Livelihood Diversification Strategies of Smallholder Farmers in Ethiopia

Master's Thesis from the year 2011 in the subject Agrarian Studies, grade: 1,3, Haramaya University (College of Agriculture and Environmental Science), course: Rural Development and Agricultural Extension, language: English, abstract: This paper assesses the status of livelihood activities of smallholder farmers in Ethiopia and the need for diversification. This study is motivated by the belief that the constraints of the farm sector cannot be overcome by simply concentrating on the farm sector alone; inter-sectoral issues and on farm and non-farm linkages need to be addressed. Primary data was collected from 140 households, out of which 75 were engaged in both on farm and non-farm activities and the rest (65 sample households) were engaged only in farm activities. Thus, to understand the stated objectives, primary data was collected using a validated semi-interview schedule, group discussions, a key informant interview, general observation, and scientific documents for secondary data. The collected data was then analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical tools. The economy of Ethiopia depends heavily on rain-fed agriculture. The sector is anticipated to hold up the whole economy and change its structure. However, the country is highly affected by drought and millions of people are left without sustenance every year. Therefore, diversified on farm and non-farm activities provide an important potential source of income for many.

Samson Kacha is born with three siblings and have three children. Professionally an M.Sc graduate in Development Study-Rural Development and B.Sc in Agriculture, Ethiopia; Potsdam summer school Germany Human Environment in a Changing World, with over 22 years of experience. A dedicated Development Worker with a strong work ethic and excellent breadth of experience both in development/humanitarian assistance programs. Besides, with a wide range of experiance in Integrated community development programing focused on ensuring better livelihood for targeted partner communities using different program aspects of food security and livelihood, Sustainable Conservation Agriculture and Climate Smart Project, Health and WASH, Education, and Psychosocial support; Child wellbeing and protection as well as disaster risk reduction. Expert in Program designing, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation at grass root level, regional and national level. Besides, successfully managed various private fund programs and grant projects. Personal ambitions and principles are highly embedded in such values as integrity, trust, and commitment. Currently he is working as Ethiopia Senior Programs Manager; for Food for the Hungry Ethiopia. Previously in the same organization works in a capacity of Programs Director, Country Program Manager and Area Program Manager. Before FH-Food for the Hungry he was in World vision Ethiopia works in a capacity of Regional Grant and Relief Officer and College Lecturer between 2001-2003 in Agricultural School; with a total of over 22 years' service. He is passionate to design appropriate projects to the best needs of the community and impact their livelihood. As a self-driven and strategic professional, he successfully worked with international nongovernmental organizations in delivering on donor projects within set timelines and specified objectives. He had refined competency to oversee large grants and working with various donors and experience in managing diverse, strategic, and time-sensitive projects, to graduate a community from extreme poverty, elevate any social and economic challenges and thus achieve sustainable growth.