agro-forestry products on sale in the local markets

are fruits, medicine, fodder and timber

It was noted that agro-forestry had increased income generation among the

Kyanarnira farmers and many more benefited

Provision of tools to farmers, education, creation of markets sensitization

programmes, provision of better quality seeds and provision of loans without

collateral to farmers were sited as the maj or contributions towards Agro-forestry

The study recommended government to provide tree seedlings to farmers at a

minimal price, introduce agro-forestry into the curricular of schools, increase

collaboration in agro-forestry research programmes and develop trained manpower

in agro-forestry through post-graduate studies in local and international

universities as some of the ways of improving Agro-forestry.

xi

CHAPTER ONE

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND TO THE STUDY.

Agro-forestry is a collective name for land use systems and technologies in

which woody perennials (trees, shrubs, palms, bamboos, e.t.c) are grown in

association with herbaceous plants (crops, pastures) or livestock, in a

spatial arrangement, a rotation or both (Lundgren and Rainftee, 1982).

Agro-forestry involves combining tree planting with other enterprises or

managing woodlots for a diversity of special forest products. The resulting

biological interactions provide multiple benefits including diversified

income resources, increased biological production, better water quality, and

improved habitat for both humans and wildlife (Beetz, 2002).

Agro-forestry was introduced as a promising solution in sustaining forests

while generating income for rural communities (Salleh, et al., 2004). Agro

forests are expected to provide up to 80% of the village income. Recent

agro-forestry technologies have great potential to improve the livelihoods

of many households. Experience has shown that maximum employment

lasts only during the first season in which land clearance, lining, holing and

planting area undertaken after which the amount of work reduces,

Sustaining cash income is still difficult as forestation and plantation are

periodical activities (Salleh et al; 2004). Because trees and crops are grown

together, there are some complimentary and competitive effects sonic of

which are negative while others are positive.

Uganda continues to make significant strides towards Poverty Eradication.

According to UNDP, Poverty reduction may be achieved by improving

1

access of the impoverished people to the goods and services as well as

creating employment opportunities. Business improvement in developing

countries can improve livelihoods by establishing infrastructure and

generating local economic development.

To the World Bank, very poor people are those who live on less than a US

dollar a day while poor people are those who live on less than USS 2 a day.

On that standard, 21% of the World’s population are very poor and more

than 50% of the World’s population are poor (World Bank, 2001).

With the above background, it came to the attention of the researcher that if

causes of poverty in Uganda is not fully found out, then even the

government progrmames might end up failing. Big concern was on

Kyanamira Sub-county in Ndorwa County, Kabale district, which forms a

big part of rural area but near the town.

The findings may be generalized for roles that are in other parts of Kabale

district because although most of the time, the Agricultural officers,

Assistant agricultural officers, and other technical people have tried to

sensitize the public about Agro-forestry, it seems the public has not taken

the advice seriously.

Therefore, this study was carried out to address the unsolved issues behind

the role of Agro-forestry in poverty reduction in Kyanarnira Sub-county.

1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM.

With the introduction of Agro-forestry in Kabale district, many people had

hope that poverty was going to reduce significantly and be comparable with

that of other districts. This is because Agro-forestry has potential to

improve human livelihoods. It is expected to put money into farmer’s

pockets. Today, Agro forestry in Kyanamira Sub-county has not boosted

2

farn-iers output nor has it made the land more efficient and profitable. It has

not improved human livelihoods and it has not put money into farmers’

pockets.

Although Agro-forestry has been practiced in Kyanamira Sub-county for

over a decade, it has not improved the economic status of the local

communities who have had this exposure. One wonders why this is so,

hence this warranted research.

1.3 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY.

In order for the researcher to explore critically the role of Agro-forestry in

poverty reduction, the study was based on the following objectives:

1. To find out the opportunities of using Agro-forestry initiatives to

reduce poverty;

2. To find out ways in which agro-forestry can be improved to help

reduce poverty;

3. To find out ways in which Agro-forestry can be improved to help

reduce poverty.

1.4 RESEARCH QUESTIONS.

Specifically, this research was to answer the following questions:

1. Which Agro-forestry goods and services are being

commercialized/marketed in Kabale?

2. What are the opportunities of using Agro-forestry in poverty reduction?

3. In what ways can Agro-forestry be improved in Kabale to help reduce

poverty?

1.5 SCOPE OF THE STUDY.

The research was carried out in Kyanamira Sub-county Ndorwa county,

Kabale district, Uganda. Kyanamira Sub-county has four parishes,

Muyumbu, Nyakijumba, Kyanamira and Nyabushabi.

It has a population of 16.281 people comprising of 7.809 males and 8.472

females. The villages of Kyanamira Sub-county had most farmers

practicing Agro-forestry required for data collection and subsequent

analysis.

L6 JUSTIFICATION OF THE STUDY.

A lot of research has been done on the role of Agro-forestry in poverty

reduction in Kyanamira Sub-county but most of these have not come out to

complete the issues related with poverty in Kabale district. They have not

fully explained the role of Agro-forestry in poverty reduction and have not

provided solutions since poverty is still persistent in Kyanamira Sub-

county. This research was aimed at providing causes and solutions which

policy makers could apply to reduce poverty levels especially among

Kyanarnira farmers practicing Agro-forestry. The Sub-county could also

benefit from the findings of this research since there has never been a

research of this kind.

1.7 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY.

Most policies have been introduced in farming methods without a detailed

study of their effectiveness and how stakeholders would be interested in

them. The policy-makers will benefit from this research finding in that they

will modify their policies to suit the prevailing conditions among the

farmers.

