Ethiopian Coffee Farmers Boost Income by 45% While Reforesting 5,000 Acres
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📰 The quick summary: Ethiopian coffee farmers improved their livelihoods through sustainable forestry practices, resulting in 45% higher household incomes while reforesting over 5,000 acres of land.
📈 One key stat: Export-quality coffee production increased by 73% while specialty grade coffee rose by 20%, significantly improving economic outcomes for thousands of small-scale farmers in Ethiopia.
💬 One key quote: “Prior to the project, our limited knowledge meant we had to sell our coffee to local traders at lower prices. Now we’ve taken control and are the ones negotiating and determining the coffee prices,” said Abde Musa, a member of the Abdi Bori forest management cooperative.
1️⃣ The big picture: In Ethiopia’s Ilu Ababor Zone, a sustainable agriculture project has transformed how coffee growers manage their forest lands. Led by Farm Africa between 2021 and 2024, the initiative taught 4,000 farmers across 19 forest management cooperatives how to maximize coffee yields while protecting their environment. The project taught climate-smart farming techniques, established tree nurseries, and improved coffee processing methods. This approach allowed farmers to meet their needs without excessive tree cutting while dramatically improving coffee quality and marketing capabilities.
2️⃣ Why is this good news: Coffee production and forest conservation are now working together to benefit local communities and the environment. Over 300,000 tree seedlings were planted with an impressive 85% five-year survival rate, covering 5,000 acres of reforested land. Household incomes increased by 45% while deforestation plummeted to a mere 0.08 acres per year. The quality of coffee skyrocketed, with 73% more meeting export standards and 44% achieving specialty grade status. Farmers gained direct market access and negotiating power, with one cooperative grossing $58,500 in coffee sales alone.
3️⃣ What’s next: Farmers will continue expanding their sustainable practices and market connections established through the project. More cooperatives may adopt the successful business management and quality control techniques that proved so effective. As these methods spread, Ethiopia’s coffee industry can grow while preserving its critical forest ecosystems.
Read the full story here: Good News Network – Rural Ethiopians Watch as Coffee and Cash Pile Up Thanks to Transformational Sustainable Forestry Program That
