The Nexus between Population Pressure and Environment: The case of Degem Woreda in Oromia Region North Showa Zone
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Date
2022-06
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to assess the nexus between population pressure and environment: the case of Degem woreda in Oromia Regional State, North Showa Zone. In order to meet the objectives of the study, a descriptive survey design was employed. The data used in this study was collected from 300 sample household heads of the three Kebeles of Degem Woreda. The researcher used quantitative research approach supplemented by the qualitative one in order to assess the nexus between population pressure and environment. To realize this, a quantitative descriptive case study has been employed; questionnaires were the main data gathering instruments while interview, observation and document analysis were employed to enrich the data gathered through questionnaires. The questionnaires were piloted and checked for their validity and reliability. The data obtained through the questionnaires were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The information obtained through open-ended questionnaires and the interview was qualitatively analyzed to supplement the quantitative data. As a result, the findings indicated that there was a relationship between population pressure and environment in search for agricultural land, which resulted in land degradation and deforestation. The results also indicated that there was significant association with responses to the impacts of population pressure on agricultural land in terms of age, family size, literacy status and contact with Development Agents. The findings of the study also showed that 75.5 percent and 70.25 percent of the sample population perceived population pressure as a cause for agricultural land degradation and forest resource depletion, respectively. On the basis of the study findings, it is recommended that advocacy of family planning and environmental conservation should be strengthened. On the other hand, raising farmers’ awareness and promoting understanding of the essential linkage between population and environment should be encouraged.
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Keywords
Development, Environment, Nexus, Population pressure