North Wollo Research Articles

Traditional opal mining practice in Ethiopia, challenges and its economic impact on rural households: the case of wollo opal mining

Background The discovery spurred further exploration, leading to the expansion of opal mining into neighboring districts. Numerous cooperative groups, composed of small-scale miners, traditionally explore, develop, and extract significant amounts of rough opal gemstones. This study tries to investigate the challenges and economic impacts of traditional opal mining practice in wollo province of Ethiopia. Methods The study used in this study is primary data collected from rural households, which are living in five districts of north wollo zone, in Amhara regional state. The data was collected using field observation, focus grouped discussion, interview, and questionnaire from sampled households. The study uses both descriptive and econometric methods of data analysis to achieve its objective. Results Among the challenges of traditional opal mining, primitive way of exploring and extraction, limited access to market and low institutional support in terms of training and finance are identified. The probit model reveals that, increased education, access to training, and access to credit positively influence the likelihood of engaging in opal mining. The ESR model shows that, the average treatment effect on the treated (ATT) indicates that participating in opal mining increases monthly income by 31,380 ETB, while the average treatment effect on the untreated (ATU) shows a potential income increase of 31,625 ETB for non-miners if they engaged in mining. Conclusion The study identifies three main categories of challenges faced by traditional opal miners: exploration and extraction issues, market limitations, and regulatory and institutional shortcomings. Exploration and extraction challenges include the lack of modern mining tools and knowledge, as well as difficult terrain, leading to inefficient and hazardous mining practices. Market-related challenges involve limited access to broader markets and lack of value addition, resulting in miners selling raw opals at significantly lower prices compared to polished ones.

Parental Support in the Education of Their Children with Impairments: In the Case of North Wollo's Primary Schools

This study aimed to explore parental support practices in the education of children with impairments in primary schools in north Wollo, Ethiopia. The study utilized a qualitative research approach and case study design, involving seven parents of children with impairments and four teachers. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews based on a parental involvement framework with six dimensions. Findings revealed that parents of children with impairments were more involved in parenting practices to support their education. However, communication between parents and teachers was limited, and while some parents provided learning support at home, many were unable to do so due to constraints such as lack of time, misconceptions, and inadequate skills. The study also noted that direct parental involvement in decision-making was limited, while indirect participation through parent-student-teacher associations was more substantial. Additionally, the study revealed that parents did not participate in volunteering or community activities to aid their children's education. As a result, the schools should facilitate discussions and provide training to empower parents in fulfilling their diverse roles.

The cultural and religious cost of the 1970s and 1980s famine in North Wollo, Ethiopia

ABSTRACT This research investigates the cultural and religious repercussions of the famine in North Wollo, Ethiopia, during the 1970s and 1980s, aiming to shed light on an inadequately explored aspect of a pivotal historical event. The study employs a qualitative method and a descriptive approach, using data from both written materials (published and unpublished) and in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with informants numbered up to the total of 50. A purposive sampling technique was utilized. Focusing on themes such as dietary practices, mourning rituals, and customary and religious observances, the study reveals how the famine disrupted traditional norms. The crisis led to unconventional burial practices and the postponement of burials, which conflicted with established religious principles. The populace faced the challenging task of compromising their cultural traditions and religious beliefs, resulting in deviations from customary values and engagement in taboo activities, particularly breaking eating norms. This investigation underscores the need for collaborative efforts among stakeholders to address the profound impacts of famines. By emphasizing the importance of early warning systems, the study advocates for proactive measures to prevent the recurrence of such dire circumstances in the future.

Time to recovery from severe community-acquired pneumonia and its determinants among older adults admitted to North Wollo hospitals: A multi-centred cohort study.

