Environmental conservation is a crucial practice that aims to safeguard natural resources on our planet and maintain ecological balance. In order to preserve ecosystems, biodiversity, and natural habitats for the benefit of both present and future generations, they must be properly managed sustainably.
Its efforts focus on protecting and restoring ecosystems, conserving and managing wildlife populations, and promoting sustainable land and resource use. People work towards minimizing human impact on the environment, preserving endangered species, and maintaining the integrity of ecosystems.
The conservation of plant species and their habitats is a critical aspect of environmental stewardship and plays a vital role in maintaining the health of Earth’s biodiversity, addressing climate change, and ensuring sustainable development.
The Ethiopian government attempts to address the impacts of the environmental crisis together with international partners, private companies, and other concerned parties. One of the many projects that are being carried out by the government to prevent environmental degradation is the Gullele Botanic Garden (GBG).
Since its inception in 2004, it has become a beacon of biodiversity and a symbol that demonstrates Ethiopia’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage. Spanning over 705 hectares, it is one of the largest botanical gardens in Africa and serves as a vital hub for conservation, research, education, and recreation, according to GBG data.
It serves as the center of many endemic plant species. Its mission is to conserve and present indigenous species that can be found in Ethiopia. The garden’s significant objectives are to foster a greater environmental consciousness and support the wise use of natural resources.
According to GBG data, it boasts indigenous plant species, including traditional medicinal plants, ornamental trees, and others. The garden’s diverse habitats, such as woodlands, wetlands, and grasslands, support a wide range of flora and fauna, making it a shelter for animals, researchers, and botany enthusiasts.
GBG plans to propagate one million and two hundred thousand indigenous seedlings to provide various government origination’s this fiscal year, Engineer Gutema Moreda, head of the Gullele Botanic Garden, told the Ethiopian Herald.
He stated that during the last three years, the garden’s around one million indigenous seedlings propagated have been cultivated annually and distributed to the Urban Beautification Green Development Bureau.
He also highlighted that it is worth noting that GBG is home to an impressive collection, housing over ten percent of Ethiopia’s diverse array of over 6,700 indigenous plants.
“We’ll supply the Urban Beautification Green Development Bureau with native plant seedlings prepared from seeds gathered in regional states including DebreBirhan, Borena, the southern regions, and other areas of the country.” According to him, the collaboration will contribute to preserving indigenous species that are in danger of going extinct and encourage the growth of traditional medicinal herbs.
He noted that the urban Beautification Green Development Bureau will disperse to various sub-cities and districts to promote environmental conservation and sustainable practices.
Apart from its conservation efforts, it facilitates scientific cooperation and study. Its vast grounds offer a living laboratory for researchers to explore biodiversity, plant ecology, and the possibility of sustainable agriculture. He said that the garden’s collaborations with domestic and foreign organizations promote information sharing and develop botanical research.
One of the garden’s notable achievements is its role in preserving endangered plant species. According to him, GBG actively participates in plant conservation projects and works closely with local and international organizations to safeguard fragile ecosystems. By collecting and propagating endangered plants, the garden plays a crucial role in ensuring their survival for future generations.
Another notable feature of GBG is its medicinal plant garden, which displays a wide range of plants traditionally used in Ethiopian medicine. This garden not only showcases the country’s rich traditional knowledge of herbal medicine but also raises awareness about the value of conserving medicinal plants and preserving traditional healing practices.
As Ethiopia continues to place greater emphasis on environmental conservation, the garden stands as a shining example of the country’s commitment to preserving its natural treasures. With its dedication to biodiversity, education, and research, the garden serves as a beacon of hope for sustainable practices and the protection of Ethiopia’s unique ecosystems.
In addition to its conservation efforts, he mentioned that the garden plays an active role in education and community outreach. The garden offers a wide range of educational programs, workshops, exhibitions, and guided tours, with a focus on fostering an understanding of biodiversity, sustainable living, and the vibrant role of plants in maintaining a healthy ecosystem. These initiatives target schools, universities, and the local community.
Beyond its conservation and research efforts, it offers a tranquil getaway for visitors seeking funding in nature. Walking paths wind through various habitats, offering sights of diverse plant species and the opportunity to observe a rich array of birdlife.
He stated that it had been able to create opportunities for 350 individuals temporarily and 200 people permanently at the institutions. He also said that the garden is playing an essential role in enhancing the ecotourism offerings in the country.
Due to its attractiveness, the garden offers visitors a refreshing and relaxing environment for picnics, leisurely walks, and photography. Moreover, the garden showcases traditional uses of plants, offering enthusiasts cultural experiences that draw them in. Travelers looking for outdoor experiences are drawn to the garden because it offers a variety of leisure opportunities, such as bird watching and nature walks.
The garden has a large economic impact because it makes money from product sales, guided tours, and entrance fees. It offers educational opportunities, cultural experiences, recreational options, biodiversity conservation, and economic growth to the tourism industry.
Additionally, it highlights the country’s unique flora, including endemic species found nowhere else in the world. This garden serves as a living museum, enabling visitors to appreciate and learn about Ethiopia’s plant diversity and the cultural and ecological significance of these plants.
Furthermore, it serves as a platform for community engagement and empowerment. The garden collaborates with local communities, providing them with training and employment opportunities in areas such as horticulture, landscaping, and garden maintenance. He added that involving the community in the garden’s activities fosters a sense of ownership and encourages sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and the local people.
The garden’s role in promoting sustainable development extends beyond its immediate surroundings. Gullele Botanic Garden actively participates in regional and international collaborations, sharing knowledge and expertise in biodiversity conservation, ecosystem management, and sustainable tourism. By contributing to global conservation efforts, the garden helps raise Ethiopia’s profile as a leader in environmental stewardship.
He emphasized the critical importance of consistent care and attention to ensure the successful growth and development of the seedlings. He also stressed the community and all concerned institutions to be diligent in tending to their seedlings, even after planting them, in order to maximize their probabilities of thriving.
The Gullele Botanic Garden also stands as a testament to Ethiopia’s commitment to environmental conservation and the preservation of its unique biodiversity. It serves as a vibrant hub for education, research, and the promotion of sustainable practices, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested.
BY FIKADU BELAY
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD TUESDAY 5 DECEMBER 2023
