Abstract: The study investigates the influence of traditional farming practices on sustainable land management in Gicumbi District, focusing on their role in soil fertility, crop yield, and alignment with sustainable techniques. Using a structured questionnaire administered to 400 farmers and analyzed through descriptive statistics and correlation analysis, the research identifies crop rotation (78.6%), intercropping (72.3%), organic composting (65.8%), and animal manure use (81.2%) as the most common practices. However, slash-and-burn remains in use by 28.7% of farmers, causing soil degradation.
In terms of sustainable land management, minimum tillage (66.9%), agroforestry (58.2%), and water conservation (74.5%) are widely applied, contributing positively to soil fertility and erosion control. Notably, 74.1% of respondents reported increased crop yields, and 62.8% observed improved soil fertility due to these techniques. Correlation analysis indicates strong positive links between land preparation and sustainable management (r = 0.721), crop diversity and soil conservation (r = 0.693), and soil fertility management and erosion reduction (r = 0.764), all significant at p < 0.05.
The findings demonstrate that combining traditional practices with modern conservation strategies enhances agricultural sustainability and resilience. While traditional methods play a vital role, their effectiveness depends on careful management and integration with contemporary soil conservation approaches. The study recommends targeted farmer training, promotion of agroforestry and organic fertilization, and discouragement of degrading methods like slash-and-burn. It further suggests that future research explore the long-term economic gains of integrating traditional and modern farming systems to strengthen sustainability in rural communities.
Keywords: Traditional Farming Practices, Land Management Practices, Gicumbi District, Rwanda.
Title: Effect of Traditional Farming Practices on Sustainable Land Management Practices in Gicumbi District
Author: Mr. Habiyaremye François Xavier, Dr. James Kant KAMUHANDA
International Journal of Life Sciences Research
ISSN 2348-313X (Print), ISSN 2348-3148 (online)
Vol. 13, Issue 3, July 2025 - September 2025
Page No: 31-48
Research Publish Journals
Website: www.researchpublish.com
Published Date: 01-September-2025