The findings will thus be vital to planners right from the district to country

level in reducing poverty using appropriate farming methods.

4

Also, the research will make farmers appreciate the role of better methods

of farming to enable them to take Agro-forestry as important in poverty

reduction.

The research will also provide the basis for other interested scholars who

would wish to study any aspect related to Agro-forestry in Kyanamira Sub-

county or any other area.

1.8 LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY.

Owing to limited time that was available for the researcher, it was

impossible to use bigger samples but the one, which was used, was well

representative of the reality on the role of Agro-forestry in poverty

reduction.

The researcher also had a problem of some respondents hiding information,

especially income from products. But the researcher tried to be tactful and

ensured respondents that information was for academic purposes. Less

funds also limited the effectiveness of data collection since it was difficult

to get transport, paper and other necessary equipment.

The researcher however minimized this by operating at minimum costs and

using appropriate methods of data collection.

Some areas in Kyanamira Sub-county are not accessible and this retarded

the progress of the research, hence walking had to be done to distant areas

especially where farmers who practice Agro-forestry were reported.

5

CHAPTER TWO

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.0 In this chapter, the researcher has presented the various works of the

different authors’ world over concerning Agro-forestry and poverty

alleviation in different communities at different times. The literature review

therefore is to show the understanding of the problem in this contemporary

situation.

2,1 AGRO-FORESTRY GOODS AND SERVICES BEING

COMMERCIALIZED I MARKETED.

Most Agro-forestry systems aim at maintaining or increasing production

and productivity. This included increasing output of tree products from the

farm (fuel wood, fodder and fruit —the 3fs), improved yields of associated

crops such as gum, resigns, thatching and medicinal products.

The service functions include shade, reduction of wind speed, control of

weeds and fencing (Young, 1997).

Agro-forestry trees can supply food, medicine, livestock fodder and timber

for home use and sale (Franzel and Scherr, 2002). Other services trees

provide include boundary marking, windbreaks, soil erosion barriers,

beauty and shade (Leakey, 2001). Agro-forestry systems can contro’ run off

and soil erosion, thereby reducing losses of water, soil material, organic

matter and nutrients (Nair, 1993).

Farmers throughout the tropics rely on products and services from trees for

much of their livelihoods. Trees are planted mainly for firewood, building

poles, food and medicine (Burley and Wood, 1991).

6

According to Young (1993), tropical home gardens consist of an

assemblage of plants growing in or adjacent to home compounds whose

primary function is food production for household consumption.

Burley and Wood (1991), points out that multipurpose trees are some of the

trees that are deliberately kept and managed for more than one use, product,

and /or service. The planting of these trees is usually economically or

ecologically motivated.

Paul Jacoulli and John Cawaiho (1999) states that firewood and charcoal

are forest products which are extremely important not only to Uganda’s

people and the economy, but also provide many important benefits.

Gholz (1987) wrote that other forestry goods being marketed are bush meat,

fish, fruit, edible oils, mushrooms, medicines, and various fibres.

Young (1997) agrees with Gholz that Agro-forestry goods being marketed

include resigns, essential oils, gums, latexes, tannius and dyes.

Wood (1990) also says that traditional medicines, raw materials for

building and implements for household use or for use in support by other

economic activities are part of the goods and services being marketed.

Nair (1993) said that the major development and promotion activities on

Agro-forestry in the country include: Seedling distribution to farmers,

farmer training on various agro-forestry practices, the establishment of seed

stands (at both research stations and on farmers yields) and support to tree

nurseries of individual farmers and fanner groups.

7

Although the Uganda government has tried to modernize agriculture and to

support farmers, people practicing agro-forestry don’t seem to be benefiting

from the above goods or services. This research therefore, attempts to

clarify on the reasons.

2.2 THE OPPORTUNITIES OF USING AGRO-FORESTRY IN

POVERTY REDUCTION.

Rocheleau (1998) wrote that income earned from forest-based activities

contribute to food security.

Salleh (1999) too agrees with Rocheleau that collection and processing of

forest products has taken over the main income generating activity.

In one study in Sierra Leone, 186% of farmers interviewed said they

considered non-agricultural enterprises — which included processing

activities, firewood collection, hunting, fishing, palm wine tapping and

handcrafts to be more important than farming (Engel et al, 1985).

Peoples (1990) locates that hunting for trade in game meat is a particularly

lucrative activity in some countries.

In Peru, a skilled hare hunter can reportedly earn $1350 a month compared

with the agricultural labourer’s wage of $1000 a month (Lundgren, 1982).

Asibey (1987) agrees with Lundgren when he wrote that a successful

farmer-hunter can therefore earn more from hunting than from agricultural

production.

In the Philippines, dependence on rattan collection has been shown to be

linked to income while poorer families rely on rattan collection and other

8

forest based employment for their regular income, better-off farmers use

rattan mainly as an emergency source of income in times of poor harvest, or

other emergencies (Sierbert and Beisky, 1985).

Lal and Cummings (1979) say that tree cover is important and can have

considerable influence in moderating air and soil temperatures, and

increasing relative humidity.

In some cases, varying amounts of shade may benefit different crops. Some

types of coffee, for example are deliberately grown under partial shade

which may also be desirable in animal husbandly, particularly in hot

climates (Daily, 1984).

Nair (1997) states that trees influence the availability of soil moisture in

their immediate vicinity and uptake of water by tree roots and can also have

a significant effect on local moisture availability.

