Amhara National Regional State Research Articles

Determinants of Public Service Delivery of Local Governments: The Case of Amhara National Regional State, Ethiopia

In an effort to enhance local governance and public service delivery in Ethiopia's Amhara Region, this study embarks on a comprehensive investigation into the myriad factors influencing public service delivery. It fills a critical gap in existing literature by examining the combined impact of institutional, economic, political, environmental, and legal determinants on public service efficacy. This study is significant for its in-depth exploration of local administration dynamics, vital for regional development in the socioeconomically diverse Amhara Region. Employing a quantitative methodology for a holistic view of local governance. Regression analysis used to scrutinize patterns and correlations within the data, offering an empirical understanding of various factors' influence on service provision. The findings are enlightening Institutional, economic, political and legal aspects are found to significantly and positively impact service delivery. Although environmental factors seem less significant in quantitative terms. This study advocates for integrated governance strategies that holistically encompass these various determinants. It underscores the importance of developing comprehensive policies and enhancing governance, acknowledging both overt and subtle influences on service delivery. The research contributes significantly to the field, offering in-depth insights essential for formulating inclusive, effective policies. In summary, this research provides pivotal insights into governance dynamics in the Amhara Region, offering a detailed framework for policymakers. It underscores the need for comprehensive, inclusive strategies that are crucial for improving service delivery and fostering socioeconomic development in the region. Thus, this study serves as an invaluable resource for those seeking to understand and enhance public service delivery in diverse socioeconomic contexts, offering guidance for effective governance and policy development.

Incidence and factors associated with failed spinal anaesthesia among patients undergoing surgery: a multi- center prospective observational study

BackgroundFailed spinal anaesthesia causes prolonging of operation time, insufficient analgesia for surgery and needs repeating spinal anaesthesia which in turn causes local anaesthesia toxicity, high spinal and total spinal, and conversion to general anaesthesia. However, the problem remains unexplored in Amhara regional state comprehensive specialized hospitals.ObjectiveTo determine incidence and factors associated with failed spinal anaesthesia among patients undergoing surgery in selected Amhara National Regional State comprehensive specialized hospitals, Northwest Ethiopia, 2023.MethodsMulti-center prospective observational study was conducted. Data was collected using questionnaire and checklist. All consecutive scheduled emergency and elective patients were included in the study. Data was transformed from Epi data to SPSS and logistic regression analysis was done. Both crude and adjusted odds ratio were used to assess the strength of association. Variables with a p-value of less than 0.05 were considered as statistically significant.ResultsA total of 532 patients were included in this study with a response rate of 98%. Incidence of failed spinal anaesthesia was 22.4% (CI = 19-25.9). Emergency surgery (AOR = 7.01, CI = 4.5–12.7), dose of bupivacaine of ≤ 10 mg (AOR = 3.02, CI = 1.3–10.2), work experience of anaesthetist < 2 years (AOR = 3.1, CI = 1.7–5.72), bloody CSF (AOR = 8.5, CI = 2.53–18.5), hyperbaric local anaesthetic drug (AOR = 3.3, 95% CI = 3.2–8.2) and local anaesthetist without adjuvants (AOR = 5.25, CI = 2.62–14.2) were associated failed spinal anaesthesia.Conclusion and recommendationThe incidence of failed spinal anaesthesia was high in Amhara Region comprehensive specialized hospitals. We suggest that anaesthesia providers should minimize failure by using adjuvants and appropriate dose of local anaesthetic. Additionally, simulation training should be given for anaesthesia trainees to improve their skills and to produce competent professionals.

Motivation and associated factors of health development army in the implementation of health extension packages in Northwest Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study

IntroductionHealth development army is a network of women volunteers organised to promote health and prevent disease through community empowerment and participation.ObjectiveTo assess the level of motivation and associated factors of...

