Effectiveness of Watershed Management Approaches and Programs for Food Security in Qarsa Woreda of East Harerghe, Ethiopia
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Date
2024-12
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
This study investigates the perceptions and coordination challenges of stakeholders involved in community-based watershed management in Qarsa Woreda, East Hararghe Zone, and examines its impact on food security. Data were collected from 63 professionals and 337 farmers through surveys and interviews. The findings reveal a significant disparity in perceptions: 64% of professionals view watershed management primarily as natural resource management or soil and water conservation, while only 36% acknowledge its broader rural development and economic benefits. Conversely, farmers recognize improvements in crop yield and income but largely see these practices as environmental conservation efforts, with only 12.6% viewing them as part of a comprehensive rural development strategy. Institutional arrangements, including the roles of the Ministry of Agriculture and the Oromia Bureau of Agriculture, show that weak coordination and accountability mechanisms undermine effectiveness. The lack of specialized structures for managing programs like the Sustainable Land Management Program (SLMP) and the Rural Productive Safety Net Program (PSNP) at the woreda level further complicates implementation. To address these challenges, improving coordination platforms, enhancing accountability, increasing local involvement, and establishing specialized units for program management. Further research is needed to identify potential barriers to coordination and collaboration among the stakeholders involved in watershed management
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Keywords
Coordination, farmers, integration, professionals, rural development