Summary
A non-native tree called prosopis, introduced to Ethiopia in the 1970s to combat desertification, is damaging ecosystems and harming local communities. The tree uses large amounts of water, harms livestock, and spreads rapidly, causing economic and ecological problems. Efforts are being made to manage its spread, but more help is needed.
Key Facts
- Prosopis is a tree from Latin America introduced to Ethiopia in the 1970s.
- It was meant to stop soil erosion and provide shade in dry regions.
- The tree grows quickly, reaching up to 10 meters (33 feet) in height.
- It uses up to 7 liters (nearly 2 gallons) of water daily, depleting soil moisture.
- Its pods and thorns harm livestock, causing illness and injuries.
- Prosopis has spread to cover 8.61% of Ethiopia by 2023, up from 2.16% in 2003.
- The tree causes significant economic damage, costing Afar $602 million over 30 years.
- CARE International is working to control it by removing trees and planting orchards, but more support is needed.
