Development of an integrated assessment framework for agroforestry technologies: assessing sustainability, barriers, and impacts in the semi-arid region of Dodoma, Tanzania

This study examines agroforestry as a solution to land degradation in Tanzania, highlighting both its benefits for food production and the challenges hindering widespread adoption. Using an integrated assessment framework that combines MESMIS (a sustainability assessment tool) and ScalA (a scaling-up evaluation method), researchers assess the sustainability and barriers to agroforestry implementation in semi-arid regions. The study focuses on three key objectives: identifying agroforestry technologies adopted by smallholder farmers, evaluating farmers’ perceptions of sustainability across environmental, economic, and social dimensions, and pinpointing constraints to broader adoption. Findings indicate that farmers view four agroforestry techniques as the most sustainable: (i) tied ridge + tree intercropping, (ii) contour planting + tree intercropping, (iii) Chololo pits + tree intercropping, and (iv) tree intercropping alone. Despite positive perceptions, adoption is influenced by climate conditions, socio-economic factors, and institutional support. The study underscores that favorable perceptions alone do not guarantee widespread adoption, emphasizing the need to consider contextual influences. Researchers advocate for further testing and application of this framework in similar settings to provide holistic insights into agroecosystem sustainability.

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