Agroforestry Knowledge, Information Pathways and System Configuration among Smallholder Farmers in Eastern Uganda

Agroforestry adoption among smallholder farmers is not merely a technical decision to plant trees, but a knowledge-dependent process shaped by information access, planting-material pathways, species choice and spatial farm design. This study examined agroforestry knowledge, information pathways, tree species distribution, seedling acquisition systems and agroforestry configuration among smallholder farmers in Iganga and Mbale districts of Eastern Uganda. A socio-economic survey design was used to collect quantitative data from 240 systematically selected household respondents, with 120 respondents drawn from each district. Data were obtained using a structured questionnaire covering socio-demographic characteristics, livelihood sources, agroforestry awareness, information channels, tree species grown, seedling sources, tree-crop-livestock integration, perceived benefits and spatial arrangements. The survey was complemented by focus group discussions, key informant interviews, direct field observations and secondary institutional information to strengthen triangulation. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, cross-tabulations and chi-square tests of independence at p < 0.05, while qualitative information was analyzed thematically. Results showed significant district-level differences in respondent characteristics, agroforestry knowledge, information pathways, tree species composition, seedling sources and spatial structures. Agroforestry knowledge was substantially higher in Iganga than Mbale, indicating that local exposure and support systems were more influential than demographic factors alone. Information pathways were plural but uneven, combining online sources, workshops, extension officers, farmer groups, indigenous knowledge and farmer-to-farmer networks. Fruit trees dominated both districts, although Maesopsis eminii, Eucalyptus spp., Grevillea robusta, Ficus natalensis and other species showed clear spatial differentiation. Seedling supply relied heavily on neighbours’ gardens in Iganga, whereas Mbale showed more diversified access through private nurseries and institutional sources. Integrated tree-crop-livestock systems and scattered trees were common. The study concludes that agroforestry uptake depends on the interaction of knowledge systems, quality germplasm access and locally fitted spatial configurations. Strengthening adoption requires integrated advisory services, reliable seedling systems and context-specific configuration support.

Keywords: Agroforestry; Eastern Uganda; knowledge pathways; seedling systems; system configuration.