Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin 1 © Copyright 2016

PHE Ethiopia Consortium Phone: + 251-11-663 4121/+ 251-11-663 4116 Fax: + 251-11-663 8127 P.O.Box - 4408 Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. E-mail: [email protected] [email protected] www.phe-ethiopia.org

Edited by Negash Teklu Ayalew Talema Endashaw Mogessie

Supported by Civil Society Support Program (CSSP)

Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin

Jointly Organized by Jimma University and PHE Ethiopia Consortium

2 Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin 4 Preface 5 Acknowledgement 5 Acronyms and abbreviations 6 1. Introductory sessions of the workshop

Content 6 1.1. Scope and Objectives of the workshop 6 1.2. Welcoming speech 8 1.3. Opening speech 10 1.4. Review of the impact of the previous national workshop on Omo-Gibe basin 14 2. Presentations

14 2.1. An over view of Omo Gibe River Basin Potential 17 2.2. Current status of Gilgel Gibe Dams (I and II) 18 2.3. Jimma University’s research activities in the Omo-Gibe basin 19 2.4. Developmental works and scientific research presentations 19 2.4.1. Overall progress of watershed management activities in the upper Omo-Gibe basin 24 2.4.2. Gully rehabilitation using multipurpose plants in Gilgel Gibe catchment 26 2.4.3. Review on the Roles of Wetlands in Sustainable Watershed Management 27 2.4.4. Sediment retention and nutrient removal capacity of natural riverine wetlands 28 2.4.5. Dynamics of Belete Forest Cover during the Past three Decades: An Application of Satellite Remote Sensing 29 2.4.6. Population, reproductive and Family planning situation of six districts in Jimma Zone, Omo Gibe basin 31 2.4.7. Practices of Watershed Management – Examples from WLRC/Ethiopia 32 2.4.8. Importance of Eco-hydrology as a Tool for sustainable river management and its Implementation in Ethiopian 34 3. Field visit to Bulbul gully rehabilitation and Gilgel Gibe dams buffer zone

36 4. Feedback and Planning Session

36 4.1. Strengths observed so far 36 4.2. Problems/Weaknesses identified 37 4.3. Recommendations 39 5. References

Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin 3 Preface

limate change is becoming a global issue from time to time and all parties agreed up on the need of synergetic efforts. As one of the actors to adapt the global climate change, Ethiopia Cis designing and implementing climate resilient green economy (CRGE) strategy. One of those implementation strategies is the use of clean energy generation by using the untapped hydroelectric potential of the country . Ethiopia is at the booming age in its hydroelectric potential development. But, due to environmental degradation and lack of proper management the life span of such hydroelectric dams is under threat unless well organized and continuous integrated watershed management is implemented at national level. For instance, Gilgel Gibe 1 and 2 dams are generating about 30% of Ethiopia’s current electric demand and expected to serve for about 50-70 years if the watershed is well managed. However, investigators find out that the siltation and eutrophication of the Gilgel Gibe I dam is very huge and the dam is under threat. In response to this alarm call we organized a national workshop in 2010 in collaboration with all stakeholders. Several integrated watershed management activities were implemented with the involvement of all stakeholders actively. The second consultative national workshop was organized to review the ongoing activities and discuss the way forward with all stakeholders. We are very pleased to express our warm interest to collaborate on Omo-Gibe basin integrated watershed management with any responsible actor. Kora Tushume Dean for Business and Economic Development and Vice President Jimma University Negash Teklu Executive director, PHE Ethiopia Consortium

4 Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin Acknowledgement

PHE Ethiopia Consortium would like to extend its special thanks to CSSP, which provided us all the financial support required to conduct the workshop, and to Jimma University for availing a nice, comofrtable meeting hall, and other logistic supports. It is also our pleasure to thank the Ethiopian Electric Power Corporation for their relentless effort and cooperation for the successful completion of the workshop. All government offices and non-government organizations would also be appreciated for their inexorable contribution during and after the workshop. The Consortium would also acknowledge all those who took part in the workshop and contributed valuable ideas either presenting their paper and/or actively participating and generating ideas for the purpose of the successful outcome of the workshop. Finally, PHE EC would like to thank all those who have direct and indirect role to the successful completion of the workshop.

Acronyms and abbreviations

BHC: Basin High Council CBO: Community based organization CSSP: Civil Society Support Program EEPCO: Ethiopian Electric Power Corporation GG II: Gilgel Gibe Two GGIII: Gilgel Gibe Three IWSM: Integrated Watershed Management MOWIE: Ministry of Water, Irrigation and Electricity NGO: Non-governmental Organization NSS: North South South PHE: Population, Health and Environment

Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin 5 1. Introductory sessions of the workshop 1.1. Scope and Objectives of the workshop he scope of the workshop is limited to the upper Omo-Gibe basin focusing on Gilgel Gibe I and II Tdams with the understanding of the need to gradual expansion of the focus area to Gilgel Gibe III and the lower Omo-Gibe basin. The second national consultative workshop on Omo-Gibe basin was thus organized to open a forum of discussion with the major stakeholders to review the performances and share the experiences of different stakeholders and pave the way for further cooperation and synergy in conserving the Omo-Gibe basin. General objective. The general objective of the workshop was to strengthen a forum of multi-sectoral partnership that was established in the first stakeholders meeting and reviewing the performance of the stakeholders in conservation of Omo-Gibe basin. Specific objectives:  To revive a fresh discussion on the conservation of Omo-Gibe river basin  To review the performance of stakeholders in the last five years  To strengthen the multi sectoral engagement of stakeholders  To discuss on the research findings of Jima university  To discuss on performance of governmental and nongovernmental organization in watershed management on the upper catchment woredas.  To create a forum where the stakeholders share their experiences and have a joint plan for the coming five years.

1.2. Welcoming speech Dear, Tesfaye Fichalla, advisor to the minister, Ministry of Water, Irrigation and Electricity Dear, Negash Teklu, Executive Director for PHE Ethiopia Consortium Distinguished participants, Ladies and Gentlemen:

It gives me a great pleasure to welcome all of you and chair the opening ceremony to “the Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin” jointly organized by Jimma University and PHE Ethiopia Consortium. The significance of integrated watershed management in Omo-Gibe Basin was being well noticed by several stakeholders in Ethiopia, East Africa and at international level at large due to the untapped

