Ecotourism Contribution for Livelihood Improvement in the Kafa Coffee Forest Biosphere Reserve, Ethiopia

Abstract Ecotourism is increasingly prioritized as a viable strategy to balance biodiversity conservation with livelihood enhancement. The Kafa Coffee Forest Biosphere Reserve (KBR) is one of Ethiopia’s first UNESCO biosphere reserves, the only coffee biosphere reserve worldwide, representing great ecological and cultural significance. This study aimed to establish the extent to which ecotourism contributes to households’ livelihood, assess alternative income sources linked to community perceptions towards ecotourism in KBR. A mixed-methodology was used to gather and analyze data, including household surveys (349 respondents), key informants’ interviews, and focus group discussions. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, regression analysis, and ANOVA tests. Ecotourism activities identified include, coffee tours, and cultural performances, offering direct and indirect benefits such as employment, infrastructure development, and NGO interventions. The regression analysis results demonstrated that 85% of respondents reported livelihood improvements through ecotourism, with education and infrastructure having the most significant impact. Overall, the study established the potential of ecotourism in promoting diversified and improved household income while conserving natural resources. It also recommended several strategies for increasing the role of ecotourism in local communities, including expanding eco-lodges and community infrastructure. The study recommends that the community should be educated and sensitized about the benefits of ecotourism and biodiversity conservation while supporting them in their efforts. The research also concludes that further investment in ecotourism can help achieve sustainable development goals while conserving Ethiopia’s biosphere reserves' biodiversity.