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DOI: 10.4172/2375-4516.1000169
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Retrospect and Prospects of Combining Conservation and Development in

Nechsar National Park, Southern Ethiopia
Tamagn Woyesa*
Department of History and Heritage Management, College of Social Science and Humanities, Mizan-Tepi University, Mizan-Teferi, Ethiopia
Abstract
The study was carried-out to assess the retrospect and prospect of conservation and development in Nechsar
National Park among Guji Oromo pastoral community in Southern Ethiopia. To this end, data was collected
through interview, focus group discussion and from written sources. The collected data was analyzed in qualitative
approaches. The study results show that the park is in critical conditions as previous conservation efforts failed to
provide significant improvement to neither the community nor biodiversity resources. Various ecological crises are
vividly observed in the park. The pastoral Guji community residing within the park is completely dependent on Nechsar
National Park resources for pasture and water for their livestock. The study identified that the previous attempt made
to achieve conservation of the Park based on traditional top-down approach recognizes the community as a threat to
conservation. There are challenges identified concerning the issues of conservation and development in the park as
far as the Guji community is concerned. As a result the community has never been part of government conservation
and tourism based benefit in the park. The effect in community eroded sense of ownership and developed negative
perception towards park activities. This research also suggested the need of incorporating intangible cultural
resources of the community which can be used as an asset for conservation adding on already identified traditional
(natural) attractions in the Park. The study recommended the implementation of community based conservation in
the park recognizing Guji community as active part of the conservation effort in and around the park. It also tried to
see the possibility of enhancing protected area conservation through community based conservation to guarantee
sustainability.
Keywords: Community; Conservation; Conservation and herding and agriculture is the main source of income and livelihood
development; Settlement in developing countries, human-wildlife conflict is more experienced
there for natural resource consumption which brought wildlife under
Abbreviations: EFDREPA: the Federal Democratic Republic of serious threat [2]. Human wildlife contests begin when livestock try to
Ethiopia Environmental Protection Authority; EWCO: Ethiopian win food and water against the will of wildlife and vise verse. It is for the
Wildlife Conservation Organization; FAO: Food and Agriculture sake of dealing with this conflict, the idea of linking conservation and
Organization; ICDPs: Integrating Conservation and Development community development often called community based conservation
Projects; IUCN: International Union for Conservation of Nature; MOA: approaches that incorporate simultaneous interest of people and nature
Ministry of Agriculture; NNP: Nechsar National Park; PATTEC: Pan with varieties of activities emerged.
African Tsetse and Trypanosomiasis Eradication Campaign; SNNPRS:
Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples Regional State The need of linking conservation initiatives in protected areas
with local community livelihood to ensure sustainability through
Glossary community based conservation is highly required in Ethiopia as well.
Having described the potential of Ethiopia in terms of biodiversity
Gamogofa Zone: is a county found in SNNP where NNP located. ranging from Afro-montane climate at high altitude to Dallol
Arbaminch: is the seat of Gamogofa zone administration. depression, the GEF Portfolio Identification Document pointed out
the problem of grazing and settlement, fuel wood and charcoal among
Shecha and Sikela: are sub-towns in Arbaminch city named after others are serious concern for the decline of original forest cover in the
Guji Oromo local language, they claim this to show how they long the country [3]. In Ethiopia, lowland is a place of conflict in land use for
lived there before the declaration of NNP. livelihood and grazing on the one hand and wildlife management on
DHV Consultant. BV: if from where the NNP map of this research the other. Whereas highland is facing agricultural land expansion and
copied. DHV Consultants. BV (1996). National Rehabilitation in fuel wood consumption stressing pressure on wildlife habitats [4].
Southern Ethiopia Project. EU Project No.7ACPET068. Third Six-
Monthly Report. 1Juky 1995-30 November. 1996. EWCO.
*Corresponding author: Woyesa T, Department of History and Heritage
Introduction Management. College of Social Science and Humanities, Mizan-Tepi University,
Mizan-Teferi, Ethiopia, Tel: +251913176580; E-mail: [email protected]
It is obvious that human being tried to conserve the environment
in different tradition for centuries. Protected area is “an area of land Received October 01, 2016; Accepted October 25, 2016; Published November
03, 2016
and/or sea especially dedicated to the protection and maintenance of
biological diversity, and of natural and associated cultural resources, Citation: Woyesa T (2016) Retrospect and Prospects of Combining Conservation
and managed through legal or other effective means” [1]. However, and Development in Nechsar National Park, Southern Ethiopia. Intel Prop Rights.
4: 169. doi: 10.4172/2375-4516.1000169
most of the establishments of protected areas do not consider the
interest and livelihood needs of communities living in or adjacent to Copyright: © 2016 Woyesa T. This is an open-access article distributed under the
terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted
these areas causing conflict between communities whose livelihood use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and
depend on the protected areas and conservationists. Since livestock source are credited.
Intel Prop Rights, an open access journal Volume 4 • Issue 3 • 1000169

ISSN: 2375-4516
Citation: Woyesa T (2016) Retrospect and Prospects of Combining Conservation and Development in Nechsar National Park, Southern Ethiopia. Intel
Prop Rights. 4: 169. doi: 10.4172/2375-4516.1000169
Page 2 of 18
In protected areas, gazetting is essential to specify areas allowed Specific objectives: To assess the possibility of linking community
for human action and areas exclusive to wildlife. However, in Ethiopia based conservation and developments in Nechsar National Park.
among National parks only Semein Mountains National park and
 To examine the challenges of implementing Community based
Awash National Park are properly gazzetted while the remaining is
conservation in the park.
prone to various crises [4-6]. Consequently, the current conservation
effort has facing challenges due to environmental degradation related Research questions
with man-made and natural disasters as Bonine,and Dalzen,2003 cited
 What are the major challenges of community based conservation
in Fasssil [7]. The subject of this research, Nechsar National Park (here
in Nechsar National park?
after, NNP) is found in Southern Nation Nationalities and People
regional government in southern Ethiopia, covers 514 kilometer square  What is the prospect of community and conservation in
located 510 kilometers south of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s capital. The Nechsar National park?
pastoral community who dwell inside the park as agro-pastoral always
makes the demarcation and conservation very difficult since 1970s. Research design and approach
Statement of the problem The qualitative research design was employed for this study. The
need of choosing qualitative design was to study things in their natural
The NNP is mainly inhabited by two communities; Guji setting, interpret phenomena and getting in touch with everyday
(pastoralists who dwell with in the park) and Kore (very adjacent to the social events. Non- Probability sampling has been used by which
park as farmers) are for long believed to be the main challenges to the those selected were believed to be well informed about the problem.
park conservation objective. The problem is more complex regarding Particularly, purposive sampling was applied because respondents
the Guji community which is the subject of the study. Guji live inside were chosen purposefully who were believed to have the required
the park territory as agro-pastoral that made the demarcation of the information like community elders, park and government officials.
park territory very difficult since 1970s [8]. Since the establishment of The most common sources of qualitative data include interviews,
the park, resettlement as the only solution had been tried at least three observations, and secondary data were used. Primary data was obtained
times but ended in failures. As a result, park and the community see through interview with informants in the site, field observations and
each other in suspicion where the community feel deprived from the focus group discussion. Secondary data was collected from written
right to use park resource as the main livelihood. Park-community materials and other sources. The nature of qualitative research requires
conflict arises in the interplay to secure conservation in one hand data collection up to the point of saturation. Data saturation happened
and to maintain traditional livelihood on the other. Moreover, Guji when the researcher faces no longer new information as continued the
community is begun to engage in agriculture in addition to pastoralism. collection [9]. The point of saturation for the research was occurred by
This development together with population increase is likely to result interviewing 40 individuals in Nechsar Guji village. In addition eleven
in deforestation and degradation of forest cover and dwindling of interviews were conducted outside Guji village with government officials
wildlife species. and experts. There were also three focus group discussions conducted
in the same village. Since Guji is a homogenous society sharing almost
Pastoral Guji is now successfully establishing permanent settlement
similar view in case of NNP, the stated numbers of interviewees were
in few parts of the park while the park management is getting weaker and
found sufficient in addition to focus group discussion.
unable to manage activities in the park. Today, the park management
body seems incapable to conduct sustainable conservation with the Source of data
involvement of communities. Despite all these prevailing problems,
NNP has no Management Plan to carry out effective conservation. I. Primary data: Interview was the main instrument used to collect
The park is also running with poor infrastructure, weak linkage with primary data. Interviewees were peaked in ‘Snowball’ manner starting
concerned bodies to boost conservation, deforestation and decline from interview with someone in the community to the most needed
of wildlife resources. The present development associated with Guji individuals or groups until the point of saturation achieved. The
community in NNP made the problem more complex than before as semi-structured interview was also carried out with the community
deterioration continue. members’, government and park officials as well as experts. At
the community level 40 individuals who have had daily practices,
Conservation in place perceives that community as a threat to experiences and attachment with the park were interviewed with semi-
biodiversity. The study shows that Guji community has not been part of structured interview.
government conservation rather seen as threat to park existence; hence,
they are marginalized from any park related planning and decision Key informant interview was held with five community elders
making which made them antagonistic towards any park development. whilst the remaining informants were interviewed in market place, farm
Most of the previous studies focus on biological diversity and natural and in pasture land employing semi-structured interview. Other Key
setting of the park as well as issue of resettlement. For example Abiyot in informants were the park chief warden, two government officials from
2009 and Asabe in 2011 studied the issue of resettlement whereas Clark Gamogofa Zone, and two EWCA experts, whereas one communication
in 2011 and many others studied deeply the natural and biodiversity officer from Oromia Regional State and one official from Oromia forest
resources of the NNP. Consequently this research dealt retrospect and and wildlife enterprise were interviewed. In addition, out of six experts
prospect of conservation efforts and the feature of conservation and in NNP four of them contributed to the interview as well as five scouts.
development. In-depth interview was employed to collect information from key
informants on the issues and concerns of CBET, historical relationship
Objectives of the study of Guji and the park, conservation of wildlife, the future fate of the
General objective: The overall objective of the research is to assess community and the park etc. Interview with the community members
the retrospect and prospect of community based conservation in and focus group discussions held in the village were also deal with
Nechsar National Park. mainly in areas mentioned above.

