Ethiopia is set to transform its climate and conservation efforts with a newly approved $37 million investment from the Climate Investment Funds (CIF). The funding will unlock an additional $492 million in co-financing from the African Development Bank (AfDB) and World Bank, propelling a comprehensive $500 million initiative aimed at restoring ecosystems and bolstering rural livelihoods.
A strategic focus on sustainability
Spanning the regions of Amhara, Oromia, South Ethiopia, and Somali, the initiative will restore 322,276 hectares of degraded land. The plan emphasizes creating sustainable income opportunities for communities, including carbon credit programs and non-timber forest products such as honey, coffee, spices, and bamboo. To further safeguard Ethiopia’s forests—which store 10.1 billion metric tons of CO2 equivalents—a national forest registry will be developed to enhance monitoring and conservation efforts.
Empowering women and strengthening communities
Central to the initiative is the empowerment of women. The plan provides women farmers with access to climate-smart agricultural techniques, encourages their participation in ecotourism ventures, and promotes leadership roles in local governance. These efforts aim to build resilience and reduce dependence on traditional forest products for survival.
Tariye Gbadegesin, CEO of the Climate Investment Funds, emphasized the transformative potential of the plan, stating, “Nature-based solutions offer a double win, both for the climate and for communities who depend on agriculture and forestry. By investing in sustainable livelihoods and farming practices, Ethiopia can reduce emissions and boost rural resilience.”
The initiative reflects a global commitment to addressing climate challenges while supporting vulnerable communities. By prioritizing nature-based solutions and sustainable development, Ethiopia is charting a path toward environmental restoration and economic empowerment.
This landmark funding signals a new chapter for the nation, highlighting the critical role of international collaboration in tackling climate change and fostering sustainable growth.
