Social Protection, Pastoralism and Resilience in Ethiopia: Lessons for Sub-Saharan Africa

This book explores the role of social protection in African pastoral and agro-pastoral communities, with a focus on Ethiopia's Productive Safety Net Programme. It assesses the intervention's successes, failures, prospects, and lessons learned, including factors such as highland-lowland interactions, rural-urban linkages, economic diversification, and gender-responsive measures. It emphasizes the importance of indigenous knowledge systems and local institutions in designing effective safety net programmes and disaster responses.

Format: Hardback
Length: 246 pages
Publication date: 17 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate realm of social protection within African pastoral and agro-pastoral communities, with a specific focus on Ethiopia. Drawing upon rigorous empirical research, it offers a comprehensive assessment of Ethiopia's largest social security intervention, the Productive Safety Net Programme. Beyond mere analysis of immediate impacts, the book explores a wide range of factors, including highland-lowland interactions, rural-urban linkages, economic diversification, the role of youth, indigenous safety nets, and social capital. Special attention is given to gender-responsive social protection measures and the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Through its in-depth examination, the book showcases the invaluable contribution of indigenous knowledge systems and local institutions in designing more effective safety net programmes and disaster responses. It also empowers individuals to cultivate resilience and navigate the adversities of life. This book is of immense interest to development practitioners, scholars, and policymakers seeking to understand the complexities of social protection in diverse contexts.

The significance of social protection in contemporary development discourse cannot be overstated. It serves as a vital mechanism to safeguard the well-being of vulnerable populations, particularly during times of crisis. By addressing the underlying causes of poverty and inequality, social protection programmes aim to alleviate the suffering of individuals and communities, promoting social inclusion and sustainable development.

In the case of Africa, pastoral and agro-pastoral communities face unique challenges due to their reliance on natural resources and the volatility of agricultural markets. Social protection interventions, therefore, play a crucial role in mitigating the effects of climate change, drought, and other natural disasters that frequently impact these communities. Moreover, social protection programmes can contribute to poverty reduction, gender equality, and social cohesion, fostering a more inclusive and resilient society.

Ethiopia's Productive Safety Net Programme is a prime example of a successful social protection intervention. Launched in 2005, the programme aims to provide a safety net to vulnerable households, particularly those affected by drought and other natural disasters. Through a combination of cash transfers, food assistance, and livelihood support, the programme has helped to reduce poverty, improve food security, and enhance the resilience of rural communities.

However, the success of social protection programmes is not without its challenges. One of the key challenges is the need for effective implementation and management. Social protection interventions require a well-designed and coordinated approach, as well as adequate resources and infrastructure. Additionally, there is a need to address the underlying social and economic factors that contribute to vulnerability, such as gender inequality, lack of access to education and healthcare, and limited economic opportunities.

Gender-responsive social protection measures are also crucial in addressing the unique needs and challenges faced by women and girls in pastoral and agro-pastoral communities. Women often bear the burden of caring for families and livestock, making them particularly vulnerable to food insecurity and economic shocks. Gender-responsive social protection programmes can provide targeted support to women, such as cash transfers, vocational training, and access to healthcare services.

Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of social protection in responding to crises. The pandemic has exacerbated existing vulnerabilities, particularly in low-income countries, and has led to a surge in poverty and food insecurity. Social protection programmes have been instrumental in providing relief to affected populations, through cash transfers, food assistance, and healthcare support.

In conclusion, this book offers a valuable contribution to the literature on social protection in Africa. Through its comprehensive analysis of Ethiopia's Productive Safety Net Programme and other social protection interventions, it sheds light on the successes, failures, prospects, and lessons learned from social protection in the region. The book emphasizes the importance of indigenous knowledge systems and local institutions in designing effective social protection programmes and disaster responses. It also highlights the need for gender-responsive social protection measures and the significance of social capital in building resilience and coping with shocks.

As social protection gains prominence in contemporary development discourse, this book will be of interest to development practitioners, scholars, and policymakers seeking to understand the complexities of social protection and develop more effective strategies to address poverty and inequality. By leveraging the insights and lessons learned from this book, we can work towards a more inclusive and sustainable future for all.

Weight: 670g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032067117