Green Energy Integration with Agroforestry Systems in Ethiopia for Climate Change Mitigation, Food Security, and Sustainable Rural Development

Abstract

In Ethiopia, where agriculture is the backbone of most people's livelihoods and is particularly sensitive to climate fluctuations, it's crucial to adopt integrated strategies that not only enhance agricultural productivity but also protect our natural resources. The aim of this review is to assess how renewable energy technologies can be integrated into agroforestry systems in Ethiopia, with particular emphasis on climate change mitigation, food security, and sustainable rural development. Research methods. A systematic literature search was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and 45 publications used for this review. Results. The findings reveal that agroforestry systems act as vital carbon sinks, capturing carbon in aboveground and belowground biomass, litter, and soils. Meanwhile, renewable energy technologies help cut down greenhouse gas emissions by replacing fossil fuels and reducing reliance on unsustainably sourced biomass. This integration not only boosts agricultural productivity and water-use efficiency but also minimizes post-harvest losses, diversifies household income, enhances rural energy access, and strengthens resilience against climate-related challenges. However, despite these advantages, the widespread adoption of these practices faces hurdles like high initial costs, limited financial access, inadequate technical skills, weak institutional coordination, fragmented policies, and a lack of extension services.