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Focus group discussion: Focus group discussion helps to accesses Profile of respondents: Sometimes in social sciences research
information from a group of people in a natural setting pave the way characteristics of respondents have significant impact in explaining
for good contact between the researcher and community members. their views about the problem. In this part characteristic of respondents
For the purpose of this study focus group discussion was applied in in view of age, sex, education, occupation of 40 community member,
Guji village mainly with pastoralists and; participants for focus group three focus group and 11 interviewees of experts and officials stated
discussion did selected in cognizant to age, roles in the community, (Table 1).
participation in the issues and activities associated with the NNP. Three
focus groups were identified with six members each; two focus group There were only 5 females interviewed because females were
discussions with elders and one group with youth. Focus group with reluctant to take part in interview upholding the patriarchal culture of
women and girls was unsuccessful because it was difficult to arrange the community which restrains them to act independently. Marriage
focus group with woman as they reluctant to take part in. May be is one of the most important social institutions in human life which
due to cultural reason girls were not free to carry out discussion with may influence respondents view. Out of 40 respondents, 36 of them
someone else in their own will especially in translation. In addition, get married that mean most of them carry responsibility in the family.
fears of researcher’s identity as some of them were not in a position The responsibility in the family and community level may affect
to offer genuine information freely. As a result the researcher carried the response given. Since the community culture appreciates early
out informal interview and discussions in Guji hut having coffee and
marriage and polygamy, majority of the respondents have already got
traveling on feet to market or Arbaminch using boat to verify the
married. In addition, based on the profile in table above it is possible
formal responses.
to understand that most of the community livelihood is depend on the
Observation: Observation and site visits were made to supplement natural resource of NNP. The out most majority 28 out of 40 informants
data from key informants. To understand events in the field observation led their lives based on traditional pastoralism and agriculture (Tables
was carried out in Guji village while taking field notes in issues stated 2 and 3).
above. Secondary data also collected from park documents, archives,
books and brochures. Secondary data was mainly obtained from EWCA Age and Educational level of the respondents are two of the most
library where previous researches, magazine, report and articles. In important characteristics to understand the view of community since
addition documents in Institute of Ethiopian Studies contributed for it determines the maturity level of respondents to some extent. The
secondary data source as well. Web sources like articles, researches and working age group range from 18 to 46 contributed the lion share of the
journals were equally important to accomplish the study. interview because they have active day to day attachment with the park
Data analysis and interpretation: In spite of the chosen as farmers and pastoral. It is these groups carry out most development
methodology, data analysis is the process of inferring meaning activities in the park and participate well in time of conflict and
from data gathered. To this end, unlike the quantitative, qualitative cooperation as well. Those specified in range 46-70 were mainly
research usually analyze data throughout the study [9]. Here, thematic community elders who have had long years of historical connection
analysis was used in reducing large sum of qualitative data in to with the park, representative of the community to negotiate in time of
themes and patterns for analysis. In qualitative research data can be
conflict with neighboring communities and park administration etc. In
classified as belonging to a particular group and comparison with
terms of education, Guji community is almost uneducated because the
observation do not belong to this group [10]. Qualitative data from
households and stakeholders was summarized into specific themes history of education is very recent in the park where grade 1-5 School
and patterns on the issue of tourism, and conservation in NNP. The has opened only in 2009. For long, Guj as pastoral remain illiterate but
sort out information in categories they belong given meaning to recently it is improving associated with the development of permanent
those data obtained from primary and secondary sources through settlement in the park. There is only one female who completed grade
thematic organization that allows comparison between components 10 in Guji community staying away from NNP for years for education
of the same category and between categories. It means, obtained data purpose. In the same way the educational, age and other social
was organized by questions in order to identify consistencies and characteristics of participants of focus group discussion share similar
differences. The organized information was categorized in theme. For
experiences since the community is almost homogenous.
instance, one of the questions says; what is your concern in NNP? The
response categorization based on their concern can be the reduction Review of Literature
of cultivation the size of cultivation land, loss of pasture land, disease
transmission from wildlife, eviction (categories) etc. In another case, Protected areas and conservation
the main problem in most protected areas of developing countries is
human-wildlife conflict which can be categorized in relation to wildlife Protected area: Protected area is an area of land and/or sea
loss, wildlife attack on domestic animals and crop, disease transmission especially dedicated to the protection and maintenance of biological
etc. The response in each questions were compared with in the same diversity, and of natural and associated cultural resources, and managed
categories and across categories. Finally, summarized, meaning given through legal or other effective means [1]. OAU in article III (d) use the
to the text, and finally the result was interpreted. term “Conservation area” which means any protected natural resource
Gender Marital Status Occupation

Male 35 Single 3 5 students 1 Kebele official, 1 agriculture extension worker and 28 agro-pastoral
Married 32
Female 5 Single 1 1teacher and 4 housewives
Married 4
Table 1: Profile of respondents.

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Age in years Frequency Remark No.163/2008), prohibit any human activity like grazing, agriculture,
18-20 15 bee keeping or honey harvest with in the park.
29-45 20
Conflict in protected area: Conflicts between wildlife and
46-70 5 Key Informants
people, particularly those who share the immediate boundaries with
Total 40
protected area are common phenomenon all over the world [13].
Table 2: Ages profile of Respondents. Nature conservation in Africa has been based on western notions
brought to the continent during colonial era [14] where protected area
Frequency Remark
management is primarily based on the interest of the nation while
Degree No
people living adjacent to the protected area is subject to restrictive
Diploma 1
laws. Conservation without the consent of the local community creates
Certificate 1 Female
negative perception towards wildlife and other protection categories
Primary(1-8) 10
which may result in conflict [15]. Conflict in protected area is the result
Secondary school(9-12) 7
Illiterate 31
of diverse interests, goals and aspirations that individuals or groups
Total 40
within legally established and secluded environments have, which all
too often resulted in either positive or negative impacts on the use value
Table 3: Educational profiles of Respondents.
of the area [16].
area, whether it be a strict natural reserve1, a national park or a special
As far as the overall conflict between “people and parks” or
reserve[11]. In Article II (2) of the OAU, National Park is:-
between human needs and conservation is concerned, human-wildlife
Areas exclusively set aside for the propagation, protection, conflict perhaps holds the dominant place. Therefore, the attitude of
conservation and management of vegetation and wild animals as well local people toward wildlife is essential for effective conservation [17].
as for the protection of sites, land-spaces or geological formations of The main cause of human-wildlife conflict is the result of increasing
particular scientific or aesthetic value, for the benefit and enjoyment human population and competition with wildlife for the same
of the general public; and in which the killing, hunting and capture declining living spaces and resources [18]. Conflicts appear when the
of animals and the destruction or collection of plants are prohibited actions of humans or wildlife have an adverse impact upon the other
except for scientific and management purposes and on the condition [19]. Another factor in precipitating the conflict in protected areas is
that such measures are taken under the direction or control of the the feeling of marginalization, loss of source of livelihood and lack
competent authority(Ibid., p.3). of concern from the park authorities. In another word, differences
in objectives between conflicting parties concerning protected area
IUCN further classified protected areas in six-category system
contribute to the prevailing conflict. For instance, the objectives behind
based on the extent to which human involvement or development is
conservation project is to conserve natural resources for long-term use,
allowed. According to this classification, the first category is the most
where as the concern of the communities of protected areas is the need
conservative and almost completely free from human intervention and
to have a means of livelihood for survival [16].
development, whereas the last category is tolerant toward integration
of development and conservation. The first category faces least Conflict between communities and protected area is also manifested
human impact while the category VI faces the most. National park is in the form of claiming ownership of protected area. The claim of
designated under CATEGORY II as protected area managed mainly ownership sometimes result in violence reaction and counter action;
for ecosystem protection and recreation. National park is “a natural Example, armed clash in Khao Yai National Park in Thailand [16]. In
area of land and/or sea, designated to protect the ecological integrity of many developing countries human-wildlife conflict is serious obstacle
one or more ecosystems for present and future generations, b) exclude for the implementation of conservation objectives and management
exploitation or occupation inimical to the purposes of designation of protected areas. Human-induced problems facing wildlife are land-
of the area, and c) provide a foundation for spiritual, scientific, use conflict, habitat destruction of the wildlife, blockage of migratory
educational, and recreational and visitor opportunities, all of which corridors and wildlife exploitation. Whereas wildlife related problems
must be environmentally and culturally compatible” [1]. to local communities as a result of conservation are, marginalizing
Protected area system in Ethiopia is the product of IUCN the local people, denying people access to traditional and legitimate
classification based on strict conservation principle. In Ethiopia, two rights, risk to human life due to attack of wild animals and disease
important proclamations to govern conservation area have been transmission that creates the perception that conservation is liability
passed. These are Proclamation NO.541/2007, a proclamation to for the community [13,20].
provide for the Development, Conservation and Utilization of wildlife Integrating community development and conservation
and, a proclamation to provide for the establishment of the Ethiopian
Wildlife Conservation Authority (proclamation No.575/2008) [12]. To talk about community based conservation, it is better to
Proclamation NO. 541/2007, Art. 2-(8) define “national park” mean an characterize the concept of community and community participation.
area designated to conserve wildlife and associated natural resources Community has been defined based on different concepts and
to preserve the scenic and scientific value of the area which may disciplines. The English word community is based on two ancient
includes lakes and other aquatic areas (Ibid.p.28). While (Regulation words; the Latin “Communitas” meaning common; and the older
Greek “biocenosis”, it is an ecological term meaning “a group of
1
In Article II(1) Strict Nature Reserve is an area under state control ‘’While
throughout which any form of hunting or fishing, any undertaking connected with integrated and interdependent plants and animals”. Currently, the
forestry, agriculture or mining, any grazing, any excavation or prospecting, drilling, word community has two interpretations. The first one is more recently
construction, any work tending to alter the configuration of the soil or the character developed possess social ideals of solidarity, sharing, and consensus.
of the vegetation, any water pollution and, generally, any act likely to harm or disturb
the fauna of flora, including introduction of zoological or botanical species, whether The second and commonly used is refers to actual groupings of people
indigenous or imported, wild or domesticated, are strictly forbidden(OAU,1968)’’ based on affinity; common characteristics, ethnicity, age gender or

