Multifunctionality and socio-economic sustainability of farms: the case of horticulture in Cameroon
- Resource Type
- Article
- Authors
- Genang, Archimède Mbogning; Nkengfack, Hilaire; Noula, Armand Gilbert
- Source
- International Journal of Agricultural Resources, Governance and Ecology; 2022, Vol. 18 Issue: 3 p219-245, 27p
- Subject
- Language
- ISSN
- 14624605; 17415004
This paper examines the relationship between multifunctionality and agricultural sustainability using horticultural farms in Cameroon as a case study. To do so, we adopt a methodology that combines analytical and systemic approaches. Our results show that the horticultural farms surveyed are variously multifunctional but all contribute to food security and generate income. However, only 7.6% of these farms are economically and socially sustainable. Multifunctionality thus appears to be a necessary but not sufficient condition for sustainability. Finally, an improvement in the positive intra- and inter-dimensional influences of multiple functions on farm performance as well as a better cohesion between the elements of the farming system will significantly improve their sustainability.