Effects of Salinity on Producers’ Livelihoods and Socio-economic Conditions; the Case of Afar Region, Northeastern Ethiopia

Abstract

This study was done to assess the effects of salt-affected soils on the livelihoods and socio-economic conditions of the farming communities in Afar National Regional State, Northeaster Ethiopia. Primary data were collected from Amibara and Dubti districts sample respondents selected using multi-stage sampling techniques. Descriptive statistics (mean, frequency, percentage) and inferential statistics (t-test and Chi-square test) were employed to analyze the quantitative data. The results of the study showed that in the study areas, the farming communities have been negatively impacted by soil salinity. According to the study, soil salinity has made deterioration of both livestock rearing (reduced in number) and crop production (low to complete loss) activities, which in turn lead to livelihood vulnerability of the household. The results of the study showed that due to soil salinity, land less ness and food insecurity have becoming the common manifestation of the areas under study. Hence, the quality of irrigation water used for irrigation, the land leveling problem and the method of irrigation water application have to be given due attention to halt further expansion of soil salinity. On the other hand, wider promotion and popularization of proven practices as well as innovating new ones need to be strengthened. Trainings and awareness creation on soil and water management practices could also be taken as an immediate solution.