The devastating impact of climate change is becoming increasingly evident, with landslides emerging as a significant and growing threat. Unlike other natural disasters, landslides can occur virtually anywhere on Earth, making them a global concern. The recent surge in landslides, particularly following winter seasons, has resulted in tragic loss of life and widespread devastation across numerous regions.
Recently, landslides occurred in Ethiopia. The consequences of landslides have been particularly severe. Regions like Gofa Zone in South Ethiopia, Benchi Sheko in Southwest Ethiopia, Kafa and Dauro Zones, Central Sidama Zone in Sidama Region, the city of Dire Dawa, Tigray region, Amhara region (South Wolo and North Gondar zones), Jimma in Oromia region, Kelem Welega, Hararge Zone have all experienced devastating landslides. These actions have claimed countless lives, leaving countless families shattered and struggling to handle the immense loss.
According to some experts, the human cost of these landslides in Gofa is immeasurable. Beyond the immediate loss of life, countless survivors, including children, the elderly, and the vulnerable, have been left without family support, facing an uncertain future. The scale of displacement and property destruction is staggering, with the accurate number of affected individuals difficult to determine.
While the immediate response to these disasters has included the provision of humanitarian aid, food, medical supplies, and construction materials, the long-term implications of these landslides are far-reaching. The loss of homes, livelihoods, and infrastructure has a profound impact on communities, exacerbating existing vulnerabilities and hindering their ability to rebuild, according to National Risk and Disaster Management Commission data.
Scholar of Soil Science, Professor Mohammad Hassen, highlighted the urgent need to prevent recently occurring new disasters and focus on redevelopment efforts in affected areas. He emphasized the vulnerability of Ethiopia’s mountainous terrain to man-made disasters and underscored the importance of sustainable natural resource protection measures to mitigate these risks.
This landslide, causing widespread flooding and significant damage, serves as a stark reminder of the escalating impact of human activities on natural wealth. He stressed the need to understand the extent of the problem, identify appropriate solutions, and implement effective control measures. He points out that many of the current challenges are rooted in past land management practices dating back decades.
Diriba Dadi (PhD), an environmental protection expert from Addis Ababa University, recognized the increasing frequency of landslides due to improper waste management, global climate change, and the lack of comprehensive planning for high-population settlements and development areas.
He emphasized the need for modern land use practices, including green economy initiatives, terracing, and land maintenance. He also stated that inadequate waste management exacerbates local climate change and hinders economic development.
Professor Mohammed advocated for a comprehensive approach that prioritizes prevention, public settlements that harmonize with nature, sector-specific land allocation, modern land use systems, diverse land treatment methods, and widespread reforestation with natural trees. These measures aim to restore the balance of nature, strengthen soil holding capacity, and promote rainwater infiltration.
Both experts’ insights underscored the vital need for a proactive and holistic approach to land management in Ethiopia. By addressing the root causes of land disasters, promoting sustainable practices, and investing in preventative measures, the country can mitigate risks, protect its natural resources, and foster sustainable development.
In the past five years, the Ethiopian government has attempted to mitigate the impact of climate change and implement green economy strategies. For instance, in the Green Legacy Program, all the people in the country participate in this initiative that demonstrates a promising approach to tackling climate change and mitigating its impacts.
Moreover, this initiative highlighted the significance of comprehensive strategies that incorporate agroforestry, the development of the forest sector, urban greening and renewal, and integrated water and soil resource management, showcases Ethiopia’s long-standing commitment to a multifaceted response to the effects of environmental degradation, promotes sustainable practices, and builds resilience within communities.
Ethiopia, after beginning and implementing the green legacy initiative, not only protects against the impact of climate change but also increases its contribution to carbon trade.
According to Ethiopia’s Forest Development Data, the country’s forests alone have the capacity to store an incredible 2.8 billion tons of carbon. Through its efforts to save forests, it has been able to cut 30% of the 35 billion tons of carbon that pollute the planet.
The nation’s Green Legacy effort, a program that significantly contributes to environmental recovery and air pollution control, is primarily responsible for this accomplishment. It intends to plant an ambitious 50 billion tree saplings over the next eight years as part of the Green Legacy program. In the last three years, plans have been in place to plant an additional 18 billion saplings, for a total of over 32.5 billion saplings planted under the project in the last five years.
The importance of a multi-sectoral approach is emphasized by soil science experts. Mohammed highlighted the need for policymakers and experts to work together to prevent further environmental degradation, redevelop disaster-affected areas, and implement sustainable practices. This collaborative effort should involve all stakeholders, from local communities to government agencies, ensuring that responsibility is shared and action is taken at all levels.
According to the Ethiopian Meteorology Institute’s data, the warnings about potential flash floods, landslides, and overflowing rivers during the upcoming winter season highlight the urgent need for proactive measures. Communities and relevant authorities must take necessary precautions and prepare for potential disasters. This includes implementing early warning systems, strengthening infrastructure, and educating communities on disaster preparedness.
The experts emphasize the significance of a whole-hearted approach to addressing the challenges posed by climate change in Ethiopia. This includes protecting and restoring the country’s ecosystem, which is vital for mitigating the impacts of climate change and ensuring long-term sustainability. Additionally, resettlement programs for vulnerable communities should be implemented to ensure their safety and well-being.
By learning from the successes and challenges of other countries and by adopting a multi-pronged approach that encompasses environmental protection, disaster preparedness, community engagement, and policy collaboration, Ethiopia can continue to build resilience and create a more sustainable future for its people.
Sustainable management of natural resources is mandatory to address the root causes of disasters like landslides, which are inextricably linked to climate change and human activities. The concerned bodies are responsible for sustainable land management practices, responsible infrastructure development, and robust early warning systems, which are crucial to mitigating the risks associated with disasters.
Furthermore, international cooperation and support are vital to providing the necessary resources and expertise to help affected communities recover and build resilience in the face of these increasingly frequent and severe disasters.
BY FIKADU BELAY
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD TUESDAY 27 AUGUST 2024
