Socioeconomic and Perceptions Statuses: A Case Study of the Agri-Silviculture Community Growers in KwaZulu Natal Province, South Africa

Agroforestry holds significant importance in South Africa as a sustainable land-use approach that tackles essential environmental and economic issues, such as climate change adaptation, food security, and the enhancement of rural livelihoods. By combining trees with crops and livestock, it improves soil health, boosts biodiversity, and offers varied income sources, including timber, fruit, and nuts, alongside agricultural products. However, the uptake of agroforestry in South Africa is progressing slowly due to such challenges as limited land availability, water scarcity, and insufficient technical knowledge, as well as misinformation and negative attitudes, particularly among smallholder farmers. Numerous authors have also pointed out that most of the agroforestry research has been conducted from a biophysical standpoint, yet socioeconomic factors related to farmers' perceptions require greater focus. Therefore, there exists a strong willingness among rural households to embrace these practices if provided with adequate support, highlighting the necessity for more effective integration into national policy. The current study aimed to assess the status of agri-silviculture practices concerning socioeconomic factors and community perceptions. The primary objectives included: (1) Identifying and describing the socioeconomic characteristics of selected agri-silviculture community growers, and (2) Evaluating the perception status of these growers. Therefore, this study contributes to the promotion of agroforestry, as it presents the opportunity to boost production and subsequently elevate community income. Identifying and addressing socioeconomic and perceptual factors related to agroforestry practices is crucial for the adoption of agroforestry, which encompasses both economic and sociological aspects. A purposive sampling method was employed to select 90 community growers involved in agri-silviculture (specifically Groundnuts and Eucalyptus Trees). The research employed both qualitative and quantitative methods concurrently and they were applied with the aim on establishing the limitations, balance, and strength of the data. Furthermore, the methods included participatory action research as the community growers and stakeholders benefitted while the research was ongoing. Data collection methods included site observations, past research, and web and governmental reports. The study involved a closed and open-ended questionnaire with the following sections: socioeconomics, food security, sustainability, perceptions, market information, and observations. The results indicated that most of the communities concurred and held a favourable view regarding the competitiveness of agroforestry practices in fulfilling their fundamental requirements for fuel wood, fruits, fodder, timber, vegetables, and more. They also recognised that the adoption of agri-silviculture practices was essential for the community, thereby enhancing its economic, social, and environmental welfare. It is thus recommended that the agri-silviculture practice be intensified throughout South Africa, as it contributes significantly to food security, market access, and sustainable livelihoods.