Done_Forestry Resear.. - Eiar

የኢትዮጵያ የግብርና ምርምር ኢንስቲትዩት 

Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research 

Forestry Research 

Directorate 

Research Directory 

2012 

[1]

Contents 

GOVERNMENT-FUNDED RESEARCH PROJECTS ................................................................................. 1 

Plantation and Agroforestry Case Team ........................................................................ 1 

Project 1: Rehabilitation and restoration of degraded lands in selected agroecological zones 

of Ethiopia 1 

Project 2: Agroforestry for rural livelihood improvement and natural resources management .............. 1 

Project 3: Selection of superior provenances and enhancement of tree planting in Ethiopia ............... 2 

Project 4: Domestication of indigenous fruit and fodders trees in pastoral and Agropastoral 

areas of Ethiopia.............................................................................................................................. 3 

Project 5: Conservation Agriculture with Trees (CAWT) for Improved Livelihoods and 

Climate Change Mitigation in Dryland Ethiopia.................................................................................. 4 

Project 6: Eucalyptus ecological management: Comparison of the impact of eucalyptus and 

other common tree species on soil and water in different Agroecological zones of Ethiopia ................ 5 

Project 7: Evaluation and optimization of promising Agroforestry technologies and practices ............. 5 

Project 8: Urban forests for ecosystem services and livelihood improvement in Addis Ababa 

and Adama Cities ............................................................................................................................ 7 

Non-Timber Forest Products Case Team ....................................................................... 8 

Project 1: Bamboo management and utilization in selected districts of Ethiopia ................................. 8 

Project 2: Developing technologies for improving sustainable management of Natural gum 

and resin production from Drylands of Ethiopia ................................................................................. 9 

Project 3: Technology generation, adaptation and promotion of bamboo in selected 

Agroecologies of Ethiopia .............................................................................................................. 11 

Project 4: Assessment, development, and promotion of appropriate wood fuel technologies 

in different Agroecological areas of Ethiopia ................................................................................... 12 

Project 5: Adoption and Development of Technologies for Utilizing Fruit Products, Vegetable 

Oil and Other Extracts from Trees of Ethiopia ................................................................................. 13 

Natural Forest Case Team .......................................................................................... 15 

Project 1: Selected high forest and woodland for sustainable forest management in Ethiopia ........... 15 

Project 2: Sustainable Management of woodlands in selected Drylands of Ethiopia ......................... 16 

Project 3: Exploring social, economic and ecological challenges and opportunities of 

sustainable forest management in selected dry Afromontane forests ............................................... 17 

Wood Products Utilization Case Team ......................................................................... 18 

Project 1: Suitability of selected tree species for industrial, construction and Energy 

purposes 18 

Project 2: Suitability of Prosopis juliflora for specialty Wood Products and Tool Handles and 

for mushroom substrate ................................................................................................................. 19 

Project 3: Investigation of selected Eucalyptus species for improved Electric power and 

Telephone Distribution poles .......................................................................................................... 19 

Project 4: Lumber characterization, rational utilization and modelling of selected timber 

species as industry and construction material sources .................................................................... 20 

Project 5: Appraisal, measurement, evaluation and improvement of productivity and 

efficiency of green manufacturing in ethiopian wood industries ........................................................ 21 

[2]

Project 6: A maximum utilization of biomass: Bio-fuel production and spent utilization from 

selected tree species grown in Ethiopia. ......................................................................................... 22 

Project 7: Production and Characterization of Microbial Enzymes to enhance the 

Delignification of wood chips .......................................................................................................... 23 

EXTERNALLY FUNDED PROJECTS ..................................................................................................... 25 

Plantation and Agroforestry Case Team ...................................................................... 25 

Project: Agroforestry based practices to support diversification and intensification in the 

highland areas of central Ethiopia .................................................................................................. 25 

Non-Timber Forest Products Case Team ..................................................................... 26 

Project: Establishing model value chain of Moringa, An innovative approach to 

Commercialization of Moringa Production ....................................................................................... 26 

Natural Forest Case Team .......................................................................................... 27 

Project: Estimating forest growth and forest carbon stock and reconstructing rainfall 

Variability as an integrated approach for forest management planning............................................. 27 

[3]

GOVERNMENT-FUNDED RESEARCH PROJECTS 

Plantation and Agroforestry Case Team 

Case team coordinator: Dr. Abayneh Derero 

Project 1: Rehabilitation and restoration of degraded lands in 

selected agroecological zones of Ethiopia 

Project coordinator: Wondosen G/Tsadik 

Duration: 5 years (2008-2013) 

General objective 

To generate technologies and information that enhances the rehabilitation of degraded lands 

and thereby improving the economic, ecological and social benefits at various levels 

Specific objectives 

To select the best performing tree/shrub species and species mix on degraded lands 

To investigate the role of area closure and fostering trees in rehabilitation of degraded 

lands 

To assess the impact of single and dual inoculation of bio-fertilizers on early growth 

performance of seedlings on degraded land 

Expected outputs 

The best performed trees and shrubs will be selected for the rehabilitation of degraded 

lands 

Information/technologies on the role of area closure and fostering trees for the 

 

rehabilitation of degraded land will be generated 

The impact of inoculation of bio-fertilizers on early growth performance of species on 

degraded land will be known 

Components 

Component 1: Selection of trees and shrubs for rehabilitation of degraded lands 

Component 2: The role of area closure and fostering trees in rehabilitation of degraded 

lands 

Component 3: The role of area closure and fostering trees in rehabilitation of degraded 

lands 

Location: Highland (Debre Berhan), mid highland (Guder) and lowland Dodota-Sire 

Persons responsible: Negash Mamo, Dr. Abayneh Derero, Mehari Alebachew, 

Wondosen G/Tsadik, Malefia Tadelle, Tirhas Mebtaru, Belay Gebre, Kassahun Bekele, 

Miftah Fekadu and Shasho Megersa. 

Project 2: Agroforestry for rural livelihood improvement and 

natural resources management 

Project coordinator: Dr. Yitebitu Moges 

Duration: 5years (2008-2013) 


Improve the livelihood of smallholder farmers while enhancing the management of natural 

resources through Agroforestry interventions and practices in a sustainable manner. 

[1]


To screen tree/shrub and fruit tree species for various products and services in different agro 

ecologies of the country. 

To evaluate and promote different Agroforestry technologies for wood, feed food, income 

generation and soil management. 

To identify, characterize and quantify the economic value of traditional Agroforestry 

practices in the various agro ecologies ,assess and compare the social, economic, and 

ecological value of the major competing land uses within the Agro-forestry land use 

systems 


Early adaptation and performances of feed, fruit, wood and soil improving species known. 

Agroforestry technologies that can be used for soil improvement, feed for animals, wood, 

food and income source identified and promoted. 

Potential traditional Agroforestry practices identified and characterized, and their 

economic value quantified. And social, economic, and ecological value of the major 

competing land uses Within each Agro-forestry land use systems identified 

Components 

Component 1: Screening of multipurpose tree / shrub and fruit species 

Component 2: Agro forestry technologies/ trees evaluation and promotion 

Component 3: Traditional agro forestry practices and Comparative Economic analysis of 

traditional agro forestry Practices with other land use systems 

Location: Mid highlands (Gurage, Guder), highland (Chilmo) and lowland (Arsi Negelle) 

Persons responsible: Dr. Yitebitu Moges, Dr, Abayneh Derero, Tirehas, Malefia 

Tadelle, Mehari Alebachew, Getaneh Nigatu, Wendosen G/Tsadik, Kassahun Bekele, 

Dechassa Jiru and Demsew Sertse. 

Project 3: Selection of superior provenances and enhancement of 

tree planting in Ethiopia 

Project coordinator: Miftah Fekadu 

Duration: 5years 


To promote industrial plantation development through tree improvement program. 


To determine the effect of provenance on the performance of Juniperus procera, 

To study the adaptability of the four pine species and select the best adapted provenance, 

To evaluate the stump sprouting abilities of Eucalyptus globulus, 

To investigate socioeconomic attributes of tree planting practices, 

To assess the existing status of the seed stands of FRC and suggest a possible 

recommendations for further promotion. 


