Abstract:

Agroforestry is the deliberate cultivating of trees and shrubs on farmland. The trees and shrubs
can have a wide range of functions. They may provide fuelwood for the household, building
materials such as poles (another source of income), fodder for livestock, other 'non timber
products' such as nuts, resins, fruit. They may also improve the productivity and sustainability of
the farm, in particular its crop production. For example, trees and shrubs planted along contours
in sloping land can help to reduce water runoff and soil erosion. The foliage of some trees and
shrubs can be used as green manure, mulch or compost, improving the fertility and water
retention of the soil. Some shrubs can be used to shorten fallow periods between crops. These are
just a few examples, but there are many ways that trees planted on farms can support farming
livelihoods.