Understanding Indigenous Tree Growing and Its Effectors in Smallholder Agroforestry Systems: Insights from the Aberdares Landscape, Kenya

Indigenous tree-based agroforestry systems have greater benefits since they have better biological attributes and provide other ecosystem services. This is in addition to provisioning services. Besides, they create additional habitats for indigenous tree species. They also reduce pressure on natural forests by providing alternative sources for forest resources. Indigenous trees are an integral part of the local ecosystem and are thus less susceptible to threats since they are adapted to local conditions. However, indigenous tree-based agroforestry is characterised by low adoption due to greater interest in the growing of exotic trees. This has led to a significant decline in the proportion of indigenous trees on farmlands. The adoption of indigenous tree-based agroforestry systems is influenced by various contextual factors. Information on these factors is scanty due to a lack of adequate studies aimed at understanding them. This study thus aimed to analyse factors that influence the adoption of indigenous tree-based agroforestry. The study used a descriptive study design and a multistage sampling design. Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics and the Probit regression model. The Shannon-Wiener index (H), Pielou’s evenness index (J), and the number of indigenous trees were used to test indigenous tree species diversity, evenness, and richness on farmlands respectively. The study found that there was a low adoption of indigenous tree-based agroforestry. An average indigenous tree species diversity and richness on farmlands was also observed. The adoption of indigenous tree-based agroforestry was influenced by various factors including age, marital status, off-farm income, involvement in agricultural decision-making, input access, and access to credit. The study will help to understand farmers’ decision-making regarding the adoption of indigenous tree-based agroforestry. Moreover, it will help in the development of effective policies, strategies, and programs for enhancing adoption of indigenous tree-based agroforestry.