Uptake of agroforestry-based crop management in the semi-arid Sahel – Analysis of joint decisions and adoption determinants

Introduction Agroforestry plays a vital role in maintaining and developing the resilience productivity of farms landscapes. Scientific evidence from Sahel region suggests that integration trees shrubs has potential to improve temperature moisture levels whilst providing bio-based fertilizer contributes increased yields annual crops. However, little is known about factors influence diffusion agroforestry. This study examines joint decisions on use agroforestry alongside other complementary agricultural practices disentangles awareness adoption disadoption decisions. Methods Our analysis based comprehensive farm-level dataset covering almost 3,000 farm households Mali Senegal. A large number determinants are utilized, with special focus information access, flows social groups. Results The findings suggest extension access training participation boost agroforestry-based soil fertility management, while provided by public extension, NGOs community members strongly associated higher intensity. In disadoption, farmer-to-farmers exchange was found be key factor decision maintain use. Membership cooperatives youth groups appear have favorable effect Mali, but less so Senegalese case. Similarly, only results show accompanied sustainable intensification lower synthetic pesticides. Discussion We conclude order support transition more widespread it essential strengthen NGO-based advisory systems fully engage local knowledge networks.