Senbeta, Feyera (PhD)Yilma, Helina2018-12-152023-11-182018-12-152023-11-182018-06http://etd.aau.edu.et/handle/12345678/15140This study assessed the extent of community participation in the decision making process for sustainable park management of the Abijatta-Shalla Lakes National Park (ASLNP), Ethiopia. A qualitative method was employed to collect relevant data. A total of 32 people were involved in the research. In which ways are local communities involved in the decision-making process regarding park management, What are the perceptions of the local communities on the existing decision making process regarding park management , What are the challenges faced in engaging local communities in the process of decision-making, What are the existing opportunities to support the sustainable management of ASLNP. One focus group a discussion was conducted and 24 key informants were contacted for in-depth interviews. The findings of this research revealed that communities members who were participating in decision making process for ASLNP management, were the people who employed in park and other members of the communities .There was no concrete effort to involve the communities in decision making in the study area. The findings revealed that the communities’ sentiments about the form of decision making processes in place were mixed including sometimes conflicting views about park ownership and role to be played by each of the parties. The study advocates for integrated set of solutions by both parties to reduce heavy dependency of local communities’ livelihoods in ASLNP and by establishing a system of incentives so as to spur the spirit of environmental consciousness for local community. Keywords: Community Participation, Decision Making, ASLNP, Sustainable Park Management.enThesis