The contribution of Gudo forest conservation culture is key to biodiversity conservation the case of Sheka Zone, southwest Ethiopia

Abstract

This paper aims to document "the Gudo culture" in the Sheka zone, south-western Ethiopia from 2016 to 2019. The study adopted criterion sampling for this study in line with an ethnographic method involving the use of a semi-structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistical data techniques were used to analyse the field data. Qualitative methods involving interviews and focus group discussions with villagers are used to gather data. Eighty-five percent (85%) of respondents confirmed that the sacred forest is a cultural symbol related to indigenous beliefs and signifies spiritual connections to the forestland. Wide conservation practices were observed (a) people’s beliefs, (b) conservation mechanisms, (c) taboos and totems, and (d) people’s knowledge of the sacred forest (e) forbidden Forest (f) spiritual significance of sacred forests (g) conservation and management of sacred forests (h) cutting of trees in the sacred forest (i) protection of the sacred forest (j) conservation of biodiversity. This paper concludes that Gudo forest conservation culture provides important insights into protecting various forest types and tree species, contributing to biodiversity conservation.