Evaluating the Socioeconomic and Environmental Value of Noni Tree farming in Lake Victoria Basin: Evidence from the Sesse Islands, Uganda

Abstract

This study evaluates the socioeconomic and environmental value of noni farming and the sustainability strategies adopted by farmers in the Sesse Islands of the Lake Victoria Basin, Uganda. The study adopted a mixed-methods approach; data were collected through household surveys, key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and field observations. Quantitative and qualitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis, respectively. The findings indicate that noni farming contributes to household income diversification, employment creation, and livelihood resilience, while generating environmental benefits such as soil conservation, biodiversity enhancement, carbon sequestration, and landscape restoration. Despite these advantages, farmers face challenges including limited market access, inadequate processing facilities, and weak extension support. To address these constraints, farmers have adopted sustainability-oriented practices, including agroforestry integration, organic production methods, community-based seedling multiplication, and collective marketing arrangements. The study demonstrates that noni farming has considerable potential to promote sustainable rural development and environmental conservation in the Lake Victoria Basin. Strengthening market linkages, value addition, and extension services will be critical to enhancing the long-term viability and impact of the sector. The findings contribute to the growing body of evidence on the role of underutilized agroforestry species in supporting climate-resilient livelihoods and sustainable landscape management in tropical island ecosystems in Uganda

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