Severe community-acquired pneumonia presents a looming threat to older adults globally, often resulting in alarming mortality rates. Despite advancements in treatment, challenges persist, exacerbated by factors like increasing comorbidity. As age rises, so does the risk of mortality and prolonged recovery periods. Particularly in low-income countries such as Ethiopia, the burden of severe community-acquired pneumonia is staggering. Yet, research on the estimated time to recovery and its determinants among older adults in this region remains insufficient, demanding urgent attention. Hence, in this study we endeavour to uncover insights into the recovery time and contributing factors among older adults. We conducted a multi-centred retrospective cohort study among 422 older adults aged >65 years. We collected data using a structured checklist, and the final sample was meticulously selected using a systematic sampling technique. We computed Kaplan-Meier survival curves and log-rank tests to compare survival curves. We assessed multicollinearity using variance inflation factors. Further, we employed a Cox regression model to identify significant determinants, with model fitness evaluated using a Cox-Snell residual plot. Statistical significance was declared at a P ≤ 0.05. In this study, 79.3% (95% confidence interval (CI) = 75.58-83.29) of patients achieved recovery, with a median time to recovery from severe community-acquired pneumonia of 19 days. Age >75 years, diabetes mellitus, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, elevated creatinine level and baseline white blood cells greater than 11.0 × 109/L were found to be significant determinants. On average, older adults take 19 days to recover from severe community-acquired pneumonia. Recovery times are notably longer for individuals aged >75 years, those with comorbidities, and those with elevated white blood cell and creatinine levels. Therefore, tailored interventions addressing these specific factors could potentially improve patient outcomes.

Spatial distribution and clustering of contagious caprine pleuropneumonia in goats of Amhara region, Ethiopia

A cross-sectional study with a multistage cluster sampling technique was undertaken from January to July 2019 in Amhara region to identify spatial clusters and distributions of contagious caprine pleuropneumonia (CCPP) hotspots. In the study, a total of 2080 goats from 258 flocks across 60 villages in 12 districts were tested for CCPP serostatus using Competitive Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (C-ELISA). Villages were taken as an aggregate unit to detect spatial distribution and clustering. Spatial autocorrelation, interpolation, and spatial scan statistics analyses were employed to analyze the spatial patterns and clusters of CCPP serostatus. The overall seroprevalence of CCPP at the animal level was 5.1 % (95 % CI: 3.8–6.6). The spatial distribution of CCPP seropositivity was non-random at the village level (Moran's I: 0.400791, P-value <0.01). Two statistically significant spatial clusters of CCPP seropositive were found: one in West Gojjam and the other encompassing parts of North Wollo, Oromiya Liyu zone, and South Wollo zones. The CCPP seropositivity showed spatial variation across the Amhara region. High CCPP seropositive spots were found in the southwestern and northeastern parts of the Amhara region. Generally, the findings of this study provide valuable insights in developing disease control strategies, prioritizing target intervention areas and measures, and designating CCPP disease-free zones. Applying movement restrictions and vaccinating goats will be important intervention measures to prevent and control CCPP in the region.

Examining the practice of culturally responsive pedagogy in upper primary school mathematics: Perceptions and competencies of teachers in North Wollo zone, Ethiopia

This study aimed to examine the status of culturally responsive pedagogy (CRP) practices among upper primary school mathematics teachers in North Wollo Zone, Ethiopia. To achieve this purpose, the researchers employed a mixed-methods convergent research design. The participants included teachers, students, principals, and department heads. Data were collected from these participants through questionnaires and interviews, and analyzed using both quantitative and qualitative techniques. Results indicated that teachers employed CRP strategies in mathematics instruction on an occasional basis. Furthermore, the results revealed significant correlations between the independent variables—school location, teaching experience, CRP perception, and CRP competency—and the practice of CRP. Notably, teaching experience and CRP competencies were found to positively and significantly predict the dependent variable of CRP practices in mathematics education. These findings underscore the need for teachers to gain teaching experience, enhance their cultural competence, and exchange insights on implementing responsive teaching methods that integrate cultural elements and real-life contexts.

