Agroforestry is one of Africa’s most promising pathways towards sustainable agri-food systems. This systematic review gathers and synthesizes knowledge from 66 sources (including 17 review studies) on the socio-economic effects of agroforestry in Africa across a range of dimensions: livelihoods, income, food security, nutrition, gender equality and social cohesion. 

Overall, the examined studies report a prevalence of positive outcomes for farmers adopting agroforestry compared to farmers in similar contexts that do not adopt it, both in terms of yields and income, through diversification and the provision of different food, fodder and fuel products. 

Agroforestry also strengthens households’ resilience by reducing vulnerability to market and weather shocks and improving food availability year-round. Fruit trees, moringa, baobab, and other edible species increase dietary diversity and supply key micronutrients. The review also highlights benefits for women, social cohesion, youth employment, and the preservation of indigenous knowledge. 

Agroforestry offers a largely untapped potential for local value addition. However, adoption remains constrained by delayed returns, higher labour needs, limited access to quality seedlings, credit, extension services and markets, and insecure land tenure. Also, the adoption of agroforestry can contribute to social objectives, but this outcome is not automatic and requires interventions addressing the root causes of disparities. 

Scaling up agroforestry offers a practical pathway to build competitive and resilient agri-food systems in African countries, while advancing food security and rural development. The collected evidence calls for integrated policies combining production system incentives, market development, advisory services, and gender-inclusive support.