Land acquisition policy and practice for cooperative housing scheme in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia: toward affordable housing solutions

Bahir Dar, a city in Ethiopia, is grappling with the challenges of rapid urbanization, which has made affordable housing a critical issue for its growing population. This study specifically focuses on the urban land acquisition process for cooperative housing schemes, which serve as an essential component of Bahir Dar’s affordable housing program. This atudy aimed to examine the current practices, identify the challenges faced by housing cooperatives during land acquisition and construction, and propose strategies for improvement. The primary data for this research were collected through interviews with key informants from the Bahir Dar City administration’s land management, cooperative organizer office, housing development and management office, and housing cooperative committees. Additionally, three focus group discussion (FGD) sessions were conducted, involving 21 participants from cooperative members who had acquired residential land and from those who were waiting for allocation, including both female- and male-headed households. These discussions explored their views on the effectiveness of the cooperative housing scheme, the challenges encountered during cooperation and construction, and their recommendations for enhancement. Secondary data were also gathered through a comprehensive review of policies, regulations, research articles, reports, and relevant legal documents. The study revealed that, out of the 35,512 certified housing cooperative members since 2014, only 31,596 of them had received residential land plots. However, a relatively small fraction, i.e., less than 7,000 cooperative members, managed to partially or fully construct their homes. This indicates that the scheme has not fully achieved its intended goal and remains unaffordable for many members. The main challenges faced by cooperative members include lengthy delays in obtaining serviced land, high construction costs, and unrealistic building standards for cooperative housing units. In light of these findings, it is recommended that the Amhara National Regional State revise its housing cooperative policy to become affordable for cooperative housing members, particularly in terms of land acquisition costs and building standards.

Determining the Collaboration and Challenges of PES with Stakeholders, Employers and Job Seekers: In Case of Amhara National Regional State, Ethiopia

Determining the Collaboration and Challenges of PES with Stakeholders, Employers and Job Seekers: In Case of Amhara National Regional State, Ethiopia

Electrocardiographic T Wave Abnormality and Associated Factors Among Type 2 Diabetic Patients: Multicenter Institution-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: T wave abnormalities are usually found on ECG and show abnormal ventricular repolarization. The presence and magnitude of T wave abnormality are often associated with cardiovascular disease and mortality in diabetes. However, there is no study about the electrocardiographic T wave abnormalities among type 2 DM patients in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study determined the overall prevalence and the associated factors of T wave abnormalities among people living with T2DM in Amhara National Regional State referral hospitals, Ethiopia. Methods: A multicenter institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from 01 January to 30 March 2022. Simple random sampling and systematic sampling techniques were employed to select the referral hospitals and study participants, respectively. A digital electrocardiograph was used to measure the T wave patterns, and an interviewer-administered questionnaire to collect sociodemographic and some clinical factors. Epi-data version-4.6 and Stata-14 were used for data entry and statistical analysis, respectively. The descriptive statistics were presented with tables and graphs. A binary logistic regression model was fitted to identify associated factors of T wave abnormality. In the final model, statistical significance was decided at p&lt;0.05, and the strength of association was indicated using an adjusted odds ratio with 95% CI. Results: Two hundred and fifty-eight participants (response rate=99.6%) were included in the analysis. The prevalence of overall T wave abnormality was 21.7% (95% CI: 19, 29.2%). Higher monthly income (&gt;90$) (AOR=0.16 [0.06, 0.46]), hypertension 5.55 (AOR=5.55 [2.12, 14.49]), fasting blood sugar of &gt;130mg/dl 6.38 (AOR=6.38 [1.94, 20.94]), were statistically significant factors of T wave abnormality. Conclusions: Higher income, hypertension, and higher fasting blood sugar were significantly associated with ECG abnormality. The findings of this study suggest the need to institute routine ECG screening for all T2DM patients to reduce silent myocardial ischemia and further complications.

Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli O157:H7 among diarrheic patients and their cattle in Amhara National Regional State, Ethiopia.

Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli O157:H7 (STEC O157:H7) is a zoonotic pathogen that causes diarrhea, hemorrhagic colitis, and hemolytic uremic syndrome worldwide. This study aimed to determine the prevalence, antibiotic susceptibility, and associated risk factors of STEC O157:H7 among diarrheic patients and their cattle. A cross-sectional study was conducted among diarrheic patients and their cattle in Amhara National Regional State, Ethiopia from December- 2020 to June- 2022. A total of 1,149 diarrheic patients and 229 cattle were included in the study. STEC O157:H7 detection was done using culture, latex agglutination test, and polymerase chain reaction on diarrheic stool samples and recto-anal mucosal swabs of cattle. Antibiotic susceptibility tests were performed using disk diffusion techniques. Risk factors association were identified using binary and multivariable logistic regression analysis. The overall prevalence of STEC O157:H7 in diarrheic patients and their cattle was 11.1% (128/1149) and 14.4% (33/229) respectively. High percentage of the study subjects were found in under-five children (34.5%). Age less than 5 (AOR: 4.02, 95%CI:1.608-10.058,P = 0.003), and greater than 64 years old (AOR:3.36, 95% CI:1.254-8.986, P = 0.016), presence of diarrheic patient in the house (AOR:2.11, 95%CI:1.309-3.390, P = 0.002), availability of cattle in the house (AOR:2.52, 95%CI:1.261-5.049, P = 0.009), and habit of consuming raw foods (AOR:4.35, 95%CI:2.645-7.148, P = 0.000) were risk factors. Antibiotic resistance was shown in 109(85.2%), and 31(93.9%) isolates from diarrheic patients and their cattle respectively. The highest levels of antibiotic resistance were found to tetracycline (54.7%, 69.7%) in diarrheic patients and their cattle respectively. Multiple drug resistance was also observed among 56(43.8%) and 11(33.3%) isolates in diarrheic patients and their cattle respectively. Our study showed high prevalence of STEC O157:H7 in diarrheic patients and their cattle. Therefore, health education should be given to the community on how to care for animals, proper sanitation, and the impact of raw food consumption.

The Impact of Human Resource Management in Amhara Regional State on the Development of Sport in Ethiopia

Sport experts' management can be described as a strategic, integrated, and coherent approach to the employment, development, and well-being of the people working in organizations. It has a strong conceptual basis drawn from the behavioral sciences and strategic management, and human capital theories. Little is known about the impact of sport experts' management on the development of sport. Therefore, this study intended to scrutinize the impact of sport expert's management on the development of sport in Amhara national regional state, Ethiopia. To achieve the stated purpose, correlational study. Data was collected from 108 sports experts through 55 questionnaires. Percent, reliability, Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, correlation, and linear regression by SPSS version 23 were used for data entry and analysis at 0.05 level. The results show that sports experts' management practices, ESH (r, .380, .001); EWC (r .411, .000); EPA (r. 502, .000); EMS (r, .638, .000), and ETS (r, .505, .000) have significant positive associations to the development of sport, respectively. Moreover, the sport expert's management has a46.2 % impaction the development of sport. EWC (B. 126, .000) and EMS (B= .616, .000) show significant positive predictions. Therefore, it can conclude that the sport expert's management has an appositive and moderate to large association and 46.2% impaction the development of sport. Furthermore, the researchers recommend that the office should design and exercise a sound human resource management structure that helps the development of sport.

Academic Staff Engagement in Research and Its Relation to Classroom Teaching in Public Universities in Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia

This study’s primary objective was to investigate the existing context of academic staff engagement in research and its relation to classroom teaching at public higher institutions located in the Amhara national regional state. A cross-sectional type of survey design was used to achieve this objective. The sample units and individuals were chosen using stratified random sampling procedure. Injibara University, Debre Markos University, and Bahir Dar University were three sample public universities located in Amhara Regional State that provided 251 participants for the study. A survey questionnaire was used to obtain the data. Both descriptive and inferential statistical methods were used to assess the data that had been gathered. The findings showed that the sample universities had very low levels of academic staff engagement in research activities. Most importantly, the results of this study also showed a weak but negative correlation between academic staff engagement in research and classroom teaching. Finally, possible recommendations were made based on the key results and conclusions.

