Agroforestry World
Mai Thanh Tu
Mai Thanh Tu is the monitoring and evaluation officer for the CGIAR Research Program on Integrated Systems for the Humid Tropics in the Central Mekong Action Area. She obtained her Master in Development Evaluation at the University of Antwerp, Belgium. Before joining the World Agroforestry Centre, she worked as a researcher in rural development and policies related to ethnic minorities in Viet Nam. She also worked as monitoring and evaluation coordinator for a regional project, Developing the Agricultural Value Chain across the East–West Economic Corridor, in Viet Nam, Lao PDR, Thailand and Myanmar.
Land degradation owing to monocropping is the main reason for reduced agricultural productivity in Northwest Viet Nam. But after four years of agroforestry research, results show positive signs for farmers. Monocropping of annuals—such as maize, rice and...
A proposed new platform to link Southern Africa’s fertilizer subsidies to sustainable farming practices could be key to reversing the region’s land degradation crisis. The platform – which would be jointly sponsored by the World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF)...
It has been proven that certain trees on farm can boost crop productivity when grown in combination with annual crops. These trees improve the soil’s condition, can offer food (fruit, nuts, vegetables), fodder for animals, and fuel wood....
Despite extensive forest restoration since the wars, quality remains low and indigenous species are underutilised. A comprehensive national strategy would speed increases in timber supply, farmers’ livelihoods, biodiversity and environmental security. Over the last 25 years, planted...
Around the world, farmers are conservative by nature, and with very good reason. A rich farmer who makes a serious mistake risks losing his farm to the bank. A smallholder risks much worse: famine for her children. Anyone...
The importance of trees to farming systems in sub-Saharan Africa cannot be overstated. Challenges of soil degradation, low use of inputs like inorganic fertilizers, population pressure, poor agricultural practices and climate change have negatively impacted on food security...