Ecological and Socio-economic Contributions of Coffee-based Agroforestry Systems in Ethiopia: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Coffee-based agroforestry, the intentional integration of trees, crops, and livestock, plays a critical role in sustaining ecosystem services, enhancing soil fertility, conserving biodiversity, and supporting rural livelihoods. Ethiopia, as the center of origin for Coffea arabica, hosts diverse coffee agroforestry systems that combine indigenous management practices with multifunctional landscapes. Despite their ecological and socio-economic significance, research on these systems remains fragmented and localized, limiting a holistic understanding of their contributions to biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and climate resilience. This systematic review synthesizes 70 studies covering key coffee-growing regions in Ethiopia, including Southwest Ethiopia, Sidama, Oromia, and Northern Ethiopia. Following PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, data were extracted on woody species diversity, regeneration, carbon stocks, soil fertility, ecosystem services, and socio-economic outcomes. Quantitative synthesis revealed that shade-grown coffee systems maintain high woody species richness, support natural regeneration, and enhance carbon storage compared to monocultures or degraded lands. Qualitative analyses highlighted improved microclimate regulation, soil nutrient dynamics, and biodiversity protection. Socio-economic benefits include diversified household income, increased employment along value chains, strengthened community governance, and enhanced participation of women and youth. Comparative analysis with Latin America and West Africa confirms that Ethiopian coffee agroforestry delivers parallel ecological and livelihood outcomes, though it is uniquely embedded in semi-managed landscapes with strong reliance on indigenous knowledge. Critical research gaps remain, particularly in long-term monitoring of carbon dynamics, soil fertility, and biodiversity recovery, as well as in understanding genetic diversity, institutional frameworks, and gender-inclusive benefit-sharing. Strengthening policy integration, promoting shade-tree diversification, and supporting participatory management are essential to enhance both ecological and socio-economic outcomes. This review underscores the potential of coffee-based agroforestry in Ethiopia to contribute to climate-smart, biodiversity-friendly, and livelihood-resilient landscapes, offering insights relevant for global sustainable coffee production initiatives.