Effect of Agroforestry Practices on Ecosystem Services in Nyanza District, Rwanda

Abstract: Agroforestry systems that combine trees and crops on the same piece of land, such as silvopastoral systems that combine trees and pastures/cattle in one production unit. They also benefit farmers socially and economically, and are beneficial to biodiversity. Primary data will be collected through surveys, interviews, and field observations. Surveys will be administered to a representative sample of households practicing agroforestry to gather quantitative data on crop yields, income, and food security levels. Structured interviews with farmers, local agricultural experts, and community leaders will provide qualitative insights into the advantages and difficulties of agroforestry techniques. Field observations and soil sampling will be conducted to assess soil quality, biodiversity, and water retention changes. Focus group discussions will be organized to facilitate a deeper understanding of community perceptions and experiences with agroforestry. Combining these methods will ensure a comprehensive analysis of the District's socio-economic and environmental impacts of agroforestry. Agroforestry in Nyanza District has expanded significantly from 2018 to 2024, implemented in seven phases, with areas covered increasing from 54.241 hectares in Phase 1 to 1551.810 hectares in Phase 7, which alone accounts for over 38% of the total area under agroforestry. This progressive expansion indicates a shift from initial pilot programs to broader acceptance and implementation of agroforestry practices, as evidenced by the substantial increases in coverage during Phases 5 and 6. The integration of afforestation efforts along roadsides further emphasizes a strategic approach to land management aimed at achieving ecological and economic benefits. Climate data from 2019 to 2024 reveals a stable tropical savanna climate, with average annual temperatures around 19.8°C and distinct wet and dry seasons, supporting the viability of drought-resistant tree species and water conservation techniques within agroforestry systems. These systems leverage consistent solar exposure to enhance productivity, suggesting that careful selection of tree and crop combinations can improve soil fertility and water resource management, thereby boosting overall agricultural productivity sustainably. Institutions should provide training programs that educate farmers on the benefits of integrating trees into their farming systems, such as improved soil fertility, enhanced biodiversity, and increased resilience to climate variability. Keywords: Agroforestry Practices, Ecosystem Services, Rwanda. Title: Effect of Agroforestry Practices on Ecosystem Services in Nyanza District, Rwanda Author: MUNYAWERA Phocas, Dr. James Kant Kamuhanda International Journal of Life Sciences Research ISSN 2348-313X (Print), ISSN 2348-3148 (online) Vol. 13, Issue 3, July 2025 - September 2025 Page No: 21-30 Research Publish Journals Website: www.researchpublish.com Published Date: 19-July-2025 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.16150853 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.researchpublish.com/papers/effect-of-agroforestry-practices-on-ecosystem-services-in-nyanza-district-rwanda