Role Of Stakeholders In The Development Of Food From The Forests: A Case Of Gunungkidul, Indonesia

Abstract

Population growth and climate change have triggered food crises in many countries. As a country with a large population with an average area of ​​agricultural land ownership of fewer than 0.25 hectares, Indonesia needs a more progressive strategy in anticipating a food crisis. Additional food production from outside agricultural land is required to meet food self-sufficiency. This study aims to map the role of stakeholders in the development of food production from forests in marginal land areas. In-depth interviews were conducted to determine each stakeholder's level of interest and influence. This paper identifies each stakeholder's relationship, the opportunities for collaboration, and the challenges faced using stakeholder analysis. The research used a case study in Gunungkidul Regency, Yogyakarta Province, one of Indonesia's marginal and food-insecure areas. The results showed that among the 13 identified stakeholders, the Forest Management Unit (FMU) of Yogyakarta Province and the Food Security and Extension Board (BKPP) of Yogyakarta Province are two stakeholders who act as key players, with a high level of interest and influence. The provincial government's role was dominant in developing food from the forest. Forest farmers, private forestry companies, and universities are less involved in the decision-making related to food security policies. The government at the district level also does not have sufficient budget and resources to maximize the development of food from the forest. However, the analysis results show that the potential for stakeholder collaboration is immense.