The Current status, Threats and Strategic solutions for Ethiopia's Biosphere Reserves Shifa Tahir Fogi
Abstract
The biosphere is where all life forms and biotic environments live and interact. Biosphere reserves have different ways in which people live, work and interact with each other and with nature. The main objective of this paper was to assess the current status, risks and develop plans to ensure the longevity of Ethiopia's biosphere reserves. These reserves, recognised by UNESCO's Man and the Biosphere (MAB) programme, are designated areas that promote and showcase the balanced coexistence of humans and nature. Since 2010, Ethiopia has established five biosphere reserves, which are monitored globally by UNESCO. Sheka, Majang, Kafa, Yayu and Lake Tana are home to a wide variety of biological species, with 779,381ha representing just 0.1% of the world's biosphere reserves. These reserves play a key role in resolving conflicts between different stakeholders in a particular landscape through their involvement, participation and cooperation. They are also places where people can access information on sustainable development. Ethiopia's biosphere reserves face challenges such as land use change, deforestation, degradation, logging, agricultural expansion, investment, overgrazing, fuelwood, charcoal and other impacts. The sustainability problems in Ethiopia's biosphere reserves stem from the lack of an effective management strategy and insufficient ownership by the various stakeholders. The government and the community should prioritise the promotion and development of biosphere reserves and establish a management plan for each one. Ethiopia's biosphere reserves play a crucial role in conserving biodiversity. It is important that the government and local communities work together to promote development, establish management plans, involve local people, balance conservation and sustainable use, and provide incentives. In the future, institutional restructuring will need to address issues related to lack of ownership.
References
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