Agroforestry Systems: A Systematic Review Focusing on Traditional Indigenous Practices, Food and Nutrition Security, Economic Viability, and the Role of Women

Abstract

This study aimed to identify from the literature review whether agroforestry systems have been an agricultural practice adopted by indigenous peoples for income generation and food and nutritional security. For this, a systematic review was conducted in the period from 2010 to 2020 of 92 articles, dissertations, and theses. Thus, it is found that agroforestry practices are traditional indigenous forms of farming that provide food security, income generation, and medicines, in addition to preserving biodiversity. Indigenous agroforestry is fundamental to indigenous culture, strengthening spiritual practices and the relationship with nature. Women have vital importance in the management of agroforestry practices because, through this productive practice, they ensure the food consumption of the family, besides generating income. However, women still face many difficulties in the countryside because their working hours are longer than those of men; besides not participating in decisions on the choice of species and form of management, in some countries, they still face difficulty accessing and owning land. The studies provide evidence on the economic viability of agroforestry systems. However, research gaps are identified that verify the economic and financial analysis of agroforestry models, which address the concerns of indigenous communities, aiming at food security. These analyses are essential for the implementation and continuity of the production system.

Proximate composition and characterization of the vitamins and minerals of dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) from the Middle Doce River region – Minas Gerais, Brazil

“…Agroforestry yards are used according to agroecological principles, with sustainable management practices which aim to preserve the naturally-occurring diversity of the land by applying appropriate cultivation techniques. In addition, agroforestry yards have been considered an important form of food production, with a unique potential to complement the dietary needs of communities, which contributes to food sovereignty and the conservation of agrobiodiversity found in and around family farming areas ( Duque-Brasil et al., 2012 ; Gonçalves et al., 2021 ; Lameirada et al., 2020 ).…”

Optimization agroforestry to address green economy and climate change in Manokwari Regency, West Papua

“…Meanwhile, in the yard, we focus more on wood and fruit plants to provide vitamins and minerals and provide coolness around the yard, thereby reducing the use of air conditioners and saving energy. The carbon stock value obtained from these OAPs is higher when compared to calculations in several places in Indonesia for yards [37,38,39,40].…”

Loss of ancestral food practices and perception of its effect on children’s health among Inga indigenous grandmothers, Nariño, Colombia

“…In conclusion, although there are many experiences that describe ancestral knowledge and its potential benefits, including nutritional value and food security [ 55 , 56 ], the authors have not found any successful experiences published in the specialized literature. More studies are needed to explore possible interventions to recover ancestral food practices, as they are part of the Indigenous worldview.…”