The Potentials of Bamboo-Based Agroforestry Systems in Improving the Productivity of Tropical African Agricultural Systems

Abstract

Agricultural productivity is important for food security and income generation among other benefits. In tropical Africa, agricultural productivity is generally perceived as low. This low productivity can be increased through means such as crop improvement, integrated pest management, horticulture, livestock and fodder crops, agroforestry, modernization, technology adoption, irrigation and mechanization. This paper is focused on how agroforestry systems, more especially, bamboo-based systems can improve the productivity of tropical agricultural systems. Analysis of relevant literature was carried out to bring together existing information on tropical African Agricultural Systems, present a brief history of their evolution and analyze ways of increasing their productivity. The bamboo-based systems approach is highlighted as a potential means to improve tropical African Agricultural Systems.