Synergies and Trade-Offs Between Food Security Statuses with Prosopis Juliflora (Sw. Dc.) Invasion and Climate Variability in Middle Awash, Afar Region, Ethiopia
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Date
2024-05
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Prosopis juliflora invasion has become a serious issue in Afar, Ethiopia, particularly affecting the districts of Amibara and Awash-Fentale. This study investigated the interconnected impact of P. juliflora on land use, climate variability, and food security among pastoral and agro-pastoral communities in these areas. A mix of quantitative and qualitative methods was employed, involving household surveys, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions. A total of 438 households were randomly selected for the study. The research also utilized meteorological data from 1988 to 2018.The study found significant land use and land cover changes (LULCC) in both districts. In Amibara, a highly invaded area, there were notable shifts from 1985 to 2021, with an increase in Prosopis-dominated shrubland and concentrated agriculture. In contrast, AwashFentale saw a decrease in bare land dominance, with expansions in agriculture, built-up areas, and shrubland. Climate analysis revealed a declining trend in seasonal and annual rainfall, accompanied by rising temperatures and frequent droughts, exacerbating the food security challenges for pastoral and agro-pastoral households. Econometric analysis indicated that households in invaded areas were more likely to have fewer livestock assets and less access to veterinary and government support services. The Average Treatment Effect estimation showed that households in invaded areas had on average, 1,167 Birr lower annual consumption expenditure compared to those in non-invaded areas. The study found that only 3% of households in invaded areas were food secure, compared to 28% in non-invaded areas. Severe food insecurity was higher in invaded areas (50%) compared to non-invaded areas (43%), while moderate food insecurity affected 47% of households in invaded areas versus 30% in non-invaded ones. The prevalence of food insecurity was significantly higher in Amibara, the Prosopis-invaded district. In conclusion, the invasion of P. juliflora has significantly harmed food security in Afar, reducing livestock, food consumption, and access to essential services. The study calls for immediate action from stakeholders, including private sectors and local administrations, to address the policy implications and mitigate the ongoing threat to food security in this region.
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Keywords
Climate changes, Food security, Invasion, Land use and land cover change Pastoralist, Prosopis juliflora, welfare