In most parts of Africa, Asia and tropical America, agroforestry is not new. There are traditional agroforestry practices spanning centuries. Examples include the Moringa-based agroforestry system in Ethiopia, the parkland systems of the Sahel, the Gedo home garden cultural landscapes in Ethiopia, coffee agroforestry systems, Faidherbia albida-based cropping system in Malawi, , rotational woodlots in Kenya, multistory home gardens in Mt. Kilimanjaro, cocoa systems in Cameroon, Cocoa agroforestry sysetems inCôte d’Ivoire and farmer-managed natural regeneration in the Sahel. Agroforestry is also gaining ground in the global North.

As a result of their diversity, agroforestry systems are more resilient to environmental shocks and the effects of climate change than conventional agriculture. Trees serve as safety nets in times of emergency such as natural disasters (e.g., floods and droughts). Trees substantially cool cities. Agroforestry provides a range of other benefits – food and nutrition security, improved health and well-being, and livelihoods. In addition, homestead agroforestry empowers women and youth. Agroforestry connects habitats and provides corridors for vulnerable species. Depending on the system and local conditions, agroforestry can enhance biodiversity, restore wildlife habitats, it guarantees the balance of ecosystems.

 Despite its multiple benefits, the adoption of agroforestry has not been widespread in many parts of Africa.  Nevertheless, some general principles for their wider adoption, from lessons learned so far, in Africa and research needs to better understand the challenges and opportunities at the local and global level will be presented and discussed.