Review Article
Ecological and Socio-economic Contributions of Coffee-based Agroforestry Systems in Ethiopia: A Systematic Review
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2025
Pages:
148-158
Received:
7 October 2025
Accepted:
20 October 2025
Published:
26 November 2025
Abstract: Coffee-based agroforestry, the intentional integration of trees, crops, and livestock, plays a critical role in sustaining ecosystem services, enhancing soil fertility, conserving biodiversity, and supporting rural livelihoods. Ethiopia, as the center of origin for Coffea arabica, hosts diverse coffee agroforestry systems that combine indigenous management practices with multifunctional landscapes. Despite their ecological and socio-economic significance, research on these systems remains fragmented and localized, limiting a holistic understanding of their contributions to biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and climate resilience. This systematic review synthesizes 70 studies covering key coffee-growing regions in Ethiopia, including Southwest Ethiopia, Sidama, Oromia, and Northern Ethiopia. Following PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, data were extracted on woody species diversity, regeneration, carbon stocks, soil fertility, ecosystem services, and socio-economic outcomes. Quantitative synthesis revealed that shade-grown coffee systems maintain high woody species richness, support natural regeneration, and enhance carbon storage compared to monocultures or degraded lands. Qualitative analyses highlighted improved microclimate regulation, soil nutrient dynamics, and biodiversity protection. Socio-economic benefits include diversified household income, increased employment along value chains, strengthened community governance, and enhanced participation of women and youth. Comparative analysis with Latin America and West Africa confirms that Ethiopian coffee agroforestry delivers parallel ecological and livelihood outcomes, though it is uniquely embedded in semi-managed landscapes with strong reliance on indigenous knowledge. Critical research gaps remain, particularly in long-term monitoring of carbon dynamics, soil fertility, and biodiversity recovery, as well as in understanding genetic diversity, institutional frameworks, and gender-inclusive benefit-sharing. Strengthening policy integration, promoting shade-tree diversification, and supporting participatory management are essential to enhance both ecological and socio-economic outcomes. This review underscores the potential of coffee-based agroforestry in Ethiopia to contribute to climate-smart, biodiversity-friendly, and livelihood-resilient landscapes, offering insights relevant for global sustainable coffee production initiatives.
Abstract: Coffee-based agroforestry, the intentional integration of trees, crops, and livestock, plays a critical role in sustaining ecosystem services, enhancing soil fertility, conserving biodiversity, and supporting rural livelihoods. Ethiopia, as the center of origin for Coffea arabica, hosts diverse coffee agroforestry systems that combine indigenous ma...
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Research Article
Employee Perceptions on the Benefits and Challenges of Social Media Adoption and Utilization for Internal Communication in Kenyan Organizations
Faith Omayo*,
Blessing Mbatha
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2025
Pages:
159-166
Received:
15 November 2025
Accepted:
4 December 2025
Published:
20 December 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.sr.20251306.12
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Abstract: In the digital era, social media has evolved into a vital component of organizational communication, offering new opportunities for interaction, collaboration, and information exchange. This study explores the benefits and challenges associated with adopting social media as an internal communication tool within Kenyan organizations. Guided by a qualitative research approach and an exploratory multiple case study design, the study examined three organizations drawn from diverse sectors and located in major Kenyan cities. Data were collected from 48 purposively selected participants through face-to-face interviews and focus group discussions. Thematic analysis was employed to identify emerging patterns and provide an understanding of employees’ experiences with social media in the workplace. Findings indicate that social media enhances internal communication by enabling faster, more flexible, and interactive information flow. Participants reported that social media strengthens interpersonal relationships, improves collaboration across departments, and enhances employee engagement by creating an open and participatory communication environment. Social media was also perceived as cost-effective, user-friendly, and particularly useful during disruptions such as the COVID-19 pandemic, where virtual communication became essential. Despite these advantages, several challenges hinder effective adoption. Key barriers include inconsistent internet connectivity, limited access to appropriate technological devices, privacy and confidentiality concerns, and fears related to data security breaches. Organizational factors, such as resistance to change, unclear social media policies, and skepticism among older employees, further restrict effective utilization. These challenges highlight gaps in infrastructure, governance, and digital literacy that must be addressed to optimize social media use in internal communication. The study concludes that while social media offers significant potential to transform communication processes within Kenyan organizations, its successful integration requires deliberate and strategic action. It recommends the development of clear social media policies, enhanced digital infrastructure, employee training, and a blended approach that complements traditional communication tools. These measures can help organizations utilize the benefits of social media while minimizing associated risks, ultimately strengthening internal communication effectiveness.
Abstract: In the digital era, social media has evolved into a vital component of organizational communication, offering new opportunities for interaction, collaboration, and information exchange. This study explores the benefits and challenges associated with adopting social media as an internal communication tool within Kenyan organizations. Guided by a qua...
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Research Article
Silica Sand Production Potential, Quality, and Market Analysis Case Study in the Kella Locality, South Sodo District, Ethiopia
Meseret Aregahegn Aschale*
,
Nigat Melak Amera,
Eyasu Abate Mihretu,
Kokobe Alemayehu Wmichael,
Simegn Degu Tesfaye,
Mamaru Genetu,
Bisrat Kebede,
Abera Driba
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2025
Pages:
167-181
Received:
7 October 2025
Accepted:
22 October 2025
Published:
31 December 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.sr.20251306.13
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Abstract: Silica Sand is an essential input material in the manufacturing of sandpaper, glass materials, abrasives, polishing powders, heat-resistant materials (refractories), and bearings of precision instruments. This mineral is found abundantly all over the world, including Ethiopia. In Ethiopia, one of the foremost potential sources of silica sand is found in Kella locality, South Sodo District, Central Ethiopian Regional State; Kella, Ethiopia. The quarry site was one of the most significant site and considerable for the glass manufacturing industry as suitable to infrastructural advantage as of it was about 115Km far apart for capital of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. This study addressed Kella site silica sand potential of New Era Mining S.C. From the study area about 15 points of sampling were taken for quality analysis by AAS testing. Accordingly, the physico chemical characterization and determination of total silica content was analyzed. Based on the atomic absorption spectroscopic analysis value for the silicate composition was examined. Hence, the average silica quality was 97.21% of purity from this industrial silica sand potentials area. This implies an enabling opportunity and is promising for investment of glass manufacturing plants in the area. The production and market demand of Silica sand has been addressed globally and by regional markets. In that 50.94% and 47.77% global export was led by Indonesia & USA during 2019, and 2020 respectively.
Abstract: Silica Sand is an essential input material in the manufacturing of sandpaper, glass materials, abrasives, polishing powders, heat-resistant materials (refractories), and bearings of precision instruments. This mineral is found abundantly all over the world, including Ethiopia. In Ethiopia, one of the foremost potential sources of silica sand is fou...
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