Impact of Household Governance on Agroforestry as a Driver of Food Security in Southwestern Uganda

Abstract

Food insecurity, based on a historical viewpoint, is a big challenge that has never met a sustainable solution. The research problem has its genesis in the observation phenomenon, which eventually arouses inquisitiveness that warrants it worth investigating. The observation triggers a shift in thinking to agroforestry-based food security as the way to go championed by governance and household decision-making. By its nature, the research problem focuses on the impact of governance on agroforestry as a driver of food security as well as agroforestry benefits in the study area. As a result of the dilemma associated with the attainment of food security, there have been several attempts to ensure that there is sufficient food for everyone all over the globe. However, there is no effort that has been successful in eradicating hunger and food security. These attempts have not given enough attention to governance as a prime influencer of agroforestry to ensure household food security. The unsuccessful attempts justify the fact that there is an urgent need for continuous research and action to find a remedy. Therefore, the study targets to address governance and social-ecological-related factors that affect food security in the Isingiro District. Embedded in this problem is the loose link between decision-making systems that cannot embrace good governance and propel agroforestry for food security. The loose connection between households, and the decision-making systems, and imbalances within households magnify the problem of food insecurity. This reality continues to affect households’ ability to utilize the available resources innovatively as a pathway towards becoming food secure and meeting other essential needs beyond food security. This reality demonstrates the value and necessity of adequate food which constitutes four elements namely: availability, accessibility, affordability, and utilization. It has been claimed that there is enough food in the world that could feed everybody. However, millions of people are still experiencing acute food shortages. This concern raises a sensitive question of where the................................