Empowering rural women: key factors driving participation in livelihood credit programs in Gubalafto woreda, North Wollo, Ethiopia

Background This study investigates the factors influencing rural women’s participation in credit programs in Gubalafto Wereda. Understanding these determinants is crucial for improving program effectiveness and supporting women’s economic empowerment in the region. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted with a sample of 364 rural women from four kebeles, selected through stratified random sampling based on agro-ecological characteristics. Data were collected via interviews and analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, t-tests, and logit regression models to determine the significance of various factors affecting participation. Results Descriptive statistics revealed key associations between participation and factors such as household size, income level, educational status, perception of group collateral, skill training, and distance from lending offices. Chi-square tests showed significant relationships, while t-tests identified differences between participants and non-participants. Logit regression analysis indicated that household size, income level, educational status, group collateral, skill training, and proximity to lending offices significantly influenced credit participation at the 1% level (p&lt;0.01). Experience with income-generating activities and perception of interest rates were significant at the 5% level (p&lt;0.05). Market access was significant at the 10% level (p&lt;0.10). Positive factors included household size and income level, while age, distance from lending offices, and perception of interest rates had negative effects. Conclusion The study highlights that specific factors significantly impact rural women’s participation in credit programs. To enhance program effectiveness, stakeholders should address these determinants and develop robust institutional frameworks with effective monitoring and evaluation systems.

Fuel to the fire: Gender inequality in achievement in secondary school national examination in conflict-affected areas, North Wollo Zone, Northeast Ethiopia

Government reforms such as the general education quality improvement program for equity are implemented to address concerns about educational inequality. However, studies advancing understanding of the patterns of gender inequality in achievement in conflict affected areas are rare. The purpose of this article is to examine patterns in gender inequality in General Secondary Education Certificate Examination results in Math, English, and Aptitude for 2021, 2022 and 2023 academic years in conflict affected areas. The data consist of achievement scores from 45 schools and a total of 32,528 students, obtained from the Education office of North Wollo Zone, Northeast Ethiopia. Using multilevel modeling, within- and between-school inequalities, achievement inequalities in gender, effects of teacher qualifications on achievement, and variations in gender-achievement relationships are examined. Student performance has been found to have consistently declined in the last two years in math, English and aptitude scores. On average, boys perform significantly higher than girls on these subjects consistently during the normal and conflict seasons. Inequality has decreased in conjunction with declining student performance, and inequalities due to school characteristics are much lower than inequalities due to student differences. School inequality declines in years of conflict compared to normal ones. The relationships between gender and achievement also vary statistically from school to school, with the conflict exacerbating existing inequalities. Based on the results, it is suggested that equity strategies should consider inequalities with declining student performance as opposed to conventional inequalities with high and low performing groups. Future research may isolate the effects of conflict and reforms in national testing procedures to account for gender inequalities.

Honey pollen analysis in selected districts of North Wollo zone, Amhara region, Ethiopia

Melissopalynology plays a pivotal role in identifying and managing the geographical and botanical origins of honey. In this study, forty-five honey samples were collected from three potential districts in the North Wollo zone, Ethiopia. The pollen grains of these samples were analyzed using the procedures outlined by the International Commission for Bee Botany (ICBB) to determine the botanical sources of the honey. Among the samples, twenty-five were classified as monofloral, while the remaining twenty were identified as multifloral honey. Nineteen plant species from twelve different plant families were identified as the honey bee floras in the North Wollo zone. The dominant families, representing over 45% of the pollen grains in the samples, were Asteraceae (9 samples), Myrtaceae (5 samples), Papilionaceae (4 samples), Fabaceae (2 samples), Hypericaceae (2 samples), Acanthaceae (1 sample), Brassicaceae (1 sample), and Ericaceae (1 sample). Bidens spp., Trifolium rueppellianum, and Eucalyptus globulus emerged as the top three honey bee floras in terms of relative percentage and frequency. Furthermore, eleven samples exhibited a high diversity index range (H) of 1.56% in Lasta and 1.01% in the Meket districts, while the remaining thirty-four samples showed a lower diversity index ranging from 0.31 to 0.99. Our findings underscore the importance of conserving bee floras to enhance honey production and ensure sustainability in beekeeping practices in the North Wollo Zone.

Time to recovery and its predictors among children aged 6-59 months having uncomplicated severe acute malnutrition attending an outpatient therapeutic program in Northeast Ethiopia: prospective cohort study.

