Legislative Approach to the Management of Invasive AlienA Legislative Approach to the Management of Invasive Alien Species in Ethiopia: The case of Prosopis Julijlora in Gewane Woreda
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Date
2005
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Addis Abeba university
Abstract
Ethiopia is one of the hotspots of biodi versity In the world OWIng to many fac tors
including the unique topography that the country is endowed with. But the number and
diversity of this natural heritage is dwindling from time to time. Among the many causes
of biodiversity loss is the encroachment by Invasive Alien Species. Prosopis juliflora is
one of the species that is found to be affecting biodiversity of the country. There are
controversies and diverging views on the impacts and potential benefits of Prosopis.
There are also controversies regarding the possible controlling mechanisms - often
ranging from complete eradi cation to control through utilization. Legal instruments,
based on a cost - benefit analysis, are essential towards resolvi ng the apparent confusion
in the choice of management techniques. This paper attempts to assess the most pertinent
multilateral agreements as well as national laws relevant to the management of Invasive
Alien Species. It also tries to analyze gaps in existing legislation.
One of the areas highly in fested by Prosopis in Ethiopia is Gewane Woreda of the Afar
National Regional State. A survey into two selected Kebeles, Kebele Oland Ourafe ta
Kebele, is undertaken to assess the general perception interms of the threats posed by
Prosopis, the possible benefits and the available management options. Both qualitative
and quantita tive methodologies were employed to generate information. Semi-structured
questionnaires were administered to respondents in the two selected Kebeles. Key
informant interviews and Focus Group Discuss ions were held with various groups to
resolve identified research questions. The negative impact of Prosopis in Gewane
Woreda is ascertained through the study. But there is reluctance to pick a single
controlling mechani sm from a li st already indenti fied by stakeholders including
eradication, control through land use change, use of chemicals, or biological control. A
decision has to be made by a priori identification of the cost of adopting one alternative
against the other, and backing such deci sion through legislation for surety in
implementation
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Management