Land degradation is a critical challenge in Ethiopia, impacting not only agricultural productivity but also the broader ecosystem services essential for sustainable development. A recent study published in the Journal of Degraded and Mining Lands Management highlights a community-driven approach to landscape restoration technologies in the Basona-Worena and Doyo-Gena woredas. The research, led by Kibebework Getachew from the Ethiopian Forestry Development (EFD) in Addis Ababa, reveals significant insights into farmers’ preferences for land management practices that could transform the water, sanitation, and drainage sectors in the region.
The study involved a survey of 64 farmers, who expressed a keen interest in various ecosystem services. Their top three priorities were increased food supply, enhanced soil fertility, and improved water availability. “Farmers are not just looking for quick fixes; they want sustainable solutions that will provide long-term benefits,” Getachew noted. This perspective underscores the importance of integrating community needs into the design of restoration technologies.
Interestingly, the research found distinct preferences between the two woredas. Farmers in Basona-Worena favored terrace and bund practices, while those in Doyo-Gena leaned towards exclosure and agroforestry. This divergence highlights the necessity for site-specific strategies that resonate with local contexts. However, challenges remain. Farmers identified several drawbacks to conservation techniques, such as the propensity of terracing to attract pests and the long wait for visible results from bunding.
The findings suggest a robust model for informed decision-making in landscape restoration initiatives. The prioritization of terracing as a fundamental ecosystem service in both locations indicates its potential commercial impact. Improved water management practices, such as water percolation pits, could enhance agricultural productivity while also addressing water scarcity issues. As farmers adopt these technologies, the water, sanitation, and drainage sectors stand to benefit significantly, driving innovations that support sustainable land management.
Getachew’s research is a clarion call for policymakers and stakeholders to consider community input when developing restoration strategies. “Engaging with farmers is crucial; their insights can lead to more effective and widely adopted solutions,” he emphasized. This community-centric approach not only fosters resilience against land degradation but also paves the way for enhanced ecosystem services that benefit the entire region.
As Ethiopia grapples with the pressing issues of land degradation, this study serves as a vital resource for guiding future developments in sustainable land management. The implications extend beyond Ethiopian borders, offering valuable lessons for similar landscapes worldwide. For more information about the Ethiopian Forestry Development, you can visit their website at EFD.