The best provenances of Juniperus procera will be determined for considered 

Agroecological zones 

The best provenances of two pines species will be selected 

The best season of sprouting will be identified, 

Socioeconomic attributes of tree planting practices will be investigated investigate, 

Reports with possible recommendations on FRC seed stands will be produced 

[2]

Components 

Component 1: Provenance effects on the performance of Juniperus procera 

Component 2: Evaluation of provenances of four pine species 

Component 3: Evaluation of effect of cutting season on coppicing ability of Eucalyptus 

globulus 

Component 4: Assessment of tree plantations in Ethiopia 

Component 5: Evaluation and enhancement of seed stands 

Location: Kosober, Sululta, Hegeremariam, Welkite, Bebeka, Aman, Bonga 

Persons responsible: Miftah Fekadu, Negash Mamo, Diriba Nigusie, Dr. Wubalem 

Tadesse 

Project 4: Domestication of indigenous fruit and fodders trees in 

pastoral and Agropastoral areas of Ethiopia 




To generate technologies and information that enhances tree planting thereby improving the 

food and feed problems in pastoral/Agropastoral areas of Ethiopia 


To investigate the experiences and preferences of fruit tree species, establishment and 

management techniques, 

To investigate the impact of seasonal climatic variability on phenology of the selected 

fruit tree species, 

To characterize the seeds, determining the effect of temperature and moisture on viability 

of stored seeds of selected tree species, 

To determine the nursery life of seedlings, pre-sowing treatment of seeds of selected tree 

species, and 

To evaluate on farm and off farm the performance of fruit trees of selected tree/shrub 

species 


The major indigenous fruit tree species and their establishment and management 

techniques and their problems will be identified, 

The season and climatic requirement for the flowering, fruiting and seeding of selected 

fruit trees will be determined 

The optimum temperature and moisture requirement for the storage of seeds selected fruit 

trees will be determined, 

The nutrient composition of the food parts of selected fruit tree species will be 

determined, 

The pre-sowing treatment of seeds and nursery life of seedlings of selected fruit tree 

species will be determined, and 

The early performance and planting requirements, on farm and off farm of selected fruit 

trees will be determined 

[3]

Components 

Component 1: Socioeconomics: Investigating the experiences and preferences of fruit tree 

species, establishment and management techniques, 

Component 2: Investigating the impact of seasonal climatic variability on phenology of the 

selected fruit tree species, 

Component 3: Characterization of the seeds, determining the effect of temperature and 

moisture on viability of stored seeds of selected tree species 

Component 4: Determination of the nursery life of seedlings, pre-sowing treatment of 

seeds of selected tree species 

Component 5: On farm and off farm evaluation of the performance of fruit trees of 

selected tree/shrub species 

Location: Somalia, Bohk woreda, Gambela, Gudere, Afar and Werer Agricultural Research 

Center 

Persons responsible: Dr. Abayneh Derero, Miftah Fekadu, Binyam Abebe, Mohammed 

Abdela (SoRPARI). 

Project 5: Conservation Agriculture with Trees (CAWT) for Improved 

Livelihoods and Climate Change Mitigation in Dryland Ethiopia 




To assess adoption potential and evaluate the bio-physical effectiveness of CAWT. 


To identify the opportunities and constraints for introducing CAWT 

To assess farmers’ perception towards CAWT before and after experiments 

To determine economic performance of CAWT as compared to conventional agriculture 

To determine the level of tree crop interactions in CAWT 

To evaluate the effects of CAWT on soil water conservation and fertility improvement 

To determine biological productivity of CAWT as compared to conventional agriculture 

and thus its implications for food security 

To evaluate carbon sequestration potential of CAWT and its overall significance for 

environmental sustainability 


Impact of CAWT on crop productivity and carbon sequestration determined 

Economic performance of CAWT evaluated 

Overall workability of CAWT determined in Ethiopian conditions 

At least 2 scientific publications 

Components 

Component 1: Socioeconomics of CAWT 

Component 2: Bio-physical effectiveness of CAWT 

Location: Two sites for the CAWT experiment will be selected through the support of data 

from the social survey. The sites will be selected so that they will have different agroecological 

zones, although both of them will be located in the Dryland area. 

Persons responsible: Dr. Yitebitu Moges, Dr. Zebene Asfaw, Dr. Abayneh Derero, Dr. 

Zewdu Eshetu, Dr. Kidane Georgis, Mengistie Kindu, Kaleb Kelemu. 

[4]

Project 6: Eucalyptus ecological management: Comparison of the 

impact of eucalyptus and other common tree species on soil and 

water in different Agroecological zones of Ethiopia 

Project coordinator: Miftah Fikadu 

Duration: 5 Years (2012-2017) 


To generate technologies and information that enable the sustainable ecological management 

of Eucalyptus species in turn to improve social, and ecological benefits of Eucalyptus 

growing people 


To review the various works on environmental services of Eucalyptus species, 

To compare the litter dynamics and water uptake of Eucalyptus species and some 

common tree species, 

To evaluate site productivity of Eucalyptus species at different Agroecological zones of 

Ethiopia 


The impact of Eucalyptus on native flora and fauna, wet lands and seasonal water 

sources, agricultural land and crops and the role of eucalyptus on carbon sequestration 

Water uptake of 24 plant species 

Litter dynamics of six Eucalyptus species and 18 other tree species in mid altitude and 

five species in highland. 

The most productive site for Eucalyptus production and its ecological limitation 

Components 

Component 1: Review of the various works on environmental services of Eucalyptus 

species 

Component 2: Comparison of litter dynamics and water uptake of Eucalyptus species and 

some common tree species 

Component 3: Determining site productivity of Eucalyptus species at different 

Agroecological zones of Ethiopia 

Location: FRC, Debre Birhan, Welkite, Gonder, Chancho, Guraghe, Gojjam, Ambo, 

Tigray, Wellega, Wolaita Sodo and other sites as required 

Persons responsible: Miftah Fekadu (FRC), Negash Mamo (FRC), Belay Gebre (FRC), 

Dr. Yitebitu Moges (FRC) , Dechasa Jiru (FRC), Yigremachew Seyoum (AAU), Yoseph 

Assefa (AAU), Genene Tesfaye (FRC) 

Project 7: Evaluation and optimization of promising Agroforestry 

technologies and practices 

Project coordinator: Dr. Yitebtu Moges 

Duration: Five years (2011-2016) 


To demonstrate the effectiveness of promising Agroforestry technologies and to optimize the 

management and economic performances of traditional Agroforestry practices in Ethiopia. 

[5]


Demonstrate and transfer knowledge and skills on promising Agroforestry technologies 

by evaluating their performances on smallholder conditions for diversifying livelihoods 

and improving the adaptive capacity of farming systems to climate change, 

Optimize and promote traditional home-garden Agroforestry practices for increased 

economic and ecological effects, and 

Build and strengthen the capacity of stakeholders and FRC itself (poor 

farmers/communities, development agents and government staffs). 


Wood and crop yields from the Taungya and conventional farming will be compared 

A manuscript on the comparative agronomic/silvicultural and economic performances of 

Taungya and conventional crop production will be prepared 

Change in crop yield and soil fertility will be determined, and further extension on 

successful treatments will be initiated. 

Best performing high value trees, shrubs, fruits, grass etc and their management will be 

identified and promoted. 

improved technologies (e.g., poultry and beekeeping) along with high value trees/shrubs 

will be enhanced 

Carbon sequestration, and climate change mitigation and adaptation potential of small 

holder home garden Agroforestry practices will be determined and recognized 

Economic profitability and social acceptance of home garden will be known and 

documented 

A germ-plasm of diverse tree and shrub species will be established. 

A nursery and tree growing manual will be produced. 

Three seed orchards consisting of important species will be established for sustainable 

seed supply. 

A manuscript on performances of high value trees and shrubs will be prepared 

Components 

Component 1: Demonstration and evaluation of promising Agroforestry technologies 

Component 2: Optimize and promote traditional home-garden Agroforestry practices 

Component 3: Capacity development 

Location: Tikur Inchini/Chilimo, Southern Wolo/North Shewa, Hirna, West Harerge, 

Central Rift Valley, Wonago/Dilla Zuria, Sire, Tiyo, Assasa, Kewet, Bekoji and other 

potential Weredas for Agroforestry intervention. 

