On February 24, 2024, a validation workshop took place in Gambella to assess the threat status and implications of invasive species and land use/land cover change (LULCC) in and around Gambella National Park. The session addressed the risks associated with invasive species, recognized as a major threat to the native flora and fauna in and around the park. The gathering convened key stakeholders, including conservation professionals, researchers, academic staff, local community representatives, and government officials. Notable participants included Gambella University, the Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority (EWCA), the president’s office of Gambella Peoples’ Regional State (GPNRS), staff from Gambella National Park, and various bureaus such as Environmental Protection and Climate Change, Culture and Tourism, Irrigation and Lowland, Water and Energy, Finance and Economic Development, Women and Social Affairs, and Planning and Development. Additionally, the Gambella Agricultural Research Institute, Gambella Government Communication Affairs, Tree Aid Ethiopia, the Lutheran Foundation, and the Gambella Children Community Development Organization (GCCDO) were represented. The stakeholders analyzed the findings and offered recommendations for safeguarding the region’s distinct biodiversity.

During the session, participants engaged in detailed discussion about the changing landscape caused by LULCC, which is driven by agricultural expansion, urbanization, and infrastructural development.  Recent evaluations offered a detailed summary of the current condition of biodiversity, highlighting both ecological consequences and socioeconomic impacts on local populations.  Dr. Adisu Asefa, Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority (EWCA) Senior Ecological Researcher, stressed the need of addressing these concerns.  “Invasive species and unmanaged land-use changes endanger not only the unique ecosystems of Gambella National Park, but also the livelihoods of the populations that rely on these resources.  Today, our coordinated efforts establish the framework for successful management practices that can promote conservation while also promoting sustainable development.”
Workshop attendees took part in interactive sessions aimed at improving assessment results, addressing data gaps, and developing focused treatments.  Representatives from local communities shared their perspectives on the effects of these environmental changes, emphasizing the significance of combining traditional knowledge with scientific research to promote culturally acceptable conservation initiatives.
The validation workshop was made possible through the support of Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida) through the Horn of Africa Environmental Sustainability and Resilience (HoA-ESR) project implemented by Horn of Africa Regional Environment Centre and Network (HoA-REC&N) and its network partners, demonstrating a commitment to the preservation of biodiversity in Gambella National Park and fostering partnerships that enhance ecological resilience. As the workshop ended, participants offered a set of recommendations for immediate action, including:

• Raise awareness and educate about the risks of invasive species and the growing land use land cover change;
• Using the Integrated Land Use Development Plan (ILDP) as an improtnat tool to continue highlighting conservation priorities;
• Improving collaboration among stakeholders, including local communities, governments, and conservation organizations;
• Monitoring biodiversity and implementing management strategies.

The workshop marks an important step toward better understanding and managing the challenges to Gambella National Park. Continued collaboration and commitment from all stakeholders are required to ensure the survival of this critical ecosystem for future generations.