Expanding agroforestry in Nepal's mid-hill regions is a strategic move towards a more sustainable and resilient agrifood system. With robust policy support and a commitment to addressing both market and adoption challenges, agroforestry can play a pivotal role in enhancing livelihoods and ensuring food security in Nepal. The integration of trees, crops, and livestock within these systems supports diverse crop production. It promotes sustainable land management practices that are vital for the country's agrarian economy and environmental health.
To realize the full potential of agroforestry, policies must address the complexities of land tenure, provide incentives for farmers, and ensure market access for agroforestry products. Streamlining legal processes and offering technical support can encourage farmer participation and investment in agroforestry systems. Moreover, the policy framework should facilitate the dissemination of knowledge and technology, addressing the adoption issues with the same rigor as biophysical and farmer-level questions. This holistic approach can lead to the sustained adoption and scaling up of agroforestry models, crucial for the long-term resilience of Nepal's agrifood system.
Mr. Jograj Giri