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through geography [21]. Community is also characterized as a set of approaches that incorporates simultaneous interest of people and nature
population groups live in a specific conditions together in organization with verities of activities like integrated conservation and development,
and of social and cultural cohesion. Society is usually considered primary environmental care and collaborative management[32].
as community and this has fostered ideas about community-based Common objectives shared by all community-based conservation
conservation and community conservation [22]. For the purpose of this initiatives are, involvement of local knowledge and traditional values in
research community implies group of people in specified geographic conservation of biodiversity, foster socio economic development with
area who share the same language, ethnic origin and history2. biodiversity conservation, and decentralize power from the center to
The McGraw-Hill’s Dictionary defines participation as taking grass root level in the community in terms of management [30]. ICDPs
part in an event or activity [23]. While community participation is (Integrating Conservation and Development Projects) are advocating
to denote that “intended beneficiaries are encouraged to take matters conservation by creating opportunities of alternative income sources
into their own hands, to participate in their own development through and socio-economic development to the community [33]. To ensure
mobilizing their own resources, defining their own needs, and making sustainable conservation, the protected area managers ought to have
their own decisions about how to meet them” [24]. Various terms, full information regarding the socio-economic condition of the
such as community development, public participation, and community community, and protected areas has to contribute for the conservation
empowerment have been used to show community participation in of cultural and biological diversity [32].
local affairs. In terms of tourism planning point of view as Haywood
1988 cited in Okazaki, 2008, community participation as a process of Since the major objective of ICDPs is to reduce the pressure on
involving all stakeholders (local government officials, local citizens, a protected area through generating benefit to communities, it has at
architects, developers, business people, and planners) in such way that least three strategies to achieve the objectives. The first strategy is focus
decision making is shared [25]. Community participation can vary on strengthening park management through research which could be
from manipulative to self-mobilization; that is passive versus active possible in the course of development of park management plans and
participation. If the participation of the community is passive the other related issues. Creating buffer zone can be put under this strategy
benefit is going to be indirect and limited to job creation. While, active which is sometimes taken as a protective band of land that encircles
participation of the community ensures their involvement in planning
the protected areas [31,34]. In buffer zones certain limited exploitation
and management of tourism resources and protects their community
of resources and activities are allowed like research and tourism [34].
interest [26].
Compensation and substitution is considered as the second main
Conservation is an effort to maintain and use natural resources strategy of ICDPs aimed to help those people who have no or few
wisely in an attempt to ensure that those resources will be available alternative means of livelihood apart from exploiting natural resources
for future generations [27]. Whereas development is the improvement in the park [33].
of man and his living conditions which include improvement in the
standard of living, healthcare, infrastructure etc. [28]. However, the key Compensating economic loses of the community due to park
point is to decide on the right ways of conservation and development establishment, to ensure alternative resources as substitute, and
perspective. The concern is that should conservation carried out in provide alternative means of income in place of already existing source
expense of community development or community development of income in monetary or other means is also the strategy of ICDPs[35].
should be achieved in expense of conservation? It is also asked that if Substitute targets on specific resources, for example, if a park area
conservation and development can be achieved simultaneously [16]. was formerly used as a source of fuel wood, outside the boundaries
Traditional conservation see community as a threat to biodiversity might provide an adequate substitution. In cases where substitutes are
conservation, as a result the old approach was failed to ensure not possible, ICDPs may provide alternatives access to new ways of
the conservation objectives and led to a new paradigm shift in earning a living in the form of direct employment, low-interest loans,
conservation [29]. improved access to markets, new skills training, etc [30,35]. Finally, the
The “old” conventional conservation is based in the western concept ICDPs give heavy emphasis to local social and economic development
of wildlife conservation which emphasizes in the notion of pristine of communities along protected area boundaries through poverty
ecosystems without taking the interest of locals in to account [20]. Due alleviation and community development activities.
to this, the so called community-based conservation (CBC) emerged
since 1980s, which is participatory in its approach aimed to attain The attitude of local community towards the conservation area is
conservation and community development simultaneously [16,22]. a determinant factor for the successes of conservation. To this end,
More precisely, Community-based conservation3 (CBC), is a means of preparing ways of improving and establishing strong relationship
achieving integrated conservation and development considering both with the community should be the priority to achieve sustainable
concepts as complementarities rather than two antagonistic parties conservation [36]. Good knowledge of the attitude of local people is
with recognition of human livelihood and biodiversity conservation a base for strengthening relationship with the protected areas which
[30,31]. could be used as an input for policy and management action as well
Community based conservation is often said people oriented as future success [37]. Among five principles and guidelines adopted
by WWF and IUCN/WCPA, the first one recognizes the contribution
2
In this research community refers to Guji Oromo who dwelling in geographic of local people for the maintenance of many of the earth’s most
region of NNP, they are Oromo ethnically and speak Affan Oromo, share the same fragile ecosystems, through their traditional sustainable resource use
history different from other Oromo groups and Gujis’ elsewhere in relation to NNP.
practices and culture-based respect for nature. Therefore, the local
3
Some literatures use the term community based resource management (CBNRM) communities should be accepted as equal partners in the development
which recognizes that local communities are often best placed to conserve natural
resources, as long as they stand to gain more than they lose from doing so(Elliot
and implementation of conservation strategies that affect in the
and Sumba, 2011) establishment and management of protected areas [38].

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Results and Discussion One of my informant whom I interviewed in Arbaminch (Feb, 2013)
recognizes the existence of Guji not only in and around Arbaminch but
Brief history of Guji Oromo in Nechsar National Park also along the way from Arbaminch to Elgo and Wozeqa in 1960s. In
Guji Oromos are pastorals who have settled within Nechsar addition, there are lot of information to prove Guji presence in 1960s
National park (here after NNP) and have become isolated from and 1970s. Two government officials interviewed in Gamo Gofa Zone
the main body of Guji Oromo 40 km to the east [39]. According to believe that Guji came to the area after the declaration of the region as
informants, Guji Oromo elsewhere is divided into four tribal groups NNP in 1974. Local government official in the office of Tourism and
namely Uraga, Aladu, Mati and Okku. Mati and Okku tribes are mainly Government Communication told that “there was no one in Nechsar
populated in Bore and Kibremengist while Aladu and Uraga are the to claim and complained about park establishment and no evidence
main Guji Oromo groups settled in the park. On the other hand, Guji of human presence in the area in 1970s (January, 20, 2013). However,
elders said that there is no single family or individual from Mati tribe officials believe that Guji as pastoral used to come to the region
and only one family from Okku tribe reside in the park. Guji in NNP seasonally but never established permanent settlement in the park
are further divided into clans and families headed by their respective except new experience since 1990s. Nevertheless, the response based on
clan chiefs. These are mainly, Bala, Obbitu, Analtu, Woyisittu, Dhantu, focus group discussion and interview shows Guji Oromo has slightly
Darartu, Masintu etc. different stand in this regard. Guji elders claim their presence in Nechsar
back to Emperor Menelik and little before him saying “our fathers even
It is surprising to see each and every Guji identifies the identity of paid tribute to Menelik while they live in Bonke and Gandulo . We
their relatives in which tribe, clan or family he/she belongs. The way ourselves remember paying tribute to Asfa Mezo who was land lord in
Guji greets their own clan is different from greeting across other clans. Amaro as representative of Emperor Haile Selassie(1930s-1974). The
More surprising is that Guji identifies each other clan based on the way tax collector during this time was said to be Chiqa Qoro”(Abba Abire
they wear jewelers and sometimes hair style. Having seen any cattle, and Abba Nigusse, March 1, 2013) (Figure 1).
sheep or goat in the market or grazing field, it is easy for Guji to identify
the cattle is belong to Balla or obbitu clan; they have recognized symbol According to the elders, Guji paid tribute to the imperial regime
for each clan on the ear or other body part of their cattle. Guji elsewhere in two places depending on where they settled. Initially, those settled
meets in Me’a Bokko around Gedeo (Dilla) in each eight years to attend in Bonke and Gandulo were paying to imperial authority in Chencha
transition of power in Gada system (i.e. political and social organization (oldest city in Gamo Gofa highland) whereas those in Irgaansa(Nechsar
of the Oromo). However, the seat of Guji Gada is Hagere Mariam or Bule Plain) to Dilla and Hagre Mariam but latter both Guji groups were
Horra as locally. The government of Gada in Hagere Mariam appoints included under Amaro Kelle. However, it is difficult to verify that
its representative to NNP Guji called Murra. Murra or a group of elders’ pastoral community who were moving here and there paid tax as
carryout activities assigned by Gada in NNP but when serious issues arises equal as settled community before 1950s( see map for places). Guji
the Murra may refer cases to Hagere Mariam. Everyone in the community informants claim that they used for pasture today’s city of Arbaminch
adhere to any order from Gada in Hagere Mariam or Murra in NNP. in Cheechaa (a sub-town of Arbaminch now called Shecha) and Siqalla,
Though majority of Guji are now protestant Christian, they accept the now Sikela [40,41]. Guji present evidence to the name of Channo
word of Gada as divine voice. Ignorance of this traditional system of Guji Dorga4 (10 km on the way from Arbaminch to Addis Ababa) to their
community for conservation sake has be considered by some as one of long time presence in the region as they claim the village was named
the cause of deteriorating conditions in NNP. after Dorga Done a prominent Guji elder.
One of the issues associated with Guji is where were they? And how Literally, Arbaminch mean forty springs from which the city
they came to being in NNP? Currently majority of Guji live in Oromiya acquired the present name. Nevertheless, my Guji informant in Sulula
regional state and minority of them found in different parts of Southern village defended the name as originally from Guji influence whose
Nation and Nationalities regional states(here after SNNP), where NNP evidence is that today’s reverine forest and so called forty springs was
is found too. The geographic territory of NNP is under the authority of habitat for Arbba (Elephant) and Defersa (Bufalo). As a result, Guji
SNNP and the administration of the park is run by Ethiopian Wildlife identify this place by the name Arbba or Badda Arba_(Forest where
Authority (here after EWCA) while the Guji community ethnically
Oromo who dwell inside the NNP territory is under the administration
of Oromiya regional state government. Though the NNP is officially
part of the SNNP province, some minor groups in Oromiya regional
state claim the park. According to Getachew the history of Guji living
in the Nechsar region dated back to 16th century. It means that the
arrival of Guji in the park was coincided with the Oromo population
movement of the 16th century which has no historical or oral record to
proof this argument. Given the Oromo tradition of war and culture of
assimilating other ethnic groups, the Guji Oromo should not have been
the minority in the region as far as 16th Oromo expansion to other part
of the Ethiopia is concerned unless other convincing argument is given.
There is also another argument that sees Guji as an encroacher and
reduces their presence to 1990s, which argue that when the Socialist
government of Ethiopia overthrown by the EPRDF, Guji used this
Figure 1: Map showing the study area (Source: DHV Consultant. BV, 1996).
vacuum in central government as an opportunity to settle in NNP. The
park management recognizes the presence of Guji long before 1990s
but as any pastoral community staying for only short season and leave Channo is a village under Arbaminch Zuria Woreda Administration. It has three
4
to other areas [40]. Kebeles(district) named Channo Chalbbaa, Channo Dorga and Channo Mile.

