Agroecology Issues in Agricultural Policy and Allied Science Policies in Tanzania

The science and philosophy of agroecology are widely proposed as substantial aspects of the agricultural transition toward a sustainable food system and an eco-friendly environment. Yet, the extent to which agricultural and other allied policies are embedded with agroecology issues is little known, especially in African countries. This study assessed what and how agroecology narratives are integrated, interpreted, or embedded in policies, acts, and regulations of agriculture and allied sciences. A mixed methods approach was employed. The findings revealed that agroecology is not clearly narrated in these policy documents. The policies do not mention agroecology directly, but they point out some disputes or elements such as biodiversity, crop diversification, agroforestry, conservation agriculture and cropping and grazing land rotation, which are relevant for agroecology intensification. This means that in these policy documents, narratives supporting agroecology are insufficient. Thus, we recommend that taking on board policy narratives that directly support the adoption and implementation of agroecological practices is imperative