Carbon Project Forest

Carbon Project Forest

The Carbon Project Forest (Humbo Assisted Natural Regeneration Project) in Wolaita Zone is a pioneering and exemplary environmental conservation project not only in Ethiopia but also in Africa. This project is located in Humbo Woreda, and was initiated by the World Bank and World Vision in partnership with the Ethiopian government.

Here is a detailed explanation of the project:

  1. Project Objectives
    • Reforestation: Reforestation of forests that were previously destroyed by human and natural causes through natural means (Assisted Natural Regeneration).
    • Climate Change Mitigation: Reducing climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it in trees.
    • Community Benefit: Benefiting the community from the carbon credit generated by protecting the forest.
  1. Unique Technique (FMNR)

This project was successful through a method called FMNR (Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration).

  • Instead of planting new seedlings, the forest was allowed to regenerate itself by nurturing the seeds and roots that were dormant in the stumps, pruning and protecting the branches. This helped the trees adapt to the local soil and grow faster.
  1. Carbon Credit
  • The project has been recognized internationally, and the amount of carbon absorbed by the forest is calculated and credited.
  • The income from this carbon credit goes directly to the forest conservation cooperatives. The community uses this money to build schools, health centers and other development projects.
  1. Key Benefits
  • Preventing soil erosion: The mountainous Humbo area was affected by soil erosion and flooding; the forest has now eliminated this problem.
  • Restoring biodiversity: As the forest has recovered, birds and small wild animals that were previously extinct have returned to the area.
  • Water source recovery: Springs that had dried up due to deforestation have started flowing again as the forest grows.
  1. Benefits of visiting
  • This place serves as a large “Outdoor Laboratory” for students, researchers, and environmentalists.
  • It provides a great lesson in how the local community takes ownership of the forest and how to live in harmony with nature.

Overall, the Humbo Carbon Project Forest is a great work that demonstrates the truth that “if we protect nature, it will protect us.”

  1. Tips for visitors
  • When is the best time to go? Although the forest is always green, the road is most suitable for travel from October to May.
  • What to bring? * Hiking shoes (because it is mountainous).
    • Camera (for bird and nature photography).
    • Sun hat and water.
    • Permit: To visit the forest project in detail and get an explanation, it is helpful to contact the Wolaita Zone Agriculture Department or the Humbo Woreda Environmental Protection Office in advance to get complete information.

Travel Plan (from Addis Ababa)

This trip is very useful for naturalists, students and environmentalists.

Day 1: Travel to Wolaita Sodo

  • Transportation: Arrive in Sodo by flight (45 minutes) or by car (6-7 hours).
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Sodo town (e.g. Lewi Hotel, Tourist Hotel or other option).

Day 2: Travel to Humbo Carbon Forest

  • Morning: Travel from Sodo town to Humbo Woreda (20 km) to the project site.
  • Activities: * Hiking in the forest.
    • Visit the office of the Forest Conservation Cooperative and get an explanation about carbon trading.
    • Admire the stunning mountain scenery of the area.
  • Afternoon: Return to Sodo for a traditional meal and a night out in the city.