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Elephant inhabit). However, due to the foundation of Arbaminch city After the ‘resettlement’ (eviction), NNP was free from grazing.
and the resulted significance of spring (Minch in Amharic) to the city Nonetheless, during this time Guji still habited in the eastern side
pulled the name towards Arbaminch from Bada Arbba. The view of of the park along Sermale river valley while burning large areas of
Bada Arba or Arba is not well known even among majority of Guji wild life habitat in dry season and grazing their livestock in the park
informants with the exception of very few aged people. Actually, various besides some incidence of poaching [42]. The 1990 observation of
sources written in the park show the existence of Elephant (Arba), Stafford after the resettlement reveled that problems associated with
African Buffalo and Rhinoceros in the very beginning but now these Guji had been resolved with the exception of small number of cattle
species no longer exist in NNP. Most arguments recognize the presence less than ten across Nechsar plain was seen. The only human presence
of Guji in the area during park establishment but their difference lie on observed in NNP were those coming from Amaro crossing the park
whether the community was permanent settler or temporary dwellers. daily in large number to Arbaminch City. There were also small group
of people in eastern side of the park in hot spring for healthy reason
The wildlife survey carried out and recommendation given in 1960,
staying for few days but causing no damage. In addition, two small
made the need of park establishment mandatory in Nechsar plain
markets were occasionally held on the west side of Sermale river and
mainly because this area was “unspoiled and practically uninhabited by
near the hot spring [44]. However, the eviction created tension and
man, these plains abound in wildlife.” According to MOA, the area had
ill-felling towards the park authority making park areas towards the
very little human settlement along the periphery except few inhabitants
north difficult to visit and patrol (Example, toward Haroo Ropi). In
around the park and few pastorals periodically encroaching in to the
this period under observation by Stafford the most damaging was fuel-
park [8]. It was also reportedly observed that thousands of cattle while
wood collection that would be transported for sell in Arbaminch city,
grazing in Nechsar plain and creating serious habitat degradation in
home consumption and construction.
1969 and 1970.
In 1991 the Derg regime was overthrown by the EPRDF, this critical
The argument of this research is that the issue of conservation
event created a political vacuum in the centre and resulted in turmoil
is abandoned in NNP in favor of dilemma sometimes political.
for brief period [45]. The political instability was an opportunity for
Moreover, the value of traditional system and institutions is not yet
Guji to return back to where they had been evicted and took brutal
assumed recognition for conservation and achieving community based
action against the wildlife, considering wildlife as a cause of their
conservation. For example, the Gamogofa administration sees the case
eviction [40]. In Ethiopia, between 1991 and 1992, wild animals were
of Guji as territorial aggrandizement rather than a threat to biodiversity
indiscriminately hunted, forests were destroyed, and settlements
conservation while the Oromia Regional state is appreciating Guji
were established in protected areas [45]. It means the revenge against
to secure permanent settlement in the park without any care for the
protected area was a common occurrence in immediate days of the
very objective of national park. Understanding the situation broadly
EPRDF takeover of power from Derg led military government. In
is very helpful for effective conservation and enhancement of local
the same way, the communities evicted from in and around Senkelle
livelihood through community based conservation. Little attention has
sanctuary used the instability in the central government to return back
been given to accommodate the local livelihood and conservation. As
quickly, and posed heavy damage to the property of sanctuary, and
a result degradation of the park resources is very visible such as decline
resettled within the sanctuary [20]. Since the previous government
of wildlife, expansion of agriculture and deforestation.
action deprived the access of local community to their traditional
Nechsar National Park after 1980: Based on Stafford and Telfor source of livelihood elsewhere in protected areas of Ethiopia based on
the visit of Bolton in 1969 and 1970, confirmed that thousands of cattle the concept of traditional top-down approach for conservation, created
were being grazed in Nechsar plain causing severe degradation [42]. prolonged antagonism towards protected areas in the country.
In 1974 during park establishment, there were few settlers in NNP
where only temporary Guji hut and permanent villages on the eastern The EPRDF period brought the NNP administration in to
hills were seen on the slope of Amaro Mountain [43]. According to 27 the government of SNNP from 1991-2004. The EPRDF period is
interviewed Guji informants, these settlements were in Bonke hill, Wallo known by three important developments. The first one is the era of
(Bada Gagura), Gada Bonke, Dache, Handarako, Talke(Golbo)105. National Parks Rehabilitation in Southern Ethiopia Project (NPRSEP)
Wallo is located around Arbaminch Airport still inhabited by Guji immediately after 1991 when the European Union offered to fund
Oromo. Nechsar Guji identifies wallo by the name Bada Gagura mean wildlife conservation project that value €16 million. Its objective was to
forest for bee keeping in Afan Orom(local language) where Guji used rehabilitate three national parks in southern part of Ethiopia: Nechsar,
to keep bee (Gagura) for honey production. Omo and Mago national parks [46]. It was the beginning of the new
In 1982 the then government of Ethiopia resettled Guji out of the phase of resettlement question in new government which is not the
NNP mainly to Odoo Darba. However, this move was accompanied focus of this study. The second one is competition of claim over Park
by force, thus it is connoted as evection by Guji informants and some territory among two Regional states; Regional States of Oromia and
sources. Hillman in 1988 as advisor of EWCO describing the necessity SNNP. It means conservation comes secondary in favor of territorial
of resettlement in Action plan outlined that ‘Resettlement of people need. Then onward the Oromia region has been accused of favoring
from Nechsar National Park has proved difficult, necessitating the Guji settlement and undermining conservation effort by some officials.
use of force, and incursion still occu’. Assabe explained that Guji were While the SNNP is blamed ostensibly giving over emphasis to wildlife
moved to Odoo Darba [some 15 km to the east] where no road and issues under estimating the need of local community and the very
medical center, as a result thousands of cattle and many people died nature of human entitlement. The third development was transition
[14]. Actually, the problem of road and medical centre is not only
of NNP administration to Dutch based African park Company (2004-
confined to Odoo Darba but anywhere in the Park. When Guji loose
2008) which has been criticized by some as protectionist [14]. The
the main park territory mean not losing their medical centre or any
infrastructure rather pasture land. transitions was on private-public partnership basis, mean that the park
remains the public property under the state while its management run
5
For locations of settlements see Nechsar National Map by private conservation organization or African Parks.

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Gazatting NNP was the primary concern of African Parks; as ridge and preferred site for living for Guji. It is 15 minute walk on foot
a result responsibility of resettling the communities in the park was from Ardagudina to the Nechsar Plains while minimum of three hour
given to the state. In 2004, the state resettled the Guji communities from Talkie. It is a preferred site for settlement where Guji community
who reside in the core areas of the park to Odoo Darba, Abulo Alfacho is hoping to transfer their village sit from Talkie to Ardagudina.
and other neighboring areas of the park. However, the Guji once again Nowadays, forest cleaning, deforestation and building of permanent
returned back and settled in an immediate vicinity of the core area but homes are underway in Ardagudin. In addition, the only primary
not yet entered the plain. In October, 2008, the African Park Network School from 1-5 for the whole Irgaansa village, and one private clinic
announced its withdrawal from NNP. It means a contractual obligation in hut are found here.
stipulated by APF for the government to resettle the Guji, would not
Gode, Datche, and Maddo: Gode is located at the tip of Harroressa
be carried out (http://www.conservationrefugees.org). Since 2008, the
ridge around Watchole south west of Ardagudina. The Guji claim that
park administration has transferred to Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation
the land of Watchole where Gode located is the legal boundary between
Authority (EWCA). This research argue that this period marked the
the park and community. As it was observed the settlement in Gode has
beginning of the weakest ever administration in NNP where number of
been extending to the Nechsar plain and creating pressure on wildlife.
wildlife dwindling, deforestation and farming expanding in alarming
Datche settlement is part of Nechsar plain north east of Dagabule
rate, the communities around the park and park administration see
extending from Lake Abaya to Haroresa ridge, where lots of Zebra
each other in suspicion.
and Grante’s Gazzele feed. In dry season the number of household do
Settlement in Nechsar National Park not exceed 70 where as the pressure is intense in summer. Maddo is
also found within the Datche territory immediately down the slop of
Today Guji is transforming from Transhumance Pastoralism to Harroresa ridge from Ardagudan. In dry season (December to March)
establishing permanent Settlement in Irgaansa Kebele(Ganda Irgansa there are few households in Datche, where as in Maddo every hut is free
as Guji to denote the whole settlement in NNP). Based on observation, of human presence as observed. However, during summer or when any
interview and focus group discussions carried out, this research argues time rain begins Guji return with their cattle from Sulula, Talkie and
that the need of establishing strong settlement on agricultural base is other parts back especially to Datche and Maddo.
very recent event, not more than 10 years. Nowadays, Guji Oromo
reside in two main villages (Kebeles) in and around NNP, viz. Oddu In conclusion, the need of establishing permanent settlement
Darba and Irgaansa Kebele (Ganda). Since Oddu Darba is out of the around the core areas in Nechsar Plains of the park is creating the
traditional park boundary (15 Km to the north east) not important for future fate of conservation difficult. For the defensive purpose and
this research. Irgaansa Kebele(Ganda Irgansa as Guji) is to denote the need of grass for their livestock, Guji is abandoning their settlements
whole settlement in NNP. According to the village source, Irgaansa around Sermale valley for agriculture and shifting toward the core area
village is further divided in to two main Zones (sub-villages); First, of the park to establish permanent settlement. This new development
Talkie (Golbo) contains small settlements but posing greater pressure of land use change and settlement in NNP requires new conservation
on Nechsar plain are Gode, Arda Gudina, Sullula, Mado, and Dache. strategic intervention to contain the likely ecological crisis in the form
The second sub Zone is named Hitu, confined to north of Nechsar of community based conservation (Figure 2).
palins with no or little influence on the park. The total population of the
Potential resources of CBET in Nechsar National Park
park is estimated 4000-5000. (See NNP map for settlements described
below). The NNP has diverse natural and cultural resources that could
be used as an eco-destination. The Natural and cultural potential of
Telkie (Golbo): is the site of Guji kebele administration inside the
NNP is described in the following topics. In the coming topic cultural
NNP ( Bulchiinsa Ganda Irgaansa in Afan Oromo) where the main
resource potentials is to be discussed, referring to only Guji Oromo
agriculture land located. Locally Talkie is named Golbo which mean a
culture in NNP.
land between two hills namely, Gashe towards the Amaro border and
Sama’alo west of Talkie. Talkie area has been cultivated by Guji since Natural attractions of Nechsar National Park
1980s [44] and the Kore people before even this period. The Guji from
I. Vegetation: Nechsar National Park lies within the Somali-Masai
Sulula, Gode, Ardagudina and even from the remote Hittu and Darba
Regional Center of Endemism, an area of 1.9 million km2 covering most
are using Talkie as their farm land along Sermale river valley. Guji,
especially elders not prefer to live in Talkie because, it is found in the
frontier with Amaro ethnic group. As Guji informants, “Talkie is found
in gorge where the Amaro people used to attack us from the top of the
hill, as result for defensive purpose Guji prefer to reside areas near to
the core area of the park as their main dwelling site”. So it is difficult
to find settled elders in Talkie apart from visiting for market purpose
twice in a week while Ardagudina and other scattered settlements near
the Nechar plains are preferred for residence. Talkie hosts market
twice in a week (Tuesday and Friday) where Guji exchange milk and
milk products with agricultural products (particularly Cocco or false
banana) with Amaro neighbors. Guji from Zedo in Arbaminch Zuria
woreda, Wallo or Bada Gagura around Arbaminch air port, traders
from Gidicho Island in Abaya Lake and Qorga from Mirab Abaya
Woreda, and many other groups of people attend the market.
Ardagudina: Guji also established permanent village in Figure 2: Talkie village (Author Survey).
Ardagudina, which is an undulated land at the top of the Haroresa