Kesande (2003) carried out a research in Kabale district and wrote that one

of the opportunities of using Agro-forestry is that trees reduce wind speeds,

protect crops and protect water sources.

Chepil (1945) said that trees help substantially in preventing wind erosion

and the damage it causes.

According to Guyot (1986), trees work as wind breaks and help prevent

mechanical damage caused by high winds.

Hamilton (1983) too, points out that soil erosion in areas where agro

forestry is practiced is generally less than that under other types of land use.

9

Ekologi (1980) said that it is not the cutting of trees that leads to surface

erosion, but the disturbance to the understorey and leaf litter bearing of the

soil associated with tree cutting.

LaRue and Patterson (1981) have written that a variety of agro-forestry

techniques helps to reduce erosion. When combined with physical measures

such as terracing, planting of trees and shrubs can help considerably in

binding the soil and preventing water erosion.

Agro-forestry promotes contour hedges of shrubs such as Calliandra,

calothyrsus and various leucaena species for soil erosion control and

rotational wood lots/fallows of calliandra, sesbania sesban and alnus

acuminata for soil fertility, replenishment and wood production.

Furthermore, Agro-forestry can be integrated in all other efforts to

modernize agriculture, such as improved varieties, irrigation, profitable use

of fertilizers, e.t.c (UGADEN). Agro-forestry makes the use of these more

efficient and profitable. Strategic and adaptive research on farms in Uganda

has confirmed the great contribution that agro-forestry can make to the rural

livelihoods and the conservation of natural resources (Agro-forestry

trends).

However, the potential impact of Agro-forestry in addressing rural needs in

Uganda has only been partially realized due to the fragmented and

uncoordinated efforts of the institutions involved. Thus only a few farmers

have been reached and some parts of the country have been left out. Poorer

groups within the community have thus been able to exploit Agro-forestry

methods and techniques for foods, fuel, and other marketable products and

have tended to rely on these for a greater proportion of their income and

10

basic needs, yet poverty still persists Therefore, findings of this study will

be very important.

2.3 WAYS IN WHICH AGRO-FORESTRY CAN BE IMRPOVED IN

KABALE TO HELP REDUCE POVERTY.

Article 26 of the Universal Declaration on human rights (1948) recognizes

education along with other necessities such as food, shelter and water as a

fundamental human right.

The UN convention on human rights of every person ratified by 192

countries in 1989, affirms the right of all human beings to good feeding

with relevant education.

At the World Agriculture Education Forum at Dakar 2000, participants

from the 164 countries pledged to provide Agricultural Education for all by

201 5, gender quality and empowering of farmers.

Amwine (2002) mentions various ways Uganda is using to establish food

security in farming such as:

Developing and promoting new technologies that improve the

returns, improving efficiency or product quality

Providing tax and other incentives to encourage the establishment of

small scale enterprises.

Improving the availability of credit to small scale enterprises in

order to allow them to expand their capacity, create more

employment opportunities and hence increase turnover and profits

Strengthening the bargaining power of producers by setting up

marketing cooperatives or producers’ associations.

11

Providing farmers with better market information to raise awareness

of market opportunities and limitations, warn them of the possible

fluctuations in market prices and assist them in diversifying what

they produce so as to reduce risks.

Supporting the marketing of tree products by providing

transportation and storage facilities linking sellers with buyers at

markets and fairs and giving them advice on advertising and

marketing strategies.

Mounting promotional campaigns to encourage consumers to buy

indigenous tree-based products instead of imported alternatives.

Reviewing price controls that set a ceiling on the price of tree

products that discourage sustainable production.

Amwine (2002) says that the government should guarantee supplies

of input materials from government forests at controlled or reduced

prices and making sure that small scale enterprises are not subjected

to unfair competition from larger industries.

Amwine (2002) noted that Agro-forestry can be improved by

increasing the value added from tree produces by supporting more

extensive processing by local people.

Wood (1990) argues that new integrated management approaches

need to be matched to local market opportunities as well as to Agro

climatic conditions.

According to Salley (2004), new skills will be needed which focus

on management for multiple products and Agro-forestry uses; and

deliberate efforts to protect or introduce certain desirable species.

Nair (1997) reasoned that the first step to improving Agro-forestry is

to diversity agro-forestry management to incorporate locally valued

products.

12

Amwine (2002) wrote that Agro-forestry farmers should become

part of the solutions as they are responsible for the protection and

management of the Agro-forestry resources.

Kazibwe (7th June, 2002) in her speech at UNGASS stressed

Uganda’s strategy to promote, educate and empower farmers as a

means of curbing down poverty.

Tukamushaba (2002) suggested that on-farm research involving

farmers themselves is critical in taking new agro-forestry techniques

out of the research stations and into widespread use.

Kasente (2003) wrote that one of the most promising approaches to

increasing agro-forestry is by encouraging tree growing, improving

the conditions for crop-growing and livestock and by supplying

products that can be sold for cash

Although the Uganda government has tried to use most of the above

strategies to curb poverty, many farmers are still very poor and so are

living below the poverty line.

1,.,13

CHAPTER THREE

METHODOLOGY

3.1 INTRODUCTION.

This chapter presents a discussion of the methods, which were used during

the study including sampling procedures that were used, and a discussion of

the reasons behind the choice for those methods, which were used. This

chapter was therefore discussed under the following topics; Research

design, sample selection and size, target population, data collection and

methods to be used, research instruments and data analysis.

3.2 RESEARCH DESIGN.

This research was mainly a survey type whereby opinions from respondents

were analyzed. The researcher used both qualitative and quantitative data

which was obtained from different respondents involved in the study.

