The potential of tree-based land restoration for rebuilding rural bioeconomy in Africa

There is growing policy and research interest in tree-based restoration across Africa due to widespread land degradation and its negative impacts on ecosystems, biodiversity, agricultural productivity, food security, and rural livelihoods. This study synthesizes evidence on how tree-based restoration systems can revitalize degraded landscapes and strengthen rural bioeconomy in Africa. It adopted a narrative literature review method. Findings indicate that these systems contribute to climate change mitigation through carbon sequestration, with additional adaptation benefits—including improved soil fertility, biodiversity conservation, and agricultural productivity—that vary with factors such as tree species and management practices. Tree-based restoration also supports rural development by providing food, fodder, fuelwood, and non-timber forest products, which can diversify household income, enhance food security, and bolster local energy supplies. However, the outcomes are context-specific, and benefits can be maximized only when appropriate tree systems are established in suitable locations, backed by effective management practices, secure tenure, local knowledge, market access, innovative financing, and enabling policies. Ultimately, tree-based restoration represents not just a solution to land degradation but a strategic pathway for rebuilding resilient rural bioeconomy in Africa.

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This works is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

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