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part of east Africa between Tanzania and Northern Ethiopia [47,48]. experience in addition to flora, fauna and the scenic splendor of the
The park is endowed with 800-1000 varieties of plant species. Four to park [8].
five major types of vegetation can be identified in NNP.
IV. Crocodile Market: Located on northern Lake Chamo, its name
1. The Somali –Masai Acacia –Commiphora deciduous bush land is derived from the large population of Nile crocodile which is endemic
and thicket is one of the predominant vegetation types. It is the largest to Africa. Along with crocodile population, it is also the best site to view
habitat or dominant vegetation type of the park in size and rich in hippo herds and flock of birds, pelicans, and lesser flamingo and other
animal species composition [47]. water related birds of the country.
2. The Somali-. Masai Edaphic grassland covers large part of V. Hot springs: Located in eastern part of the park. The hot water
Nechsar plains. The Grassland covers about 270 km2, extending from flows from the foot of Mome hill (part of Amaro Mountain). It is
Degabule in the West to the Harre hills in the east and from Dache considered by locals as having a healing effect and frequently used by
in the north down to the course of Mio river in the south[47]. It is local peoples of Amaro, Guji and residents of Arbaminch city. It has
the potential grazing land of the park where zebra and gazelle as well potential significance of upgrading to sauna bath for tourists as well.
as critically endangered Swayne’s hartebeests entirely depend on this It would be attractive and sustainable if Guji Oromo engaged in this
habitat. business having upgrading the status like Masai community does in
Masai Mara National Reserve ( Interview with Hellen Nukuria, April,
3. Wooded grassland is the third vegetation type which is found
20, 2013).
in most areas next to the bush and grassland on rugged mountainous
area including top of the hills and on some low lying area and/or VI. Hikes: Wonderful hikes can be undertaken along all sorts of
depressions. It provides both browse and grazing, supporting most routes, along many of the central steep hillsides and plains in the park.
of the wild animals in the reserve (Burchelle zebra, Greater kudu) To this end, there are five camping sites for visitors but it needed to be
especially during the dry season [49]. more. The potential could be cultural camp site in Guji village which
might be completely owned and led by the community. There is also
4. Herbaceous fresh water swamp and aquatic vegetation. This
possibility of ferry ride along the lakes from Dilla to Nechsar (Guji)
category of vegetation confined to Kulfo River swamps at its mouth
with wonderful experience which could be owned and run by the
in Lake Chamo inside the park and marginal vegetations of the two
community.
lakes (Abaya and Chamo) supporting different lake shore plant
species(Ibid). Finally, the Ground Water Forest and Riverine Forest VII. Fauna: NNP is home for varieties of species of mammalian,
Vegetation includes thick forest of the ground-water forest, Kulfo avian, reptiles and fish. It is estimated that 332 species of birds, and
Reverine forest and associated bush land. The tallest forest occurs 84 species of mammals from which four of them are endemic to the
along, the reverine banks and in the forty spring areas [48]. The riverine nation found in the park. According to the park source, the major
forest and evergreen groundwater forest in the western edge supports mammalian groups in NNP include Burchell’s Zebra, Grant’s gazelle,
an exceptionally diverse range of species; includes big trees, which have lesser kudu, Greater Kudu, Gunther’s dikdik, Anubis baboon, Colobus
closed canopy of natural forest. The forest is closely associated with the monkey, and Hippopotamus. There are six endemic mammals have
series of freshwater springs, known as “Arba Minch”, meaning “Forty been identified in the park; Swayne’s Hartebeest, White footed Rat,
Springs”. NNP has got all these scenic beauties but know in danger of Ethiopian grass mouse, Mahomet’s mouse, Crocidura Pheura and
losing it significance given the present rate of degradation associated Scottish Hairy Bat [43]. Spotted hyena, mountain reedbuck, black-
with human encroachment is concerned. backed jackal, side striped jackal, golden jackal, Defassa waterbuck,
bushbuck, klipspringer, warthog and bush pig are still present and
II. Nechsar Plain: One of the spectacular unique land cover in
lions, Leopards, and cheetah are occasionally seen. The small mammals
the park is the plain feature which extend towards the east to the foot
are about 22-23 species and an estimated between 315-400 species of
hills of Amaro Mountain approximately cover an area of 270 km2.
birds, of which 2 species are endemic to Ethiopia but the famous is
This is the major grazing habitat for wild animals such as Burchell’s
NechSar Nightjar.
zebra, Greater kudu, Grantee’s Gazelle and the endemic species of
Swayne’s hartebeest. Its scenic beauty especially in summer season Cultural Resources of NNP: People inhabited in and around
is very attractive for hiking. In addition, the ‘bridge of God’ which is NNP are rich in cultural resources which can be attractive for tourists.
an isthmus separates the two lakes also an authentic setup of natural Here, the focus is manly intangible cultural resources of the Guji
beauty. It is a land between two lakes where the two lakes are situated Oromo people who reside in the park. They have attractive culture of
4.2 km apart with elevation difference of 61 m. traditional clothes, traditionally home-made utensils which could be
potential source of souvenirs, living style and others are to mention a
III. Lakes: Lake Abaya and Chamo are the two largest rift valley
few. Here the focus is only on intangible heritages of cultural music and
lakes, portion of the lakes fall inside the park. Lake Abaya is the largest
dancing as potential tourism resource.
rift valley lakes in Ethiopia approximately 55 km of its shorelines is
part of the park. The sediments carried by rivers from highlands I. Cultural Music and Dancing as Potential source of CBET:
protect sunlight penetration and affect phytoplankton production in Traditional music and dancing can be carried out in wedding, pasturing
the lake, thus it has relatively low productive while Lake Chamo being their cattle, ritual purpose, and other occasions. Most of them are
characterized as Euthrophic Lake and supports a high density of large conducted mainly among a group of young boys on the one side and
crocodiles ,with a particular concentration of them at the beach known girls on the other. Few of the music ceremony take 10-24 hours each.
as “crocodile market”. The lakes host the largest hippo population in Qoqqe is cultural music carried out mainly in summer season, which
Ethiopia and abundant fish including Nile perch. Lakeshores areas are takes one week (7 days in a week and 24 hrs in a day) beginning in one
also an interesting component of the great biodiversity of the park. village and ends in the neighboring village. The host collects butter,
If the proposed ferry rides for tourist from Dilla to NNP in 1967 via honey, and other food items for guests who will stay for one week. The
Lake Abaya was implemented, it should have provided an amazing music ceremony starts only after the blessing of local elders.

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The objective is to honor Graaginbo (spiritual teacher), traditionally children and give them portion of their livestock as the new member
believed that avoiding the Qoqqe ceremony would bring natural of their family. According to my Kenyan colleague from Masai, the
disaster to the community and its wealth. tradition of Illmomma also exists in Masai community. In summary,
these mentioned above are at least some of the evidences concerning
Dokko, is a music ceremony carried out by girls during harvest
hospitality but there are lots of Guji socio-cultural intangible resources
or time of collecting grass for hut construction. Like Qoqqe, the hosts
worth mentioned and need to be part of the tourism resources of NNP.
prepare all the necessary requirements and announce the deadline
Moreover, biodiversity and physical attractions of NNP for ecotourism
of Dokko to all girls in the village. Girls prepare their cloth and keep
development is an exposed fact.
themselves in their respective residence. When the deadline arrives
adult boys bring girls to the place of Dokko because it is unethical However, to accommodate the natural potentials of the park
girls to come to Dokke alone. Then Dokko continue for 24 hrs in each in to the very principle of sustainability, the inclusion of human or
day without any tiresome. Weedduu looni, is the song herders sing as cultural aspects of the communities affecting the park is required. The
the cattle are teeming in line grazing on their way to the kraal or fold community under study has got a lot of traditional input of authentic
[40]. It is also about giving praise for cattle, takes place mainly where cultural attractions capable of diversifying the need of tourism industry
the household has beautiful girls not yet married. Neighboring young apart from relying only in the notion of wilderness alone. Communities
boys enter in to the compound of this household via cattle fold first in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda shares similar story with Guji living
and come to the residence with dancing. If the family of the household within the park, but others especially Kenyans are using indigenous
allows the girls to join the song, girls’ come out and other girls from the culture as input for community based conservation.
whole village join the ceremony. Then dancing continues from 7:00 PM
clock in the evening to 6:00 am in the morning. There is allotted time Farming in Nechsar National Park
for girls and boys (boys only listen when girls sing and vise verse). In The notion here is based on the fact that pastoralism is compatible
the same way the duration of music and dancing ceremony regarding with wildlife conservation relative to agriculture. This research argues
wedding is depend on the way or process of marriage come to being. that Guji is transforming from pastoralism towards agricultural way
Based on the marriage criteria music and its ceremony take place of life very recently since 2005, and this conversion is serious concern
in three ways. For instance Kadhdha, is a marriage ceremony which for future wildlife conservation in NNP. Kirubel in 1980s observed the
is usually held after prolonged process of fulfilling the requirement of existence of temporary Guji residence in Nechsar plain while permanent
traditional marriage conditions. Initially a boy identifies a girl with villages on the eastern hills were seen on the slope of Amaro mountain
whom he in love with, then he tells only to his father as he has got [43]. It is obvious that temporary settlers are not in a position to carry
girl to marry. Following this, his father alone goes to the family of out sedentary agriculture and settlement. Permanent settlers on the
that particular girl without any pervious announcement to her family. slope of Amaro Mountain were likely to be Amore people (Kore) who
Because things he may see in his way, what is happening in residence were agriculturalist during that time. Guji Oromo was also later started
of girl’s family determine the success of marriage. If his father sees farming along Sermale river valley as well [44].
someone carrying water or pasturing cattle in his way to girl’s family In the beginning as 15 Guji informants told, farming was regarded
mean a sign of good future of the couple. When father arrives in the as a work of poor people who had few numbers of cattle. These poor
family of a girl, if she was at sleep mean a bad fortune and that is the Gujis’ used to cultivate land across Sermale river while the wealth
end of their marriage ambition. Whereas, if a girl is preparing coffee at remain in Nechsar plain as pastoral. Agricultural products had
the time of his arrival, it is good news, so they arrange deadline to come brought about by Amaro agricultural people in exchange (bartering)
back with elders. This type of marriage has lots of preconditions and it of milk and milk products of Guji. The main meal item of the time
may take more than 2 years. Before exactly one week to the weeding, was “Petele”; it was prepared from cattle blood having sacked at the
music and dancing starts for 24 in a day without tiresome and ends cattle neck alive. The sacked blood could be cooked like powder.
at the last day of the week around 4:00 pm. It may seem difficult for Butter preserved for long time looking yellow color could also used
human being to dance and sing for 24 hours a day and 7 days in a week as food. They said that there was no shortage of milk or milk products
but Guji do. to seek another meal source in earlier time of Guji in NNP. Guji only
Haawadi, is the second type of marriage which can be arranged understand the importance of crop cultivation and began to engage in
only with the good will of a bride and groom. This marriage needs huge scale since 2003. Especially after 2008 when both presidents of
reconciliation between the two families, since carried out without Oromia regional state and SNNP settled issues politically, the move
wedding and upholding cultural values. Four days after reconciliation, towards establishing permanent settlement intensified. It was also
music to begin for 1 day or 24 hrs only unlike khadhdha. Finally, since 2008 Guji began to construct home, milling machine, school and
marriage by rapping has no good status as the two; as a result no music other means of permanent settlement began. Nowadays, every Guji
or dancing is allowed at all. household in Irgaansa Kebele owns farm land around Sermale valley
with effective supervision from kebele administration. Nonetheless,
Hospitality of Guji Oromo: Guji is very hospitable people especially
out of the Sermale valley the Kebele administration has no control over
for those who eat and drink with them. Guji believe that anyone who
land distribution, whoever can clean forest and declare its own plot of
eat and drink even once with their member, mean then onwards that
land. Blower, to show the scale of deforestation in 1960s said that in
person is the member of their family regardless of his background. They
Ethiopia by customary law, if a man cleared a patch of forest, the land
have culture of washing feet of new comer to their village whatsoever
was his own [50]. This expression still works in NNP outside the fertile
the objective of his arrival is. Illmom16 is the main evidence, by which
Sermale valley.
they acquire poor neighboring ethnic groups (mainly Amaro) as their
Nowadays, Guji cultivate products mainly Maize, and banana,
6
Illmomma is different from Gudiffecha because Gudifecha is acquiring from the
very childhood where as Ilmomma is acquiring anyone who is unable to sustain his mango and avocado to some extent, as well as false banana (enset)
life, for whom Guji give cattle and right to be family. rarely. But still their main source of livelihood is cattle, sheep, goat, and