6 Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin hydrologic and biodiversity potential of the basin. The first joint workshop on integrated management of Omo-Gibe Basin was held in 2010, before five years here in Jimma University and resulted in significant output to create awareness on the siltation problem of Gilgel Gibe I dam and alternative measures. After long lasting debate in several similar workshops we reached consensus on the need of immediate integrated watershed management activities by mobilizing available resources and all stakeholders. Accordingly, Ministry of Water, Irrigation and Electricity, take the leading role to manage the dam and the associated siltation risk. I believe that the Minister organization took the expected leading role and developed proposal in collaboration with Jimma University, Jimma Zone Administration and all the Districts in the catchment namely, Sekoru, Omonada, Tiroafeta, Kersa, Sekachekorsa and Dedo. It has been about three years since the fund was being released and several soil water conservation measures and other related activities have been implemented. Dr. Fikre Lemessa, President, Distinguished participants, Jimma University Ladies and Gentlemen: As the main nearby stakeholder, Jimma University has been undertaking several scientific researches to minimize the siltation problem of Gilgel Gibe I Dam and to improve the livelihood of local communities by organizing multidisciplinary research themes. One of our efforts worth mentioning is the VLIR, IUC-JU project which has been launched since July, 2007 and undertaking holistic multidisciplinary researches within 8 sub-projects by participating more than 40 PhD researchers. Regarding the specific integrated watershed management, we believe that successful field experiments have been undertaking and it is time to scale up these at the catchment level. Distinguished participants, Ladies and Gentlemen: Today’s workshop is therefore, a very critical event to evaluate and review all the efforts put into practice by stakeholders and to refine the way forward. The three-day workshop is expected to be attended by participants from Federal, Regional, Zonal and District Offices, Jimma University and other invited guests. Finally, I would like to say welcome to the workshop and to Jimma again. I believe that this workshop will be very fruitful to evaluate our achievements and to fill the remaining gaps for a success in integrated watershed management within Omo-Gibe Basin. May I take this opportunity to invite Dear, Tesfaye Fichalla, advisor to the minister, Ministry of Water, Irrigation and Electricity to deliver opening remark of the workshop. Thank you,

Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin 7 1.3. Opening speech Dear Participants of this workshop, Ladies and gentle men, irst of all, I would like to extend a sincere welcome to all Fof you joining us today for this workshop. I feel honored to represent the Ministry of Water, Irrigation and Electricity and deliver an opening remark for this important workshop. This Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management in the Omo-Gibe Basin is timely as the organization is extensively implementing mega hydropower dam projects, which demanded integrated efforts in applying watershed management. We are in a period when the second GTP plan and SDG is endorsed demanding to mobilize all our capacities to its achievement. It is also a period in which world states endorsed a break through new climate agreement which sought to channel hundred billion dollars a year to developing countries.

GTP II and SDG have given high emphasis, among others, for green development and designing mechanism for addressing climate change. Given all these national and global commitments to address the present challenges posed to countries, we need to position ourselves in Tesfaye Fichalla, coping up the situations. If we are looking for attaining the Advisor to the minister, FDRE Ministry of Water, envisioned ambitious national and global development Irrigation and Electricity. plans, we need to make ourselves competent to access climate funds, utilize available opportunities and mobilize our internal resources. This would be possible when we are equipped with the necessary capacities, strengthen our collaboration and integrate efforts towards meeting our common goals of ensuring sustainable development. Ladies and gentle men, We are thus in a time, beyond all other planning periods, that our country is looking for energetic engagement of all parties to deliver sound results helping Ethiopia to be one of the middle income country. Ladies and Gentle men, The Ministry of Water, Irrigation and Electricity of Ethiopia is a federal organization established to undertake the management of water resources, medium and large-scale irrigation and electricity resources of Ethiopia. The Ministry is a regulatory body, which involves the planning, development, and management of the resources, development of guidelines, strategies, polices, and programs, develop and implement sectoral laws and regulations, conduct study and research activities, provide technical support to regional water and energy bureaus and sign international agreements. The leadership and management role of the twelve river basins of the country also lies at the authority of the ministry.

8 Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin The ministry’s core areas of responsibilities are thus calls for the concerted efforts and engagement of multi-sectors to get the utmost benefits from our investments. The ministry is striving for transformation energy sources through initiatives of hydropower, wind power, geothermal power and solar power. Hydropower is considered the main source for sustainable energy source. Improving electric service coverage from 60% to 90% and enhancing power generation capacity from 2267 MW to 17370 MW can be mentioned as key targets set in GTP II, which are expected to be achieved by the ministry at the end of the planning period. Undertaking all these wider scope responsibilities and achieving the intended results would be difficult with the usual approach of single sector engagement, it rather needs the ministry to play significant coordination role of bringing multiple actors together for a complementing efforts and optimization of benefits. Ladies and gentle men, When we are moving towards implementing GTP II, we need to have clear pictures about the challenges we have faced, make the necessary analysis on the future threats and embark on the feasible solutions. The effect of EliNo on the hydropower dams and siltation can be sited as major challenges. For instance, shortage of rain due EliNo has made the dams not store the water levels they need to generate power throughout the year which can negative impacted the energy source that has the lion share for the country. Tekeze hydropower dam with an installed capacity of 300 MW is one of the dams affected by shortage of rainfalls. However, there are hydropower dams that captured more water during the rainy season, Tana Beles, and Gibe I and Gibe II. The conditions of the reservoirs can be partly attributed to the watershed activities carried out in the upper catchment areas- which needs to be strengthened and up scaled. Ladies and gentle man, In the first consultative meeting, establishment of multi-sectoral taskforce was suggested and our ministry was assigned to take the lead role. I expect, in this workshop, we will learn about our previous commitments and their status and come up with renewed actions that fit the current development. I hope, this workshop will make fruitful discussions and come up with strong recommendations and actions. I expect one of the key outputs of this workshop to be designing mechanism that put in place multi-sector taskforce, which will be demonstratively functional and sustainably engage in an integrated development within the Omo-Gibe Basin. The ministry will take the lead role and provide strong support to translate the recommendations of this workshop into action and sustaining the engagement of the task force. Finally, I would like to thank Jimma University and PHE EC for taking the lead role in organizing this workshop and creating this plat form of joint discuss on the burning issue. I also thank others who have a role in one or the way in the realization of the workshop. Wishing all participants to have fruitful and interesting deliberations, I declare the workshop is officially opened. Thank you!

Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin 9 1.4. Review of the impact of the previous national workshop on Omo-Gibe basin ased on the evidence obtained from the research result Bfrom Jimma University and other institutes, pressing need has been raised to involve several stakeholders to partake in a consultation and collaboration workshop. Beginning on December 23, 2010, a three-day National Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Gilgel Gibe-I was held at Jimma University with around 150 participants. The workshop was aimed at improving the intricate and multifaceted problems of siltation and landslides surrounding the Gilgel Gibe dam. The workshop was attended by ministers, government officials, representatives of non-government organizations, academia, researchers and both government and private media. The workshop was organized collaboratively by Population, Health and Environment Ethiopia Consortium (PHEEC), Jimma University, Ethiopian Electric Power Corporation (EEPCo), Heinerich Boll Foundation (HBF), and the Sustainable Land Use Forum (SLUF). The sponsors of the workshop were EEPCo, Jimma University, HBF and PHE Ethiopia Consortium. Negash Teklu, Excutive Director, The main objective of the workshop was to understand PHE Ethiopia Consortium the climatic change, geo-hazards (siltation, sediments) and human anthropogenic activities towards the Gilgel Gibe I Dam and to take initiatives and take corrective measures through integrated watershed management approaches together with all stakeholders to sustain the intended economic life span of hydroelectric power generation. The specific objectives were:  To create awareness about the problem facing the Gilgel Gibe dam  To identify the current research needs and initiatives to mitigate the impacts of geo hazards on Gilgel Gibe I dam.  To form responsible national forum to bring together relevant stakeholders for coordinated responses of current threatening conditions through integrated watershed management approaches .  To document an ongoing and potential research promoting the protection and challenges faced the Dam and local communities through action research.  To scale up the possible and best practice interventions to all new and constructed dams in Ethiopia

