Climate change mitigation and adaptation in Cameroon through cocoa and coffee-based agroforestry systems

Climate change is increasingly disrupting global ecosystems, with agriculture in developing countries like Cameroon being particularly vulnerable, leading to reduced productivity and heightened food insecurity. In response, cocoa and coffee-based agroforestry systems offer a sustainable solution by enhancing biodiversity, sequestering carbon, and creating resilient farming practices. The objective of this study is to assess the role of cocoa and coffee-based agroforests in climate change mitigation and adaptation in Cameroon, addressing a notable gap in existing research. Using a comprehensive review of empirical literature, the study examines the environmental and socio-economic benefits of these systems. Results show that cocoa and coffee-based agroforests are primarily located in three of Cameroon’s five agroecological zones namely the Western Highlands, Monomodal rainforest zone, and Bimodal rainforest zone, with coffee cultivation also extending into the Guinea High Savannah. These systems contribute to climate change mitigation through carbon sequestration by cocoa trees, associated vegetation, and soil, and are aligned with REDD+ goals. Additionally, they support adaptation by providing multiple ecosystem services such as food, improved soil fertility, erosion control, pollination, and biodiversity conservation, thanks to the integration of diverse crops and fruit trees. This shows that cocoa and coffee-based agroforests represent viable, sustainable agricultural practices that can enhance both environmental resilience and economic stability in Cameroon. Policy and institutional support are essential to increase farmer adoption, and further research is needed on optimal crop combinations and the role of land tenure security in promoting these systems. Strengthening these aspects will advance climate action and agricultural sustainability in Cameroon.