Abstract
A spillover effect of tree planting programmes (TPs) and of the independent planting of trees for fuelwood by forest-dependent households is that deforested areas in developing countries have not been restored due to the high demand for fuelwood, which outstrips supply from tree planting programmmes. Few studies have focused on examining the spillover effects of tree planting exercises carried out by households planting trees for fuelwood that are not involved in tree planting programmes (TPs). This study aimed to identify the determinants of a household’s decision to plant trees and the species a household typically plants for fuelwood. Using descriptive and inferential statistics in the surveyed data, we found a positive and significant impact of TPs on the species and number of trees planted for fuelwood. We also found a positive and significant spillover effect on household livelihoods from fuelwood harvested for sale, with respect to farm size, tree species, off-farm income and household assets. The limited freedom to harvest and transport tree products to markets and the purpose of the tree planting variables were the main reasons for the spillover effect. The results suggest that non-prohibitive policies that empower households and give them the right to trade in a favourable environment without transport and trade tariffs are likely to have spillover effects on planting trees for fuelwood. Therefore, studies on tree planting for fuelwood are relevant to the Ministry of Forestry and fuelwood dependent stakeholders, as they highlight the species likely to be planted for fuelwood and provide policy makers with an understanding of the rationale behind household efforts to plant a particular tree species. Promoting household participation in TPs is expected to improve household livelihoods, reduce dependence on natural forests, and ensure sustainable production of charcoal and firewood as fuel.