10 Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin The participants of the first national workshop on Omo-Gibe basin were divided in to five groups and discussed on five major areas and agreed on the following points. The following table summarizes major areas of discussion and consensus points reached : 1 Table 1 - Summary commonly agreed points of the first stakeholders meeting

Groups/ Stakeholders Consensus points

• Basin level Intervention – at this level there are certain activities which are done by the ministries to mitigate the problem, • Area enclosure/buffer zone-level- at this level demarcation and protection of the buffer zone would be made. • Each ministry agreed to participate at the implementation of the Policy Group mitigation measures. (Policy and • They strongly agreed that participation should involve all relevant decision stakeholders, institutions so that temporary task force shall be makers) formulated which are highly responsible for implementation procedure for all constructed dams starting from Gilgel Gibe Dam I. • The group also reached on consensus to give the leadership role to the ministry of water and energy. They also said that the detail work plan shall be prepared within short period of time.

• designing participatory approach to manage the natural resources in the watershed area of Gilgel Gibe dam, • integration and cooperation of different stakeholders is sought, EEPCo(Ethiopian Electric Power Corporation) shall strengthen its communication with local administration and communities to address the local community problem in relation to the dam, • awareness creation and sense of ownership ( e.g tree planting which was not sustained due to lack of community support) have a paramount importance in the management of the natural resources in Implementers the watershed area, group • Supporting the community’s development activities to create alternatives livelihood programs like cuts and carry, Income generating activities (like fishery, livestock, agro forestry etc.), • identify new comers and compensated dweller currently living in the catchment area so as to clearly know the community affected by the process, reworking the compensation issues (homes plus farm plot), • sustainable land management activities in all upper watershed management and reservoir area should be supported, • sectoral integration and lead institutions for the watershed, give priority to the communities in the rural electrification plan.

1. PHEEC (2011), Proceeding of The National Workshop in Integrated Watershed Management On Gibe - Omo Basin.

Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin 11 • Awareness creation (making the society share the vision of saving the dam) through training, Focus group discussion, Participatory appraisal approaches, developing models for mass mobilizations, • Curricular interventions (including training methodologies) • Creation of common forum and networks on dam management across higher learning institutions, research institutions and relevant stakeholders like EEPCO) • To find new and better technologies to protect the reservoir Universities • Reviewing environmental impact assessment document done by and research EEPCo and do action research on gaps indentified institutions • The effect of buffer zone size and catchment management on siltation and nutrients • Influences of different vegetation types on siltation and nutrients removal • Influences of solid and liquid waste management on the reservoir • Study on integrated management of soil and vegetation • Influence of anthropogenic activities • Preparing research output in the form of policy briefs for policy makers, stakeholder etc • Appraisal of resettlement options

• To give technical support • Participate on capacity building at all level (federal, regional, zonal, wereda, local communities) like training experience sharing (for example Tan abeles integrated watershed Development management) partners • Organizational development, etc • Financial support plus resource mobilization • Engagement on policy dialogue and coordination platforms • Support for research activities

• Participate in integrated watershed management project design • Involve in resource mobilization • Work advocacy • Project implementation as well as monitoring and evaluation • Scale up the best experiences • Work on conflict resolution and management mechanism Civil society • Facilitate research development activities particularly natural resource group management • Facilitate appropriate social and environmental impact assessment works • Work on conservation of indigenous knowledge and biodiversity • Work on rehabilitation or remedial actions • Work on networking for information and experience sharing

12 Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin Despite the agreed actions presented in the table, Said Ato Negash Teklu, we have made little progresses within the five years. One important progresses that we can mention is the key focus given by Ministry of Water, Irrigation and Electricity(MoWIE) and a watershed management projects initiative in the six woredas of the upper catchments of the basin. Although this is important step forward move, there are still more tasks ahead that we need to accomplish to reach our intended goal. At this junction, it was found important to review and shade light on previously agreed points by individual stakeholder or commonly accomplished performances. How the agreed points can be fully translated in to practice and what was the major problem observed are expected to be point of discussion. Moreover, the workshop has come up feasible action points as way forward.

Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin 13 2. Presentations 2.1. An over view of Omo Gibe River Basin Potential

thiopia has 12 basins, eight of which are river basins, Eone Lake Basin and the rest three dry basins (Fig. 1). The Omo-Gibe River Basin is about 79, 000 km² in area and is situated in the south-west of Ethiopia. It is approximately 550 km long and encompasses parts of two National Regional States (NRSs), Oromiya which occupies the north- eastern part of the Basin, and the Southern People’s NRS, which makes up the rest. The Basin includes all or parts of 80 weredas, and has a population of just under 6½ million. The Omo-Gibe Master Plan Study is the first of its kind for Ethiopia covering comprehensively all of the development sectors in an effort to make optimum use of the natural resource base. The Omo-Gibe Basin is located between 40 30’ and 90 30’ N; and 350 and 380 E (Figure 2) The Basin is approximately 550 km long in the north-south direction. East-west, the Basin is very irregular in outline, and varies in width from a point at the northern extremity, to about 225 km in the central parts, and terminates bluntly at the Kenyan border with a Basin width of about 100 km. The Asmamaw Kume, Director, Basin southern extremity coincides with Lake Turkana. Administration Directorate, Ministry of Water, Ir- rigation and Electricity Its defining drainage consists of the Omo River, flowing into Lake Turkana, and its main tributaries the Gibe draining the north of the Basin and the Gojeb draining the west of the Basin. A key characteristic of the Basin is its topography. The Basin divides sharply, and almost exactly, into highlands in the northern half and lowlands in the southern half. This division is reflected in almost all other aspects of the Basin. The northern highlands are deeply dissected, and drained by the Gibe and Gojeb systems; these merge to form the Omo in a deeply entrenched gorge which slices north into the highlands. The highlands are characterized by steep slopes; however, soils are largely volcanic in origin and relatively fertile, and the area is favored by a climate of moderate temperatures and rainfall sufficient for one (central Basin) or two (eastern and western Basin) seasons of cropping. Elevation is such that most of the more severe human and animal diseases are absent. The once dominant forest cover has been substantially cleared and the land converted to agriculture The western highlands contain part of one of the two remaining large forest areas of Ethiopia, a fact which must be taken into account in Basin development. Conversion to agriculture has exposed soils to the elements, and soil erosion is generally recognized as an additional characterizing feature. The lowlands, by contrast, are characterized by low altitude, relatively gentle slopes, and a harsh climate of high temperature and low to medium-low rainfall. Soils fall generally into two groups - alluvial deposits and shallow, coarse textured soils on upstanding remnants of basement rock. Population is sparse and land use is primarily agro pastoral. Diseases, both human and animal, are major constraints

14 Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin on human activity. However, the lowlands contain the two national parks, most of the larger animals that attract tourists and the greatest tourist and irrigation potential.