Persons responsible: Dr. Yitebitu Moges, Dr. Zewdu Eshetu, Mehari Alebachew, Dr. 

Lisanework Nigatu, Girma Shumi, Alemtsehay Eyassu, Zewdie W/Mariam 

[6]

Project 8: Urban forests for ecosystem services and livelihood 

improvement in Addis Ababa and Adama Cities 

Project coordinator: Dr. Abayneh Derero 



The overall objective of the project is generate knowledge and information that will help to 

promote urban forests for ecosystem services and livelihood support and contribute to 

restoration of indigenous trees and tree planting in Addis Ababa and Adama. 


• Assess perceptions of urban people towards urban forestry, the recreational and 

educational uses 

• Identify policy related instruments, institutional arrangements and constraints of policies 

and institutions in relation to the expansion of urban forestry. 

• Study woody species diversity and growing niches, biomass and carbon stock, and insect 

pest damages in various urban forest types. 

• Identify tree species preferences of urban dweller groups for planting on different tree 

growing niches 

• Evaluate the tolerance to and uptake potential of contaminants by different tree/shrub 

species under nursery and field conditions. 

• Identify seed systems and seedlings production systems in urban and peri-urban nurseries. 

• Restore indigenous forest tree species, undertake river bank management and support tree 

planting activities of urban dwellers 


• Tree diversity, biomass and carbon stocks in aboveground and below ground 

quantitatively determined. 

• The extent of contamination in each sub-city will be known and the information will be 

shared among responsible bodies for future action. 

• The uptake potential of selected species will be quantified and the best performing 

species on contaminated soils will be identified. 

• Plants that survived best in highly contaminated sites will be recommended for prescaling 

up schemes. 

• Current systems and challenges of urban forest nurseries are identified 

• Urban forest nursery seedlings production system is characterized and promoted 

• Public perception to urban forestry known 

• The role of urban forestry for recreational and educational uses known 

• Role of trees, peri-urban plantation, wood and non wood products for livelihood of the 

urban poor known 

• Planting niche and tree species preference of urban dwellers of the selected cities known 

• Seed pretreatment requirements, soil mix, pot size and nursery life span determined for 

lesser known indigenous woody species 

• Half a million quality seedlings produced for over fifty indigenous woody species 

• At least 50 indigenous woody species planted for restoration purpose 

• Tree cover increased by 100% on riverbanks and farms in urban areas. 

[7]

Components 

Component 1: Assessment of species composition, biomass, insect pests in urban forests 

Component 2: Woody species grown in urban and peri-urban areas for phytoremediation 

purpose 

Component 3: Policy studies on urban forestry 

Component 4: Peri-urban and urban seedling production and nursery management 

Component 5: Public perception, recreational and educational uses, livelihood support and 

species preferences 

Component 6: Restoration and river bank management 

Location: Addis Ababa, Debreziet and Adama 

Persons responsible: Dr. Abayneh Derero, Alemtsehay Eyasu, Ermias Alemu (MARC), 

Kaleb Kelemu, Tirhas Mebratu (MARC), Dr. Yitebitu Moges, Yosef Amaha (HARC), Zewde 

Woldemariam, Bethlehem Fufa, Tekele Hundessa (HARC) and TAs (MARC) 

Non-Timber Forest Products Case Team 

Case team coordinator: Omarsherif Mohammed 

Project 1: Bamboo management and utilization in selected 

districts of Ethiopia 

Project coordinator: Demsew Sertse 

Duration: 5years (2008-2013) 


To develop improved technologies of bamboo for sustainable production and utilization 

thereby contribute to environmental protection and food security of the country. 


Determine the best propagation techniques for bamboo employing offset and layering 

Techniques 

To develop an efficient micro-propagation and in vitro regeneration protocol for bamboo 

Investigate regeneration, culm characteristics and yield of bamboo under different 

harvesting intensities 

To determine best weeding frequencies on the early performance of Oxytenanthera 

abyssinica seedlings. 

Investigate the suitability of Ethiopian highland bamboo for bamboo mat board 

production, determine the best drying method and determine nutrient content of bamboo 

shoots 

Evaluate the performance introduced bamboo species 

Identify the genetic variation among different provenances of Ethiopian highland 

bamboo. 

 

 

Assess important pests and diseases. 

To determine the best storage medium and storage time for Oxytenanthera abyssinica 

seeds. 

[8]


The best propagation techniques of bamboos will be identified; 

Efficient micro-propagation and in vitro regeneration protocol will be developed. 

Regeneration, stand characteristics and yield of bamboo under different harvesting 

intensities will be investigated; 

The suitability of Ethiopian bamboo for bamboo mat board production will be known 

Effective drying method of bamboo determined 

Nutritive value and preservation techniques of bamboo shoots will be identified 

The performance of exotic bamboo species will be known and the best performing ones 

will be selected for different agro-ecologies 

The phenotypic variation of different provenances and genetic variability of Ethiopian 

highland bamboo will be known and the best performing and with desirable 

characteristics will be selected 

Important pests and diseases of bamboo will be known 

Components 

Component 1: Developing propagation techniques for highland and lowland bamboo in 

Ethiopia. 

Component 2: Management of highland and lowland bamboo stands 

Component 3: Evaluating bamboo for different end use 

Component 4: Assessment of bamboo pests and disease 

Component 5: Performance evaluation of introduced bamboo species 

Component 6: Effect of different storage conditions on germination and field Emergence 

of Oxytenanthera abyssinica seeds. 

Component 7: Evaluation of genetic variation of highland and lowland bamboo 

Location: Tikure Inchine, Assossa, Pawe, Holetta, Addis Ababa University, Bore, Gambo, 

FRC and Injibara 

Persons responsible: Mehari Alebachew, Adefris Worku, Tinsae Bahru, Misitre Abebe, 

Demsew Sertse, Ayelech Araya, Sintayehu, Malefia Tadele, Dr. Abayneh Derero, Dr. 

Seyoum Kelemwork, Temesgen Yohannes, Zebene Tadesse, Ayelech Araya, Kassahun 

Bekele and Abrham Yirgu. 

Project 2: Developing technologies for improving sustainable 

management of Natural gum and resin production from Drylands 

of Ethiopia 

Project coordinator: Tatek Dejene 



To develop comprehensive packages of technologies and scientific knowledge that promote 

the sustainable management and utilization of natural gum and resin resources for enhanced 

contribution to livelihoods, poverty reduction and national economy while maintaining 

ecological integrity 

[9]


To map the overall resources base of the selected high value gum and resin bearing 

species using Remote Sensing and GIS technology. 

To assess the current population status (diversity, abundance, regeneration status, 

population structure) of study species 

To assess socio-economic importance and to identify associated challenges and 

constraints that hinder the sustainable production of natural gum and resins 

To develop technology for effective propagation and field establishment techniques and 

to assess the flowering and fruiting phenology. 

To improve the stands through selection of best provenances with higher growth 

performance and gum and resin yield 

To develop and adopt suitable tapping, processing and handling techniques that could 

yield optimum gum and resin yield and quality and to investigate the effect of tapping on 

the physiology of the tree. 

To investigate physico-chemical characteristics of gum and resins from study species and 

to promote value added processing of these commodities. 

To investigate the type of insect pests and diseases attacking the study species. 

To determine Physical and mechanical wood property of the study species. 

To scale up the obtained technologies to be used at wider scale. 


Resources base, current population status and potential natural gum and resin production 

sites in the country known 

The role of natural gum and resin sub sector on local, regional and national economy 

known 

Potential challenges and opportunities behind integrating the gum and resin sub-sector to 

other livelihood activities known 

Tree improvement, propagation and seed biology/phenology and nursery and field 

establishment techniques developed 

Appropriate tapping, processing and product handling techniques developed and adopted 

Physico-chemical characteristics (essential oil quality) that add value to the product 

known 

Actual and potential yield per tree of the study species in relation to the physical 

environment known 

Wood property of gum and resin bearing species known 

Effective insect pest control methods against different insects on different species of gum 

and resin will be known 

Effective disease management options will be known. 

