The Seventh Annual Ethiopian Biosphere Reserve Network Forum was held on April 24, 2025 in Jimma city.

Jimma City Deputy Mayor Engineer Asrat Eshetu said in a message that working together is expected from all of us, adding that our office is open to working together on biospheres.

Mr. Hambani Masheleni, Head of UNESCO’s Addis Ababa Office, noted that there are a lot of community knowledge around natural resource conservation and added that UNESCO will recognize its role in biodiversity conservation.

In a message sent by Dr. Abiyot Berhanu, Deputy Director General of the Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute, he noted that many of Ethiopia’s biosphere reserves are unique and that we will transform biodiversity conservation into partnerships by empowering local communities through education, sustainable livelihoods, and ecotourism.

He also pointed out that it is possible to monitor ecosystems through research and technology, restore degraded lands, develop practices that are resilient to climate change, and create a model for sustainable living by combining Ethiopian traditional knowledge with modern science.

Dr. Feleke Woldeyes, former Deputy Director General of the Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute, presented a document that examined the challenges and achievements of the Biosphere Reserve from its establishment to its achievements. Ato Abera Seyoum, Lead Executive of Forest and Rangeland Research, presented a detailed performance report of the Ethiopian Biosphere Reserve Network.The experiences of the Kafa Biosphere Reserve, Sheka Biosphere Reserve, Yayo Biosphere Reserve, Tana Biosphere Reserve, and MELCA Ethiopia were presented and discussed.

The discussion was moderated by Dr. Abiyot Berhanu, Deputy Director General of the Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute, and responses to questions were provided by the relevant parties. Dr. Girma Eshetu presented the 2025 Action Plan, and the forum concluded with the completion of the network members.