Workshop on Research Insights and Sustainable Practices in Yayu Coffee Forest Biosphere Reserve

A successful workshop focused on women, coffee, and climate change was held on February 22nd in Jimma, Ethiopia. The workshop, organized by the OSSREA (Organization for Social Science Research in Eastern and Southern Africa) in collaboration with Ethiopian Forest Development (EFD), Jimma Agricultural Research Center (JARC) and Women in Coffee Ethiopia (WICE) and the Spanish Cooperation Ethiopia (AECID), for the Women, Coffee and Climate project, brought together 64 participants from various sectors, including researchers, policymakers, practitioners, and representatives from NGOs and farmer cooperatives.

The workshop explored key issues related to the sustainability of the Yayu Coffee Forest Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Presentations covered topics such as the role of non-timber forest products, the impact of climate change on women coffee farmers, and the importance of traditional knowledge and practices in coffee production.

Following the presentations, participants engaged in active discussions, providing valuable feedback and suggestions. Group discussions focused on the potential impact of the research findings on policy and practice, as well as strategies for disseminating the research and building partnerships for future action. The workshop concluded with a sense of optimism and a commitment to working together to ensure a sustainable future for the Yayu Coffee Forest Biosphere Reserve and its communities.

Key takeaways from the workshop include:

● The importance of women’s empowerment in the coffee sector, as women coffee farmers often achieve higher yields and play a crucial role in traditional coffee production practices.
● The untapped potential of non-timber forest products, which offer opportunities for income generation and diversification for smallholder farmers, particularly women.
● The need for evidence-based decision-making to address the challenges posed by climate change and ensure the sustainability of the coffee industry.
● The importance of collaboration between researchers, policymakers, practitioners, and local communities to develop and implement effective solutions.

The Women, Coffee and Climate project is expected to use the valuable feedback and suggestions gathered during the workshop to inform its future activities and contribute to a more sustainable coffee sector in Ethiopia.