Components 

Component 1: Assessment of the resources base of the study species using Remote 

Sensing and GIS technology 

Component 2: Survey of the population status (diversity, abundance and Regeneration) of 

the target species 

Component 3: Propagation, seed ecology and reproductive phenology 

Component 4: Field establishment, growth performance, yield evaluation 

Component 5: Developing and adopting of appropriate tapping technology 

Component 6: Investigating of physico-chemical characteristics of gum and Resin from 

study species 

Component 7: Determining Physical and mechanical wood property of the Study species 

Component 8: Scaling up of the obtained technologies for their use at wider Scale 

[10]

Location: Benishangul (Metekel and Pawe), Amhara (Metema), Tigray, Borana and Guji 

zones, Middle Rift Valley areas), Liben/Afdher from Somalia and Metekel/Assossa from 

Benishangul regional state. 

Persons responsible: Adefris Worku, Tatek Dejene, Tinsae Bahru, Zewdu Yilma, 

Temesgen Yohannes, Sintayehu Eshetu, Omarsherif Mohammed. 

Project 3: Technology generation, adaptation and promotion of 

bamboo in selected Agroecologies of Ethiopia 

Project coordinator: Demsew Sertse 


General objectives 

To generate, introduce and promote technologies for sustainable utilization and development 

of bamboo in selected agro ecological zones of Ethiopia 


To evaluate the rate of regeneration of bamboo under protected areas 

To assess the major triggering factors for bamboo mass flowering and drying 

To recommend appropriate measures to reduce mass drying of bamboo 

To introduce, adapt and evaluate the performance of superior quality bamboo species for 

industrial raw materials and household furniture 

To produce higher number of seedlings of highland and lowland bamboo for production 

and plantation purpose 

To promote and scale out of bamboos through training and awareness creation 

To determine the nursery life span and soil mixture of bamboo for highland and lowland 

areas 

To determine the carbon storage potential of highland and lowland bamboos 

To generate information on the phenology of bamboo 


Potential and promising bamboos will be screened for raw materials of paper and 

furniture purposes 

Best performing introduced species will be delivered to factory owners and investors 

The rate of regeneration of bamboo under protected areas will be known 

Information on mass flowering and drying of bamboo in the country will be generated 

The cause of mass flowering and drying of bamboo will be known 

The consequences of mass flowering and drying of bamboo will be known 

The nursery life span of bamboo at different agro ecological zones will be known 

The best soil mixture to be used for raising of bamboo in the nursery will be known and 

recommended to users 

The best adaptable bamboo species will be promoted around 100 farmers field 

Around 10,000 bamboo seedlings will be propagated in the coming 5 years 

At least 300 farmers and other stakeholders will be benefited from mass propagation of 

bamboo seedlings 

Farmers are aware and trained about bamboo utilization, management and propagation 

Seedlings of bamboo are propagated in different locations at the nursery stage 

 

 

The role of bamboo in carbon pool will be known 

The amount of carbon stored above and below ground biomass under highland and 

lowland bamboo will be known 

[11]

Components 

Component 1: Introduction, adaptation and performance evaluation of bamboo 

Component 2: Rate of natural regeneration and phenology of bamboo 

Component 3: Nursery life of bamboo 

Component 4: Promotion and scale up on bamboo 

Component 5: The role of bamboo in climate change mitigation 

Location: Holetta, Jimma, Pawe, FRC, Assossa, Dawro, Masha, Debrezeit, Chagni, 

Tikureinchine, Injibara and Hagereselam 

Persons responsible: Mehari Alebachew, Demsew Sertse, Mister Abebe, Negash Eshete, 

Zebene Tadesse, Yared Kebede, Sintayehu Eshetu, Tinsae Bahru, Dr. Alemu Gezahegh, 

Getachew Dessalegn, Malefia Tadele, Kaleb Kelemu, Tesfaye Disasa, Tensaye Abate, 

Betelheim Fufa and Abrham Yirgu. 

Project 4: Assessment, development, and promotion of 

appropriate wood fuel technologies in different Agroecological 

areas of Ethiopia 

Project coordinator: Omarsherif Mohammed 



To assess the household energy consumption patterns and develops appropriate wood fuel 

technologies for the household energy demand in highland, mid altitude and lowland 

ecologies of Ethiopia. 


 

 

To review past and current efforts of wood fuel initiatives. 

To assess inflows into major cities and/or towns, the demand, supply and per capita 

consumption trend of wood fuel by households including the marketing and pricing of 

wood fuel along the supply chain at selected highland, mid altitude and lowland areas. 

To select more appropriate wood fuel species for plantation at highland, mid altitude and 

lowland areas. 

To determine the rotation period for the optimum biomass yield of wood fuel species in 

the respective agro-ecological areas (probably need extension). 

To determine carbon storage potentials of different carbon pool by species and agro 

ecologies. 

To determine the quality of species for alternative wood fuel products such as firewood, 

briquette and or char bricks, charcoal. 

To demonstrate and promote improved wood fuel technologies to end users. 


Per capital wood fuel consumption of households will be known 

Demand-supply relationship of wood fuel to households will be known 

Wood fuel inflows and/or outflows into and/or from major cities will be recognized 

Marketing and pricing of wood fuel will be investigated along the supply chain 

Past and current efforts of wood fuel programs will be reviewed and documented 

Species with high adaptation and high growth performance will be selected and 

recommended for further plantation for different agro-ecologies 

The rotation period of the fast growing species will be determined for optimum 

production of biomass 

Species with high calorific value will be identified for further plantation establishment. 

[12]

Carbon storage potential of species will be determined for different Agroecologies. 

Percentage of net carbon storage against the loss of each species will be determined for 

different Agroecologies 

The quality of different species for charcoal will be determined and tree species for good 

quality will be identified. 

Best quality of bricks to use charcoal in alternative ways will be developed and promoted 

for selected associations 

Components 

Component 1: Socioeconomic assessment and market chain study 

Component 2: Species selection (elimination) trial 

Component 3: Carbon storage potential trial of target species 

Component 4: Promotion of alternative wood fuel technologies 

Location: Addis Ababa, Debrebirhan, Asella, Ambo, Ziway, Shashemene, Awash, Dire 

Dawa, KARC, Diksis, DZARC Yerer, MARC, Miesso/or Adami Tulu/or Alage, WARC 

Persons responsible: Tirhas Mebtaru, Zenebe Mekonnen, Temesgen Yohanes, Kaleb 

Kelemu, Tinsae Bahru, Girma Shumi, Dereje (Debrebirhan ARC), Biniam (Werer ARC), 

Mistre Abebe and Omarsherif Mohammed 

Project 5: Adoption and Development of Technologies for Utilizing 

Fruit Products, Vegetable Oil and Other Extracts from Trees of 

Ethiopia 

Project coordinator: Omarsherif Mohammed 



To develop packages of technologies and scientific information that facilitate and 

promote the effective utilization of fruit products, vegetable oil and other extracts from 

the woodland and tree resources of Ethiopia, 

To improve food security and increase household income, while contributing for national 

economy and improving the environmental wellbeing. 


To assess the resource base, production potentials and main threats/challenges affecting 

effective and efficient utilization of targeted species 

To investigate the current contribution of the targeted products and species for household 

and local economy 

To determine seed germination, storing and treatment property of the targeted species 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

To deliver the suitable propagation and field establishment methods of targeted species 

To improve the yield and quality of produces from targeted species through selection, 

adaptation, grafting and other techniques for economical production of fruit products, 

vegetable oil and other extracts 

To adopt fruit production technologies of each target species for economical production 

of fruit products, vegetable oil and other extracts 

Fruit and seed handling, processing and value adding technologies of targeted species 

To adopt fruits products, oil and other extract producing technologies from the targeted 

species to the local communities 

To assess the possible options to utilize the benefits from carbon trading in the lowland 

areas of the country as one form of NTFPs 

To promote fruits products, oil and other by extracts producing technologies from the 

targeted species to the local communities 

[13]


Resources base, potential and current population status will be known 

Production including oil yield potential of the targeted species will be known 

oil and butter from Sclerocarya birrea, Borassus aethopium and Vitellaria will be 

characterized 

The social, economical and cultural values, the market and supply chain, the treat, 

challenge and opportunities of fruit and vegetables oil production will be known 

Seed storage, handling, germination capacity, storage and viability will be determined 

