A new study published in Discover Agriculture reveals that agroforestry systems integrating Acacia albida with pigeon peas deliver significantly higher profits and sustainability than traditional monocropping practices in Tanzania’s Kilombero District.
Conducted by William George from the University of Dodoma, the research compared the profitability of Acacia albida–pigeon peas intercrops with continuous monocropping systems among 394 smallholder farmers. The results demonstrate that agroforestry yields 76.6 USD in gross margin per hectare—over 50% higher than monocropping’s 50.1 USD. Farmers adopting the tree-crop combination also achieved better efficiency and profitability ratios, making agroforestry both economically and ecologically superior.
The study attributes agroforestry’s success to reduced dependency on fertilizers and external inputs, thanks to Acacia albida’s nitrogen-fixing properties and soil-enriching leaf litter. In contrast, monocropping systems faced higher variable costs due to fertilizer use and machinery hire. Regression analyses showed that while financing source and labor type influenced monocropping profits, no significant determinants affected agroforestry profitability—indicating its inherent economic stability.
Beyond profitability, the research highlights agroforestry’s contribution to soil health, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience. George recommends that policymakers promote agroforestry through training, access to affordable credit, and improved seedling supply. Strengthening land tenure security and market access could further enhance adoption rates among Tanzanian farmers.
Reference
George, W. (2025). Sustainable farming in Kilombero district, Tanzania: a comparative profitability study of agroforestry (Acacia albida–pigeon peas intercrop) and continuous monocropping systems. Discover Agriculture, 3(1), 218. https://doi.org/10.1007/s44279-025-00393-3
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