Participatory rapid rural appraisal in Wollo, Ethiopia : peasant association planning for natural resource management

The Ethiopian government responded by initiating numerous forestry, hillside closure, and other natural resource management projects. However, success has been limited, presumably due to a lack of community involvement in the planning process. This report presents results of a Rapid Rural Appraisal (RRA) aimed at increasing participation by peasant associations in managing two contrasting environments -- the Bededo highlands and the comparatively less fertile and less densely populated Graramba lowlands. Under the RRA, environmental, agricultural, and attitudinal profiles of each peasant association were developed. On the basis of this information, preliminary assessments of development opportunities in the two areas were prepared and brought to the communities for group revision. Finalized assessments were then used to develop recommendations for further practical action, including policy review, research, and project implementation.