Suitable propagation method of the targeted species will be known 

Effective propagation of the targeted species will be known 

The Phonological information for four species delivered 

Appropriate field establishment technique will be developed 

Adaptability of the targeted species to the different locality is known 

The best top grafting method will be selected 

Optimum fruit production technologies for Zizyphus species, Sclerocarya birrea, 

Vitellaria paradoxa, Vitex doniana, Phoenix dactylifera and Borassus aethopium will be 

adopted 

New fruit processing and handling as well as value adding technology 

adopted 

Improved Shea butter technology adopted 

Technology for local biopestcide production for animal pest control adopted 

Vegetable oil production from fruit and kernel of Sclerocarya birrea and Borassus 

aethopium will be adopted 

Technology taping technology of Borassus aethopium for sugar/ ethanol production will 

be adapted 

The carbon capital of the targeted species will be quantified 

Fruit production and its value addition technologies of the targeted spies promoted 

Shea butter production technology demonstrated and promoted 

Vegetable oil production from Sclerocarya birrea and Borassus aethopium fruits 

demonstrated and promoted 

Bio-pesticide production demonstrated and promoted 

Components 

Component 1: Resource base, population status and yield potential assessment 

Component 2: Socio-economic and market study of the targeted species 

Component 3: Tree management 

Component 4: Yield improvement 

Component 5: NTFP Production and harvesting 

Component 6: Post harvest processing, Value Addition and Product Diversification 

Component 7: Scaling Up and promotion 

Location: Awssa (Afar region), Pawe, Dolo Mena, Humera, Gambella, South Omo, 

Woldiya, Bati, Addis Ababa, Moyale, Werer, Adami Tulu, Liben, Sirinka, Dedesa, Gibe, 

Showa Robit, Melkassa 

Persons responsible: Omarsherif Mohammed, Tatek Dejene, Zewdu Yilma, Tinsae 

Bahru, Kiflle Aklilu, H/Mariyam (Humera ARC), Biniyam (Werer ARC), Zebene Tadesse, 

Asmelash (Jinka ARC), Kihilot-Sirinka ARC, Yared Kebede (Pawe ARC), Wossen Kebede, 

Temesgen Yohanes, Zenebe Mekonnen, Girma Eshete, Samuale Getachew, Genene, Nesru, 

Amdemichal Mulugeta, and Betheleheim Fufa. 

[14]

Natural Forest Case Team 

Case team coordinator: Mahdere Mulugeta 

Project 1: Selected high forest and woodland for sustainable 

forest management in Ethiopia 

Project coordinator: Amdemichael Mulugeta 



To develop integrated sustainable utilization and forest management of the Dryland forests to 

address food security and improvement of the livelihood of the local community 


Describe and determine the vegetation structure and population dynamics in high forests 

 

and wood lands in relation to degree of anthropogenic disturbances 

Assess spatial and temporal variation in the coverage of natural high forest and wood 

lands and mapping extent of area of coverage. 

Determine the phenology of different indigenous tree species and develop 

methodologies/protocol for seed testing and propagation methods applied to managing 

natural forests. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Assess socio-economic values of forests and document indigenous knowledge and 

attitudes on forests and forest products. 

Determine the value of various forests and forest lands, applicable for determining the 

non-use values of the forest contribution. 

Characterise forest soil conditions and determine its relation to forest population 

dynamics and degree of forest disturbances. 

Develop long-term forest growth model for natural high forests and wood lands, 

reconstruct long-term climate variability. 

Determine temporal and spatial variation in carbon sequestration in forests and their soils, 

and develop carbon sequestration estimation model applicable to carbon-based forest 

management planning. 

Assess and identify pests and diseases of forests and design their control mechanism. 

Develop management plan for sustainable utilization of forest resources and 

environmental protection. 

Components 

Component 1: Vegetation structure and population dynamics 

Component 2: Land cover change 

Component 3: Phenology, Seed Testing and Propagation 

Component 4: Socio-economics values of forests 

Component 5: Valuation of various forests and forest lands 

Component 6: Characterization of forest soil conditions 

Component 7: Forest growth and rainfall variability 

Component 8: Carbon stock in forests and soils 

Component 9: Pests and diseases of forests 

Component 10: Developing management plan for sustainable forest Resource utilization 

and environmental protection 

[15]

Location: Bonga high forest, Borena wood land, Munessa, Belete Chaka and Menagesh 

State forest enterprises. Other fuel wood project areas around Addis Ababa will be Debre 

Berehan, Nazret, Bahirdar, Gondar and Dessie will be considered. 

Persons responsible: Dr. Deribe Gurumu, Worku Zewdie, Dr. Zewdu Eshetu, Mahdere 

Mulugeta, Mengistie Kindu, Abrham Yirgu 

Project 2: Sustainable Management of woodlands in selected 

Drylands of Ethiopia 

Project coordinator: Amdemichael Mulugeta 

Duration: 5 years (2003-2008). 


To develop integrated sustainable utilization of the Dryland forests to address food security 

and improvement of the livelihood of the local community 


To describe the vegetation structure and population dynamics of the woodland vegetation 

in relation to the degrees of anthropogenic disturbances and natural calamities 

To investigate the socio-economic contribution of woodland forest resources for the 

improvement of the livelihood of the community 

To assess the impact of fire on vegetation structure and composition 

To develop appropriate control techniques for managing aggressive species 

To generate technologies for degraded woodland rehabilitation. 


Vegetation composition of the selected woodland known 

The causes and consequence of woodland forest fire recognized 

The impact of fire on woodland forest vegetation structure and composition investigated. 

Local knowledge of the community on wood land forest management will be known 

Woodland fire management guidelines developed 

Encroacher species control methods compared and effective method identified 

Demonstration site established 

Awareness on control methods created 

Causes and consequences of wood land degradation identified 

Soil Seed Bank status of degraded woodlands known 

Rehabilitation/restoration technologies for degraded woodlands identified 

Components 

Component 1: Woodland composition and structure 

Component 2: Socio-economics of woodlands 

Component 3: Investigation of fire impacts on woodland forest resources 

Component 4: Investigation on management options of aggressive woodland species 

Component 5: Study on restoration options for rehabilitation of degraded Woodland 

Location: Guji Zone in selected woodlands which will be determined during reconnaissance 

survey. The fire study will be in Metama and other one woodland site which also needs field 

survey before implementations. This study will be extended to other similar areas. 

Persons responsible: Dr. Deribe Gurmu, Mahdere Mulugeta, Abraham Yirgu, Mengistie 

Kindu, Worku Zewdie 

[16]

Project 3: Exploring social, economic and ecological challenges 

and opportunities of sustainable forest management in selected 

dry Afromontane forests 

Project coordinator: Girma Shumi 



The overall objective of the project is to contribute to sustainable dry Afromontane forest 

management for increased food security, livelihood improvement, climate change adaptation 

and mitigation. With this general objective and the above mentioned background and 

justification the proposed project has the following specific objectives, which are hereafter 

defined as project components. 


Investigate and describe population dynamics and structure of dry Afromontane forest in 

relation to degree of anthropogenic disturbances 

Assess spatial and temporal forest cover change and map the extent of forest cover 

Investigate the restoration of deforested and degraded forest where multiple factors limit 

the rate of tree establishment 

Assess socio-economic values of forests and document indigenous knowledge and 

attitudes on forests and forest products 

Estimate and determine carbon sequestration potential and its temporal and spatial 

variation in forest and restoration sites, and develop carbon sequestration estimation 

model 

Disseminate lesson learned and develop sustainable forest management strategies 


The diversity, population structure, and early growth dynamics of woody species will be 

known and documented 

Species with soil seed bank will be identified 

Regeneration status of major and endangered tree species will be recognized 

Forest use or logging history and long term stand dynamics of Arbagugu Forest will be 

known and documented 

The temporal and spatial forest cover changes and its driving forces will be determined 

and documented 

The extent of the forest area will be known and mapped 

The recovery of degraded forest ecosystem will be known 

The most limiting factor that limit the rate of tree establishment in degraded dry 

