Local land users often have different perceptions and responses than officials to the land degradation problem. This has resulted in conflict with officials in diagnosing and solving the problem and is a major constraint to the successful implementation of policies and projects to address land degradation. The study’s findings underscore that sustainable use of land resources and successful policies and programs require appropriate enabling policies and institutional arrangements to encourage intensification of smallholder farming systems. Policies would also require incorporating proven indigenous practices and knowledge into technical approaches, and ensuring local participation in decision-making.

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