Socio-Economic Assessment of Communities Along the Western Shore of Lake Dambal, Ethiopia

Desalegn Regassa

doi:doi:10.11648/j.ajaf.20241206.13

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Socio-Economic Assessment of Communities Along the Western Shore of Lake Dambal, Ethiopia

Desalegn Regassa^*

Published in American Journal of Agriculture and Forestry (Volume 12, Issue 6)

Received: 24 October 2024 Accepted: 19 November 2024 Published: 7 December 2024

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Abstract

This study explores the socioeconomic features of communities surrounding Lake Dambal previously named Lake Ziway, the only freshwater lake in Ethiopia's Central Rift Valley basin, which is increasingly threatened by degradation. Using both quantitative and qualitative research methods, including household surveys, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions, the study assessed the socio-economic and environmental challenges impacting the western shore of Lake Dambal. A total of 420 respondents, predominantly male household heads in rural areas, revealed that most households depend on farming, yet face significant challenges such as water scarcity, soil erosion, pests, diseases, and market instabilities. Environmental degradation, driven by deforestation, chemical use, invasive weeds, overfishing, and urban waste pollution, further exacerbates the lake's deterioration and the communities' vulnerabilities. Despite these challenges, there are opportunities for sustainable development through the adoption of improved agricultural technologies, value-addition activities, and sustainable practices like beekeeping and reforestation. The study underscores the urgent need for holistic wetland conservation efforts, which include promoting alternative livelihoods, implementing land use planning, and enhancing market access. Strengthening policy enforcement, supporting smallholder farmers, and fostering private sector engagement are also crucial for improving the livelihoods and resilience of the community. By addressing these socio-economic and environmental issues, stakeholders can work towards the sustainable management of Lake Dambal and its surrounding wetlands, ultimately contributing to the well-being of local communities and the preservation of critical ecosystems.

Published in	American Journal of Agriculture and Forestry (Volume 12, Issue 6)
DOI	10.11648/j.ajaf.20241206.13
Page(s)	400-410
Creative Commons	This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, provided the original work is properly cited.
Copyright	Copyright © The Author(s), 2024. Published by Science Publishing Group

Keywords

Lake Dambal, Wetlands Conservation, Socio-economic Challenges, Sustainable Development, Environmental Degradation

References

[1]	Abate, S., Asfaw, Z., & Bizuayehu, T. (2020). Integrating ecological and socio-economic approaches for sustainable wetland management: Lessons from Lake Dambal, Ethiopia. Ecological Economics, 175, 106671.
[2]	Belete, G., Adnew, A., & Yalew, S. (2018). Assessment of soil quality in the vicinity of Lake Dambal, Ethiopia. Ethiopian Journal of Environmental Studies and Management, 11(4), 593-603.
[3]	Davidson, N. C. (2014). How much wetland has the world lost? Long-term and recent trends in global wetland area. Marine and Freshwater Research, 65(10), 934-941.
[4]	Demeke, Z., Mekuria, A., & Legesse, D. (2016). Socio-economic impacts of wetland degradation on livelihoods around Lake Dambal, Ethiopia. African Journal of Environmental Science and Technology, 10(8), 286-296.
[5]	Dillman, D. A. (2000). "Mail and Internet Surveys: The Tailored Design Method." John Wiley & Sons.
[6]	Getachew, H., Alemayehu, T., & Bizuayehu, T. (2019). Wetlands in Ethiopia: Management challenges and opportunities. Wetlands Ecology and Management, 27(4), 533-548.
[7]	Lemma, T., Woldetsadik, T. K., & Alemayehu, T. (2018). Integrating local knowledge with ecological science for wetland conservation: The case of Lake Dambal, Ethiopia. Wetland Science and Management, 15(2), 85-94.
[8]	Mengistu, D., & Bekele, D. (2019). Community perception and willingness to participate in the conservation of Lake Dambal, Ethiopia. International Journal of Biodiversity and Conservation, 11(7), 227-238.
[9]	Mitsch, W. J., & Gosselink, J. G. (2015). Wetlands (5th ed.). John Wiley & Sons.
[10]	Tekalign, D., Legesse, D., & Mekuria, A. (2017). Assessment of water quality and pollution status of Lake Dambal, Ethiopia. International Journal of Environmental Monitoring and Analysis, 5(6), 147-153.
[11]	Worku, A., Alemayehu, S., & Mengistu, T. (2021). Wetland conservation in Ethiopia: The role of socio-economic factors and community participation. Journal of Wetlands Ecology, 5(1), 12-25.
[12]	Zenebe, M., Tegegne, A., & Wondmagegne, T. (2020). Invasive alien plant species, biodiversity conservation, and livelihoods around Lake Dambal, Ethiopia. Global Ecology and Conservation, 24, e01281.

