The project

The project is born from the recognition that current research on food safety has paid little attention to the role of agroforestry systems (AFS) at the plot, farm and landscape, and vice versa. Based on the results of research conducted by the project partners in the three target areas, our hypothesis is that the AFS can help improve food security and well-being of farmers:

  • directly  through various types of edible plants, medicinal , wood and other non-timber products,
  • indirectly  through the sustainable provision of environmental services.

This hypothesis will be tested by accurate assessment of the synergy between food crops and AFS on increasing the level of food security and well-being of rural African households.

Work packages: The research activities are divided into five work packages (WP).

Target zones: Three African countries are participating in the project to share their experience in the management of three different agroforestry systems: cocoa in Cameroon, coffee in Kenya, and clove in Madagascar.

A network will be established to enable researchers of the three target zones to share their experiences and knowledge of the use and management of the agroforestry systems, and build collaborations.

Ultimately, the project will generate products and recommendations useful to farmers and extension workers intending to work towards a fruitful marriage of agroforestry and food production.