Afromontane forest ecosystem will be identified 

Socio-economic importance of the forest will be known 

Existing indigenous knowledge and attitudes towards forest and forest products will be 

determined 

Carbon stock of dry Afromontane forest will be known and documented 

The participation of stakeholders will be increased 

Constraints and opportunities SFM will be communicated and know to stakeholders 

SFM strategic document will be authenticated 

Components 

Component 1: Vegetation structure and population dynamics study 

[17]

Component 2: Investigate forest cover change and map of the forest area 

Component 3: Investigate the restoration of deforested and degraded forest area 

Component 4: Assess socio-economic values of forests and document attitudes towards 

forests and forest products 

Component 5: Examine carbon sequestration potential of dry Afromontane forest 

Component 6: Institutional arrangement 

Location: Arbagugu, Chilalo-Galema and Munesa-Shashemene 

Persons responsible: Girma Shumi, Dr. Zewdu Eshetu, Dr. Yitebtu Moges, 

Amdemichael Mulugeta, Nesiro Hussen, Mahdere Mulugeta, Dr. Abayneh Deraro and 

Tolessa Alemu 

Wood Products Utilization Case Team 

Case team coordinator: Shasho Megersa 

Project 1: Suitability of selected tree species for industrial, 

construction and Energy purposes 

Project coordinator: Dr. Seyoum Kelemwork 



Maximizing utilization of alternative raw materials for wood industries, construction and 

household energy sectors as well as substitution of imports. 


To generate information on physical, mechanical, seasoning, working and fuel properties 

of the species under investigation rational utilization. 

To investigate treatability and effectiveness of wood preservatives against biodeteriorating 

agents to increase the service life of wood products. 

To investigate the suitability of four Eucalyptus species for particleboard production 


Information on wood physical, mechanical, seasoning and working properties of three 

species and fuel characteristics of 11 species will be generated. 

Information on appropriate harvesting age of Cupressus lusitanica will be generated. 

Complete information/technology will be generated on: Wood properties of three species. 

Fuel properties of 11 tree/shrub species 

Wood protection/preservation techniques of three species. 

suitability of four Eucalyptus species for particleboard 

Components 

Component 1: Physical and mechanical properties of wood products 

Component 2: Wood seasoning 

Component 3: Wood preservation of wood products 

Component 4: Wood working properties 

Component 5: Fuel wood properties 

Component 6: Board products-Particle board 

Component 7: Socio-economics (the wood protection aspect will be under taken by the 

socioeconomic group) 

[18]

Location: Field sites for preservation test: Gimbi, Meiso, Adami-Tulu/Bako; 

Laboratory: FPURC, ECAFCO, Ministry of Mines and Energy 

Persons responsible: Dr. Sisay Feleke, Dr. Seyoum Kelemwork, Shasho Megerssa and 

Getachew Desalegn 

Project 2: Suitability of Prosopis juliflora for specialty Wood 

Products and Tool Handles and for mushroom substrate 

Project coordinator: Dr. Seyoum Kelemwork 

Duration: 3 years (2003-2006E.C.) 


To evaluate the suitability of Prosopis juliflora for specialty wood products. 


To evaluate physical, mechanical and machining properties of P. juliflora 

To identify and produce at least 12 types of products 

 

 

To demonstrate the products/organize workshops for the target groups in Melka Worer 

To evaluate and recommend suitability of Prosopis juliflora (leaves, pods, chopped 

branches and stems, and mix) as substrate for Oyster (Pleurotus sajor-caju, P. austreatus 

and P. florida) and Shiitake (Lentinula edodes) mushrooms for mushroom cultivators. 

Components 

Component 1: Prosopis juliflora for specialty Wood Products & Tool Handles 

Component 2: Wood Preservation 

Component 3: Prosopis juliflora for mushroom substrate 

Persons responsible: Dr. Seyoum Kelemwork, Shasho Megersa, Dr. Siay Feleke, 

Getachew Desalegn 

Project 3: Investigation of selected Eucalyptus species for 

improved Electric power and Telephone Distribution poles 

Project coordinator: Dr. Siyoum Kelemework 

Duration: Four years (2011-2015) 


To identify suitable eucalyptus species for improved electric power and telephone 

distribution poles. 


To identify suitable eucalyptus poles growing locations which have less defects. 

To identify major natural defects those reduce pole quality 

To select appropriate diameter ranges of poles stands those have less defects 

To identify processing defects during conversion of timber to poles 

To determine conditioning & handling methods of poles before preservative treatments 

To determine drying and chemical treatment methods of poles 

To quantify emissions to air, water and soil during growth period 

To quantify emissions to air, water and soil during pole manufacturing 

To quantify emissions to air, water and soil during service & disposal of poles 

To quantify emissions to air, water and soil during manufacturing & disposal of concrete 

poles 

To recommend grading rules used for poles utilization 

To recommend silvicultural practice for planting improved quality poles 

[19]


Suitable eucalyptus growing locations for improved quality poles will be identified 

Eucalyptus sub-species for quality pole application will be selected 

Major natural defects of eucalyptus those reduce pole quality will be identified 

Appropriate diameter ranges of eucalyptus stands for quality pole will be determined 

Harvesting seasons will be identified to obtain less defect poles 

Methods for improving processing/harvesting defects will be determined 

Methods/techniques for handling & drying of poles before chemical treatments will be 

determined 

Suitable silvicultural practice for planting improved pole quality will be recommended 

Chemical concentration, vacuum and pressure time for each species will be identified 

Cradle-to-grave comparative environmental burdens arising from the manufacture and 

use of eucalyptus and concrete poles will be available 

Institutional pole grading rule which will used for national standard of structural pole 

utilization will be released 

Components 

Component 1: Basic wood properties of pole stands 

Component 2: Natural defects effect on poles qualities 

Component 3: The effects of timber harvesting and handling on poles qualities 

Component 4: The effects of eucalyptus specie variations on chemical penetration, 

distribution and retention 

Location: Addis Ababa, Shashemene, Jima, Borea, Nekemt and Gimbi 

Responsible persons: Dr. Seyoum Kelemwok, Dr. Sisaye Feleke, Getachew Desalegne and 

Dr. Anteneh Tesfaye 

Project 4: Lumber characterization, rational utilization and 

modelling of selected timber species as industry and construction 

material sources 

Project coordinator: Getachew Desalegn 

Duration: Four years (2011-2015) 


Selection and maximizing utilization of alternative raw materials for wood based industries and 

construction sectors as well as substitution of import and export promotion 


To generate technical information on physical and mechanical and seasoning and wood 

working characteristics of Eucalyptus viminalis, Eucalyptus plularis and Trichilia 

dergena timber species 

To test suitability of Eucalyptus viminalis, Eucalyptus plularis and Trichilia dergena 

timbers for different industry/furniture and construction purposes 

To Investigate natural durability of timbers against biodeteriorating agents 

To investigate treatability and effectiveness of wood preservatives against 

 

biodeteriorating agents to increase the service life of wood 

To develop and validate computational prediction models for physical, mechanical and 

working properties of native and introduced timber species 

To Test effects of diseases on chemical composition and wood characteristics of 

E.viminalis timber 

[20]


Technical/characteristics information on wood physical, mechanical, seasoning and 

working properties of the three species generated 

Effective preservative application methods selected 

Natural durability of timber determined 

Components 

Component 1: Physical and mechanical characteristics of lumber 

Component 2: Lumber seasoning characteristics 

Component 3: Preservation and natural durability of lumber 

Component 4: Woodworking characteristics of lumber 

Component 5: Disease occurrence, identification and effects on chemical and wood 

properties 

Component 6: Development, testing and validation of computational models 

Location: Pawe, Bako, Adami-Tulu, Meiso and Gimbi/Nejo 

Responsible Persons: Getachew Desalegn, Dr. Seyoum Kelemowork, Dr. Sisay Feleke, Dr. 

Anteneh Tesfaye, Shasho Megersa, Dr. Alemu Gezaghne and Abreham Yirgu 

Project 5: Appraisal, measurement, evaluation and improvement 

of productivity and efficiency of green manufacturing in ethiopian 

wood industries 

Project coordinator: Dr. Anteneh Tesfaye 

Duration: Five years 


The general objective of this mega project is determining, appraising and improving green 

competitiveness of the Ethiopian wood industry through collectively adopted and mastered 

innovative manufacturing techniques which help to zero or minimize the integral of waste, 

rework and environmental emission. 


