In this paper, we propose to set a framework to analyse family farming with a specific focus on examples drawn from African situations. After some initial observations regarding African agriculture we then highlight a few points that justify the use of the sustainable livelihood framework to represent family farming. These reflexions are based on a Working Paper followed by a collective book that explore these conceptual and methodological dimensions. Two situations are presented to briefly illustrate the use of the framework: Mali and Madagascar. We conclude by some limits and suggestions to overcome them.