Ethiopians residing in climate-affected lowlands in the country are set to receive new support through a $340 million credit from the International Development Association* (IDA) aimed at improving their livelihoods and resilience to climate change. This assistance is expected to benefit around 3 million individuals, many of whom are pastoralists and agro-pastoralists living in areas prone to drought.
The people of Ethiopia are currently facing the harsh impacts of climate change, with frequent severe droughts and destructive flash floods. Pastoralists and agro-pastoralists have been especially affected by these challenges. Over the past few years, the lowlands have experienced consecutive severe droughts, leading to significant losses of livestock and severely impacting the lives of millions who rely on these animals for survival. The situation is further exacerbated by ongoing conflicts and environmental degradation, putting these historically marginalized communities at a greater disadvantage.
Building on the successes of the initial Lowlands Livelihood Resilience Project (LLRPI), which made significant progress in improving the livelihoods of pastoral communities, the newly approved Lowlands Livelihood Resilience Project Phase Two (LLRP II) has been tailored to focus more on climate change mitigation and adaptation to address these challenges in a more systematic and comprehensive manner.
“LLRPII is part of our efforts to promote climate-resilient livelihoods and ecosystems by harnessing the potential of the lowlands to contribute to national growth and poverty reduction. This project will introduce an early warning and response system, integrated rangeland management, and the promotion of climate-resilient and sustainable livelihoods, in addition to engaging with policy issues,” said Ousmane Dione, World Bank Country Director for Eritrea, Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Sudan.
LLRP II will advocate for technologies, innovations, and practices that enhance climate change adaptation and mitigation at various levels, from households to ecosystems. The project will combine an early warning and early action system with community-led rangeland management approaches and the adoption of web-based national rangeland monitoring systems. This will enhance the productivity of rangelands, contributing to the climate resilience of pastoral and agro-pastoral ecosystems amid growing climate pressures.
The project will also support the adoption of climate-smart agricultural and livestock production technologies and practices to promote green and climate-resilient food systems among communities. Additionally, it will facilitate access to rural financial services for diversified and alternative livelihood options for those looking to supplement or transition from their livestock-based livelihoods due to climate change impacts.
“The project will have a vital role in enhancing the livelihoods and climate resilience of pastoral and agro-pastoral communities in Ethiopian lowlands by addressing their main challenges,” said Esayas Nigatu, Senior Livestock Specialist and World Bank Task Team Leader. “Its design is informed by practical insights from the ongoing first phase and recent studies conducted by the World Bank and its partners.”
The World Bank’s funding will be complemented by an $80 million co-financing from the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), demonstrating a collaborative effort towards significant change. This partnership underscores a strong commitment to reducing poverty among Ethiopia’s most vulnerable populations.
* The International Development Association (IDA) of the World Bank, established in 1960, supports the world’s poorest countries by offering grants and low-interest loans for projects that enhance economic growth, reduce poverty, and improve the lives of the poor. IDA is a significant source of assistance for 74 of the world’s poorest countries, with 39 located in Africa. IDA resources bring positive change to 1.3 billion people in IDA countries, with over $458 billion provided to 114 countries since 1960. Annual commitments have averaged around $29 billion over the past three years, with about 70% directed towards Africa. For more information, visit IDA.worldbank.org. #IDAworks
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The World Bank Group.