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donkey, the significance of donkey is increasing since its introduction children and livestock. In summary, Guji has the tradition of water
in recent years. There are only two mules has been observed which have and forest conservation for the sake of cultural reasons. For sustainable
come to Irgaansa to experiment if it is compatible with the environment; conservation in NNP upgrading already existing indigenous knowledge
whereas no single horse is found in Irgaansa Kebele. In Conclusion, it is of conservation is advisable. This new conception is the underlying
to argue that agriculture is a very recent phenomenon in Guji life which precondition for the development of community based conservation.
is making things worse in NNP. Unchecked expansion of settlement In spite of having the potential of indigenous conservation, there is
without any technical and environmental training support from either no attempt by Guji to conserve wildlife in NNP and also no attempt
of the two regional states or NGOs left the fate of NNP in position of by any institution or government body to initiate community based
uncertainty. conservation. Therefore, given present ecological crisis, it is possible to
conclude that despite indigenous knowledge, Guji has weak record of
Therefore, Guji in state of change, which mean they are no longer
conservation and low level of awareness to that matter. In this case Guji
nomads rather a transhumant pastoral approaching to establish
elders blame the youth for abandoning cultural values of conserving
strong settlement. Hence, it is high time to think of community based
wildlife and becoming antagonistic to wild animals.
conservation and before it is too late. Pastoralism is to some extent
compatible with wildlife conservation where as agriculture intensifies Challenges of implementing community based conservation
human wild conflict because it can not fit with maintaining wildlife in NNP
[51]. Since Guji is becoming agriculturalist, it is not difficult to predict
the future. In Kenya for example, the less threatened protected areas are So far in different studies carried out the major challenges of NNP
in arid and semi – arid parts of the country surrounded by pastoralists have been fire, poaching, illegal fishing, overgrazing, removal of wood
as compared to agricultural settlement [52]. Therefore this study for fuel and construction, cultivation, unlawful entry and ticks. These
argues that the transformation of Guji from pastoralism to agricultural problems are still but adding more problems. For the purpose of this
economy in NNP is serious threat to biodiversity conservation. research, the main challenges NNP is facing to implement community
based conservation are analyzed below.
Culture and conservation
Challenges of Range Management and Legal Status of NNP:
Studies show the need of indigenous culture for conservation. Guji According to the ministry of Agriculture and other earlier sources
has some necessary culture to endure conservation as recorded in some indicate that the proposed size of NNP was around 700 km2 [8].
studies. Guji believe that killing wildlife invoke severe infliction on his Nowadays the official size of the park is 514 km2 and even very smaller
family, clans and offspring. In addition, some Assabe indicate that than official size as Guji community claim. According to this research,
hunting wildlife for food is a sign of poverty and sometimes results in there is no consensus among Guji and Oromia region (where Guji
marginalization in social interaction in cases of marriage arrangement, ethnically belong) in one side and SNNP state and EWCA on the
rituals, and rites of transition [14]. However, the belief in infliction other regarding the exact size of the park. The African Park Network8
sometimes associated with hunting is only confined to few species in a provided temporary solution by demarcating the Dache area and the
specific situation as analyzed in the coming topic. Haroresa Ridge as the boundary between the park and Guji until the
Guji has conservation means to adopt with changing environmental political solution arrive from the centre (see NNP map for this). Guji
situation of change in water and grass for their livestock. Example; has a documented evidence for this demarcation while the park has
Belessa, is conserving water for their livestock in dry season mainly no copy of the agreement. To this end, all interviewed (40) informants
in Sarmale river valley. One or two households dig hole for watering claim that the exact boundary is what they signed with the African Park
despite officials in SNNP call the agreement as ‘’ temporary’’. To denote
livestock and the hole is washed minimum once in a week using
this demarcation one scout said “African park left its legacy and the
Bole (salty clay) to prevent contamination. Diribba is another way of
problem not to be solved forever”, his idea is also strongly shared by
water conservation around Nechsar plain having returned back from
EWCA and other officials’ apart from Oromia Region.
Sarmale area in summer season. They store rain and flood water in
the big hole between March to May rainy season. This water in the The other recent development related with the park size was,
hole is mainly used for human and livestock drink which stay around informal demarcation made by Ato Shiferawu Shigute and ex-president
human settlement. Guji return to Nechsar plain only if Diriba is filled Abba Dulla Gamada (president of SNNP and Oromia Regiona
with water. As a result, they check water holes beginning of April if respectively) in 2008. According to 2 EWCA experts, the presidents
the rainfall begins. After December when Diriba begins to dry and agreement was equally complicated the problem as African park’s
tick infestation increases on the plain the Guji return back to Sermale offensive demarcation out of their mandate. Leaders of the two regional
valley once again and vice verse. Traditionally, to prevent drought and states approved the African park boundary with some modification
shortage of water and grass for pasture, Guji elders carry out Judo like and preconditions. All the park workers (8 in number) and EWCA
game called Harrousa or Boku at the hill top annually in September agree that the presidents’ demarcation was political and has nothing
and October. to do with conservation and management of protected areas. As far
as the present situation is observed, it is obvious that the boundary
Moreover, in the ceremony at Koba Mountain7, Gada representatives set by the presidents was not aimed at enhancing community based
curse part of the forest cover or vegetation for the reason researcher not conservation or ecotourism rather to calm the expected crisis between
find exactly. In the cursed land no one is allowed to pasture, to collect the two regional states. To realize effective conservation scientifically, it
any kind of wood and let the area as reserved. It is a good tradition of is mandatory to predict the minimum size of habitat for species survival
conservation despite the cultural objective is not for conservation. Guji (i.e. Range). Therefore, understanding the behavior of different species
has also got the tradition of Dhabayu which is very similar to Erecha is very essential because some species are more sensitive to habitat loses
where they praise god to ensure sustainable environment for their than others [53].
There is no Mountain named Koba up to the knowledge of researcher. It is a place

7 8
African Park Network was Dutch private company administered NNP from 2004-
where cursing and traditional Judo occur. 2008.

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Factors affecting minimum area requirements vary with species. species leading the way to extinction. Therefore Swayne’s case is the
These factors are depend on landscape factors such as the quality of main focus of this topic. In 1974, 90 individuals Swayne’s Hartebeest
non habitat portion of the landscape and the pattern or fragmentation were translocated to NNP [56]. However, there is no evidence of follow
of habitat destruction as well as species characteristics such as up for how the trans-located individuals were integrated to the original
reproductive rate and rate of emigration( Fahrig cited, 2001 cited inhabitants. Key informant Abba Abire in Guji challenged that the
in Melissa, 2003). Studies show that reproductive rate has the most trans-located were not more than 15 as he had observed while experts
effect on the amount of habitat needed for population persistence, brought the Swayne’s Hartebeest in 1974. He added that the number of
followed by the rate of emigration. The general principle of wildlife Swayne’s Hartebeest were more than Grant’s gazelle before the arrival
range reveals that species with low reproductive rates and species of new Swayne’s’ in NNP. Three Guji informants believe that the trans-
exposed to extinctions requires more habitats, than species with high located Hartebeest brought with them diseases and left many original
reproductive rates. Based on this principle, one wildlife expert in NNP species to death. They also refer the four remnants are the original
recommend the need of extending size of the park taking the rate of Hartebeest survived; Jan, 2013 census reduced the number of Swayne
Swayne’s Hartebeest’s way to extinction and current reproductive to 4 individuals. Majority of local respondents argue that the present
rate is concerned. In addition, he justifies that any wildlife needs the deterioration of Swayne’s Hartebeest population is the result of two
breeding, reproductive and feeding sites to sustain. It mean that these main causes. First, the removal of Guji from the centre of the park,
three sites are occupied by domestic animals and human in NNP, which mean before their removal Carnivores fear to reach the Nechsar
thus the herbivores particularly the endemic Swaynees flee their site plain since Guji protect their livestock.
and face carnivores out of the reach of human intervention because
As a result herbivores (Swayne’s and others) live simultaneously
of limited range size ( which mean herbivores and carnivores cannot
with livestock without being hunted. But now a day, Guji left the
sustain in the same range).
plain and herbivores faced carnivores being defenseless. Unlike other
In contrary Bourn and Blench pointed out that since wildlife is herbivores, Swayne’s hartebeest fear approaching human being to
fugitive and some species migrates outside the delimited areas of park escape carnivores while others like Grants Gazelle and Zebra retreat
boundary, the solution is only lie on involving community participation to Guji settlement pasturing with livestock. The Second reason is
on wildlife management [54]. More than anything, wildlife and the prevalence of tick in NNP where unlike other species Swayne’s
environmental conservation is not the concern of certain regional states Hartebeest is not capable to resist tick infection (4 experts in the
rather global and trans-boundary. For case in point, Gambela National park also believe). Guji elders assume that “in dry season we used to
Park is conserving the endemic white eared Kob species but its range is set fire to control tick infection and to secure fresh grass in summer
both in Ethiopia and South Sudan. It is affirmed that white-eared Kob which is now labeled as illegal”. The result is high prevalence of tick
move between Gambella and the Sudan depends on seasonal variation and dwindling of Swayne’s Hartebeest. Guji Oromo informants defend
[55]. In other word, the states need to look after jointly any actions that Grants Gazelle and Zebra are in good number because of their
against the very existence of this species in both countries. The NNP proximity to human being, or to Guji community. The conception in
chief warden takes moderate position saying whatever the size of the the park is different from what the community argues. Five interviewed
park; the important thing is legally accepted body of the park based on members of the park examined issues associated with carnivores in a
the study of wildlife ecological monitoring experts and scientists as well way that carnivores have existed in the park for long time but the very
as community experts. It is only after this type of scientific study the recent development is might be immigration from other areas due to
park can be divided along zones for human, livestock and wildlife and deforestation and loss of forest cover in neighboring areas. However,
other services. All respondents’ in NNP and Gamogofa Zone Tourism still the argument of park experts is related with range size. They
office agree that the main problem arise, because NNP has no legal challenge that, Carnivores inhabit in forested areas of the park while
status unlike Semien Mountains National park to carry out community herbivores prefer the grassland in Nechsar plain; mean the range of
and ecotourism developments. However, in Kenya three quarter of these two species is different. Since livestock and human being affect the
large mammals spent part of the year outside the protected area in spite Nechsar plain, herbivores particularly Swayne’s Hartebeest leave the
of having gazetted parks [54]. Hence the solution still lies in awareness plain to forested areas to escape where carnivores inhabit. In addition,
creation and participating communities in wildlife and other sector Swayne’s Hartebeest cannot identify the safest place to its kids, because
of natural resource management. Nevertheless, it is obvious that lack of this the Swayne’s and their kids are venerable to carnivores attack.
of legal status of NNP prevented the park administration to design
Their conclusion is that unlike earlier days the range of two species
management plan and community works.
is now mixing; herbivores and carnivores. In case of mixing range,
Human wildlife conflict: Since livestock herding and agriculture herbivores which fear to approach human being become in trouble
is the main source of income and livelihood in developing countries, to sustain. Morris (1967) cited in Ducworth etal.1992, observed more
human-wildlife conflict is more experienced in the region for natural number of Swayne’s hartebeests than Zebra, 104 and 96 respectively.
resource consumption which brought wildlife under serious threat [2]. But the January, 2013 wildlife census shows that only 4 individual
Human wildlife contests begin when livestock try to win food and water hartebeest and 1032 Zebra exist in the park. Based on various sources
against the will of wildlife in NNP. Deforestation for settlement and the NNP revealed the status of Swayne’s hartebeest from 1967-2013 in
agricultural purposes together with hunting created serious obstacle the following chart (Figure 3).
for wildlife population and their habitat in NNP [56]. Though the cause
NNP has lost 43 out of 47 individuals of Swayne’s Hartebeest
is not yet clearly known, some wildlife species are declining in number.
since 2003. If Guji practices poaching as few park members say, there
Since the objective of establishing NNP was primarily to conserve
is no cultural or ritual significance of hunting Swayne’s Hartebeest
Swayne’s Hartebeest, it has given due attention in the discussion.
selectively as this research bare. But Guji has the tradition of hunting
A. Dwindling of wildlife: Even though NNP is primarily big game which had been vanished like Elephant. There might be some
established to conserve the endemic Swayne’s Hartebeest, it is this sort of ecological deformation or disease has been spread, actually this