To characterize quality of Ethiopian timber and investigate potentials for its 

improvement. 

To carry out sawn wood/lumber recovery studies and quantify its conversion efficiency 

into sawn wood or compute recovery factors. 

To characterize quality of value added wood products and investigate potentials of its 

improvement. 

To quantify the industrial wood waste generated and investigate potentials for its value 

added utilization. 

To probe and diagnose value chains/networks of wood products from sawn wood to the 

finished value added product. 

To identify and quantify suitable measures for manufacturing productivity and efficiency 

in wood industries. 

To quantify environmental and social impacts of manufacturing in wood industry and 

identify optimal (least-cost & least-impact) manufacturing potentials. 

To promote sustained and green competitiveness of the wood industry and assure its 

credibility through appropriate and mutually recognized national ranking and certification 

system. 


[21]

Baseline information on the current green competitiveness of Ethiopian wood industry 

Sufficient awareness on benefit of certification as marketing tool and as evidenced by 

establishment of competitiveness club or clubs 

Manuals and guidelines for self/external certification of competitiveness 

Time-series information on green competitiveness of the Ethiopian wood industry 

Green competitive wood industry cluster/network 

Mechanism for time series follow up and investigation of post certification performance 

of the wood industry 

Grand and final synthesis report of the of the mega research project on green 

competitiveness of Ethiopian wood industry 

Components 

Component 1: Timber quality characterization, grading and improvement 

Component 2: Sawn wood/lumber recovery studies 

Component 3: Value added wood products quality characterization and improvement 

Component 4: Industrial biomass, wood waste and other residues utilization 

Component 5: Probing and diagnostics of wood products value chains/networks 

Component 6: Productivity and efficiency in wood industries 

Component 7: Life cycle, inventory and assessment (LCI and LCA) of sawn wood and 

value added wood products manufacturing (gate-to-gate or cradle-to- grave) 

Component 8: Investigation of mechanisms to certify productivity, efficiency and 

competitiveness in the wood working industry 

Location: Addis Ababa and South West Ethiopia 

Responsible persons: FRC: Dr. Anteneh Tesfaye, Dr. Seyoum Kelemework, Dr. 

Kassahun Embaye, Mr. Getachew Dessalegn, Dr. Sisay Feleke and Mr. Shasho Megersa 

ASTU: Mr. Zelalem Getahun, Mr. Samuel Mekonen, Mr. Fekadu Tarekegn, Mr. Biniam 

Animawu, Mr. Mesela Dagne, Mr. Ashenafi Gezahegn, Mr. Misganu Eba, Mr. Solomon 

Tadesse, Mr. Genet Teshome, Mr. Barecha Dandessa, Dr. Manoj Dubey, Mr. Aberash 

Seyoum, Dr. Solomon Alemu, Mr. Zelalem Desalegn, Mr. Asamin Yesigat, Mr. Samuel 

Tizazu, Mr. Biruk Emiru, Mr. Asamin Yesigat, Mr. Kasahun Aleseged and Mr. Bekele 

Eshetu, 

AAiT-AAU: Dr. Birhanu Beshah, Mr. Yared Lemma, Mr. Ermias Tesfay, Mr. Amha 

Mulugeta, Mr. Zerihun Abate and Mr. Andualem Bahiru 

Project 6: A maximum utilization of biomass: Bio-fuel production 

and spent utilization from selected tree species grown in Ethiopia. 

Project coordinator: Dr. Sisay Feleke 



To evaluate the Biofuel (Ethanol), compacted charcoal quality, possibility of mushroom 

cultivation on Ethanol spent and charcoal condensate as wood preservation material from 

Arundinaria alpinia, Oxytenanthera abyssinica, Prosopis juliflora, Acacia melifera and 

Acacia drepanolobium 


To test suitability of the species for ethanol production 

To test the quality of briquette from the selected species charcoal fines and urban waste 

To test the suitability of ethanol production spent substrate for cultivation of edible 

mushrooms. 

To evaluate the pyrolyse condensate as a control remedy of subterranean termites 

[22]


The output of this activity is selecting suitable substrate in Ethanol production by 

fermenting from lignocellulosic materials and secondly the best age of bamboo for 

Ethanol production will be identified. 

The output of the result will be an identified method of small and fine particles of 

charcoal compacting method and the suitable organic binder. 

The output of the result will be an appropriate method of mushroom cultivation on 

Ethanol production residues. 

The output of the result will indicate the suitability of charcoal gaseous condensate in 

wood preservation. 

Components 

Component 1: Ethanol production from the selected bamboo species and invasive woody 

species 

Component 2: Investigate the charcoal pellet quality made from Prosopis juliflora, Acacia 

melifera, Acacia drepanolobium, Oxytenanthera abyssinica and Arundinaria alpina species. 

Component 3: Testing of ethanol production spent for edible mushroom cultivation. 

Component 4: Testing of creosote (condensate) against wood degrading agents 

Component 5: To develop charcoal compacting proto-type model pellet machine (This will 

be presented in 2016 based on the selected pressure type) in collaboration with AAiT or 

Agricultural Mechanization process. 

Location: Samples will be collected from areas where the resources are available Afar, 

Borena, Dhedesa, Masha. Sample testing will be carried out at FPURC 

Duration: Five years (2013/14 – 2017/18) 

Responsible persons: Dr. Sisay Feleke, Shasho Megersa and Dr. Anteneh Tesfaye, HARC 

(Holleta ARC - Biotechnology), Dr. Melaku Alemu. Dr. Kassahun Embaye 

Project 7: Production and Characterization of Microbial Enzymes 

to enhance the Delignification of wood chips 

Project coordinator: Dr. Melaku Alemu 



To produce and characterize enzymes from white rot fungi that improves the delignification 

of wood chips and reduces the chemical and energy consumption 


To isolate and characterize microbial enzymes such as cellulases, xylanases, laccases 

and other lignolytic enzymes [lignin peroxidase (ligninase, LiP), manganese peroxidase 

(MnP), H 2 O 2 -producing enzyme Glyoxal oxidase (GLOX) and versatile peroxidases 

(VPs)] that are capable of degrading fibers, cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin 

components wood 

To identify and characterize the white-rot-fungi that produce the cellulosic and lignolytic 

enzymes based on cultural, physiological, biochemical and molecular methods 

To evaluate the potential of these enzymes in improving and enhancing the delignification 

of wood chips and compare the advantages as compared to the conventional processes 

To produce these enzymes in large scale and augment some of the thermochemical 

treatments and mechanical processing employed in delignification of wood chips. 

[23]


The potential of white rot fungi to produce various cellulosic and lignolytic enzymes will 

be determined and characterized 

Cellulosic and lignolytic enzymes and producer fungal isolates will be made available at 

WURC to augment the delignification of wood chips that used to employ 

thermochemical treatments and mechanical processes 

Components 

Component 1: Isolation of white rot fungi 

Component 2: Screening of fungi for production of various Cellulosic and lignolytic 

enzymes 

Component 3: Optimization of culture conditions for production of the enzymes by fungi 

Component 4: Partial purification of enzymes 

Component 5: Characterization of purified enzyme 

Component 6: Identification and characterization of enzyme producing fungal isolates 

Component 7: Developing methods for large scale production of enzymes 

Component 8: Pulping and Bleaching of wood chips with chemicals and fungal cultures 

and enzymes 

Component 9: Biobleaching and Delignification of pulp 

Locations: The above list of activities will be conducted at National Agricultural 

Biotechnology laboratory (NABL) of Holetta Agricultural Research Center (HARC) and 

Wood Utilization Research Center (WURC). 

Persons responsible: Dr. Melaku Alemu, Dr. Sisay Feleke, Shasho Megersa and Dr. 

Anteneh Tesfaye 

[24]

EXTERNALLY FUNDED PROJECTS 

Plantation and Agroforestry Case Team 

Case team coordinator: Dr. Abayneh Derero 

Project : Agroforestry based practices to support diversification 

and intensification in the highland areas of central Ethiopia 

Project coordinator: Dr. Kindu Mekonnen 

Duration: Three years (2009-2012) 


To contribute to the management of natural resources and increase income of small-scale 

farmers through participatory introduction and evaluation of Agroforestry practices in the 

highlands of central Ethiopia. 