There are insufficient data regarding the variables influencing recovery times, despite the accessible outpatient therapy program (OTP) bringing services for treating severe acute malnutrition (SAM) closer to the community. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the factors influencing the recovery duration in children with uncomplicated SAM between the ages of 6 and 59 months who were attending an OTP in North Wollo, northern Ethiopia. From February 2021 to July 2021, 356 children, ages 6-59 months, enrolled in a facility-based prospective cohort study. An interviewer administered a semi-structured questionnaire once a week to acquire anthropometric measures. The data were imported into Stata version 14.2 for analysis from EPI data entry version 4.6.06. The time to recovery for each attribute was determined using a log-rank test, a survival curve, and a Kaplan-Meier estimate of the median time to recovery. The Cox Proportional-Hazards Model was used to identify independent predictors of recovery time; statistical significance was indicated at 95% CI and a p-value of 0.05. With a recovery rate of 74.7%, the median recovery period was 56 days. Frequency of growth monitoring and promotion (GMP) service utilization [AHR = 1.622 (95% CI: 1.052-2.130)], cough [AHR = 0.385 (95% CI: 0.176-0.843)], maternal delivery at health center [AHR = 1.448 (95% CI: 1.023-2.050)], and maternal literacy [AHR = 1.445 (95% CI: 1.019-2.058)] were determinants of time to recovery. The median recovery period was 56 days with a recovery rate of 74.7%. Regular utilization of GMP services, maternal delivery at the health center, and cough at admission were independent predictors for this study. As a result, there should be a greater emphasis on the importance of girls' (future mothers') education and nutrition counseling, particularly the integration of GMP service components into institutional delivery/for girls/women who have received little education on how to improve time to recovery and the success of the OTP.

Production system analysis and breeding practices of indigenous goats in North Wollo zone, Amhara region, Ethiopia

ABSTRACT This study describes the goat production system and breeding practices in selected districts of North Wollo zone, Ethiopia. Data were collected from 180 respondents through a semi-structured questionnaire and group discussions. Descriptive and GLM procedures were employed for data analysis. A mixed crop-livestock production system was the main production system in the area. The mean number of goats per household is 9.66 and they are mainly kept for cash income and meat consumption. The flock structure of indigenous goats consisted of a large number of female goats. Natural pasture and crop residue were the major feed resources in the dry and wet seasons, with an overall mean of 37.53% and 54.26%, respectively. Feed shortage, diseases, and drought were the major constraints for goat production. Most goat owners (97.1%) practiced an uncontrolled mating system. Most farmers (88.93%) reported selecting breeding goats to be a parent for the next generation. Body conformation and coat colour were the preferred traits for the selection of goats. The current level of goat management and breeding methods would not significantly enhance goats’ productivity and profitability. Therefore, designing management and genetic improvement programmes would be vital to improving the productivity of indigenous goats.

Genetic diversity among Ethiopian sweet sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] accessions using simple sequence repeat markers

Sweet sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) is the only grain and stalk crop that can be used for multipurpose. Despite its global significance and potential, it faced genetic erosion. These are due to low productivity and lower farmers' preferences, which is not considered one of the most important cereal crops in Ethiopia. To utilize and popularize these crops, understanding the genetic diversity and population structure is a pre-request. Therefore, this study was aimed to assess the genetic diversity and population structure of selected 82 Ethiopian sweet sorghum accessions using 10 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers that represent seven geographic regions of Ethiopia. The study revealed a total of 116 alleles with a mean of 11.6 alleles per locus. All used microsatellite loci were highly polymorphic with polymorphic information content (PIC) ranging from 0.75 to 0.90 with an average of 0.82. They showed high gene diversity ranging from 0.59 to 0.81 with an overall mean of 0.70. There was a moderate genetic differentiation (FST = 0.21) showing the presence of high gene flow (Nm = 5.033) where 91 % of the total variation was accounted for within populations genetic variability. The clustering, principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) and population structure did not cluster the studied populations into a separate group according to their geographical origin. In conclusion, the highest intra-population diversity was observed among populations of North Wollo (He = 0.81) and South Wollo (He = 0.79), and hence these areas can be considered as hot spots for the identification of novel traits. Therefore, the present study has generated baseline information for breeders to improve Ethiopian sweet sorghum through breeding, management, and conservation of the available genetic resources.

