Assessing the Impact of Agroforestry on Sustainable Livelihood in Langel Village, Tofa Local Government Area, Kano State

Abstract

In Langel Village, agroforestry practices are integral to food security, securing sustainable livelihoods, incorporating social and cultural trees. However, there is a need to comprehensively assess their role. Engaging the local community in research can empower them with sustainable land management skills. The study aims to assess agroforestry’s contributions to sustainable livelihoods in Langel Village, focusing on economic, ecological, and socio-cultural dimensions, and provide evidence-based recommendations for enhancing its adoption and sustainability. Purposive sampling technique was used to select Langel village whereas simple random sampling procedure was used to select 120 respondents through well-structured questionnaire for the study. The data collected were analysed with descriptive statistics. The study found that agroforestry in the area is practiced by middle-aged, married men. Most have some formal education, while all of them have Islamic education and many years of farming experience. The most common agroforestry practices in the area are scattered trees on farmland, boundary planting, and home garden. Farmers in the study area reported that agroforestry increases their household income and food security. In conclusion, agroforestry offers a range of benefits for farmers in Langel village. It increases household income, food security, improves soil structure, fertility, biodiversity, and strengthens social bonds and cultural identity.