To identify and characterize multipurpose tree and shrub species of the different 

Agroforestry practices in Cheha wereda of the Guraghe zone. 

To investigate establishment techniques of different tree species on Vertisol areas. 

To evaluate the potentials to which shrub species contribute to the management of soil 

nutrient depletion in Nitisol areas. 

To evaluate the performance of multipurpose tree and shrub species around the 

homesteads in Degem wereda of the northern Shewa zone. 

To create the awareness of different stakeholders on Agroforestry based practices through 

different capacity building mechanisms. 


Potential multipurpose tree and shrub species of the different Agroforestry practices in 

Cheha wereda of the Guraghe zone identified and characterized. 

Tree establishment techniques that can be recommended to the farmers’ on Vertisol areas 

identified. 

The potentials and practicability of integrating shrub species for soil management in Nitisol 

areas investigated. 

Multipurpose tree species suitable for homestead plantation in the high altitude areas of 

northern Shewa identified. 

Awareness of farmers and development agents on agroforestry based practices increased. 

Components 

Component 1: Identify and characterize multipurpose tree and shrub species of the Different 

Agroforestry practices in Cheha wereda of the Guraghe zone 

Component 2: Investigate establishment techniques of different tree species on Vertisol 

areas 

Component 3: Evaluate the potentials to which shrub species contribute to the Management 

of soil nutrient depletion in Nitisol areas. 

Component 4: Evaluate the performance of multipurpose tree species around the 

Homesteads in Degem wereda of the northern Shewa zone 

Component 5: To create the awareness of different stakeholders on agroforestry Based 

practices through different capacity building mechanisms 

Location: Dendi, Guder and Ejere (Oromia) and Cheha (SNNP region) 

Persons responsible: Dr. Kindu Mekonnen, Mehari Alebachew and Dr. Chilot Yirga 

[25]

Non-Timber Forest Products Case Team 

Case team coordinator: Omarsherif Mohammed 

Project: Establishing model value chain of Moringa, An innovative 

approach to Commercialization of Moringa Production 

Project coordinator: Kaleb Kelemu 

Duration: 2 years (August, 2009-August, 2011) 


Commercializing Moringa production in the country 


To create awareness on the use and utilization of Moringa; 

To create awareness on production, processing utilization and marketing of Moringa for 

rural and urban residents of the selected woreda; 

To establish model value chain for Moringa; 

To promote various private and public sector stakeholders involvement in the production, 

processing and marketing of Moringa; 

To promote involvement of private and public sector involvement in production, 

processing and marketing of Moringa; 

To collect, analyze and document feedback information for further research and 

development endeavor on Moringa 


Awareness will be created on the use and importance of Moringa among rural and urban 

residents of the targeted areas; 

Farmers will acquire skill and knowledge on the production and management of Moringa; 

Moringa processing and marketing knowledge and skill will be acquired by targeted 

women groups; 

Model value chain of Moringa will be established 

Involvement of private and public sectors in the production, processing and marketing of 

Moringa will be created/strengthened. 

Components 

Component 1: Baseline Survey 

Component 2: Awareness and demand creation 

Location: Amhara Region (Kewet Woreda, Shoa Robit town), Tigray Region (Alamata 

woreda and Mekele town), Oromiya Region (Nazreth), Afar Region (Worer/Semera) and 

Addis Ababa Region 

Persons responsible: Kaleb Kelemu, Mengiste Kindu, Dr. Senait Yetneberk and Yeshi 

Chiche 

[26]

Natural Forest Case Team 

Case team coordinator: Mahdere Mulugeta 

Project: Estimating forest growth and forest carbon stock and 

reconstructing rainfall Variability as an integrated approach for 

forest management planning 

Project coordinator: Dr. Zewdu Eshetu 

Duration: Three years (2009-2012) 


To establish a long series of climate anomalies from different proxies such as stalagmites 

and tree rings 

To determine rate of forest growth and estimate forest carbon stock for plantation and 

natural forests 

To estimate forest carbon cost in relation to wood value and management costs and 

develops forest carbon stock and cost estimation protocol. 

To develop integrated forest management planning model based on forest carbon stock 

and forest volume growth. 

To map spatial and temporal land use and land cover changes along elevation 

gradient/climatic gradient. 


To lay a foundation for a centre of expertise in climate research. Emphasis will be given 

to laminated stalagmites and tree-rings which are excellent proxies for high-resolution 

climate studies which are now known to exist in Ethiopia and some studies are being 

carried on them. These studies will use instrumental climate records and climate 

modeling for prediction. However, there is at present a need to integrate all climate 

research activities. 

To establish regional capacity for climate research with a goal of obtaining highresolution, 

multiproxy, reconstructions of climatic (and in particular seasonal rainfall) 

variability over the last millennium from various parts of Ethiopia. 

To reconstruct drought, flood and rainfall variability as well as develop homogenous 

seasonal climate regions and historical long-term dataset in space and time as well as to 

quantify rainfall variability using transfer function. 

 

 

 

 

To develop long-term forest growth model for natural high forests and wood lands, 

To develop forest carbon estimation protocol and methods for Ethiopia and determine 

temporal and spatial variation in carbon sequestration in forests and their soils, and 

develop carbon sequestration estimation model applicable to carbon-based forest 

management planning 

To Estimate the cost of carbon sequestered in forests that assist concurrent development 

of tradable carbon credits providing financial incentives for considering carbon storage in 

the decisions of forest management planning. 

To determine rate of land use and land cover changes as well as its relationship with 

climate gradient and their interaction effect on the phisico-chemical properties of soils. 

[27]


Reconstructed climate anomalies will Provide sound scientific data on climate variability 

with regard to flood and drought frequencies drought frequency for policy makers in the 

Ethiopian government, notably the Hazard Preparedness Commission and the Food 

Security Agency by providing early warnings on future drought and assist in saving 

human lives during drought and flood years. It also provides long-term data set on future 

availability of water to Water Resource Authority for better management of scarce water 

resources. 

The relationship between tree ring growth, stalagmite growth bands and instrumental 

climate records assist to characterize Ethiopian rainfall and ENSO variability on the 

decadal to century timescales; and hence to determine the causes of Ethiopian climate 

anomalies, namely drought and flood and its impact on agricultural productivity. It also 

assists to determine the magnitude of spatial and temporal variation in climate in 

Ethiopia. This assist in scheduling the time of planting trees and performing cilivicaltural 

operations to mage growth of trees. 

Forest volume growth, forest carbon stocking and forest carbon cost determination as a 

function of forest age will be developed, and this ultimately will assist determining 

financial, economical and biological rotation age of forest stands in terms of carbon 

stocking, wood volume growth and economic return. 

Data sets on carbon sequestration potentials, wood volume growth and carbon costs will 

assist modifying the existing forest management planning from volume based 

management to integrated carbon stock and wood volume based forest management 

planning in that Ethiopia will play active role in getting financial incentives from CDM 

and REDD funding, which will in turn supports government strategy to achieve MDG in 

food security and climate change adaptation for which Ethiopia has rectified several 

international conventions. 

Spatial and temporal mapping of land use and land cover changes (reconstructed land use 

changes will provide information the rate land cover change in the drought prone areas. 

These will assist producing a land use and a climate induced risk map, which are so 

important for developing integrated land and water resource management in the drought 

prone areas of Ethiopia, which will be part of the MDG in climate change adaptation, 

food security, and environmental protection. 

Components 

Component 1: Climate proxy analyses for reconstructing long-term climate anomalies 

Component 2: Determining rate of Forest growth for plantation and natural Forest 

Component 3: Estimating Forest carbon stock and determining cost forest C Coast 

Component 4: Determining land use and land cover changes along elevation Gradient and 

the integrated effect of climate gradient and vegetation hift chronology on the soil nutrient 

dynamics 

Location: Menagesha forests and surroundings, Munesa forests and adjacent Lowlands, 

Anabi High forests and adjacent woodlands up to Mille 

Persons responsible: Dr. Zewdu Eshetu, Muhammed Umer, Asfaw Wossen Asrat, 

Mengiste Kindu and Negash Mamo 

[28]

Done_Forestry Resear.. - Eiar

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