Figure 2. Ethiopia’s river basins and its administrative regions. The Gibe River rises on the Ethiopian Plateau just 90 N at an elevation of about 2200 m. There are some important tributaries (Figure 3), but the general direction of flow of the river is southwards towards the Omo River / Lake Turkana Trough, a fault feature. During the African Pluvial Periods, the Omo-Gibe River formed a deep gorge from which it emerges at about latitude 60 30’ N at the confluence with the Denchiya River, whence it changes in character as it traverses the flood plain leading to Lake Turkana as a well-defined, meandering river channel. The Gibe River is called the Omo River in its lower reach, south and south westwards from its confluence with the Gojeb River. The scattered forest remnants are also a critical resource. They provide limited watershed protection, wood (especially fuel wood) source for local populations, and habitat for a limited range of native flora and fauna. However, such ‘common’ land is under pressure from over-exploitation. Management (and extension) of these areas needs to be addressed seriously by the concerned authorities before these remnants fully disappeared. Experience from a project aimed at these areas would have applicability well beyond the Basin.

Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin 15 The governments, to put in place sustainable and effective Basin Management, is working towards Establishing BHC, which constitute regional presidents and concerned federal ministries. The main office for Om-Gibe Basin Council will be Jsituated at Jimma with the respective offices at Hossana for the middle basin and at Jinka for lower basin. The respective regulation is to be ratified by the council of the ministers within the coming period.

Envisaged Key responsibilities of the BHC: Decision on policy and water development plan, water allocation, water charges, trans-boundary issues, managing disputes, facilitating dialogue between different stakeholder/water users /regional states, strengthening Authority on Omo Gibe River Basin Organization, regulatory functions, basin planning & regular updating, stakeholders involvement pollution control, water allocation, Figure 3. Omo-Gibe river basin monitoring water resources/permit system, financial management/water charging, basin and water information system implementation of IWRM, coordinating the stakeholders’ /water users, regional states, reconciling basin and regional plan and industrial linkage with the universities in the Basin/Jimma, Araba Minch University and others.

Environmental and social impact assessment Controversy arose also as the environmental and social impact assessment and preceding environmental impact study (EIS) were not done until two years after the beginning of the construction of the dam. The Ethiopian Environmental Protection Authority requires that an environmental impact assessment be done for any project “likely to entail significant adverse environmental impacts” and that “the EIS must be submitted before commencing any construction or implementation of any other project. An Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) of the Gil Gibe Dam construction has been carried out by Centro Elettrotecnico Sperimentale Italiano (CESI) and Agriconsulting of Italy, in association with MDI Consulting Engineers from Ethiopia. According to Anthony Mitchell, an engineer who submitted an independent feasibility study of the dam to the African Development Bank, CESI’s owners include vendors who can benefit from the project and this conflict of interest is not disclosed in the impact statement. As part of the assessment, according to the Project Company, public

16 Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin consultations were carried out with “officials and institutions, people affected by the project and non-governmental organizations”. According to critics, these consultations have been minimal. Most importantly, the assessment was completed in July 2008; nearly two years after construction began, in violation of Ethiopian law and in contrast to global good practice of environmental assessments. In addition, an independent environmental advisory panel has been established only as late as July 2009, apparently in a belated effort to appease criticism of the project.

2.2. Current status of Gilgel Gibe Dams (I and II)

Habtamu Semu and Getnet Bekele, EEPCO Habtamu Semu (project coordinator, Gil-Gibe I) explained that the power Ethiopia is increasing through time. For instance, from 2003 -2007 the production grew at the level of 32% per year (Figure 4). GG I and II generates about 30% of the current Ethiopia’s electric power in two cascading power plants. Gilgel Gibe III is expected to generate 1870 MW. But, he stressed that the management of the dam buffer zone and the overall watershed management activities in the basin are not satisfactory to minimize the siltation load of the dams. The illegal farming around the GG I and II dams, lack of clear ownership and legal enforcement on the dam buffer zone and lack of awareness and commitment of the local decision makers and people’s needs special attention for the sustainability of the dams. GG II is in a much severe threat compared with Gibe I as the slope of the buffer zone is very steep. Under normal condition Works expected to be done on the buffer zone

 Continuous assessment and awareness programs for the public.  Stop illegal farming inside the buffer zone.  Integrated watershed management and soil conservation.  Strong and sustainable collaboration of stakeholders for integrated watershed management

Figure 4. Electric production growth in Ethiopia since 2003.

Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin 17 2.3. Jimma University’s research activities in the Omo-Gibe basin

ne of the major research and developmental projects Obeing implemented in GG catcment is the IUC-JU project entitled “Investigating the Impact of Gilgel Gibe Dam: A Multidisciplinary Approach towards Capacity Building”. Actually the study was conducted both on the impact of the dam on the community and vice versa. The project was formally launched in Sept. 2007. It went through call application, evaluation, selection, matchmaking, formulation, pre-partner program and partner program and annual program developments. The project contains three phases  Phase I Partner Programme (2007-2012)-five years with yearly activity programs (AP) Phase II Partner Programme (20013-2017)-yearly activity programs (AP) (for five years) – Gradually decreasing funding  Exit Phase (beyond 2017) Kora Tushume, Business and Economic Development Dean and Vice President, Jimma University Achievements of the Program Research projects are ongoing in 8 thematic areas and more than 40 topics (Animal health and Zonootic diseases, Child Health and Nutrition, Environmental Health and Ecology, Infectious Diseases Epidemiology and Modeling, and Soil Fertility and the likes). About 160 staff are members in research projects and more than 40 of them are pursuing PhD studies on sandwich basis in Flanders.  Several esearch project related short courses, short course ICT and library; organized in Jimma University for not only JU staff but also for Ethiopian and African IUC institutions.  Conferences/workshops and several publications  Networking and synergy (NSS collaboration: Ethiopian HEIs, Moi University, synergy with research grants such as TDR projects)  Supporting graduate program expansion including opening new graduate programs (e.g., MSc in Biostatistics through north-south-south, collaboration fund from VILR.  Contribution to institutional capacity  Development efforts:  ICT and library capacity development (Network administration, Web based services, University, email system, University portal, Bandwidth management, Database (mysql, …), Wireless, internet, e-learning, library automation, (WEBLIS, ABCD, …), ICT cross-cutting  Initiatives, e-journals/books…

18 Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin Infrastructural support:  Procurement of Servers, PCs, laptops, Lab, equipments, machines, chemicals, and vehicles  Establishment of excellence centers: Molecular lab, Nutrition and Psychomotor research centers, and TB/HIV laboratory.

