Abstract

Agro-forestry is a dynamic, eco–based resource management system that involves the integration of trees on farmlands for diversified and sustained production of social, economic and environmental benefits for all land users. However, the shortage of research-based information on the potentials of agro-forestry in enhancing the livelihood of rural dwellers has restricted the adoption of agro-forestry systems and/or practices. In order to overcome challenges facing sustainable rural livelihood in sub-sahara Africa, agroforestry becomes viable option. This paper reviewed the relevance of agroforestry in sustaining rural livelihood by guaranteed food security, employment opportunities, increased income, soil conservation, biodiversity conservation and environmental security. Economic return, poverty alleviation, increased income, coping with climate change and carbon sequestration, and pruning litter deposition were discussed as economic impacts of agro-forestry on local livelihood. The thrust of the review further lends credence to the necessity to adopt agroforestry practices by sub-sahara Africa farmers for sustainable rural livelihood.

Key Words: Livelihood, Food security, Poverty alleviation, Economic, Environmental security