-Impact of Resettlement Scheme on Vegetation Cover and Its Implications on Conservation in Gumay District of JimmaZone

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of resettlement scheme on vegetation cover and its implications on conservation in Gumay district of Jimma zone. The study utilized both primary and secondary data which are qualitative and quantitative in their nature. Through multistage sampling procedure, a total of 286 households were selected from the sample Kebeles of Gumay district. Data collected from 94 sampled households, Questionnaire was distributed to the sample respondents and key informants were interviewed. The collected data were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. The results showed that plenty of natural forests have been cut down and there are dramatic changes of climate. People cut the forest trees so as to get farm land, for charcoal and fuel wood. The settlers didn’t get any training on how to keep the forest trees. In addition they were hunting animals which are the natural beauty of the area. The study concludes that agricultural sector alone cannot be relied upon as the core activity for rural households and as a means of reducing poverty, achieving food security and improving livelihoods in the study area. Thus, the researchers recommend that a comprehensive development plan that enhances successful livelihood diversification is found to be imperative and most urgent. Policies and actions directed towards improving livelihood of the resettlers’ communities should focus on expanding rural infrastructures, enhancing awareness creation activities and cooperation of stakeholders to bring sustainable livelihood outcome in the area.