Socio Economic and Perceptions Statuses: A Case Study of the Agri-silviculture Community Growers in the uMkhanyakude, iLembe & King Cetshwayo Districts, KwaZulu Province in South Africa.

Agroforestry represents a land use system that integrates woody perennial plants, agricultural crops, and livestock to foster beneficial ecological and economic interactions for the production of food, fibre, and livestock. A well-managed agroforestry system yields numerous advantages and enhances livelihoods and income generation. These systems are tailored to specific areas and climates, making it essential to develop agroforestry practices that are relevant to local conditions and take into account the biophysical and socio-economic contexts on an individual basis. South Africa, recognized as a semi-arid nation, is particularly susceptible to water stress, especially drought. Additionally, agri-silviculture refers to a system that combines and integrates crops and trees within the same landscape. The current study aimed to assess the status of agri-silviculture practices concerning socio-economic factors and community perceptions. The primary objectives included: (1) Identifying and describing the socio-economic characteristics of selected agri-silviculture community growers, and (2) Evaluating the perception status of these growers. A purposive sampling method was employed to select 90 community growers involved in agri-silviculture (specifically Groundnuts and Eucalyptus Trees). Both quantitative and qualitative research designs were utilized, incorporating a questionnaire written in English, stakeholder discussions, and field observations as part of the data collection process. The socio-economic and perception data were coded, captured, and analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). Moreover, it is crucial to acknowledge and address the primary perceptions and factors that affect the competitiveness of communities engaged in agri-silviculture practices, as these are vital for adoption and encompass both economic and sociological dimensions. The agri-silviculture community growers also noted that they relocated from their villages to the Mondi Group plantation in pursuit of its favourable climate, including rainfall. Therefore, it is recommended that the agri-silviculture practice be intensified throughout South Africa, as it contributes significantly to food security, market access, and sustainable livelihoods.