Abstract
The baobab tree (Adansonia digitata L.) is an integral component of many dryland farming systems in sub-Sahara Africa. Such traditional agroforestry systems can foster a variety of benefits; besides positive livelihood implications baobab can particularly address food security objectives due to its highly nutritious fruits. However, many bottlenecks persist inhibiting the broader potential of indigenous trees in farming systems and their increased utilisation and commercialisation. We suggest that traditional farming systems with baobab trees can be advanced by stimulating the emergence of local markets for baobab products while promoting businesses and innovations aimed at meeting the arising market demand. Increasing the perceived value of local agroforestry products in combination with facilitating additional commercialisation pathways will in turn lead to food security and livelihood benefits. Using a multi-stakeholder approach such considerations were put into practice in Kilifi, Kenya, by initiating a community-based enterprise development producing high-quality baobab powder and oil. Initial results demonstrate behavioural changes, an improved practical knowhow with regard to baobab management and utilisation, and an increased consumption of baobab, which may already contribute to food security objectives. Baobab is increasingly seen as a valuable resource as opposed to ‘food for the poor’ and a tree possessed by evil spirits. This may lay the groundwork for further value addition activities and enterprise development in the communities. With baobab being a common, yet so far underutilised feature of local farming systems in Kilifi, activities based on its increasing commercialisation can be complementary and easily integrable to prevailing livelihood strategies.
Highlights
Natural or traditional agroforestry systems created by purposeful retention of indigenous trees on farmers’ land can foster a variety of benefits, including the provision of ecosystem services or positive livelihood impacts (Amare et al 2019; Assogbadjo et al 2012)
Agroforest Syst (2021) 95:1343–1358 background and using activities surrounding the baobab tree in Kilifi, Kenya, as a case study with regard to indigenous tree species in traditional farming systems, this paper aims to develop and evaluate this concept further and showcase how it can be put into practice
With the complexity involved in agricultural research for development being increasingly recognised, there has been a shift from linear to more complex, integrated approaches to foster innovation in resource-poor environments
Summary
Natural or traditional agroforestry systems created by purposeful retention of indigenous trees on farmers’ land can foster a variety of benefits, including the provision of ecosystem services or positive livelihood impacts (Amare et al 2019; Assogbadjo et al 2012). By integrating indigenous trees in their production system rural farmers can access additional income sources, directly benefit from nutritious food products, and increase their resilience with regard to market or climatic shocks (Leakey and van Damme 2014; Reed et al 2017). Many bottlenecks exist limiting the potential of and benefits from indigenous fruits produced in traditional agroforestry systems (Jamnadass et al 2011). Further reasons impeding successful commercialisation of underutilised plant species by rural producers include lack of financial resources and skills such as entrepreneurial capabilities (Meinhold and Darr 2019), lack of interest and acceptance in indigenous fruits (Bvenura and Sivakumar 2017), and too stringent or conflicting regulations with regard to tenure arrangements or trade (Wynberg et al 2015)
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