Agroforestry can support more resilient livelihoods and diversified food production across Africa. Drawing on 66 sources, including 17 review studies, this knowledge review synthesizes evidence on the socio-economic impacts of agroforestry systems, covering livelihoods, income, food security, nutrition, gender equality and social cohesion. The findings indicate that farmers adopting agroforestry generally experience positive outcomes compared with farmers in similar contexts who do not adopt these systems, particularly through improved yields, income diversification and access to food, fodder and fuel.

The review highlights the contribution of agroforestry to household resilience by reducing vulnerability to market and weather shocks and improving food availability throughout the year. Fruit trees, moringa, baobab and other edible species can enhance dietary diversity and provide essential micronutrients. The evidence also points to potential benefits for women’s empowerment, youth employment, social cohesion and the preservation of Indigenous knowledge. However, these social outcomes are not automatic and depend on interventions that address underlying inequalities. Agroforestry also offers opportunities for local value addition, although these remain largely untapped.

Wider adoption faces persistent constraints, including delayed financial returns, increased labour requirements, limited access to quality seedlings, credit, extension services and markets, and insecure land tenure. The review identifies the need for integrated policies that combine incentives for diversified production systems with market development, advisory services and gender-inclusive support. Addressing these barriers is essential to realizing agroforestry’s potential to strengthen food security, rural livelihoods and the resilience of agri-food systems across African countries.