The role and impacts of small-scale, homestead agro-forestry systems (“pekarangan”) on household prosperity: an analysis of agro-ecological zones of Java, Indonesia

A survey of very small-scale homestead gardens in three Javanese provinces was conducted to analyze the potential beneficial effects on household’s quality of life. Aspects included: (1) diet and nutrition, (2) income, (3) level of goods and material assets, (4) family status, (5) credit access, and (6) the role of women in managing production and marketing. The survey encompassed sites on West, Central and East Java, representing a range of agro-ecological zones, watersheds (6), elevations, socio-cultural conditions and development stages. The plot sizes evaluated ranged from < 120 m2 with no other agricultural land (OAL) to 120-400 m2 with < 1,000 m2 OAL. The average household plot size was about 240 m2 (with open space of at least 140 m2) and OAL of 500 m2. Around 5.7% of the sample villages were, by national standards, considered to be at an advanced development state, with 82.9% at a medium state, and with the rest least developed.On average, very small homestead plots reduced food expenses by 9.9%. Nutritional benefits are primarily in the form of vitamin A and C – providing 2.4% and 23.6% of recommended dietary allowance (RDA), respectively and only 1.9% of either carbohydrates or protein. As contribution to total household income, average homestead output provides about 11% of total farm income, about 80% of which was derived from animal products such as chicken, eggs, fish and meat. As expected, plot size and value of household assets appear closely correlated and increase based on access to other agricultural land. About 55% of the households feel that social status would decline if the household lost access to their homestead land. The need for credit access is especially critical for the smallest lot owners. Women play the most important role in plot maintenance and plant-, animal- and fish production, and also manage family expenses for food, clothes, child health care and education. It appears that their role is less significant in managing family debt, and the purchase of agricultural inputs or other family expenditures. Overall, homestead gardens also perform an important social function. They help establish family and territorial identity, and facilitate neighborhood cohesion and beneficial communal interaction. It is suggested that agrarian reform programs that includes the distribution of land to landless people and small-scale homestead farms should be carried out in relation to the prevailing agro-ecological conditions and associated land carrying capacity and productivity ratings. Overall, such initiative should be within the framew