Potentially toxic metals in road dust: An assessment of ecological and health risks at Woldia and Kobo towns in North Wollo, Ethiopia

ABSTRACT The accumulation of heavy metals (HMs) in the environment threatens the ecosystem and human well-being. This study investigated the amounts of Mn, Fe, Ni, Co, Cu, Zn, Cd, Hg, Pb, As, and Cr, as well as the associated health and ecological risks. Thirty samples of roadside dust were collected in the northern Ethiopian towns of Woldia and Kobo. The collected samples were digested using acid digestion method and the levels of heavy metals were analysed using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy. The results showed that the average concentrations of HMs were 0.103 (As)-7.6 (Cd) and 0.083 (Cd)-3.80 (Fe) mg/kg in Woldia and Kobo, respectively. All the HM concentrations investigated in this study were lower than the average global concentration, except for Hg in both towns and Cd in Woldia town. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) for the heavy metal concentration showed a significant difference across each sampling site, while Ni and Hg did not show a significant difference. The hazard quotient (HQ) and hazard index (HI) values of all HMs for adults and children through the three exposure routes were lower than 1, which means that they had a low likelihood of noncarcinogenic risks. The pollution index, geoaccumulation index, ecological risk index, integrated pollution index and risk index parameters were used to estimate the ecological risk. The results demonstrated that the pollution level mainly varied between low and moderate levels, except in Woldia, which is highly polluted by Cd metal that further detailed research is highly recommended to find out the sources of this metal.

Climate-change-driven conflict: Insights from North Wollo, Northeast Ethiopia

Climate-change-driven conflict: Insights from North Wollo, Northeast Ethiopia

Examining the Impact of Socioeconomic Factors on Academic Staff Saving Behaviors and Financial Readiness in North Wollo Zone, Amhara, Ethiopia

&amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Introduction&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;: Saving behaviour is a critical aspect of financial planning, where individuals defer present consumption to enhance their quality of life and meet future needs. The study aims to gain a comprehensive understanding of their financial behaviours, identify the factors that influence their financial decision-making, and compare the financial behaviours among different groups of academic employees. &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Methods&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;: Employing a quantitative research approach, this study utilizes a structured questionnaire to gather data from academic employees. The questionnaire evaluates variables such as income level, education, job security, and financial goals to examine their impact on saving behaviours and financial readiness. Binary logistic regression analysis is employed to assess the influence of each factor on the dependent variable. &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Results&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;: The findings indicate that a majority (83.3%) of academic employees have not previously saved, while a minority (16.7%) have managed to accumulate some savings. Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests, demonstrate significant associations between saving habits and variables such as gender, age, marital status, monthly expenses, and housing. The binary logistic regression analysis further highlights the significance of factors such as gender, age, education level, expenses, housing, additional income, and participation in savings groups in shaping employees&amp;apos; saving behaviours. &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Conclusion&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;: This study contributes to the understanding of Ethiopian savings practices and personal finance by examining and comparing saving behaviours and financial preparedness across different academic institutions. It provides insights into the factors influencing financial decision-making and proposes strategies for enhancing financial literacy.

Statistical analysis on the incidence and predictors of death among second-line ART patients in public hospitals of North Wollo and Waghemira Zones, Ethiopia, 2021