The entrepreneurial ecosystem and the performance of micro and small enterprises (MSEs) in Amhara region, Ethiopia: the political–legal perspective

All other parts of the entrepreneurial ecosystem in any country are commonly governed by the political and legal aspects of the entrepreneurial ecosystem. This is a novel approach that examines the integrated effect of the entrepreneurial ecosystem's political–legal subsystem on the performance of MSEs based on system theory and the mediating role of entrepreneurial competence taking a resource-based view in to account. There has been no detailed examination of the entrepreneurial ecosystem of MSEs in Africa in general, and Ethiopia in particular. A total sample of 499 MSE operators engaged in the three priority sectors: manufacturing, construction and urban agriculture was selected from the population of 4086 operators in three metropolitan cities of Amhara National Regional State, Ethiopia, using a proportional stratified sampling. Though the political–legal aspects of the entrepreneurial ecosystem have a major impact on both entrepreneurial competency and MSE’s performance, the relationship between entrepreneurial competencies and MSE performance was found to be insignificant. The role of entrepreneurial competency in mediating the relationships between policy and business performance and other business environments and business performance was shown to be insignificant. It is suggested by the study that the policies that the government designs concerning MSEs should be workable and attractive including the provision of different incentives. Lastly, other researchers in the area are suggested to further clarify the contradictions in the findings regarding the relationship between entrepreneurial competencies and the performance of SMEs.

Prevalence of Soil-Transmitted Helminths and Schistosoma mansoni among Schoolchildren across Altitudinal Gradients in Amhara National Regional State, Ethiopia.

Soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) and Schistosoma mansoni infections are common parasitic infections in sub-Saharan Africa. Their distributions vary across altitudes in Ethiopia. Hence, ongoing updates of infection risk factors and prevalence data are necessary for successful intervention. A school-based, cross-sectional study was conducted from October to December 2019 involving 530 schoolchildren who were recruited by systematic random sampling from Amhara Regional State. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on sociodemographic, geographical and environmental factors. Stool samples were collected and processed by Ritchie's and Kato Katz techniques. Data were entered into EpiData and analyzed using SPSS. Descriptive statistics were used to compute prevalence, and logistic regression was used to assess factors associated with STHs and S. mansoni infections. Variables with P < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Among 530 schoolchildren, 169 (31.9%) and 78 (14.7%) were infected with STHs and S. mansoni, respectively. The prevalence of STHs (40.2%) in the semi-highlands and S. mansoni (30.4%) in the lowlands was high. Infrequent shoes wearing, exposure to soil, not washing vegetables before eating, and living outside in lowland areas were significantly associated with STHs infections (P < 0.05). Schoolchildren who fetched water to irrigate fields, swam in rivers, and lived in lowland areas were significantly associated with S. mansoni infection (P < 0.05). In conclusion, prevalence rates of STHs and S. mansoni infections differed across altitudes in Amhara Regional State. Therefore, current control strategies including deworming and provision of clean water and education on sanitation and hygiene should be intensified and adapted to the local context.

Rethinking the Impact of Land Certification on Tenure Security, Land Disputes, Land Management, and Agricultural Production: Insights from South Wello, Ethiopia

