A New Hope for Ethiopia’s Forests

By Ilaria Germishuizen – ICFR Research Director

In December 2024, an exciting five-year project kicked off in Ethiopia, bringing fresh hope for sustainable forestry and better livelihoods in rural communities. This initiative focuses on managing pests and diseases that threaten vital tree crops, which are essential for both local economies and the national landscape.

Led by the Institute for Commercial Forestry Research (ICFR) and the Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI) at the University of Pretoria, the project aims to develop effective pest management strategies tailored to Ethiopia’s unique environment. It’s supported by a collaboration of organisations, including the University of the Sunshine Coast, Ethiopian Forestry Development, and the Centre for International Forest Research, highlighting the power of global teamwork in tackling complex challenges.

Ethiopia’s forests provide crucial resources, from food to energy, but they face significant threats from pests and diseases. For example, wattle rust is a major threat to Ethiopian wattle plantations, important for local agroforestry. This project aims to combat pest and disease threats through sustainable practices.

The focus of the project lies in developing a balanced approach to managing pests, combining different methods, including improved site-species matching, enhanced tree care practices, and biological control. The team hopes this sustainable approach will minimise crop damage while protecting the environment. Key activities include testing new tree species that could thrive in Ethiopia’s diverse climates and be more resilient to pests. The team will also set up demonstration plots to teach local farmers better management techniques, ensuring that the solutions are practical and culturally relevant.

Capacity building is another major focal area, with training for smallholders, nursery managers, and forestry officers in pest identification and management. This hands-on knowledge will empower communities to be self-sufficient in protecting their crops.

The project has already begun, with groundwork laid for new nurseries and trials starting in June-July 2025. With strong collaboration, careful planning, and ongoing investment in training and research, this initiative promises to bolster Ethiopia’s forests and enhance the livelihoods of its rural communities for years to come. Stay tuned as this inspiring project unfolds!