Environmental Research Group Oxford Limited

on behalf of Agristudio S.r.l., Firenze, Italy

Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and Commission of the European Community 

Ethiopian Component of the Regional Programme for Farming in Tsetse Controlled Areas of Eastern Africa

Farming Systems and Agricultural Expansion
 in South-Western Ethiopia

David Bourn

Summary

The upper Dhidessa (=Didessa) valley is the initial designated focal point for the promotion of farming in tsetse controlled areas in south-western Ethiopia. The geographical setting and history of tsetse and trypanosomosis control in the valley are outlined. National demographic, land use and livestock trends are identified, and important land tenure changes are noted.

Source: Derived from Erkelens et al. (2000).

The characteristics of the main farming/land use systems in south-western Ethiopia are described and a comparative assessment of the agricultural resources of the ten weredas (administrative districts) in the upper Dhidessa valley is presented.

Various indicators of agricultural and demographic change in three tsetse-controlled areas of the Dhidessa valley (Chello-Damocha, Galle and Limu Shay) are summarised. Cattle, people and cultivation have all increased substantially in the past decade.

Land cover and land use changes in the upper Dhidessa and neighbouring Ghibe valleys are assessed in terms of expansion and contraction of agricultural settlement associated with human population growth, immigration, socio-political change and land tenure reform.

As farmland expands, vegetation cover is reduced and soils are exposed to increased risk of erosion, especially in hilly or mountainous terrain, where there is little flat land, and hillside farming on steep slopes is common.

Environmentally responsible development requires that appropriate mitigation measures be instigated to offset potential adverse consequences and promote more sustainable forms of agriculture.

Potential mitigation measures include: land use planning and the promotion of soil and water conservation, agro-forestry and other sustainable farming practices, involving the active participation of local farming communities in the decision making process and prioritization of activities.

Recommendations

Appointment of a National Coordination and Technical Advisory Committee;

Adoption of socio-economic, institutional, technical and environmental (SITE) criteria for the formulation of tsetse and trypanosomosis control strategies;

Commissioning of a review of non-governmental experiences in community-based tsetse and trypanosomosis control in Ethiopia, and assessment of lessons learnt;

Establishment of a geographical information system for analysis and presentation of tsetse and trypanosomosis related data;

Examination of the benefits and costs of alternative disease control strategies;

Computerization of tsetse and trypanosomosis survey records and trypanocidal drug treatment figures;

Investigation of farmers' needs and priorities at all potential interventions sites;

Promotion of farmer participation in project activities and sustainable farming practices.