The Role of Agroforestry in Sustainable Land Management and Climate Resilience for enhancing Crop Production: A Literature Review
Otton Muyabe *
National Institute of Public Administration, Plot No. 4810, Dushanbe Road, P.O. Box 31990, Lusaka Zambia.
Allan Tembo
National Institute of Public Administration, Plot No. 4810, Dushanbe Road, P.O. Box 31990, Lusaka Zambia.
Danny Chisanga Musenge
Information and Communications University Zambia, Plot No.19877/M/1A/392 off Shantumbu Road, Kafue, Lusaka, Zambia.
Moses Mulenga
Information and Communications University Zambia, Plot No.19877/M/1A/392 off Shantumbu Road, Kafue, Lusaka, Zambia.
Mwenya Silombe
Information and Communications University Zambia, Plot No.19877/M/1A/392 off Shantumbu Road, Kafue, Lusaka, Zambia.
Edina Kati Chifulo
Mufulira College of Education, P.O Box 40400, Mufulira District, Zambia.
Robert Banda
National Institute of Public Administration, Plot No. 4810, Dushanbe Road, P.O. Box 31990, Lusaka Zambia.
Wiza Mphande
Mulungushi University, Great North Road, P.O Box 80415, Kabwe Zambia.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Agroforestry has emerged as a fundamental strategy for sustainable land management and climate resilience, integrating trees with crops and livestock to enhance ecological and socioeconomic outcomes. This literature review examines the role of agroforestry in improving soil health, biodiversity, water management, and crop productivity while mitigating climate change through carbon sequestration. Key agroforestry systems, such as agrosilviculture, agrosilvopastoral, silvopastoral systems, and specialized systems, are explored for their benefits, including nitrogen fixation, erosion control, and microclimate regulation. Despite these advantages, challenges like policy gaps, land tenure insecurity, financial constraints, and limited technical knowledge hinder widespread adoption, particularly in Zambia. The study underscores the need for interdisciplinary research, policy integration, and capacity-building to scale up agroforestry practices. By addressing these barriers, agroforestry can significantly contribute to sustainable agriculture, food security, and climate adaptation, offering a resilient pathway for future land-use systems.
Keywords: Agroforestry, climate resilience, crop production, sustainable land management