Key Features of JU-IUC Program Development  Institutional collaboration  Alignment and harmonization with JU priorities  Ownership by JU  In-built sustainability mechanism  Networking, Collaboration and partnership  Result orientation (capacity building of the partner university in the south).

Strengths observed in VLIR JU-IUC Program  Participatory development of collaborative program with the spirit of partnership  It is based on demand and identified gaps in the strategic plan of the University  The sandwich mode staff training reduces attrition and is more cost effective  Funding is available upon the existence of an active collaboration between south and north which enhances the sharing of expertise and transfer of skill and technology  Relatively long term: funding in two phases of five years each and additional 7 years opportunity for competitive research funding.  A number of complementary funding opportunities (cross-cutting and NSS collaboration) and alliances (INASP, CTG, IFS, etc) to support  Staff and institutional capacity building in the areas of ICT, library, research and teaching.  Involvement of many universities from the north in the consortium expands opportunity for capacity  building (JU has access to five universities in Flanders)  It is extensive in coverage while maintaining the focus: covered three colleges and about 40 depts.  Encouragement of networking and NSS collaboration

2.4. Developmental works and scientific research presentations 2.4.1. Overall progress of watershed management activities in the upper Omo-Gibe basin Ato Nezif reported that in the GGI catchment, Watershed management activities were being performed by mass mobilization with cooperation between government offices (GOs) and non-government offices (NGOs), planning and action across government sectoral ministries and agencies. The objective of the watershed management basin is to address the problem of siltation in the Gilgel Gibe dams besides protecting soil erosion from farmlands. The sediment load from sheet erosion of catchment area was calculated and found to be 4.5x107 tones/ year that is 2210 tone/ square km and the sediment load of the Gilgel Gibe river contributes

Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin 19 to the dam was 277,437 tone/ year. In this study, “it was estimated that the GG dam will reduce its volume by half within 12 years, completely filled with sediments, and atrophied within 24 years unless appropriate measures are taken timely”. Problems associated with Soil erosion One of the causes of soil erosion and siltation is cultivation of steep slope without appropriate soil-water conservation measures. During intensive rainfall, the soil washed away and taken to the rivers and transported to the dam during flooding (Figure 5). In general, the causes of erosion from the upslope and siltation in the dams are:  natural phenomena,  attitude of the community towards the natural resource management, Nezif Abachebsa (MSc),  lack of skill in; Head, Rural Land and Environmental Protection >>land use planning, Department, Jimma Zone >> terrace construction techniques, >> seedling preparation planting, >> water harvesting, lack of supply,  lack of appropriate and timely technologies,  lack of best practice models; and  lack of hand tools and other materials for watershed management

Figure 5. Cultivation of steep slopes without appropriate soil water conservation meas- ures (left) and the erosion during erratic rainfall (right)

20 Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin In tackling the problems, several activities are being implemented by federal and local government and non-governmental organizations. Important progresses have been made in the implementation of watershed management activities in the selected upper catchment woredas of Omo-Gibe basin. Some of the key watershed management activities within the catchments include:  Projects implemented by Ministry of Water, Irrigation and Electricity (MoWIE) and the local and other government sectors  Projects implemented by NGO’s

Figure 6 Activities and Innovations The projects were implemented through mobilizing communities and engaging community based organizations (CBOs). The most commonly implemented activities by the CBOs are enclosure, beekeeping, cattle fattening (figure 7), tree and fruit seedlings production and soil and water conservation. Fishery and fuel saving stoves have also been introduced in two CBOs. The focus has been to integrate these activities with the protection of natural resources and serve as a way-out to ecological rebuilding, biodiversity conservation, environmental resilience promotion, and as well livelihood improvement.

Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin 21 Figure 7 Fattening program at Ayino CBO

Ecosystem Services and Biodiversity Conservation The enclosures are showing positive responses towards vegetation restoration (Figure 8). Several CBOs are halting and reversing degradation, conserving the diminishing trees, shrubs, and grasses as well as creating habitat for wildlife. Both communal and the farmlands around the dam are benefiting from the organic matter associated with increased vegetation cover, the increased soil moisture as a result of soil conservation measures and ultimately renewal of soil fertility. The interventions have already prevented further degradation of the natural environment and contributed for the increased vegetation cover in the buffer zone.

Figure 8 The area closure near the GG I dam before (left) and after (right).

22 Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin Contributions of the project to sustainable livelihoods The dividends from the profits of the cooperatives from various activities; the benefit received in kind such as seedlings; the knowledge, skill and technology to implement activities are promising. Diversifying their livelihoods strategies into different farm and off-farm activities. The impact of GEF/ SGP interventions on livelihood strategies of the households is also notable in terms of reducing temporary migration. In particular women involvement in all CBOs is about 35% to 60%.

Challenges Initial stage There was resistance and lack of trust to be organized in CBOs and work on communal resources for common benefits. Accepting and implementing proposed interventions whole heartedly at the initial stage was difficult because members were skeptical regarding the benefit that can be obtained after some years. There was also resistance to allocate land for enclosure, buffer zone and nursery site. Implementation stage There was no market linkage for products such as fuel saving stoves, fish honey, and fattened cattle. Fluctuation of market price of live cattle is one of the major problems affecting the fattening component of the project. Low level of feeding, low feed supplementation and poor selection of fattening cattle has resulted in prolonged fattening period. There is mismatching between fattening demand and the available fund, resulting in reduced fattening period than required in order to benefit all members. Overall outcome  More degraded areas are recovered by means of area closure  Gullies were rehabilitated  Springs are being recharged  Farmers become aware of the impacts  Jobless young people organized & benefited from the results  Vegetation cover of reservoir area has been increased significantly  Surrounding forest species are protected etc.

Figure 9: Area closure at the buffer zone of Gil Gibe I dam

Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin 23 2.4.2 Gully rehabilitation using multipurpose plants in Gilgel Gibe catchment

Ayalew Talema (PhD candidate), Department of Horticulture and Plant Sciences, Jimma University The effectiveness and suitability of 18 species of multipurpose trees, shrubs and grasses were investigated from July 2011 to present under IUC-JU, VLIR project as part of a PhD research work. The gully was remained bare and out of any agricultural use for more than 70 years as confirmed by the local elderly people. Among the experimental plants, grasses such as Pennisetum purpureum (Elephant grass) (Figure 9), Pennisetum macrourum, Pennisetum polystachion (mission grass) and Chrysopogon zizanioides (Vetiver grass) were the most effective and suitable species compared with trees and shrubs. The application of composted manure results in significant differences in root and shoots growth of Elephant grass. The average root and shoot growth of the species under composted manure treatment was increased by 600% and 300% respectively (Figure 10).

