A three-year initiative by Farm Africa has successfully combined forest conservation with community development in Ethiopia’s Ilu Ababor Zone. The project has not only protected vital forests but also enhanced the livelihoods of 4,000 local residents through sustainable coffee production and alternative income opportunities. The findings from the Coffee for Conservation report highlight the project's significant impact on the environment and the economy.
• The project led to a 43% reduction in the annual deforestation rate.
• Coffee producers experienced a 45% increase in the real value of their coffee income.
• Average household incomes rose by 15%, benefiting both coffee and non-coffee producers.
• Households improved their dietary diversity, moving from a ‘medium’ to a ‘high’ category.
This initiative demonstrates that economic growth and environmental protection can coexist. It serves as a model for other regions facing similar challenges, showing that sustainable practices can lead to both ecological and financial benefits.
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