Multifunctional Agroforestry for Ethiopia

Delivery partner: International Centre for Research in Agroforestry

Project summary: The project will generate evidence on how highland systems in Ethiopia could be improved for a more biodiverse future that supports improved livelihoods and poverty reduction. By comparing traditional and modern agroforestry systems in four regions of Ethiopia, the project will implement a suite of knowledge-based multifunctional agroforestry systems on homesteads, farmland areas, and model rural resource centres to promote uptake of multifunctional agroforestry. The project will generate scalable tools, approaches, knowledge products and capacity building for thousands of highland farmers. It will also develop a strategy, partnerships and infrastructure to lay the foundation for further land restoration, biodiversity protection, poverty alleviation, and improved ecosystem resilience.

Key Developments (April 25): After an extensive period of fieldwork, ICRAF are pleased to announce the establishment of Living Labs in the Southern and Tigray regions. As part of the Multifunctional Agroforestry project, these Living Labs are now equipped with electronic dendrometers and soil sensors installed on farmers’ lands to monitor seven indigenous species, including coffee.

Over the next five years, the tools will generate valuable data on the impacts of climate change, drought, and heat stress, as well as the role of trees in carbon sequestration and biodiversity. ICRAF brought together farmers, policymakers, and university partners on-site to foster mutual learning.

A film capturing these developments has been produced in collaboration with the southern regional governments.