Quantitative data was in form of figures such as the number of farmers in a

particular year while qualitative included opinions and theoretical

explanations given by respondents.

3.3 THE SAMPLE.

The sample used in the study included 120 respondents from all the

villages. The researcher’s sample constituted of 120 respondents of which

80 filled in self administered questionnaires while 40 were interviewed.

The respondents selected and interviewed were taken as a representative

sample of the entire population under the area of the study and would

provide first hand information required for this research.

14

3.3.1 Sample selection.

The criteria used by the researcher to get respondents was that, the

respondents were residents and farmers of Kyanamira Sub—county of non-

residents who were involved in Agro-forestry in the above district. For

introductory purposes, the researcher introduced herself to the relevant

authorities with the letter of introduction from the head of department and

valid identity card from the University. The researcher then requested the

administrators to avail permission to get the information needed.

3.3.2 Sample size:

The sample consisted of 120 respondents including; 15 local council

leaders and 5 government officials purposively selected because they were

deemed knowledgeable to provide information which would be important

to the researcher. 20 women, 10 agro-forestry staff and 20 elder were also

randomly selected to represent the population.

Also 50 farmers were randomly selected to provide relevant information for

the study.

3.4 DATA COLLECTION.

Data was collected from different sources of the Sub-county such as

homesteads, villages and farmers. In order to get enough information from

the above, different methods of data collection were used including;

questionnaires, interviews, direct observation and reviewing of records.

3.4.1 Questionnaires.

Questionnaires including both close ended and open ended questions were

used. The questionnaires enabled the researcher to get a lot of information

from many respondents who were not readily available. It also gave a

chance to respondents to get ample time to fill the questionnaires since they

15

were allowed to stay with the questionnaires for two weeks. The self-

administered questionnaires were given to all the respondents. The

questionnaires were filled and collected by the researcher herself.

3.4.2 Interviewing.

This method was used because it would provide first hand information from

respondents. It also allowed room for discussion. It was very helpful in case

of respondents who were unable to read and write. An interview guide of

mostly open-ended questions was used. The respondents interviewed were

those practicing Agro-forestry in Kyanamira Sub-county. These provided

first hand information since they were the mostly affected.

3.4,3 Direct observation,

This involved observation of products and methods used by the farmers in

Agro-forestry and deduce their economic status.

3.5 RESEARCH INSTRUMENTS.

The research instruments used involved questionnaires for respondents and

oral interview guide which helped the researcher when interviewing

respondents.

3.6 DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS.

The data was presented in tables. The responses from different respondents

were tallied then frequencies and percentages established. In analysis,

various descriptive methods using the frequencies and percentages helped

to answer the research questions.

16

CHAPTER FOUR.

DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS.

4,1 INTRODUCTION.

In trying to establish the role of Agro-forestry in poverty reduction in

Kyanamira Sub-county, the researcher was guided by the following

questions:—

1. Which Agro-forestry goods and services are being

commercialized/marketed in Kabale?

2. What are the opportunities of using Agro-forestry in poverty

reduction?

3. In what ways can Agro-forestry be improved in Kabale to help

reduce poverty?

There was a good response according to table (i) with 95% return of

questionnaires. The researcher used questionnaires and interviews to collect

data. Out of 80 questionnaires 76 were returned as shown in the table

below:

Table (i)

Respondents Questionnaires Questionnaires Percentage

supplied returned return.

Farmers 50 46 92

Local council leaders 15 15 100

Government officials 5 5 100

Agro-forestry staff 10 10 100

Total 80 76 95

17

All questionnaires given to local council leaders, government officials and

Agro-forestry staff were returned. 46 out of the 50 questionnaires to

farmers were also returned. In addition, 20 women and 20 elders were

interviewed and the response was good. The information given was noted

and supplemented the questionnaires in data analysis.

4.2 WHICH AGRO-FORESTRY GOODS AND SERVICES ARE BEING

COMMERCIALIZED/MARKETED IN KABALE?

The research also focused on which Agro-forestry products are being sold

to the local markets.

Table (ii) n = 76

Products Frequency Percentage

Fruits 38 50

Medicine 19 25

Fodder 12 15,8

Timber 7 9.2

Total 76 100

From the above table, the majority of the respondents pointed out that fruits

are the major leading Agro-forestry products that are being sold to the local

markets with 50% followed by medicinal products with 25%. Other

products are fodder with 15.8% and timber 9.2%.

Respondents pointed out that fruits of avocado, apples, pears, and tomatoes

are highly valued.

The above results have been illustrated in the bar graph below.

Figure 1.

60

~ 50

40

20

10

Fruits Medicine fodder Timber

Figure (i) above shows that the major Agro-forestry products are fruits with

the highest percentage of 50%, followed by medicinal products with 25%

and then fodder and timber with 15.8 and 9.2% respectively.

4.3 WHAT ARE THE OPPORTUNITIES OF USING AGRO

FORESTRY ON POVERTY REDUCTION?

The researcher wanted to know the advantages of using Agro-forestry in

poverty reduction in Kyanamira Sub-county. In response to questionnaires

to local council leaders, agricultural officials, farmers and agro-forestry

staff, the responses were put together as follows:

19

The role of Agro-forestry in alleviating poverty in Kyanamira Sub-

county.

Table (iii) n = 76

Impact Frequency Percentage

Improved income 52 68.4

Some improvement 15 19.7

Not sure of improvement 9 1 1.9

~ Total 76 100

Table (iii) above shows that Agro-forestry has the ability to alleviate

poverty from Kyanamira Sub-county with the biggest percentage of 68.4%.

