Eucalyptus Plantations, Rural Livelihoods, and Gender Dimensions in Senan District, Northwest Ethiopia
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Date
2025-06-01
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
The widespread expansion of eucalyptus plantations in Ethiopia's highlands represents a
significant transformation of the agricultural landscape, leading to complex
socioeconomic and environmental consequences. While economically appealing to
smallholders, the conversion of cropland and its effects on rural livelihoods, food security,
and gender equity are not fully understood. This dissertation investigates the
socioeconomic implications of the rapid expansion of eucalyptus plantations in the Senan
district of Northwest Ethiopia, where cropland conversion to eucalyptus has intensified in
recent decades. Data were collected from 332 households (166 eucalyptus planters and
166 non-planters), supplemented by qualitative data from observations, interviews, and
focus group discussions. Additionally, Landsat satellite images from 1990, 2000, 2010,
and 2021 were utilized. Employing a mixed research approach, the study utilizes
econometric and descriptive statistical techniques to analyze quantitative data
complemented by thematic analysis for qualitative insights. Satellite imagery analysis
reveals a significant land-use shift: cropland decreased from 58.4% to 38.1% between
2010 and 2021, while eucalyptus-dominated vegetation increased from 16.8% to 26.5%.
Binary logit models identify key drivers of eucalyptus adoption, including household head
age, land size, and savings, while factors like education, livestock ownership, and land
fertility negatively influenced adoption. The findings show that eucalyptus ownership
significantly impacts household income, livelihood assets, and food security. Households
with eucalyptus plantations reported higher livelihood asset index scores across various
categories, indicating positive contributions to overall well-being. Specifically,
eucalyptus adopters experienced a 40.2% increase in household income (as determined
by propensity score matching) and demonstrated better food security, with significantly
higher Household Dietary Diversity Scores (5.28 vs. 4.73) and lower food insecurity rates
(8.06 vs. 11.29 HFIAS). However, these benefits come with trade-offs: human capital
indices are lower among eucalyptus-owning households, and women face
disproportionate disempowerment. Women in households engaged in eucalyptus
plantations are notably more disempowered than their counterparts in other households,
highlighting a significant disparity. This disempowerment is rooted in systemic issues,
including a lack of financial control, limited decision-making power, restricted access to
credit, and diminished group participation. Addressing these barriers is crucial for
enhancing women's empowerment. The dual nature of eucalyptus expansion is evident in
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these findings: it enhances livelihoods and food security but also poses risks to gender
equity. To address these complexities, the dissertation concludes with policy
recommendations for rural road improvement, eucalyptus zoning regulations, sustainable
agroforestry practices, gender-inclusive income interventions (emphasizing high-interest
savings accounts for rural women), and diversified livelihood strategies aimed at
balancing economic gains with long-term resilience and social equity.
Key words: Eucalyptus, Livelihoods, Food security, Women, Income
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Keywords
Eucalyptus, Livelihoods, Food security, Women, Income