CONSERVATION CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES OF GIBE SHELEKO NATIONAL PARK IN ABESHGE WOREDA, GURAGHE ZONE SOUTHWESTERN ETHIOPI

Abstract

This study aims to assess the conservation challenges and opportunities of Gibe Sheleko National Park. The study utilizes a descriptive research design and combines qualitative and quantitative research approaches to collect primary data through focus group discussions, key informant interviews, surveys, and observations. The study's subjects consist of 123 households selected using a simple random selection method. This study utilized both quantitative and qualitative approaches to analyze data using the SPSS statistical package. Qualitative data were systematically condensed and summarized, and discussed alongside descriptive figures of quantitative data analysis. In addition, the finding results indicate a significant decline in biodiversity, including populations of hippopotamus, lion, and endemic bird species in Gibe Sheleko National Park. The decline in mammal and bird wildlife populations is negatively affecting the ecosystem function through degradation of soil micro and macro biota. The major conservation challenges identified in this study include expansion of farmland, livestock grazing, wildfire, and deforestation.