This was obtained by asking all the stakeholders on whether they foresee

this ability forthcoming. 19.7% of the respondents said there is some

improvement while 11.9% of the respondents are pessimistic.

The researcher wanted to find out whether farmers have benefited

from Agro-forestry.

Table (iv) n = 76

Have/not benefited Frequency Percentage

Yes 56 73.7

No 20 26.3

Total 76 100

From Table (iv) above, it shows that the majority of the respondents said

that they have benefited from Agro-forestry with 73.7% compared to the

minority who seemed not to have yet benefited so much from Agro-forestry

with a percentage of 26.3%.

20

People’s views on income generation as a result of Agro-forestry.

Table (v) = 76

Is there income generation No, of people Percentage

Yes 54 71

No 15 6.6

Not sure 17 22.4

Total 76 100

Table (v) above shows that most of the respondents believe that Agro

forestry has improved income generation of the people of Kyanamira Sub-

county. They said that people have built permanent and semi-permanent

houses. Others have bought means of transport such as bicycles,

motorcycles and cars. Others have been able to send their children to school

through selling Agro-forestry products. Generally, there have been

improved living standards of the people in the Sub-county. 71% of the

respondents supported this idea while 6.6% said that incomes have not yet

improved and yet some of the respondents with 22.4% said that they are not

sure of income generation in Kyanamira Sub-county.

The major beneficiaries of Agro-forestry.

Table (vi) n = 76

Beneficiaries Frequency Percentage

Foresters 20 26.3

Farmers 46 60.5

Traders 10 13.2

Total 76 100

21

According to the results in table (vi) above, the major beneficiaries of

Agro-forestry are the farmers with the highest percentage of 60.5%

followed by foresters with 26.3% and then traders were the third

beneficiaries of Agro-forestry with 13.2%.

Respondents suggested that the traders are the least beneficiaries because

they get some little profits.

Opportunities of using Agro-forestry initiatives to help reduce poverty.

Table (vii) n = 76

Opportunities Frequency Percentage

Control of soil erosion 6 7.8 —

Conservation of l3iodiversity 8 10.5

Soil fertility replenishment 62 81.7 —

Total 76 100

According to table (vii), it shows that with the use of the Agro-forestry

initiatives there are high opportunities of soil fertility replenishment which

means that there will be high or increased crop productivity once the soil is

fertile and hence more food to the people thus reducing poverty among the

people of Kyanamira Sub-county Kabale district.

Majority of the respondents with the highest percentage of 8 1.7% pointed

out that the soil fertility replenishment has the highest opportunity of using

Agro-forestry in poverty reduction followed by conservation of biodiversity

with a 10.5%, and control of soil erosion with 7.8%.

Respondents however said that there are other opportunities of using Agro

forestry initiatives in poverty reduction other than the three mentioned

above and these include:

22

Climate modification, provision of food, provision of tree hedges, stakes

for the climbing plants e.g. beans and passion fruits, shade trees, habitat for

animals and medicinal values.

4.4 IN WHAT WAYS CAN AGRO-FORESTRY BE IMPROVED IN

KYANAMIRA SUB-COUNTY TO HELP REDUCE POVERTY.

In trying to establish ways in which Agro-forestry can be improved in

Kyanamira Sub-county to help reduce poverty, the respondents gave the

following suggestions.

What Agro-forestry staff should do to improve Agro-forestry to help

reduce poverty in Kyanamira Sub-county?

Table (viii) n = 76

Ways of improving Agro-forestry Frequency Percentage

Distributing loans to the poor 10 13.2

Empowering women 21 27.6

Providing tools to farmers & education 45 59.2

Total 76 100

In table viii above, respondents with the highest percentage of 59.2%

suggested that provision of enough tools to the farmers by the Agro

forestry staff would be the way of improving Agro-forestry in poverty

reduction in Kyanamira Sub-county Kabale district.

However, other respondents pointed out that women in Kabale should be

empowered as another way of improving Agro-forestry. This is because in

Kabale, women are actively participating in Agro-forestry. The respondents

who supported this view was 27.6%. Only 13.2% of the respondents

suggested that if loans could be given or distributed to the poor, then this

23

could be a way of improving agro-forestry in Kyanamira Sub-county and

hence poverty reduction.

Education of all the farmers practicing Agro-forestry is a major tool to fight

poverty in Kyanamira as most people will be taught how to use better

fanning methods as a way of fighting poverty. Distributing loans to the

poor! needy would also fight poverty but it had the least percentage because

most respondents pointed out that once the poor are given cash, some of

them will eat it or use it to drink alcohol while others will use it to marry

second or third wives and so this money will be wasted and it will not be

invested in some useful/important projects.

What the government should do to improve Agro-forestry to help

reduce poverty in Kyanamira District.

Table (ix) n = 76

Contribution/promotion of Frequency Percentage

Agro-forestry

Creation of markets 38 50

Sensitization programmes 20 26.3

Provision of better quality seeds 8 10.5

Provision of loans without collateral 10 13.2

Total 76 100

In table (ix) above, 50% of the respondents suggested that government can

contribute towards Agro-forestry by creating a wider market for the

products so that more can even be exported to other countries and hence

foreign exchange can be earned.

Other respondents believe that sensitization programmes need to be availed

to the farmers. A few others suggested that provision of loans without

24

collateral by the Government to the farmers can contribute towards Agro

forestry.

Very few respondents emphasized that the government should provide

better quality seeds to the farmers as some farmers will end up eating these

seeds.

