Ethiopia is embarking on an extensive USD 500 million plan to fight land degradation, safeguard forests, and improve food security. The project, funded in part by a USD 37 million contribution from the Climate Investment Funds (CIF) through its Nature, People, and Climate programme, is leveraging additional financial backing from partners like the World Bank and the African Development Bank to raise the rest of the funds.
In a country where agriculture is a critical livelihood, over half the land is degraded, with about 11 million hectares teetering on the brink of desertification. This initiative focuses on revitalising 320,000 hectares of critical areas, including coffee forests, farmland, and grazing lands across regions like Amhara, Oromia, South Ethiopia, and Somalia. A modern forest registry is also part of the plan to support long-term conservation.
Paul Hartman, a leader in Climate Investment Funds’ nature-focused efforts, pointed out the dire need for interventions like this to address how climate change and environmental degradation are disrupting the lives of Ethiopia’s smallholder farmers and herders. The goals extend beyond just land restoration—they include poverty reduction, better economic opportunities, and enhanced food security.
The Ethiopian government has folded this plan into its broader environmental strategy, which includes planting trees, rehabilitating soil, conserving water, and promoting sustainable agriculture. The ultimate aim? To rebuild damaged ecosystems, prepare for the impacts of climate change, and help rural areas thrive.
This effort coincides with global discussions on reversing land degradation in Saudi Arabia, highlighting how Ethiopia is taking a lead role in combating biodiversity loss. While a significant portion of the funding has already been dedicated to specific projects, private investors and philanthropy are expected to fill the gaps.
By combining governmental efforts with international support, Ethiopia’s approach might serve as a blueprint for other nations facing similar struggles with environmental challenges. For the millions who depend on the land for survival, this initiative brings much-needed optimism.