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APA Style

Regassa, D. (2024). Socio-Economic Assessment of Communities Along the Western Shore of Lake Dambal, Ethiopia. American Journal of Agriculture and Forestry, 12(6), 400-410. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajaf.20241206.13

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ACS Style

Regassa, D. Socio-Economic Assessment of Communities Along the Western Shore of Lake Dambal, Ethiopia. Am. J. Agric. For. 2024, 12(6), 400-410. doi: 10.11648/j.ajaf.20241206.13

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AMA Style

Regassa D. Socio-Economic Assessment of Communities Along the Western Shore of Lake Dambal, Ethiopia. Am J Agric For. 2024;12(6):400-410. doi: 10.11648/j.ajaf.20241206.13

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@article{10.11648/j.ajaf.20241206.13,
  author = {Desalegn Regassa},
  title = {Socio-Economic Assessment of Communities Along the Western Shore of Lake Dambal, Ethiopia
},
  journal = {American Journal of Agriculture and Forestry},
  volume = {12},
  number = {6},
  pages = {400-410},
  doi = {10.11648/j.ajaf.20241206.13},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajaf.20241206.13},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.ajaf.20241206.13},
  abstract = {This study explores the socioeconomic features of communities surrounding Lake Dambal previously named Lake Ziway, the only freshwater lake in Ethiopia's Central Rift Valley basin, which is increasingly threatened by degradation. Using both quantitative and qualitative research methods, including household surveys, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions, the study assessed the socio-economic and environmental challenges impacting the western shore of Lake Dambal. A total of 420 respondents, predominantly male household heads in rural areas, revealed that most households depend on farming, yet face significant challenges such as water scarcity, soil erosion, pests, diseases, and market instabilities. Environmental degradation, driven by deforestation, chemical use, invasive weeds, overfishing, and urban waste pollution, further exacerbates the lake's deterioration and the communities' vulnerabilities. Despite these challenges, there are opportunities for sustainable development through the adoption of improved agricultural technologies, value-addition activities, and sustainable practices like beekeeping and reforestation. The study underscores the urgent need for holistic wetland conservation efforts, which include promoting alternative livelihoods, implementing land use planning, and enhancing market access. Strengthening policy enforcement, supporting smallholder farmers, and fostering private sector engagement are also crucial for improving the livelihoods and resilience of the community. By addressing these socio-economic and environmental issues, stakeholders can work towards the sustainable management of Lake Dambal and its surrounding wetlands, ultimately contributing to the well-being of local communities and the preservation of critical ecosystems.
},
 year = {2024}
}

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TY  - JOUR
T1  - Socio-Economic Assessment of Communities Along the Western Shore of Lake Dambal, Ethiopia

AU  - Desalegn Regassa
Y1  - 2024/12/07
PY  - 2024
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajaf.20241206.13
DO  - 10.11648/j.ajaf.20241206.13
T2  - American Journal of Agriculture and Forestry
JF  - American Journal of Agriculture and Forestry
JO  - American Journal of Agriculture and Forestry
SP  - 400
EP  - 410
PB  - Science Publishing Group
SN  - 2330-8591
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajaf.20241206.13
AB  - This study explores the socioeconomic features of communities surrounding Lake Dambal previously named Lake Ziway, the only freshwater lake in Ethiopia's Central Rift Valley basin, which is increasingly threatened by degradation. Using both quantitative and qualitative research methods, including household surveys, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions, the study assessed the socio-economic and environmental challenges impacting the western shore of Lake Dambal. A total of 420 respondents, predominantly male household heads in rural areas, revealed that most households depend on farming, yet face significant challenges such as water scarcity, soil erosion, pests, diseases, and market instabilities. Environmental degradation, driven by deforestation, chemical use, invasive weeds, overfishing, and urban waste pollution, further exacerbates the lake's deterioration and the communities' vulnerabilities. Despite these challenges, there are opportunities for sustainable development through the adoption of improved agricultural technologies, value-addition activities, and sustainable practices like beekeeping and reforestation. The study underscores the urgent need for holistic wetland conservation efforts, which include promoting alternative livelihoods, implementing land use planning, and enhancing market access. Strengthening policy enforcement, supporting smallholder farmers, and fostering private sector engagement are also crucial for improving the livelihoods and resilience of the community. By addressing these socio-economic and environmental issues, stakeholders can work towards the sustainable management of Lake Dambal and its surrounding wetlands, ultimately contributing to the well-being of local communities and the preservation of critical ecosystems.