Land is a precious resource in the Ethiopian highlands, where the entire agricultural system depends on rain-fed system. The resource faces multiple interconnected environmental and socioeconomic challenges. Among these, the absence of tenure security has significantly affected farmers’ willingness to adopt soil and water conservation practices (SWCPs), leading to a decline in land productivity, hindering household food security, and contributing to an increase in land-related disputes. Bearing this in mind, the government of Ethiopia (GoE) has undertaken two rounds of land certification programs in selected regions, one of which was Amhara National Regional State (ANRS). This study examined how land certification strengthens tenure security, lowers land-related disputes, motivates farmers to employ SWCPs, and raises the productivity of farm plots in Dessie Zuria and Kutaber Woredas. The research followed an exploratory survey method which utilized both qualitative and quantitative data. The survey involved purposefully selected 401 household heads. Additionally, cross sectional data were collected from various sources, including Woreda and zonal agriculture, court, land, and Natural Resource Management (NRM) offices. Quantitative data were analyzed using frequency tables, percentages, graphs, figures, cross-tabulation, and descriptive statistical methods. Meanwhile, qualitative data were transcribed, grouped, and interpreted in line with the research’s objectives. SPSS software version 26 was used for data analysis. The findings denoted a positive relationship between land certification and tenure security. Furthermore, enhanced tenure security has played a positive role in reducing land-related disputes, initiating farmers to invest in SWC practices and improving the productivity of farm plots. The research suggests the adoption of a cadastral land registration system, the encouragement of community involvement, and the enforcement of laws and bylaws. The research recommend implementation of cadastral land registration system, promote community participation, and enforcement of laws and bylaws. The work has implications for development practitioners, academia and policymakers working on land tenure, SWC practices, and food security.

Examining practices and challenges of authentic learning in Mathematics lessons in upper primary schools

The study aimed at examining the practice of employing authentic instruction and identifying predictors in upper primary mathematics lessons in Bahir Dar Special Administrative Zone, Amhara National Regional State, Ethiopia. The study employed a mixed-methods exploratory sequential design. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and questionnaires from upper primary school mathematics teachers. The authentic learning questionnaire was pilot tested, and the internal consistency was found to be.766. Qualitative data from interviews and observations were analyzed using content analysis while quantitative data from observations were analyzed using a one-sample t-test; on the other hand, quantitative data from questionnaires were analyzed using a one-sample t-test and hierarchical multiple regression. The results revealed that there was lack of effort to practice authentic instruction; the instruction did not situate learning in a real-life setting. The dimension level analyses showed that all ten dimensions of the authentic instructional model were poorly practiced. The findings also revealed that among several challenges, four factors appeared to be significant predictors: lack of understanding and skills in authentic learning, less suitability of mathematics curriculum, inflexible and short schedule and period, and large class size. The researchers recommended that responsible government bodies and teacher training institutions exert greater effort to change the situation. Training should be given to teachers to improve their understanding and skills, and the curriculum should be suited for authentic learning.

Preparing competent citizens through appropriate instructional approach: How do instructors in three Ethiopian universities conceptualize and practice 21st century pedagogical skills?

This study aimed to investigate how instructors at three Ethiopian universities conceptualize and practice 21st century skills in classrooms. To achieve this purpose, a qualitative case study design was employed. Using a purposive sampling method, three universities in the Amhara national regional state of Ethiopia were selected. From these universities, ten participants were selected purposively. Semi-structured interviews and observation were used to collect data essential for the study. The data collected through these methods were thematically analyzed. The results revealed that participants had a limited understanding of 21st century skills. To be specific, their conceptions reflected the conventional pedagogical approach rather than the pedagogy of the 21st century. On the other hand, participants believe that 21st century skills are important for both instructors and their students. However, they had difficulties to practice these skills in the teaching-learning process. Finally, the implications of these findings for future research and policy initiatives are presented.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease symptoms and associated factors among university students in Amhara region, Ethiopia, 2021: a cross-sectional study

IntroductionGastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptom is a relapsing chronic medical condition resulting from the reflux of gastric acid contents into the esophagus and throat or mouth. It interferes with social functioning, sleep, productivity, and quality of life. Despite this, the magnitude of GERD symptoms is not known in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine the prevalence and associated factors of GERD symptoms among university students in the Amhara national regional state.MethodsAn institutional-based cross-sectional study was employed in Amhara national regional state Universities, from April 1, 2021, to May 1, 2021. Eight hundred and forty-six students were included in the study. A stratified multistage sampling technique was employed. Data were collected by using a pretested self-administered questionnaire. Data were entered via Epi Data version 4.6.0.5 and analyzed by SPSS version-26 software. The bivariable and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses were used to determine the associated factors of GERD symptoms. The adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated. Variables having a p-value of ≤ 0.05 were considered statistically significant.ResultsThe prevalence of GERD symptoms in this study was 32.1% (95% CI = 28.7–35.5%). Being in the age of 20–25 years (AOR = 1.74, 95%CI = 1.03–2.94), female (AOR = 1.67, 95% CI = 1.15–2.41), use of antipain (AOR = 2.47, 95% CI = 1.65–3.69) and soft drinks (AOR = 1.58, 95% CI = 1.13–2.20) were significantly associated with higher odds of GERD symptoms. Urban dwellers had less chance of having GERD symptoms (AOR = 0.67, 95% CI = 0.48–0.94).ConclusionNearly one-third of university students are affected by GERD symptoms. Age, sex, residence, use of antipain, and consumption of soft drinks were significantly associated with GERD. Reducing modifiable risk factors such as antipain use and soft drink consumption among students is advisable to decrease the disease burden.

Outcome of traumatic brain injury and its associated factors among pediatrics patients treated in Amhara national regional state comprehensive specialized hospitals, Ethiopia 2022.

Background Traumatic brain injury in pediatrics is one of the commonest causes of morbidity, disability and mortality worldwide. In low- and middle-income countries Study showed that death of pediatrics from traumatic brain injury was 7.3%. However, there is limited data towards the outcome of traumatic brain injury and its associated factors in Ethiopia. Objective To assess the outcome of traumatic brain injury and associated factors among pediatrics patients in Amhara National Regional State Comprehensive Specialized Hospitals, Ethiopia. Methods An institution based retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted among 423 pediatrics patients from January 1, 2019 to December 30, 2021, and data extraction period was from May 16 to June15, 2022. Systematic random sampling technique was employed to select the study participants. Data were collected from patient charts and registry books by using a data extraction tool. Data were entered into the Epi-info version 7 and analysis was done by SPSS Version 25. Both Bi-variable and multi-variable analyses were employed to identify factors associated with outcome of traumatic brain injury. Result From 423 sampled study participant charts 404 of them had complete information with response rate of 95.5% and included in the final analysis. The overall unfavorable outcome of traumatic brain injury at discharge was found that 12.13% (95% CI: 9.1% - 15.7 %). Sever traumatic brain injury (AOR: 5.11(CI :1.8-14.48), moderate traumatic brain injury (AOR:2.44(CI:1.07-5.58), Hyperglycemia (AOR: 3.01 (CI:1.1-8.04), sign of increased intracranial pressure (AOR:7.4(CI:3.5-15.26), and medical comorbidity (AOR: 2.65(CI:1.19-5.91) were predicted of unfavorable outcome of traumatic brain injury pediatrics patient. Conclusion and recommendations twelve present of traumatic brain injury results unfavorable outcome. Sever and moderate form of traumatic brain injury, hyperglycemia, signs of increased intracranial pressure, and medical comorbidity were factors associated with unfavorable outcome of traumatic brain injury in children. Therefore, it is preferable to improve accesses to acute and post-acute care services to lower the unfavorable outcome of traumatic brain injury in children.

Determinants of Niger Seed Commercialization in the Jabitehenan District, West Gojjam Zone, Amhara National Regional State, Ethiopia

Ethiopia’s oil seed industry is expanding swiftly to meet rising domestic and foreign demand, assisting the country in generating foreign exchange earnings and income. This study aimed to quantify the level of household commercialization of Niger seed output and analyze the determinants affecting it. This research utilized a three-stage random sampling technique to gather quantitative and qualitative data from primary and secondary sources. The primary data came from sampled households through a semi-structured interview. Moreover, 150 samples were selected randomly. Descriptive statistics and the Tobit censored regression model were utilized to analyze the data. SPSS version 20 and STATA 13 software were also employed. The average level of Niger seed commercialization in the area was 0.71%. Several determinants, including the amount of Niger seed output, market information, frequency of extension service, training access, age, and total livestock unit, influenced the level Niger seed. The regional government and district leaders should strengthen the provision of different training to raise the production, productivity, and level of Niger seed commercialization by enhancing the marketable surplus of Niger seeds.

