A systematic review on the impact of climate smart agricultural practices adoption on productivity in Ethiopia

Abstract Agricultural productivity is increasingly threatened by multiple challenges in Ethiopia and CSA practices seeks to sustainably increase productivity. Despite the implementation of such practices, remain limited to address the demands for productivity. This systematic review aimed to assess the implemented CSA practices, identify the determinants of their adoption and evaluate their impact on agricultural productivity. A literature search was conducted on Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Taylor & Francis. The systematic review covered studies published between 2010 and 2025. 390 studies were initially identified through database searches 117 studies were retained for final analysis using PRISMA methodology. In Ethiopia, a variety of CSA practices have been implemented and adopted which is integrated soil fertility management, conservation agriculture, agroforestry system, small-scale irrigation, agronomic practices and improved livestock feed and feeding practices, and crop diversification. The adoption of CSA practices is influenced by multiple factors, including the household head’s age and gender, family size, and level of education, farm size, type of farming system, household income, availability of irrigation, access to markets, agricultural credit, and extension services, membership in local organizations, farmers’ perceptions of rainfall variability, access to climate information and farm inputs, land slope, and livestock ownership also play significant roles in shaping adoption decisions. Implementing CSA practices significantly improves agricultural productivity, enhances soil fertility, increases crop yields, and contributes to reduced poverty levels. This systematic review would be beneficial to supplement these findings with empirical research conducted in specific areas of Ethiopia to validate and expand the insights. Provide climate information to help farmers adapt cropping to rainfall variability. Conduct impact evaluation research to identify the most effective CSA interventions for different regions. Integrate CSA knowledge into university curricula and agricultural training programs to build future research and extension capacity.