The Multiple Backdrops of Forest Management Initiatives in Ethiopia: A Review Paper

Abstract

Forest is one of the most essential kinds of resources that human beings and other animals depend on. It regulates environmental and ecological changes in which soil, water; climate, rainfall etc are in the good existence in sustainable condition. Whether it is private or public property, forest is nationally and globally mutual treasure (Terefe, 2003).  In this regard, Ethiopia encompasses an extraordinary number of ecological zones with broad latitudinal and altitudinal ranges which enabled to harbors diverse flora and fauna. The country endowed resources is an issue of global importance as a center of genetic and agricultural diversity in particular for being host of rare species and high endemism (Girma, 2006; Lemenih et al., 2015).

Despite the unique endemic nature, the continuous deterioration has become a serious threat to both the ecological systems and economic development in Ethiopia. These problems have been attributed directly or indirectly to the rapid declining of the country's forest cover which is associated with unsustainable forest use and management (Meron, 2010). Deforestation and the resulting environmental degradation is a major problem challenging food security, livelihood and sustainable development. Between 1955 and 1979, over 77 % of the country’s forested area disappeared and it continues to lose 8 % of its remaining forests annually (Winberg, 2010).

To curb the depletion, different government regimes of Ethiopia  and other concerned  NGOs[1] have been making efforts to manage forests through initiatives including community forestry,  national forest priority areas, participatory forest management, carbon forestry and REDD[2]. However, valuable information on the contributions of the different forest management initiatives is scanty and not well-complied.

Objective of the review paper

The objective of this paper is to provide valuable information for scholars, policy makers and others thoroughly reviewing cases studies on backdrop of the different forest management initiatives in Ethiopia

[1] Non-Government Organization

[2] Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation