Factors that influence people participation in agroforestry projects and activities; paper presented for the first Kenya National Agroforestry Conference.

Abstract

Development signifies a qualitative change to what currently exists, making things better than the status quo. Agroforestry (AF) interventions promote development by increasing productivity at the farm level. Sustainable development through AF can be achieved through active and continuous farmer participation in AF activities. Recognising and addressing key factors that inf1uence people participation in developmental activities predisposes an AF project to successful local involvement. Goals and principles governing an AF project should be developed on the basis of an understanding of community dynamics, such as, sociocultural factors and normative structures; political and economic structures, such as, power structures and political culture: and developmental needs of the concerned community. Motivation and incentive for people participation is created through lead institutions demonstrating to farmers how AF leads to net benefits at the farm level. Further, this practical exposure ensures that the farmer is acquainted with and contributes to the development of new AF technologies before implementation. The adaptability and adoptability of AF is enhanced through communication linkages and monitoring systems that ensure continuous incorporation of farmer ideas and practical experience into the project. Further, adequate and appropriate linkage systems and forms of cooperation for joint planning and implementation at all stages of the project cycle must be established between the lead institutions and the farmer.