Figure 9. Shoot growth of Elephant grass with compost (left) and without compost (right). N.B. see the variations in the relative size of the experimental code which is similar size in both plots. Among the tree species such as Albizia gummifera, Acacia abyssinica, Gravillea robusta and Syzygium guineense, had the highest rate of survival. S. guineense survived the dry season stress by allocating most of its biomass towards the root. The rest species was dried up during the dry season though their growth was promising during the rainy season. Hence, the indigenous species, S. guineense (Dokma, Bedesa) needs special attention to utilize its untapped conservation potential. Besides gully rehabilitation, the species is effective to grow under water logging condition along riverbanks. The leaves and small branches of S. guineense are used for fodder, the ripe fruits can be used as food, the bark is used for medicine and the wood is also important for producing strong wood that is used for traditional bridge making and house construction. Above all, the species is important source of food for birds, monkey, apes and other wild life during the dry season, April to May. Hence, the species needs special conservation attention (Figure 11).

24 Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin Figure 10. Root growth of Elephant grass with the application of compost (left) and without compost (right).

Figure 11. Relative growth of Syzygium guineense root and shoot (left) and students collecting and eating the fruits of S. guineense at Bulbul during fruiting, April, 2013.

Conclusions and recommendations  The rehabilitation of degraded lands is easily achievable in Southwest Ethiopia due to the suitable climatic condition of the region as far as well tested scientific approaches are followed.  There is huge variation among different plant species for soil water conservation. Therefore, land

Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin 25 rehabilitation and conservation activities have to follow scientific outputs.  The use of selected grasses for soil water conservation have to be promoted to be adopted by the communities and other conservationists.  The application of compost on elephant grass can bring amazing effect compared with other grass and tree species and hence, the practice must be implemented at national level as the grass is excellent fodder for animals besides soil and water conservation.  Among the tree species, Syzygium guineense (Dokma, Bedesa) was very successful to survive on the extremely dry and degraded soil and hence, attention must be given for this indigenous species to utilize its untapped ecological services to wild life and humans besides the soil water conservation role.

2.4.3 Review on the Roles of Wetlands in Sustainable Watershed Management

Abebayehu Aticho (MSc), Department of Natural Resources Management, Jimma University Abebayehu Aticho stated that in the past several decades, wetlands are considered as wastelands & breeding sites of malaria. Thus, wetland deranges and conversion to other land use type is highly appreciated in many parts of the world. Globally professionals consistently argued that wetlands are “Kidneys of the earth” which purifies water and detoxifies wastes by their special filtering capacity. In Ethiopia, it was estimated that the wetlands are available in various regions with the highest proportion in Gambela region (7.73%) and the least proportion in Tigray region (0.16%) (Table 2). Table 2 Distribution and proportion of wetlands in Ethiopia

Regions Total area (ha) Wetlands % Gambella 3,203,280 7.73 Amhara 15,764,744 2.74 SNNPRS 11,064,200 1.38 Afar 9,526,567 1.38 Oromiya 35,961,996 1.11 Somali 29,151,596 0.86 B.S/Gumuz 5,033,592 0.45 Tigray 5,085,784 0.16

Wetlands give several environmental services including socio-economic services, water supply, retaining biodiversity, recreation and education, and siltation control. Managing the wetlands can help to minimize the erosion problem upstream position and the siltation problem in downstream areas. The proportion of wetlands is very high in the GG catchment. Hence, there is huge opportunity to minimize the sediment load towards the dam by managing the wetlands in the catchment.

26 Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin 2.4.4 Sediment retention and nutrient removal capacity of natural riverine wetlands

Seid Tiku (PhD), Department of Environmental Science, Jimma University Wetlands are ecosystems or units of the landscape that are found on the interface between land and water. Water and soil coexist and create specific conditions suitable for growth and establishment of hydrophilic vegetation at least periodically. In Ethiopia, wetlands occupy an area of 13,700 km2, approximately 1.14% of the country’s land surface though the data is still incomplete (Figure 12).

Figure 12. Distribution of wetlands in Ethiopia Wetlands contribute up to 40% of the annual globe’s ecosystem services and the global economic value of wetlands is estimated to be $4.9 trillion. Wetlands play a vital role in providing a wide range of ecosystem services for millions of people mainly living in developing countries. However, wetlands are considered as breeding grounds of mosquitoes. The malaria prevention and control program in Ethiopia encourages mosquito larval control through wetland drainage and aquatic vegetation clearance. In addition, encouraging farmers to cultivate wetlands to means to overcome more drought-induced food shortages is a common practice. The drainage of wetlands leads to loss of biodiversity; species diversity/ abundance in state of decline, loss of ecosystem services decline in water availability, carbon sequestration, and nutrient retention and increased in sedimentation of downstream water bodies. The researchers conducted on three wetlands such as Kofe, Boye, Kito and Awetu around Jimma city revealed that riverine wetlands located in Awetu sub-watershed have the potential to retain TSS and remove nutrients and substantially contribute to the improvement of water quality of rivers. Removal capacity is largely influenced by

Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin 27 the quality of the inflow (input concentration) and the magnitude of habitat disturbances. Awetu and Boye wetlands were characterized by a net TSS retention and nutrient removal. Kito and Kofe wetlands had an overall better water quality, but water quality progressively deteriorated towards the downstream sites because of anthropogenic activities. The researcher concluded that if the current land use patterns now prevailing are allowed to continue further, high quantity of sediment and nutrients will be released from these wetlands. This may lead to siltation and eutrophication problem to the downstream GG reservoir. Furthermore, alteration of wetlands may also contribute to the loss of biodiversity and other ecosystem services.

2.4.5 Dynamics of Belete Forest Cover during the Past three Decades: An Application of Satellite Remote Sensing Gudina Legesse (PhD), Department of Natural Resources management, Jimma University Forest cover changes and associated damages can be detected and monitored in near-real time Current advances in satellite technologies and data availability are great opportunities. They are cheap, quick and large scale. The study was conducted in detecting the forest cover changes for the last 30 years. The study was undertaken in Belete forest and Belete forest is part of Belete-Gera National Forest Priority Area(NFPA) (Figure 16).

Figure 16. The study site, Belete forest.

The researcher concluded that, the forest cover is declining from time to time starting from 1985 to 2015 (Figure 17).

28 Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin Figure 17. Forest cover changes from 1985 to 2015 in Belete forest, Southwest Ethiopia. Gudina pointed out that maximum forest cover loss took place in lowest slope range of 0% - 10%, followed by slope category 10% - 20%. There was about 14% net gain in forest cover within steepest slope category (>40%). Fastest forest cover decline occurred between years 1995-2000. Based on the findings the following concluding remarks were forwarded by the researcher: 1) Identification of hotspots of soil erosion within all watersheds that contribute to GG dams can be done, 2) Detection and monitoring of vegetation cover and erosions can be automated, 3) Projection of land cover changes and early warning mechanisms can be established and 4) Spatial-temporal matching of appropriate land resource management technologies can be developed. The participants reminded that the government reported an increase of forest cover in Ethiopia within the current decade gradually but, your finding is not in line with such reports. Gudina responded that the claims of the government is at national level and my study is specific to Belete forest. And hence my study and the government claims can’t be compared at this scale. Even the forest definitions, the type of forest land, shrub land, semi-forest land, agroforestry land, coffee forest land, etc must be clearly differentiated before claiming the forest cover increase or decrease at national level.

