Trait‐based restoration in African dryland restoration projects: overcoming systemic and scientific barriers for a viable future

Abstract Introduction African dryland restoration continues to show low success rates despite major pledges, due to persistent water scarcity, ecological complexity, and limited use of trait‐based restoration (TBR). Functional trait‐based approaches, which match species selection to adaptive traits, could strengthen ecosystem recovery under arid conditions, yet adoption in Africa remains rare. Objectives This opinion article examines why TBR remains underutilized in African drylands and argues for its systematic integration into restoration planning and policy. Methods A narrative synthesis of recent research and practitioner reports was used to assess the scope of TBR and identify institutional, scientific, and socio‐economic barriers limiting adoption. Results Restoration projects across Africa often emphasize socio‐economic outcomes over ecological function. Only a few African studies explicitly link plant functional traits to dryland restoration. Key barriers include scarce trait data for native species, limited long‐term trials, weak integration of Indigenous Ecological Knowledge, and short donor‐driven project cycles. Conclusion Functional TBR offers a practical framework for improving ecosystem resilience in African drylands but requires region‐specific research, inclusive co‐design, and policy alignment.