VL  - 12
IS  - 6
ER  -

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Author Information

Desalegn Regassa

Wetlands International, Batu Field Office, Batu, Ethiopia

Contact Email

http://orcid.org/0009-0001-3148-9123

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APA Style

Regassa, D. (2024). Socio-Economic Assessment of Communities Along the Western Shore of Lake Dambal, Ethiopia. American Journal of Agriculture and Forestry, 12(6), 400-410. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajaf.20241206.13

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ACS Style

Regassa, D. Socio-Economic Assessment of Communities Along the Western Shore of Lake Dambal, Ethiopia. Am. J. Agric. For. 2024, 12(6), 400-410. doi: 10.11648/j.ajaf.20241206.13

Copy | Download

AMA Style

Regassa D. Socio-Economic Assessment of Communities Along the Western Shore of Lake Dambal, Ethiopia. Am J Agric For. 2024;12(6):400-410. doi: 10.11648/j.ajaf.20241206.13

Copy | Download

@article{10.11648/j.ajaf.20241206.13,
  author = {Desalegn Regassa},
  title = {Socio-Economic Assessment of Communities Along the Western Shore of Lake Dambal, Ethiopia
},
  journal = {American Journal of Agriculture and Forestry},
  volume = {12},
  number = {6},
  pages = {400-410},
  doi = {10.11648/j.ajaf.20241206.13},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajaf.20241206.13},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.ajaf.20241206.13},
  abstract = {This study explores the socioeconomic features of communities surrounding Lake Dambal previously named Lake Ziway, the only freshwater lake in Ethiopia's Central Rift Valley basin, which is increasingly threatened by degradation. Using both quantitative and qualitative research methods, including household surveys, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions, the study assessed the socio-economic and environmental challenges impacting the western shore of Lake Dambal. A total of 420 respondents, predominantly male household heads in rural areas, revealed that most households depend on farming, yet face significant challenges such as water scarcity, soil erosion, pests, diseases, and market instabilities. Environmental degradation, driven by deforestation, chemical use, invasive weeds, overfishing, and urban waste pollution, further exacerbates the lake's deterioration and the communities' vulnerabilities. Despite these challenges, there are opportunities for sustainable development through the adoption of improved agricultural technologies, value-addition activities, and sustainable practices like beekeeping and reforestation. The study underscores the urgent need for holistic wetland conservation efforts, which include promoting alternative livelihoods, implementing land use planning, and enhancing market access. Strengthening policy enforcement, supporting smallholder farmers, and fostering private sector engagement are also crucial for improving the livelihoods and resilience of the community. By addressing these socio-economic and environmental issues, stakeholders can work towards the sustainable management of Lake Dambal and its surrounding wetlands, ultimately contributing to the well-being of local communities and the preservation of critical ecosystems.
},
 year = {2024}
}

Copy | Download

TY  - JOUR
T1  - Socio-Economic Assessment of Communities Along the Western Shore of Lake Dambal, Ethiopia

AU  - Desalegn Regassa
Y1  - 2024/12/07
PY  - 2024
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajaf.20241206.13
DO  - 10.11648/j.ajaf.20241206.13
T2  - American Journal of Agriculture and Forestry
JF  - American Journal of Agriculture and Forestry
JO  - American Journal of Agriculture and Forestry
SP  - 400
EP  - 410
PB  - Science Publishing Group
SN  - 2330-8591
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajaf.20241206.13
AB  - This study explores the socioeconomic features of communities surrounding Lake Dambal previously named Lake Ziway, the only freshwater lake in Ethiopia's Central Rift Valley basin, which is increasingly threatened by degradation. Using both quantitative and qualitative research methods, including household surveys, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions, the study assessed the socio-economic and environmental challenges impacting the western shore of Lake Dambal. A total of 420 respondents, predominantly male household heads in rural areas, revealed that most households depend on farming, yet face significant challenges such as water scarcity, soil erosion, pests, diseases, and market instabilities. Environmental degradation, driven by deforestation, chemical use, invasive weeds, overfishing, and urban waste pollution, further exacerbates the lake's deterioration and the communities' vulnerabilities. Despite these challenges, there are opportunities for sustainable development through the adoption of improved agricultural technologies, value-addition activities, and sustainable practices like beekeeping and reforestation. The study underscores the urgent need for holistic wetland conservation efforts, which include promoting alternative livelihoods, implementing land use planning, and enhancing market access. Strengthening policy enforcement, supporting smallholder farmers, and fostering private sector engagement are also crucial for improving the livelihoods and resilience of the community. By addressing these socio-economic and environmental issues, stakeholders can work towards the sustainable management of Lake Dambal and its surrounding wetlands, ultimately contributing to the well-being of local communities and the preservation of critical ecosystems.

VL  - 12
IS  - 6
ER  -

Copy | Download