BIOSPHERE RESERVE

Kafa Biosphere Reserve is located in the southwest of Ethiopia, a country with a fascinating history.  Scientists believe that Ethiopia has played a central role in human development because they have found some of the earliest human traces there and they refer to the country as the cradle of human civilization. Recent studies suggest that the area around the present-day capital, Addis Ababa, was a departure point for human migration all over the world.

The Kafa Region is the origin of the genetic diversity of Coffea arabica, the most popular type of coffee in the world. The forests still harbor thousands of varieties of wild-growing Coffea arabica and other interesting plant and animal species, such as the exotic black and white Colobus monkey. The Afromontane forests in Kafa contain genetic diversity of incalculable worth and are one of 34 Biodiversity Hotspots worldwide.

This undiscovered region offers historical, cultural, and natural wealth for tourists.  The historic Kafa Kingdom left a legacy of grand and interesting sites and has helped to shape the region into what it is today.  The area shelters numerous species including endemic birds, mammals, amphibians, and an impressive diversity of plants.  In this very special region you can hike in forested mountains that are intersected by flowing rivers, feel the spray of dramatic waterfalls and explore deep valleys lead to hot springs or caves.

In spite of the rich cultural and ecological heritage, Kafa’s growing population lives mainly at the subsistence level and often relies heavily on the region’s natural resources, which impact the forests around Kafa.  The Biosphere Reserve, however, not only protects these ancient at-risk forests but also provides Kafa’s population with new opportunities for livelihood development.

The creation of the Kafa Biosphere Reserve aims to combat the threats to the forests, raise awareness of the region on a local and international level, and improve living standards by implementing sustainable, long-term development.  By setting up tourism and promoting sustainable use of resources, the forests will remain intact and the people will get a new source of income.  The Biosphere Reserve aims to protect this region’s natural and cultural resources while promoting sustainable livelihood development.