The government should support the marketing of Agro-forestry products by

providing farmers with better market information to raise awareness of

market opportunities and limitations, warn them of possible fluctuations in

market prices, and assist them in diversifying what they produce so as to

reduce risks.

It should also provide transportation and storage facilities, linking sellers

with buyers at markets and fairs and giving advice in advertising and

marketing strategies.

Sensitization programmes needs to be availed to farmers as new skills will

be needed which focus on management for multiple products and agro

forestry uses. Sensitization develops and promotes new technologies that

improve returns, efficiency and product quality.

Loans and the availability of credit to small scale enterprises allow them to

expand their capacity, create more employment and increase turnover and

profits.

The government should also provide better quality seeds to the farmers so

that they can be able to produce better quality products.

25

CHAPTER FIVE

SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

5.1 SUMMARY.

The study was carried out mainly to establish the role of Agro-forestry in

poverty reduction in Kyanamira Sub-county Kabale district.

Chapter one of the study indicated what Agro-forestry is and the functions

it provides. The cause for the study was justified using some objectives set

in the same chapter.

In chapter two, related literature to the role of Agro-forestry in poverty

reduction was presented trying to find out what had been studied by other

researchers and scholars. It was basically to find out whether the role of

Agro-forestry in poverty reduction had been tackled before.

In chapter three, the methodology used in the study was presented. This

explained the steps that were taken during the course of study, including

research, sample, data collection, presentation and analysis.

Chapter four was the central focus of the findings and included data

presentation and analysis. This presented the findings from the field on the

role of Agro-forestry in poverty reduction. Data was presented under

guidelines of the research questions.

Findings of the research are much in agreement with that of other

researchers and authors. The role of agro-forestry in poverty reduction was

found to be high and this was indicated by Young (1997).

26

It was also discovered that Agro-forestry was a major strategy by the

Government of Uganda to combat poverty among the farmers which agrees

with Nair (1997), Salleh (2004) and Sanchez (1999).

In spite of the introduction of agro-forestry in Kyanamira Sub-county,

people are still poor, poverty persists and many parents still cannot afford

to take their children to schools.

5.2 CONCLUSION.

Results show that generally farmers practicing agro-forestry have benefited

with 73.7% compared to 26.3% who said that the benefits from Agro

forestry seems to be insignificant.

It was found out that Agro-forestry has improved the income generation of

the people of Kyanamira. It was noted that people have built permanent and

semi-permanent houses. Others have bought means of transport such as

Bicycles, motorcycles, and cars. Others have been able to send their

children to schools through selling Agro-forestry products. Generally, these

people who practiced Agro-forestry had improved living standards than

those who did not practiced Agro-forestry.

The researcher also established that government should create a wider

market for the products and sensitization programmes to be availed to the

farmers. It should also provide loans without collateral to farmers to enable

them expand their capacity to increase their turnover and profits. The

government should also provide better quality seeds at low prices so that

they can be able to produce quality products.

27

5.3 RECOMMENDATIONS.

Government should make a follow-up of the Agro-forestry systems and

activities and make sure that all people in Kabale district participate. Agro

forestry should be compulsory to all the people in Kabale.

There is a need to involve Non-Governmental Organizations, cooperative

societies and civil society in the programme of agro-forestry of farming

community in order to alleviate poverty.

Create marketing facilities for wood or where markets are inadequate

involve government in purchasing wood directly form farmers at prevailing

market prices. This will ensure ready market instead of price fluctuations

being brought by businessmen to exploit farmers.

Develop a network to provide tree seedlings to farmers at a minimal price.

This can be done to avoid the problem of farmers failing to access high

quality seedlings and using local ones which leads to low production and

failure to get market.

Incentives should be provided to farmers for tax free of their products,

providing training programmes to farmers taking them for touring like

going to Denmark to see how Agro-forestry is being practiced. All this will

give courage to farmers to work hard so as to have such opportunities.

Political and religious leaders must be convinced to initiate community tree

planting projects that could serve as demonstration farm to farmers. This

will help farmers to learn new methods and making consultations to

demonstration farms officials on where they have gone wrong and of the

new techniques they should use in their own farms.

28

Introduce Agro-forestry into the curricular of schools and training colleges

so that students can acquired professional skills and knowledge on Agro

forestry and they will grow knowing the importance of agro-forestry to the

economy.

Strengthen Agro-forestry research programmes of National Organizations

such as NARO. This will result into inventing new seedlings which can

result into high production.

Increase collaboration in agro-forestry research and development with

appropriate national and international organizations.

Develop trained manpower in agro-forestry through post-graduate studies

in local and foreign universities and increase public awareness through

extensive activities and use of information media and sensitization

programmes to make sure that every one gets the message of agro-forestry

and its contribution towards development.

29

REFERENCES

Amwine, P. (2002). What are the barriers to Agriculture? Newsletter.

Beetz. A. (2002). Agro-forestiy Overview: Horticulture Systems Guide. Arkansas, California.

Brewbaker, J.L. (1987). Sign ificantfixing trees in agro-forestry systems

Burley J. and Wood, P. J. (1991). A Tree for all reasons: The Introduction and

Evaluation of Multipurpose Trees for Agro-forestry. ICRAF,

Nairobi, Kenya.

Farrant, J.S (1980). Principles and Practice ofagriculture. 2~ edition, Singapore: Longrnan.

Gholz, H. L. (ed.). Agro-forestry: Realities, possibilities and potentials.

Pp. 31-45.Martinus Nijhoff, Dordrecht, The Netherlands.

