Overgrazing of land by livestock is one of the major and widespread causes of desertification in Ethiopia. It is a widespread problem because livestock represent an integral part of the livelihoods of nearly all rural communities in the country. Among the recent but unsuccessful attempt in addressing the problem of overgrazing (which is also the focus of this research) is the promotion of a zero grazing system in the Regional state of Tigray. Starting in 2005, the regional government has been launching an ambitious plan to introduce a zero grazing system throughout the region. The system mainly focuses on putting communal enforcement measures on livestock owners in order to force them to keep their animals indoors and to practice animal feeding through the cut and carry system. After nearly two years now, the program did not achieve any significant change, on the contrary it is still facing great resistance from farmers all over the region.

This study therefore aims to:

• To assess existing challenges, opportunities and available good practices in relation to zero grazing system in rural communities of taking cases from Tigray and regions.
• To develop and recommend appropriate strategies that ensure the effective implementation of zero-grazing in Tigray, (in case potential is found for zero-grazing in Tigray), or recommend other alternative and an appropriate system that can better address the problem of overgrazing in Tigray.
• To use the findings of the study for lobby and advocacy by members in Ethiopia so as to challenge policy makers in Tigray to revisit their policies and strategies currently in use toward combating overgrazing in the region. 

This study will take place from April to November 2007 and will end with a workshop to share the results of the study with members and relevant stakeholders. 

 printer friendly