The Contribution of Rural Resettlement to the Livelihoods of Settlers in Ethiopia: A Case of Essera District Resettlement Schemes in SNNPR

Abstract

This study examines the contribution of resettlement program to the livelihoods of settlers in resettlement areas of Essera Districtin Dawuro Zone, SNNPR. One hundred thirty eight (13%) sample participants were selected for survey by using simple random sampling techniques from three kebeles of resettlement area. In addition, focus group discussion with representatives of settlers; key informant interviews and personal observations have been employed to collect data in this study. The study results show that the consultation about the resettlement program was made with majority of settlers before the implementation of program. It was also noticed that the movement of settlers to the new area was voluntarily based. The study also asserts that the occurrence of conflict among settlers and the host community is very minimal. Regarding the livelihood status of settlers, the study tells us that the resettlement program is positively contributing to the social, financial and physical capitals of settlers’ livelihood assets. However, the current human and natural capitals of livelihood assets are not at pleasing status due to less infrastructure and social service facilities like schools, health services, safe drinking water, veterinary services, and land holdings in the resettlement areas. Furthermore, the resettlement program has not equally reduced the vulnerability of all settlers to food insecurity. In this regard, the study reveals that 14.5 percent of settlers were food insecure during the survey period. The agricultural activities and all income sources to participants are entirely relied on rainfall which is highly susceptible due to seasonal variations. The off-farm and non-farm activities such as petty trade, handicrafts, engagement in agricultural labor work and food-for work programs can generate additional income to household heads to promote their livelihood assets and to cope with adverse circumstances. However, the study found that these activities are hardly carried out by settlers. Thus, the integrated intervention of all concerned bodies is indispensable to reverse the problems related with resettlement and to enhance the diversification of income sources to settlers to build their livelihood assets in sustainable manner.

Keywords: Resettlement, settlers, livelihoods, livelihood assets, off-farm activities, non-farm activities.