Kazibwe, S. (June 2000). Uganda

http://www.un.org/womenwatchldaw/followup/Beij ing+5 stal/statement

Kasente, D. (2003). Management and use ofagro-forestiy trees. A case studyJbr

FFA monitoring report, Makerere University.

Kesande, C. (2003). Causes of low agricultural production in Kabale district.

Case study Bubare Sub-county. SWSA-Uganda Christian

University.

LaRue, T,A, and Patterson, T, G. (1981). How much nitrogen do legumes fix?

Advances inAgronomy, 34: 15-38.

Leakey, R. R. B. and Techoundjeu, Z. (2001). Diversification of tree crops:

domestication of companion crops for poverty reduction and

environmental services. Experimental Agriculture, 37:279-296.

Long, A. J. and Nair, R, (1999): Trees outside forests: agro-community and urban

forestry. New Forests, 17 (1-2): 145-174.

Laundgren, B.O, and Raintree, J. B. (1982). Sustained agro forestry. In B.

Nestel (ed). Agricultural Research for Development: Potentials and

Challenges in Asia. Pp. 37-49. ISNAR, The Hague, The

Netherlands.

30

Nair, P. K. R. (1993). An Introduction to Agro-forestiy. Kaluwer Academic

Publisher, London.

Nair, P.K. R. (1997). Directions in tropical agro-forestry research: past, present,

and future. Agro-forestiy Systems, 38 (1-2): 223-246.

Myers, G and Stewart (1954). Agro-forestiy Psychology. New York Macmillan.

Peoples, M. B and Herridge, D. F. (1990). Nitrogen fixation by legumes in

tropical and subtropical agriculture. Advances in Agronomy, 44:

155-223

Plumptre, A.J., Kayitare, A., Rainer, H., Gray, M., Munanura, L.,

Barakabuye, N., Asuma, S., Sivha, M. and Mamara, A. (2003). The

Social-economic status of people living near Protected Areas in the

Central Albertine Rift. Albertine R~fl Technical Reports, 4. 127 pp

Sengupta, 5. (2003 December 14hI~) African Women ‘s route to agriculture is still

littered with obstacles. Newsletter.

Rocheleau, D., Weber, F. and Field-Juma, A. (1988). Agro-forestiy in thy land

Africa. ICRAF, Nairobi.

Salle, M. N., Aswati, S. and Annie, G. (2004). Forests and Rural Poverty.

Unpublished Report.

Sanchez, P. A. (1999). Delivering on the promise of Agro-forestry. Environment,

Development and Sustainability, 1(3-4): 275-284

Tukamushaba, E. (2002). The causes for low agricultural production in Kabale

District with particular reference to Kabale Municipality. BED

Uganda Christian University.

Wood, P.J. B (1990). Principles ofspecies selection for agro-forestry.

In: MacDicken, K. G. and Vergara, N. J. (eds). Agro-forestiy:

Classification and Management. Pp. 290-309. John Wiley, New

York, USA.

31

APPENDIX I

QUESTIONNAIRE FOR FARMERS IN KABALE

Dear respondent,

I am a student at Kampala International University undertaking a research on “The

role of Agro-forestry in poverty reduction in Kabale”.

You have been randomly selected to participate in this study. Kindly answer the

questionnaire by filling the blank spaces. Feel free and make your answers and

views truthful in order to make this study a success. Your information will be kept

confidential.

1. Background information.

i. Village

ii. Age

iii. Sex

iv. Education

v. Marital status

2. Do you consider yourself a beneficiary from Agro-forestry in this region?

a.Yes b.No. C. Partlyyes d

3. Do you believe that Agro-forestry in this region has improved your income

generation?

a.Yes b.No. C. Partlyyes d

4. Which Agro-forestry products do you value most?

a b c d

5. Which Agro-forestry products are being sold in the local markets?

a. Fruits b. Hedge trees c. Animal fodder d. None

6. Who are the main beneficiaries from Agro-forestry initiatives in Kabale?

a. Foresters b. Farmers c. The disadvantaged d

7. List down the direct benefits from Agro-forestry in Kabale.

a

32

b

C

d

8. If ICRAF left Kabale region, do you think agro-forestry would continue in

the area?

a Never b. Yes c. One cannot be sure d

9. If Agro-forestry was made compulsory for all the local community, would

this alleviate poverty tremendously or not?

a No oneknows b.Yes c.No. d

10. Which of these factors contributes to poverty increase in Uganda?

a Laziness b. Luck c. Poor policies d

11. Which group of people are most affected by poverty?

a Men b. Women c. Orphans d

12. Which of these tools can be used to fight poverty?

a Education b. Good governance c. Empowering women d

13. Poverty can be reduced by:

a) Distributing cash to the needy people

b) Providing people with tools to get rid of poverty

c) Empowering women

d)

14 What suggestion do you have if poverty was to disappear from Kabale?

a) Give loans with no collateral

b) Empower the local people to carryout commercial agriculture

c) The rich countries should give us money without strings

d)

15. What should be done by the following to reduce poverty in Kabale district?

a. Agro-forestry staff

b. Farmers

c. Government

3

APPENDIX II

QUESTIONNAIRE FOR LOCAL COUNCIL LEADERS IN KABALE

DISTRICT

Dear respondent,






confidential.

Background information.

