Members of DCG Ethiopia have for a certain time wanted to expand the network so that its objectives are realized in wider perspectives in Ethiopia. Many members believe that the current working situation of DCG Ethiopia should somehow be changed by combining its work with others who are working on similar thematic issues. DCG Ethiopia considers to bring on board those NGOs who are directly or indirectly partners of Norwegian NGOs and gradually, if need arises, move to accept other NGOs and GOs who work with similar issues. Hence, by expanding its network, DCG Ethiopia can bring on board NGOs/GOs working in dryland areas and on pastoral development so as to build a stronger national platform for dryland development activities.

In order to prepare for this expansion, the Norwegian Church Aid in Ethiopia on behalf of DCG Ethiopia conducted a mapping exercise of the expected core- and partner member NGOs of DCG Ethiopia. As a follow-up to this mapping and in order to officially welcome the new members of DCG Ethiopia, an expansion workshop was organized on December 5th in Addis Ababa at the NCA conference room by NCA Ethiopia.

The following presentations were made at the expansion workshop:

• Historical Development of DCG Ethiopia, establishment, progress and challenges and future endeavours;
• DCG’s new strategy (2007-2011);
• Noragric and cooperation with DCG;
• Agricultural policy and the status of food Security in Ethiopia, particularly in the dryland areas and the role of NGOs;
• PASDEP and the status of natural resources in Ethiopia, particularly in the drylands and the role of NGOs;
• The UNCCD, its current status and the role of DCG;
• Findings of the mapping work.

These presentations were followed by discussions on the themes presented, the mapping exercise, and on DCG Ethiopia in general. Some possible new members expressed their interest in being part of DCG, but no official decision was taken. It was decided that the mapping work be completed and finalized and that the decision on new members of DCG Ethiopia be taken at the next board meeting early in 2007. 

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