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catarrhal fever that is transmitted by wildebeest calves in the calving

140
130 130 season [54]. In summary, Pastorals minimize the disease effect through
mobility escaping the seasonal nature of some infection like Guji does
120
in NNP. Now Guji community is establishing permanent settlement
100
103 avoiding mobility; thus it requires serious involvement to deter disease
effect in either side. In permanent settlement, the relation between
80
78 wildlife and domestic animal is permanent throughout the year, thus
the transmission of disease and decline of wildlife species become
60 inevitable. Human-wildlife conflict is evident in NNP which is costing
47
40 wildlife and livestock and resulted in antagonistic perception towards
40 35 the park. Therefore, to make conservation effective it is still advisable
27
18 to engage communities in wildlife based economic gains in the form of
13
20
7 5 4
CBET and conservation.
0 Perception of Guji towards Wildlife: The incidence of poaching
1967 1970 1973 1975 1995 2003 2005 2006 2007 2010 2011 2012 2013 has been reported in NNP even before the declaration of the region as
Figure 3: Status of Swayne’s Hartebeest in N. national park. However, Guji informants believe that killing wildlife
result in generational discontinuity as a penalty from their god.
Conversely, the park still talks about the incidence of poaching but
needs scientific investigation. If it is not contained soon, NNP is due to recognize its decline compared to previous records. This study agree
lose its very objective of foundation after few years later. that traditional belief of killing wildlife brings god’s punishment and
According to the park sources and observation, Crocodile and social prejudice in Guji still exist but restricted to only few species and
Hippopotamus are also waning. The breeding site of Crocodile is circumstances. Guji tradition forbids killing warthog and pig, because
mainly confined to the confluence where Kulfu River joins Lake it is believed that these two species owned by and carry evil spirit. The
Chamo. Construction in Arbaminch airport and in other upper stream tradition also prohibits killing very special Kudu which is the blessed
areas together with forest degradation, Kulfo river transports huge one. Its special feature is the presence of cup or grass on its head (not
materials from upper course. Consequently, at the mouth of Kulfu river visible to anyone except for some Guji). The killer of this Kudu need
the confluence is filled with sand and soil like delta where crocodile an immediate repent in huge religious ceremony with animal scarifies
used to reproduce. As a result the crocodile may have changed habitat unless the person could die. If the repent is accepted by god, this man
to suitable place or dwindling. As compared to previous population, would be blessed and act as a witch from then on. Conversely, the
the number of Crocodile is few to see even in crocodile market9. tradition used to appreciate hunting of big games like Elephant, lion
The case of Hippopotamus is also related with man-made habitat and Rhino for cultural purpose and the hunter assume the honorary
destruction. The decline of Crocodile and Hippo has little or nothing title called Midda. The vanishing of Elephant and Rhino from the park
to do with Guji community. It is reported that with the exception of may be attributed to this culture. Elephant hunters used to acquire
recent development leopard is among diminishing species where as the the title of Abba Guracha while Lion hunters to take Abba Dalacha.
remaining species are kept in good status. When these heroes passed away, the traditional funeral ceremony
used to take five days to their honor. In contrary, the tradition had
B. Disease transmission: This topic is based on the view that welcoming features for wildlife especially to Grants gazelle and Kudu.
disease and tick transmission from domestic animal to wildlife is one of Domesticating Kudu has believed to be important to prevent cattle
the rationales of resettlement and wildlife decline in NNP. Whenever from disease infection and human being from disaster. Nonetheless,
wildlife and domestic animals share the same space, there is a high risk Guji elders say this tradition has been banned due to pressures related
of disease transmission one to another [54]. The problem facing both with the park.
wildlife and domestic animal in NNP is tick infection where grazing
of domestic animal in Nechsar plain is capable of transmitting disease Guji also acknowledge the presence of cattle in Nechsar plain or
to either side. There was an incidence of Rabies and Anthrax in NNP grassland is very important for wildlife, because cattle disperse tick
in 1988 and 1994 respectively. It is possible to control ticks on cattle from tall grasses in turn weak herbivores like Swayne’s Hartebeest graze
through acaricides( a substance that kills mites and ticks) where as without serious difficulties of tick presence. As observed poaching is not
wildlife maintain ticks which is difficult to control [57]. In NNP the serious problem in NNP rather overgrazing, expansion of settlement
case is more sever because even domestic animals are not well protected and agricultural land account the most. Despite Guji normally do
despite some intervention from Oromia region and NGOs. not appreciate hunting most wild animals, youths sometimes abuse
the tradition and there is also growing perception in community that
Four Wildlife experts interviewed in NNP were not sure about the
wildlife is a cause for eviction and loss of their livelihoods.
source of tick in the park. But see the presence of huge cattle population
on the plain as the cause of widespread tick infestation. Experts’ state, Livelihood Needs in Nechsar National Park: Guji pastorals use
species like Bucrchelle Zebra and Grants Gazelle are resistance to tick lake Chamo and lake Abaya ( Abbayya Gurraattii and Abayya Diimtuu
infestation where as Swayne’s Hartebeest mainly kids are very weak to in Guji respectively) for watering their livestock. They believe Abayya
sustain in park due to prevalence of tick. Nevertheless, studies carried Gurratti has medicinal value for livestock. Guji believes these lakes
out in Uganda reported no mortality in wildlife as effect of tick or tick- particularly Chamo has the power to clean infection because of its
born disease. Transmission is not only confined to domestic animals, salty nature. Bolee, a white salty soil in Tabala around the hot spring is
Wildlife also transmits disease to domestic animals like malignant also supposed to have medicinal value for cattle. I have observed when
Guji livestock compete to lick Bolee around Tabala despite the park
9
Crocodile Market is a place where crocodiles being seen naturally. While Crocodile
farm is for captive breeding. against the move. Another watering site is the Sermale river especially

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during summer season. Even in summer Guji water its livestock in is only 2 months in NNP when this research was undergoing. The park
Lake Chamo or Abaya at least once in month to prevent occurrence of has got only six experts (Bsc. graduates) categorized as one biologist,
disease as they perceive. one tourism, two wildlife, and two community experts.
According to Guji informants and Abiyot(2009), almost all Guji The surprise is that with all these problems, the park now has only
own two houses, one in and around Nechsar plain for rainy summer 33 scouts because 35 scouts have been reduced after the evacuation of
called mana gannaa whilst shelter beyond Haroresa ridge and Sermale African parks. As a result Wildlife commentator stipulated that the
valley for dry winter season known as mana bonaa [40]. Accordingly, public/private partnership agreement entered for takeover of NNP
watering and grazing and pressure on wildlife in NNP vary with was a real breakthrough for persisted problems whilst the evacuation
seasonal meandering. In another word, Guji stay away from the plains of African park was a serious blow to the wildlife and wildlife habitat in
in dry season and return back in summer. That is why the park and the country [58]. The relation between Guji and the park is something
officials in Gamogofa Zone asks what is the reason of returning back requires due consideration. Since the 1982 resettlement the tension
to the plain if they sustain in severe dry season away from the park? heightened ill feeling towards the park. According to Guji informants
Guji answer that in dry season, Nechsar plain is full of tick and almost the park and government officials do not care about the people rather
complete loss of grass in dry weather. Whereas, in summer, Sermale they give over emphasis to wildlife. At the same time there is no single
valley is under threat of malaria and tsetse fly besides water logging official from the park or government comes to the community to
and flood. discuss issues related with the park. Government officials only came in
time of conflict with neighboring ethnic group related with grazing or
In addition the park is a land for cultivation; honey production and
cultivation, apart from this instance no one remember where they are.
other livelihood source. The problem is unchecked rate of growth in
They say, we conserve the wildlife and forests only because we need it to
human and cattle population, as well as agriculture that make the future
sustain for our cultural purpose. In contrary, one informant said “why
of NNP unstable. The incomplete census result in January, 2013 shows
do I care for wildlife if I cannot get any benefit from them, there is no
730 household head and 1001 house wives have been counted. Guji is
infrastructure provided by the park, they always consider us alien and
polygamous society having at least five children in single household
see wildlife more valuable than our people”.
connote at least 5000 population in Irgaansa, Guji village in NNP. In
2010 the total number of livestock in 9 villages of Gamo-Gofa Zone It is understood from communication with Guji, they feel the
around NNP was 16,734, where as 21,320 only in single Irgaansa village continuation of NNP as a Park in this condition mean a threat to
[49]. NNP scouts estimate more than 50,000 livestock population but community’s livelihood and the very existence of Guji community in
no documented data has been given in Telkie (seat of Guji village) the region. Informants remember good days of relationship between
for researcher. The estimation was by considering minimum of 50 to park and the community for brief seasons. Despite the fact that
maximum of 1000 cattle (Abba Shana’re in Gode has this number) per African parks regime of park administration advocates resettlement,
capita in Irgaansa. According to village administration source there informants consider those days as period of good communication
are 27,500 cattle has taken injection offered by PATTEC, in January, and relationship, for the reason that African park officials discuss
2013. In other word the main cattle reserve in “Gatira” area away from issues overtly with the community in grass root level. For them the
the village was not counted. It is difficult to predict good future unless period between 1996 and 2004 considered to be the friendliest when
some alternative economic means well-matched with protected areas Chemere Zewde led the park as chief warden. As fluent speaker their
seek out. The alternative should be community based conservation and local language Affan Oromo, Chemere used to communicate daily
development as far as this research is concerned (Tables 4 and 5). In with them and provide transportation service for sick individuals and
summary:- pregnant women when Guji need to go to hospital in Arbaminch. The
2008 administration under Chief Warden Awol who had the same
Park-people relation: NNP is probably one of the weakest park
background with Chemere bear in mind as good time for park people
administrations in Ethiopia. Ministry of agriculture proposed a
relation. Beyond these episodes, Guji never want to remember what is
management plan for 700 km2 sized Park in 1970s. Nowadays the
park all about; hence the park people relations appear antagonistic in
park has no management plan for 514 Km2 and not yet gazetted for
the case of NNP. Therefore, it is possible to summarize that the main
39 years of establishment. Park workers complain that “since the park
obstacle and conflict in management were the lack of trust between the
has no legal status, it is difficult for us to take legal action against any
park administrators and Guji and bad relationship between the park
misappropriation”. In addition, the park is not well organized and has
and the community.
got stable administration yet except for some brief periods. There have
been six chief wardens and one scout as chief warden served the park Internationalization of Nechsar National Park dilemma:
since 2005 alone. The present vast experienced chief warden Abraham The other striking problem of Nechsar National Park is the
S/N Name of Kebeles Household Family Total

Male Female Male Female
1 Irgaansa 569 41 - - 610
Source: Fekadu and Zeleke (2011).
Table 4: Total number of Human population in Irgaansa from woreda office, 2010.
S/N Name of Kebeles Household Family Total

Male Female Male Female
1 Irgaansa 730 1001 - - 1731
Source: Ongoing census from Agriculture extension office in Irgaansa Kebele (Jan, 18, 2013).
Table 5: Unfinished Census result obtained from Agriculture extension Worker.