2.4.6 Population, reproductive and Family planning situation of six districts in Jimma Zone, Omo Gibe basin Muluemebet Abera (PhD), Department of Public Health and Medical Sciences, Jimma University,

The Gilgel Gibe Field Research center (GGFRC) was established in September 2005 surrounding the GG I Hydroelectric dam. Comprises 11 kebeles (3 small towns & 8 rural kebeles), located in 4 neighboring districts (Figure 18). Current population 62,979 (F=51%, rural=67%) residing in 12,776 geo-referenced houses, women 15-49 & children < 5 constituted 24% &15% of the population.

Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin 29 Figure 18. Gilgel Gibe field research center The study conducted for 8 successive years indicated the increased trend of population growth and a declining trend in population death rate with time (Figure 19).

Figure 19. Birth, death and natural increase rates by year in Gilgel Gibe field research center Based on the research findings, Dr. Emebet recommends long term development work integrated work

30 Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin of all sectors mainly health, education, agriculture and economic development and simultaneously family planning service provision based on the couples need.

2.4.7 Practices of Watershed Management – Examples from WLRC/Ethiopia Gizaw Desta (PhD), Water and Land Resource Centre (WLRC/Ethiopia) Soil water conservation practices were mainly derived by drought in the 1970s and 1980s, land degradation/soil erosion, degradation of communal land resources and grazing lands, poverty and livelihood, sedimentation of reservoirs and low flow of rivers/streams. As a result a number of alternatives were practiced since the 1980’s. In 1970s and 1980s: land rehabilitation and drought mitigation through soil water conservation; in 1990s: Pilot watershed planning approaches through bottom-up; in 2000s: large scale projects MERET (in 2002 in drought prone areas) and PSNP in 2005 (food insecure districts) including conservation and livelihoods; in late 2000s: SLMP (potential areas) both conservation and livelihoods and since 2009: Voluntary Community labor mobilization for watershed management and livelihood. Recently initiatives for protecting reservoir siltation and adapt climate change. Learning Watershed is one of WLRC/Ethiopia program component aims to demonstrate and upscale integrated water and land management practices and serve as platform for cross sectoral learning. It operates by consortium of actors (local leaders, development sectors, research, and land users) and applies combination of different approaches. Combines interventions on land conservation, agricultural technologies, innovations for livelihood improvement, capacity building and generate and document evidences on impacts of SLM practices for targeting and decision support.

Effects of Watershed management practices The watershed management practices in various parts of Ethiopia being implemented result in rehabilitation of degraded hills and mountains into closures, CC-Carbon sequestration, biodiversity regeneration of trees & shrubs, economic- plantation for woodlots, increased bee floras and non- timber products and microorganisms; composting and terracing reduced soil erosion in return the amount of inorganic fertilizer; tillage management - increasing application of tillage management practices – row cropping, zero tillage and small scale stoves - biomass energy saving stoves reduced pressure on forests. Livestock management through Zero grazing – increased grass biomass and crop stubbles left over cultivated lands in turn increase carbon storage. Improved crop variety development and shift in ecology of crop adaptations. Improved surface water storage and soil moisture storage – enhance vegetable production. Tenure system – private land certification for long term use right encourages farmers to maintain SWC measures. Open access grazing lands gradually shifted to controlled grazing and zero/cut and carry grazing systems.

What WLRC can contribute? The center is working to establish network – Ethiopian Learning Landscape Network and provide open access data – WALRIS and Ethio GIS II and establish collaboration among different actors.

Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin 31 2.4.8 Importance of Eco-hydrology as a Tool for sustainable river management and its Implementation in Ethiopian Yohannes Zerihun (MSc), Ministry of Water, Irrigation and Electricity Almost 80% has been changed by man into various forms of ecosystems such as agriculture urbanized center and transport pathways. These are characterized by degradation of: hydrological cycle, emission of nutrients and pollutants, which result in a drastic reduction of biodiversity and hence ecosystem services for societies. Despite intensive soil and water conservation interventions aquatic Ecosystems are under heavy threat from water pollution, eutrophication, sedimentation & unsustainable utilization. The main environmental problems in Ethiopia included land degradation, soil erosion, and deforestation, loss of biodiversity, desertification, recurrent drought, flood and water and air pollution. Ethiopian Population is projected to be 120 million by 2030. (UN World Population Prospects 2007), extremely vulnerable to drought and other natural disasters such as floods, heavy rains, frost and heat waves. Global circulation models predict a 1.7-2.1°C rise in Ethiopia’s mean temperature by 2050. A new watershed management is therefore urgently needed due to the failure of several approaches. Because the traditional approaches to water management do not consider ecosystem properties as potential management tools (Zalewski 2005). The eco-hydrology approaches bridges the previous application gaps (Figure 20). The new approach and methodology for achieving Integrated Water Resource Management, within Figure 20. The ecohydrology concept what is now called The Ecosystem

32 Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin Approach (IUCN, 2008). Integrates three components – catchment, water and biota –into an holistic model of river systems at basin scale, analogous to the ‘Platonian superorganism’, thus implicitly identifying the management objectives as the maintenance of sustainability, biodiversity, water quality and quantity. It is a transdisciplinary science applied to solve environmental problems of terrestrial (rural & urban) and aquatic ecosystem. It can serve reduction of threats and amplification of chances and can contribute to alleviation of all three types of water problems—having too much, too little, and too polluted water. In realizing the new approach, Ecohydrology institutionalized in the Ministry of water, Irrigation and Energy and the government make available budget per annum for the implementation of its activities and, the administrative staff necessary for the full performance of its functions. Regular stakeholder workshops will be undertaken for identification of the gaps, avoid duplication, create synergy, integration of terrestrial and aquatic phase intervention, to reach consensus on EH to adopt as a new management tool for IWSM and to establish interdisciplinary committee to develop holistic bankable proposal.

Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin 33 3. Field visit to Bulbul gully rehabilitation and Gilgel Gibe dams buffer zone

he field visit was organized on 01 January, 2016 to the GG catchment. The first visit was towards Tthe gully rehabilitation experimental site of Jimma University. As explained by Mr. Ayalew Talema, who is undertaking some part of his PhD research on this site since July, 2011, the gully site was stayed bare and became out of use for more than 70 years. The gully covers an area of about 6 hectares. After four years of treatment with vegetation consisting of 18 multipurpose species of trees, shrubs and grasses, the area was rehabilitated and confirmed by the participants and local peoples (Figure 13). During the discussions, the stakeholders stressed that the research findings have to be scaled up to the catchment level and beyond with the direct involvement of decision makers, professionals, local administrators and local peoples. As observed during the field visits and reported by the researcher, grasses are the most effective to rehabilitate the bare land as the growth rate of the grasses is very fast during the rainy season and most of them have low soil nutrient requirements compared with trees and shrubs. Trees and shrubs dried up during the dry season due to water stress and lack of soil nutrients.

