Changing Trend of Livelihood Strategies in Beni-Shangul Gumuz Regional State: A Reference to the Berta People, Northwestern Ethiopia

Abstract

This paper deals with the livelihood strategies of the Berta people in BeniShangul Gumuz Regional State, Northwestern Ethiopia. It elucidates how the Berta people make use of their resources. It is also concerned with the changing trend of their livelihood strategies and the major factors that facilitate the change. Then, the paper looks at emerging livelihood strategies through which the Berta people opt to adapt. To address the above objectives, both secondary and primary sources were used. Secondary sources were obtained from both unpublished (reports and archives) and published (online and printed) materials. Fieldwork in the study area was conducted to collect primary data. To collect first-hand information, in addition to observing the day-to-day activities of the Berta in their villages, key informants, randomly selected households for in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions were used. The data were analyzed through triangulation of the above sources. Findings from the study show that the Berta people used to rely on diverse livelihood strategies. Agriculture, trade, gold mining, and handicrafts have been major sources of income. However, particularly since the late 1990s, these livelihood strategies have been put under pressure and gone through several changes that have in turn led to livelihoods declining. This makes the Berta people vulnerable to several socio-economic problems. Climate change, the villagization program, the expansion of large-scale investments, deforestation, the expansion of refugee camps for migrants from neighboring African countries, and political factors such as the government's lack of commitment to improving Berta's existing livelihoods are among the major factors enforcing the change and contributing to the decline of Berta's livelihood strategies. Migration, being a laborer, charcoal production, selling fuelwood, and renting land are among emerging survival strategies.