Customary Land Use Decisions about Tree Farming and Livelihood Strategies in Markham Valley, Morobe Province, PNG

Abstract

This paper is an investigation of the nature of customary land-use decisions about tree farming as part of the livelihood strategies in Markham Valley of Morobe Province, PNG. The research adopted randomised purposeful sampling technique as a basis for gathering and evaluating data, while primary data collection was based on 10 percent (%) sampling intensity based on families and household units. Analysis of primary data was done using spreadsheet on MS excel and the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The study found that tree farming was a central part of livelihood strategies for improving living standards and lifestyle in the Markham Valley area of Morobe Province. Tree farming enhances food security and rural economy of Markham Valley. Findings indicate that land use decisions and participation of rural people in tree farming business are affected by socio-cultural and socio-economic factors as well as lack of infrastructural development and extension services. Furthermore, the study reveals that the main challenges facing tree farming business are land ownership and land legality issues. The paper recommends a holistic approach towards understanding the livelihood needs and challenges of rural communities prior to the initiation of development projects. It also recommends proper landowner-identification-process through social mapping and genealogical studies in order to deal with rightful customary landowners, while successful tree farming entrepreneurship tends to depend on availability of customary landowners having legal land title.