Acquired immune deficiency virus, caused by the human immunodeficiency virus, is a significant global health concern. Sub-Saharan Africa particularly Ethiopia faces a high prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus. In low-income settings like Ethiopia, early mortality rates are elevated due to severe opportunistic infections and advanced disease at Anti-retroviral treatment initiation. Despite available treatments, delayed treatment initiation among Human Immunodeficiency Virus -infected individuals in Africa, including Ethiopia, leads to disease progression and increased mortality risk. This study aimed to identify the factors contributing to the death of HIV patients under treatment at second line regimen in public hospitals of North Wollo and Waghemira Zones. A retrospective cohort study with 474 patients was conducted in selected hospitals of North Wollo and Waghemira Zones. A parametric Weibull regression model was employed, and the adjusted hazard ratio served as the measure of association. Variables significantly affected the outcome of the study was determined at a p-value < 0.05, along with a 95% confidence interval for the variables. The patients were within the average age of 38.6(standard deviation ± 12.5) years and majority (45.57%) had no formal education. The overall death incidence rate among second-line anti-retroviral treatment patients was 1.98 per 100-person years [95% CI 1.4—2.9%]. Poor adherence to antiretroviral treatment, male gender, and being underweight significantly increased the hazard of death. Conversely, increased anti-retroviral treatment duration had a significant and negative impact, reducing the hazard of death among patients. The study reveals a high incidence of death among second line anti-retroviral treatment users. Independent predictors include poor adherence, male gender, and underweight status, all significantly increasing the risk of death. On the positive side, the hazard of death decreases with longer anti-retroviral treatment duration. A critical concern and counseling should be given for better ART adherence, to change their nutritional status and for males.

Determinants of stillbirth among women who delivered in hospitals of North Wollo Zone, Northeast Ethiopia: A case-control study.

Stillbirth is a silent tragedy that shatters the lives of women, families, and nations. Though affecting over 2 million infants globally in 2019, it remains overlooked, with no specific targets dedicated to its reduction in the sustainable development goals. Insufficient knowledge regarding the primary risk factors contributing to stillbirths hinders efforts to reduce its occurrence. Driven by this urgency, this study focused on identifying the determinants of stillbirth among women giving birth in hospitals across North Wollo Zone, Northeast Ethiopia. This study employed an institution-based unmatched case-control design, involving a randomly selected sample of 412 women (103 cases and 309 controls) who gave birth in hospitals of North Wollo Zone. Data were collected using a structured data extraction checklist. Data entry was conducted using Epi-data version 3.1, and analysis was performed using SPSS version 25.0. Employing a multivariable logistic regression model, we identified independent predictors of stillbirth. The level of statistical significance was declared at a p-value < 0.05. Our analysis revealed several critical factors associated with an increased risk of stillbirth. Women who experienced premature rupture of membranes (AOR = 5.53, 95% CI: 2.33-9.94), induced labor (AOR = 2.24, 95% CI: 1.24-4.07), prolonged labor exceeding 24 hours (AOR = 3.80, 95% CI: 1.94-7.45), absence of partograph monitoring during labor (AOR = 2.45, 95% CI: 1.41-4.26) were all significantly associated with increased risk of stillbirth. Preterm birth (AOR = 3.46, 95% CI: 1.87-6.39), post-term birth (AOR = 3.47, 95% CI: 1.35-8.91), and carrying a female fetus (AOR = 1.81, 95% CI: 1.02-3.22) were at a higher risk of stillbirth. These findings highlight the importance of early intervention and close monitoring for women experiencing premature rupture of membranes, prolonged labor, or induced labor. Additionally, consistent partograph use and enhanced prenatal care for pregnancies at risk of preterm or post-term birth could potentially contribute to reducing stillbirth rates and improving maternal and neonatal outcomes. Further research is needed to investigate the underlying mechanisms behind the observed association between fetal sex and stillbirth risk.

Exploring barriers of health literacy on non-communicable disease prevention and care among patients in north wollo zone public hospitals; Northeast, Ethiopia, 2023: application of socio-ecological model