Figure 13. The gully at the start of the experiment (left) and after four years of the experimental treatment January, 2016. The second field visit was towards the GGI dam site. The area closure and planation was done by Omonada district within the dam buffer zone. The head of the Land administration and Natural Resource Management in the district explained that the area closure and the plantation is very effective (Figure 14). The participants emphasized that such type of watershed activities have to be expanded surrounding the dam within all the four districts. Still, there is extended area around the dam being cultivated and grazed by domestic animals. The administrators of the four districts expressed their readiness to take measures within two months’ time.

34 Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin Figure 14. The enclosed GGI buffer zone (left) in Omonada woreda and big gully directly connected to the dam on the way to Dimtu, Sekoru woreda (right) The third visiting site was GGII dam area. The heads of the GGI and II, Mr. Habtamu Semu and Getnet Bekele explained the severe siltation problem on GGII. The silt was evacuated in August, 2015 and the silt filled again within 3 months even after the offset of the rainy season. During the visit the dead storage of the dam was filled with sediment and its water holding capacity was very low. The need of protecting the GGII buffer zone was found to be very urgent. The participants agreed to arrange a visit to higher officials from federal, regional, Zonal and woreda level administrators to take immediate action.

Figure 15. Gilgel Gibe II dam visit and its intense suspended sediment load as observed during the visit and reported by the power plan heads.

Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin 35 4. Feedback and Planning Session Finally, on the third day of the workshop the participants have come up with the following conclusions and recommendations (future directions).

4.1. Strengths observed so far  The ongoing integrated watershed management activities being implemented by the six districts with collaboration to Ministry of Water, Irrigation and Electricity and other stakeholders are very promising,  The research activities being undertaken by Jimma University are crucial for the sustainable management of the basin and hence ways of scaling up the experimental results needs further discussion,

4.2. Problems/Weaknesses identified Those that need attention by all concerned parties  The siltation problem of both Gilgel Gibe II dams and I is severe irrespective of the ongoing management practices. The watershed management put into practice in the area is covering very small portion of the basin.  The inappropriate utilization of wetlands is aggravating environmental degradation and the siltation problem,  The poor waste management system of Jimma city increases environmental pollution and eutrophication,  Open grazing and livestock encroachment into the buffer zone is observed to be serious which needs appropriate measure  Farming practice in a steep slopes of the catchment areas and the big landslides happening are potential causes that are aggravating the siltation  The higher population growth within the catchment of the basin are also indentified to be the contributing factors to the siltation problem  Limitation of intervention in river bank management  Week integration and collaboration among the different stakeholders

 The watershed management interventions within the catchment of the basin are not comprehensive  Week field level monitoring and evaluation  Limitation of private companies participation

36 Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin  Limitations in using the expertise knowledge individuals who has done research in the area (example, Jimma University)  The current watershed activities in the catchment of the basin are project based which would affect sustainability of results Those that need Federal level attention  Absence of complete study and data on ground water resource  Delay of Basin Authority establishment  No legal framework and policy for wetland management

4.3. Recommendations Action by all stakeholders  As the cause of the problem in the basin are multifaceted and highly interlinked, the solution has to be in the manner that multi-sectors partnership and coordination put in place by establishing different taskforces at all levels (Keble through Federal)  Riverbank management and gully erosion needs special attention as most of the silt delivery is due to unmanaged riverbank erosion and gullies  Grasses are understood as the most important species to rehabilitate degraded lands sustainably  Commitment to use the advice of expertise and research  Comprehensive intervention that links the social, environmental, livelihood, health and population issues has to be in place  Engagement of all the catchments of the basin which include Kaffa, Guraghe and Jimma need to get attention  Enhance knowledge management and information dissemination capacities  Establish modern waste management system  Look for ways of benefiting from Payment for Environmental Services (PES) scheme  Create an opportunity for the higher officials of MoWIE and the region to have understanding about the level of siltation problem through arranging field visit to Gillgel Gibe II  Create the capacity of managing trans-boundary rivers  Jimma University will be committed to support in aspects of generating important research findings and knowledge management

Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin 37 Action at federal level  Get the underground water resource study done as soon as possible  Set necessary policy and legal framework for wetland management  The basin authority has to be established soon and take the leadership for the development efforts of the basin The workshop was an important platform that has triggered the different stakeholders to play active role in the basin management. The workshop has been concluded resulting into the following key achievements that can help for a step forward movement in creating showcase that can be up scaled for the nationwide basin management.  An ad hoc committee was established constituting JImma zone administration, Jimma University, Gilgel Gibe I, II and III, MoWIE and PHE-EC.  The ad hoc committee established a technical team under it with the responsibility of developing management plan of the basin for short term and long-term implementation period. Jimma University will be responsible to lead the technical team.

4.4. Workshop Follow Up Actions and Progress Following the workshop, important progresses have been made on the agreed action plans during the workshop. The progresses can be considered as good steps towards putting mechanisms of providing sustainable solutions to the management of the upper catchments of the Omo-Gibe Basin in particular and other basins of the country at large. The ad hoc committee and technical team (TA) follow up meetings, and preparation of action plan helpful to develop the watershed management plan for Omo-Gibe Basin are the major progresses. The workshop was also important in reinstate the partnership and collaboration among zonal and woreda level government offices, Gil Gibe Hydroelectric Projects, Jimma University and PHEEC.

38 Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin 5. References Central Statistical Agency (CSA), 2007. http://www.csa.gov.et/index.php/2013-02-20-14- 5151/2013-04-01-11-53-00/census-2007. Endalamaw, Tenaw, 2015. Assessment of Existing and Future Situations of Flood-based Farming (Case Study of Lower OmoGhibe Sub-basin). Unpublished MSc Thesis, ArbaMinchi University, Ethiopia. Ethiopia Electric Power Corporation (EEPCO), 2009. Environmental and social impact assessment: Gibe III Hydroelectric project. CESI SpA - Mid-Day International Consulting Engineers. Eyasu Y. H., Wubneh, A. M., and Embaye T. G., 2014. Potential bright spots for flood based irrigation systems in Turkana and Marsabit counties, Northern Kenya, GIZ Food Security and Drought Resilience Programme (FSDRP), in Northern Kenya. FAO, 2003. http://www.fao.org/nr/water/aquastat/investment/index.stm. Ministry of Water, Irrigation and Energy of Ethiopia (MWIE), 2014. .http://www.mowr.gov.et/. Population, Health and Environment (PHE) Ethiopia Consortium and Jimma University, 2010. Proceeding of the National Workshop on Integrated Watershed Mangement on Ghibe-Omo Basin, Jimma University and Gilgel Gibe site, ETHIOPIA. United Nations World Water Assessment Programme (2008) United Nations World Water Development Report water in a changing world, Earth scans Ltd, New York, 10038, United States of America.

Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin 39 40 Proceeding of The Second National Consultative Workshop on Integrated Watershed Management on Omo-Gibe Basin