Abstract:
The main purpose of this thesis is to reconstruct the history of resettlement and villagization in
Abobo Woräda (district) of Gambella Region from1984-2000. The study focuses on the history of
state-sponsored population relocation schemes in the contemporary Gambella Regional State in
general and the Abobo Woräda in particular. From 1984-2000, population relocation program was
considered as one of the development strategies in the country. Abobo Woräda in Gambella
People’s Regional State became one of the areas in which population relocation program was
undertaken to improve the living conditions of both the resettlers and the host communities. The
study begins with the historical study of the development of population relocation schemes in Africa
in general and Ethiopia in particular. In the study Woräda considerable state-leading population
relocation scheme was implemented in deferent times. Hence, this thesis focuses on studying the
history of state-sponsored population relocation programs in the study area, Abobo Woräda of
Gambella Regional State. Besides, the study points out the results of the population relocation
schemes in the study Woräda. Moreover, it has tried to assess changes and developments that the
Woräda has undergone throughout the military up to the current government of the country in
relation with the implementation of this state-leading population relocation schemes.