Entrepreneurial competency in agriculture: is it a panacea for the problem of farmers' welfare?

PurposeAlthough the majority of Ethiopians continue the on-farm and off-farm work, the country still struggles to secure food for its citizens and farmer welfare is very low. To increase farmers' welfare, improving farmers' entrepreneurial competency is believed to be the solution. However, entrepreneurial competencies are diversified, and investigating the most important dimensions specific to the agricultural sector is important. As a result, the objective of this research is to look into important entrepreneurial competencies that could help farmers.Design/methodology/approachTo achieve the objective, survey data, collected from 178 households in North Shoa, Amhara National Regional State, Ethiopia is analyzed through structural equation modeling (SEM).FindingsThe study revealed that of the six entrepreneurs' competencies considered, only two of them (Strategic competency and relationship competency) have a significant association with the welfare of farmers. Moreover, the study revealed that the moderating effect of agricultural extension (taking model and non-model farmers as a group) on the relationship between entrepreneurial competency and farmers' welfare is not significant.Research limitations/implicationsThis study focuses only on six entrepreneurial competencies from which two of them are found significant factors in farmers' welfare. Thus, future research could broaden the scope in terms of looking into additional variables.Originality/valueThe study investigated the moderating effect of the farmers' category as a model and non-model on the relationship between entrepreneurial competency and farmers' welfare, which is the first to discuss the moderation effect.

Diversity and relative abundance of bird species in the two habitat types of Dokima forest Awi zone, Ethiopia.

Birds are the most widespread vertebrate group, as they can be found in practically every type of habitat. However, lack of knowledge on bird ecology in Afrotropical highlands and bird habitat degradation are the main problems that is why this research was studied. The study was conducted in Awi zone, Amhara National Regional State with the objective of the diversity and relative abundance of bird species in the two habitat types of Dokima forest in Awi zone, Ethiopia. Between November 2018 and December 2020, the transect method was conducted in both dry and wet seasons. Using one-way ANOVA, the effect of seasons and habitats on species richness and abundance was investigated and compared. In both the dry and wet seasons, a total of 2233 individuals, 47 species belonging to 35 families, and 14 orders were recorded. The abundance of bird species was not statistically differed between habitat types in the dry season, but it was statistically significantly in the wet season. The mean abundance of bird species differed significantly between the dry and wet seasons. In the dry season, the forest habitat type had the highest species diversity index (H' = 3.18) and the highest evenness (J = 0.94), while in the wet season, the forest habitat type had the highest evenness (J = 0.94). These habitats must be conserved in order to protect the birds that live in the area.

Trend and Current Status of Forest Resources in the Amhara National Regional State, Ethiopia: A Review

Ethiopia is endowed with diverse forest resources. Amhara National Regional State, one of the administrative regions in Ethiopia, has diverse ecology and is endowed with diversified flora and fauna. Forest resources in the region provide various uses and services to the local community. But the forest resources of the region have faced huge devastation due to high human and livestock pressure. As a response, efforts have been made to conserve and develop the forest resources of the region. However, there is a lack of comprehensive information about the current status and trend of forest resources in the region. This review provides the current status and trend of forest resources in the region based on a literature search from different sources. The review showed that the overall forest resource of the region decreased over time, despite the expansion of plantation forests. Most of the natural forest resources of the region disappeared and remnants are found in church compounds and other forest conservation areas. Plantation forests in the region are dominated by exotic tree species, majorly Eucalyptus. Most important non-timber forest products have been neglected, and modern forest development interventions are lacking. This review paper is indispensable for decision-makers, academicians, development, and research institutions to direct their focus toward developing technologies and information for the sustainable development of the forest resources in the region. Appropriate forest management and utilization practices have to be implemented for the sustainability of the forest resources in the region. Since the forest resource in the region is under dynamic change, regularly updating and providing information on its current status is imperative for timely and proper decision-making