Practices, Challenges and Opportunities of the Rural Resettlement Programme in Improving the Livelihoods of Resettled Households: The Case of Nono District, West Shoa Zone, Oromia Regional National State, Ethiopia

Abstract

Ethiopia has been implementing resettlement programs primarily in response to displacement caused by environmental factors. Some of these resettlement efforts have succeeded, while others have failed. This study aims to examine the practices, challenges, and opportunities of the rural resettlement program in enhancing the livelihoods of resettled households in the Nono district, West Shoa Zone. Mixed research methods were employed, with primary data collected from 129 household heads selected via simple random sampling from two purposefully chosen villages. Additional information was gathered through focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and personal observations. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and a multiple linear regression model with SPSS software. The findings indicate that the resettlement program has helped participants diversify their livelihood strategies beyond agriculture and engage in economic, social, political, and environmental activities. The major challenges faced by resettled households include economic, social, political, and environmental issues. Despite these challenges, there were efforts to improve the economic, political, social, and environmental opportunities for resettled households. The multiple linear regression models revealed that factors such as production methods, market access, farmland size, land productivity, access to credit, access to technologies, and education level significantly and positively influenced the income of rural resettles. Although there is variation in livelihood outcomes among households, most have experienced positive changes in their livelihoods.