1. Age

2, Sex

3. Marital status

4. Parish

5. Years spent in current office

6. How do you define Agro-forestry?

a. Growing trees on the farm

b. Integrating trees and livestock on the same piece of land

c. Growing trees to be used for food fodder and for economic reasons

d

7. Do you believe that Agro-forestry in the region has improved income

generation in Kabale district?

a. Yes b. No. C. I am not sure d

8. Are areas practicing Agro-forestry better off economically that those where

agro-forestry is unheard off?

a. Yes b. No. c. I don’t know d

9. Who are the major beneficiaries from Agro-forestry initiatives in Kabale?


34


a Foresters b. Farmers c. Traders d



a No one knows b. Yes c. No. d

12. In your view, who are the poor?

a Those with no food to eat b. The illiterates c. The unemployed

d

13. One of the millennium development goals is eradicating poverty

worldwide. Are you optimistic that this is achievable or it is being

ambitious?

a Yes b. No c. Yes, but d

14. Which of these factors/institutions contributes to poverty increase in

Uganda?



a Education b. Good governance c. Empowering women

d


e) Distributing cash to the needy people

f) Providing people with tools to get rid of poverty

g) Empowering women

h)





d)

35

APPENDIX III

QUESTIONNAIRE FOR AGRO-FORESTRY STAFF IN KABALE

Dear respondent,


role of Agro~forestry in poverty reduction in Kabale”.




confidential.


1. Age

2. Sex

3. Marital status

4. Parish

5. Years spent in current office (as for local council leaders)





d





agro-forestry is unheard off?




36


a Foresters b. Farmers c. Traders d



a No one knows b. Yes c. No. d


a Those with no food to eat b. The illiterates c. The unemployed

d



ambitious?

a Yes b. No c. Yes, but d


Uganda?



a Education b. Good governance c. Empowering women

d


i) Distributing cash to the needy people

j) Providing people with tools to get rid of poverty

k) Empowering women

1)





d)

37

APPENDIX IV

QUESTIONNAIRE FOR GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS IN KABALE

DISTRICT.

Dear respondent,






confidential.


1. Age

2. Sex

3. Marital status

4. Parish

5. Years spent in current office (as for local council leaders)





d





agro.-forestry is unheard off?





a. Foresters b. Farmers c. Traders d



a. No one knows b. Yes c. No. d


a. Those with no food to eat b. The illiterates c. The unemployed

d



ambitious?

a. Yes b. No c. Yes, but d


Uganda? a. Laziness b. Luck c. Poor policies d


a. Education b. Good governance c. Empowering women

d


m) Distributing cash to the needy people

n) Providing people with tools to get rid of poverty

o) Empowering women


a) Give loans with no, collateral



d)

39

APPENDIX V

INTERVIEW GUIDE FOR WOMEN FARMERS IN KABALE DISTRICT.

1. How old are you?

2. In which parish do you come from?

3. How do you define Agro-forestry




6. Are areas practicing Agro-forestry better off economically than those

where Agro-forestry is unheard of?


8. Who are the manor beneficiaries from Agro-forestry initiatives in

Kabale?

9. If Agro-forestry was made compulsory for all the local community,

would this alleviate poverty tremendously or not?

10. Which group of people are most affected by poverty

11. What suggestion do you have if poverty was to disappear from Kabale?

12. What should the following do to reduce poverty in Kabale:


b. Farmers

c. Government

40

APPENDIX VI

INTERVIEW GUIDE FOR ELDERS IN KABALE DISTRICT

1. How old are you?

2. In which parish do you come from?

3. How do you define Agro-forestry




6. Are areas practicing Agro-forestry better off economically than those where

Agro-forestry is unheard of?


8. Who are the manor beneficiaries from Agro-forestry initiatives in Kabale?



10. Which group of people are most affected by poverty

11. What suggestion do you have if poverty was to disappear from Kabale?

12. What should the following do to reduce poverty in Kabale:


b. Farmers

c. Government

41

APPENDIX VII

Kampala International University~

P.O. Box 20000,

Kampala-UGANDA.

Dear Respondents,

I am Tuhimbise Peace, a student of the above institution faculty of Social Sciences

and I am offering a course in environmental Management. I am researching on

Agro-forestry and Poverty Alleviation in Kabale district (case study: Kyanamira

Sub-county). I hereby request you honestly to answer the questions below.

Your contribution towards this research is highly appreciated.

I am optimistic that your help to this research will contribute to the general body

ofknowledge.

Sincere thanks in advance for your co-operation.

Yours faithfully,

TUHIMBISE PEACE.

42

APPENDIX VIII

Kampala International University,

P.O. Box 20000,

Kampala-UGANDA.

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN.

The bearer of this letter Ms. Tuhimbise Peace is a student of the above institution.

She is doing a research on topic: “Agro-forestry and Poverty Alleviation in Kabale

District”, (case study of Kyanarnira Sub-county).

I shall be very grateful for any assistance you will render to her.

• Yours truly,

Tumushabe Anne

COURSE CORDINATOR,

MAP Ou~ SI IO~VI ~ b l~~ij~ DJS~J’J~JcT

DEMOCRAT~ CREPUBLIC OFCONGO

APPENDIX

~A

bovN.~~~STRtCT ~OUNb~p~

~Su~) Cou~T~f ~OUN~~

~LE ~ A ~ ~ ~

C ~LC~N~~L ~tVic~/

~ S ~

~YF PJESE~p~~~

\

\

“

‘.~- —-~~-:~~—;7)

2 ~:

~~0

t

7

7

//

0

//

0

0

00

/0

0 —.

‘\ 0~0.~— —a___ ~_

F1~ ~

Lj5

tuhimbise peace (bem/2530/21/drj) a dissertation …

Documents