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internationalization of crisis in the park sometimes with over For effective community based conservation the community needs to
exaggeration. The critics blame internationalizes of the Nechsar crisis be helped to bring their product to market. Most Guji use Sermale river
on “Oromo elites” that has access to international arena. According to as the only source of drinking water while some living near Nechsar
informants in EWCA, in this case the government and conservation plain use lake Abya but still both areas require at least an hour travel
offices like Ethiopian Wildlife Authority (EWCA) are blamed for on foot setting aside the issue of electricity which is unthinkable. My
violation of indigenous right, forceful eviction, and dislocation and informants in focus group pointed out that unfulfilled promises made
even to the extent of targeting the Guji Oromo ethnic identity. The by presidents of Oromia Region and SNNP in 2008. Their promises
pioneer to internationalize was Dr. Tadesse Barisso, Professor in Addis were, to construct road from Dilla connecting Guji villages, to introduce
Ababa University and currently president of Bule Hora University ferry service, to lay necessary ground for car transportation, and to
in Hagere Mariam. The internationalization attracted Human Right construct health centre for Guji communities are to mention few. They
organizations like Refuge International to put pressure on Ethiopian further said that these all promises were mere wish intended only to set
government and EWCA. According to EWCA official, it is out of the fire off. In any successful community based conservation, communities
capability of their office to settle Nechsar problem and even federal are encouraged to develop their own business, government and other
government is not in position to solve soon, given international stakeholders initiate infrastructural development which results in the
pressure by human right activists related with Guji. sense of ownership of the community due to economic and political
empowerment they gain (Tables 6 and 7).
Currently the resettlement is unthinkable as case in Gambella
region’s ‘land grabbing’ draw attention of the so called international Inadequate coordination among stakeholders: For this research
human right activities. Human right organizations had voiced concern the main stakeholders associated with NNP are; Guji community,
that African Park’s plans to evict the tribes from their ancestral land Gamogofa Zone Administration, Oromia Region, SNNP government,
of agriculture and grazing (http://www.conservationrefugees.org/ EWCA, NGOs and Educational Institutions. The weight of different
wushetafrican). As Greer (1999) examined, Guji agreed to move out levels of government in SNNP and Oromia Regional State has been
of the park in case appropriate substitute of land provided. While explained in various topics in brief above. As a result, here the status
the Oromia regional council approved the need of resettling Guji of other stockholders in the park is the concern of discussion. Both
and passed an order to Borena Zone and Borena Zone did the same the park administration and Gamogofa zone officials confirmed that
to Abaya Woreda to proceed with resettlement bid (39). But with there are no NGOs working either in community development or
reason no one knows the Oromia regional government abrogated the conservation after evacuation of the African Parks. The Gamogoffa
agreement made between SNNP regional governments to resettle Guji Zone Culture and Tourism in government communication office
communities in to its regional territory. There might be the growing disclosed that there have been lots of NGOs come to work with zonal
international significance made Oromia regional state to relinquish the government and park administration but returned back having seen
resettlement move and to stake with establishing permanent settlement the presence of Guji in the park as difficult to maintain. The incidence
in the park. The refuge international reported in November 2004, 463 of of overgrazing, deforestation and poaching by Guji in NNP bring the
Guji houses were burned down, with all their possessions by Ethiopian feeling of waste of money and time among NGOs which could have
park officials and local police while they received no compensation for been spent in other favorable places for conservation.
loss of property (http://conservationrefugees.org/NechSar).The park
The best evidence for this reason is a European Union €4 million
administration, EWCA, and Gamogofa zone recognize the extent of
plan to set up Wildlife Training Centre in NNP which might have been
internationalized nature of the crisis and its effect on implementation
one of the biggest centers of education for wildlife specialists in East
of conservation objectives and development of the park.
Africa. According to the officials, the rationale for terminating the plan
Difficulty in accessibility and infrastructure: The city of was the “encroachment” of Guji in NNP made the project unworkable.
Arbaminch is accessible by road and air transport, which is about 32 km However, an official needs his identity covert said; the basis of ceasing
to Nechsar plain. The early management plan of NNP recommended the project was the reluctance of government to give autonomy to the
improvement of 15 km road connecting the park to Arbaminch city, European Union’s objective to accomplish their mission. It means
improvement of 64 km tracks within the park, improvement of 60 km European Union wants to work and donate money via their NGOs while
track from Dilla to Lake Abaya, construction of 32 km of road from government determined to take money directly in its own hand. This
Kulfo river to Nechsar plains as well as marine transport along two difference between government policy and European Union was the
lakes. Today in 2013 no single recommendation has been in place justification behind project failure. In field observation I have observed
except already built Kulfo bridge connecting revrine forest on route to the NGO named PATTEC working under the supervision of African
the plains. According to Park workers, tourists always complain on the Union. This NGO was giving injection to Guji livestock in every village
subject of very difficult road to access in to Nechsar plains.
One of the reason Guji Oromo’s ghastly attitudes towards the No Name of Kebeles School Grade Level Satellite
park can be the matter of infrastructure. Guji travel on foot to reach 1-5 1-8
Arbaminch which requires full one day without sleep in the wilderness, 1 Irgaansa 1 No 2 (Hitu and Gode)
if they do sleep it would take two days. Except agricultural products, Table 6: Number of Schools in Irgaansa Kebele (Author survey, 2013).
Guji purchase everything from Arbaminch. However, Guji offended by
health related matters to reach hospitals in Arbaminch city. Recently, No Name of Public Health Private Health Water Supply Remark
Kebeles Extension
boat with carrying capacity of 15 people is being used to reach
1 Irgaansa 1 2 (in Telkie and No In hut
Arbaminch on Abaya Lake, and also some park derivers with their Ardagudina)
own good will informally assist Guji travelers. Guji sell their livestock NB: Health centers only exist in name operating in hut with nothing, so it is only
mainly in Tore (capital of Galana Woreda), chaffe and Harro (villages not to say not exist.
in Gdeo Zone) via Amaro having travelled minimum of 2 to 3 days. Table 7: Number of Health Post in Irgaansa Kebele (Author Survey, 2013).

ISSN: 2375-4516
Prop Rights. 4: 169. doi: 10.4172/2375-4516.1000169
Page 16 of 18
to prevent the spread of and cure already infected in trypanosomiasis. issues and conservation ideas. The root difference is that Oromia
After all, there is no single NGO working to enhance community based regional government give due emphasis to the Oromo speaking Guji
conservation or any other conservation issues in NNP. people dwelling in the park where as the SNNP government in whose
geographic realm the NNP exist seems more committed to biodiversity
NNP is free of educational and research related influence working
conservation and advocating more of resettlement. The contradictory
with the park to solve problems associated with Guji Oromo. For
attitudes are about the size of the park, the fate of the community,
example Arbaminch University has a reputation of water related
the legal status of the park boundary and the conservation scheme to
technology in the country. But it has nothing to do with NNP in water
implement put both states in difficult state to compromise and place
and environmental conservation as well as community development.
the park in difficult situation to achieve conservation objectives. This
The University community development directorate under community
research concludes that the notion of conservation so far has born no
development vice president substantiates that “we have done nothing
fruit apart from intensifying already existing problems.
specific to Nechsar National Park and even we do not have any plan
yet designed to work with the park”; but he described many university Conservation without the consent and participation of communities
projects working in collaboration with Gamogofa zone setting aside affected by park establishment in NNP eroded sense of ownership and
the park. Arbaminch university research directorate has recognized the built negative perception towards any move by government to succeed
weakness of not engaging in park matters though both officials question in conservation effort. The failure to recognize potential of indigenous
the legal status of the park to engage in community issues especially culture for conservation and sustainable tourism development resulted
related with Guji as long as the ongoing dilemma is concerned. Other in diminishing of already known attractions and some of them are in
stakeholders like travel agents are by far away from the community and critical situation to recover. Guji community feeling of marginalization,
some even know nothing about Guji, as a result they are not the concern loss of source of livelihood and lack of concern from the park authorities
of discussion. All travel agents understand the natural elements in the make them senseless in case of biodiversity loss.
park and never think the cultural elements or attractions associated
Participation of different stakeholders are important to succeed
with Guji Oromo very adjacent to the Nechsar plain apart from seeing
in any community based conservation. However, apart from centrally
in the side of threat alone. EWCA as main stakeholder taking the
planned order from EWCA there is no meaningful contribution of
responsibility of running NNP in 2008 seems unsuccessful to secure
NGOs, regional states, educational institution and donor agencies in
the objective of conservation. It believes that the issue concerning NNP
NNP. Consequently, NNP is running without the required level of
is beyond their capacity and needs political solution.
infrastructure, man power and legal status which made accomplishment
NNP under EWCA management is running by few inexperienced of sustainable conservation mere wish. EWCA, the responsible body
human power, financial problem and problems stated in charts below in charge of protected areas of Ethiopia proved to be powerless and
made one of the weakest administration era of NNP. The SNNP unable to perform duties under its jurisdiction. EWCA handed over
government is offering very little assistance to maintain the park. most cases in NNP to political authorities in the centre asserting
According to the present chief warden who had served in Semein cases are beyond its capacity. Those believed to be the owner of stated
Mountains National park remember the Amhara regional state very capacity lacks commitment or desire to stretch their hand in the issue.
differently in the same case. The Amhara Region subsidizes up to 10 Hence, in NNP neither community based conservation consolidating
million birr for Semeien Mountains National Park by which 18 post community participation in natural resource management nor
sites are operating due to state fund. In conclusion, an official from traditional conservation through “fine and fence” approach has been
Gamogofa zone made clear that if things continue as it is on the ground, successful to rescue biodiversity or local livelihood loss. In addition to
NNP would be no more than history given human “encroachment”, the stated problems, weak park administration and lack of trust between
deforestation, overgrazing and expansion of agricultural land is community and the park ended up in dwindling of wildlife, alarming
concerned. This research is also strongly agrees on the point raised by rate increase of agricultural land and settlement, deforestation and
official, and the immediate solution should be enhancing community overall ecological crisis in NNP.
based conservation.
Recommendations
Conclusion and Recommendations The following recommendations are put forward to minimize the
Conclusion problem assuming Guji is living within the park. It is based on the
council of ministers regulation No.163/2008 under management of
Nechsar National park is a bone of contention between strict
wildlife conservation areas which guarantees that persons who were
conservationist and the local community. The earlier perceive the
inhabitants of wildlife reserve prior to the date of its establishment to
existence of human in the park as threat to conservation and forward
continue living within the reserve [12]. It is also based on the principle
resettlement and dislocation of communities as the only solution.
of community based conservation for sustainable development.
Whereas, locals feel that they have been marginalized from their
home and pasture ground because of artificially created park. The Increasing the size of Nechsar national park is worth recommended
strict conservation approach has been carried out with ill preparation to diversify function of the park. The increased park size may include
and without gaining significant support from the community and part of the Amaro Mountain, increasing shares of Lake Chamo and
other stakeholders. The conservationist is based on the idea that Abya as well was extending towards the north up to Odoo Darba. To
NNP is “wilderness and pristine” ecosystem to conserve biodiversity attain community development and conservation function, it is crucial
in its natural seating, while Guji claim NNP is a home and source of to apply zoning in based on different objectives and use of national
livelihood for century.
park. Zoning should be based on UNESCO’s Man and Biosphere
The main problem and solution lays on the hands of both Oromia program with some modification in order to fit with local conditions.
and SNNP regional states that stand in opposing views to solve NNP The following Zones are recommended:-

ISSN: 2375-4516
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Page 17 of 18
Core Area: - which includes the whole Nechsar plains from Tsebel References
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