BackgroundHealth literacy is the important for the prevention of non-communicable disease to make informed health decisions, and practice healthy and protective behaviours. Therefore, application of socioecological model to this study aimed to identify multilevel factors on health literacy among patients and develop scientific health communication interventional strategies to improve health literacy on non-communicable disease prevention and care.ObjectiveTo explore barriers of health literacy on non-communicable disease prevention and care among patients in north wollo zone public Hospitals, Northeast Ethiopia, 2023.MethodIn this study phenomenological study design was conducted from February 5 to 30/2023.We have used purposive sampling technique to select study participants from chronic follow up clinics. Data were collected using in-depth interview and focused group discussion in which audio was recorded, transcribed verbatim and translated to English. Thematic analysis was performed with atlas ti. 7 software.ResultIn this study four main themes with seven subthemes were developed. The main themes were factors at the organizational, community, interpersonal, and intra-personal factors. The poor knowledge, lack of enough money for transportation and medication at the hospital were identified as barrier to get early diagnosis and treatment. Some participants explored that they have no any support from family or others. The cultural norms like weeding and funeral ceremonies enforce patients to consume prohibited substances like alcohol and salty foods.ConclusionIn this study different barriers of health literacy were explored. Lack of knowledge, economic problems, lack of social support, poor communication with health care providers, cultural influences, lack of regular health education, lack of access to health care services and poor infrastructure were main barriers of health literacy in patients with NCD. Therefore, we recommended all concerned bodies to work on social and behavioral change communication intervention focusing on awareness creation, supply of drugs and create supportive environment to get accessible and affordable health care service to decrease the impact of non-communicable disease at personal, community and national level.

Evaluation of Fruit Flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) Attractants in Northeastern Ethiopia

A study was conducted in South Wollo and North Wollo administrative zones of northeastern Ethiopia in 2018; Torula yeast, protien hydrolase, methyl eugenol, trimed lure and terpinyil acetate were evaluated for adult fruit fly species complexes trapping. Four fruit fly species was trapped; Bactrocera dorsalis, Ceratitis cosyra, Ceratitis capitata and Ceratitis fasciventris. Bactrocera dorsalis was the most abundant species accounted for 97.9% of the total trapped adults. The number of B. dorsalis C. cosyra and C. capitata showed a significant difference among trapping locations and attractants; The highest number of B. dorsalis was trapped with methyl eugenol at Kalu (722.2 flies/ trap/ week); C. capitata was higher at Habru which was guava and coffee dominated habitat while C. cosyra was relatively higher at Kobo which is mango dominated; more adults were trapped in male lure traps (97.03%) than food-based attractants (2.97%); food-based attractants could be valuable alternatives for detection and monitoring of fruit flies.

Characterize and analysis of meteorological and hydrological drought trends under future climate change conditions in South Wollo, North Wollo, and Oromia Zones, in Ethiopia

This research was conducted on North Wollo, South Wollo, and Oromia special zones, in Ethiopia. The study aimed to analyze the temporal and spatial variability of meteorological and hydrological drought trends using the selected drought indices and to predict its future trend in the selected areas. To achieve these objectives, meteorological and hydrological data were collected from the Ethiopian Meteorology Institute and the Ministry of Water and Energy respectively. The historical and future drought condition was analyzed by using the standardized precipitation index (SPI), reconnaissance drought index (RDI), and streamflow drought index (SDI) from the drought indicator calculator (DrinC) software. Based on the availability of the data, for historical drought analysis, ten meteorological stations with thirty-two years of daily data were selected. For the future scenario, RCP 4.5 was used to downscale the future climate data and to forecast SPI and RDI values. Also, an artificial neural network (ANN) was applied to forecast the future streamflow data using Python software, then the future hydrological drought was determined using the forecasted streamflow data. The result indicates that all zones were historically affected by severe to extreme droughts, especially 1984, 1986, 1987, 1989, 1991, 1992, 2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, and 2014 years. From 1984 to 1992 the probability of severe to extreme drought occurrence was on average of two years intervals and from 1992 to 2003 there is a huge gap. From the future drought analysis results, the probability of severe to extreme drought occurrence will be at five-year intervals on average. Based on the analyzed results, the frequency of severe to extreme drought occurrence of historical drought which was two and three years was increased to five years for the future conditions on average. But, these are short intervals and the magnitude of the event is very high. So, the regional water and energy office and other concerned bodies in the area have to plan a good drought mitigation mechanism and should develop a drought early warning system for the communities in and around the study area.