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MELCA–Ethiopia: National Dialogue Forum on Sacred Natural Sites (SNS) and Biocultural Landscapes
As part of its environmental governance programme, MELCA–Ethiopia recently organised a National Dialogue Forum on Sacred Natural Sites (SNS) and Biocultural Landscapes. This event, supported by the Swedish Society for Nature Conservation, brought together stakeholders from government, civil society, academic institutions and local communities.
MELCA–Ethiopia: National Dialogue Forum on Sacred Natural Sites (SNS) and Biocultural Landscapes
As part of its environmental governance programme, MELCA–Ethiopia recently organised a National Dialogue Forum on Sacred Natural Sites (SNS) and Biocultural Landscapes. This event, supported by the Swedish Society for Nature Conservation, brought together stakeholders from government, civil society, academic institutions and local communities.
The forum highlighted the importance of protecting SNS, with particular attention to the Bale Zone, where traditional cultural practices and protocols have preserved these sites for generations. Special emphasis was placed on integrating SNS into environmental and educational policies.
Key outcomes of the forum:
- Legal recognition of Sacred Natural Sites: Participants emphasised the need to ensure legal protection for SNS at both the regional and federal levels.
- Harmonising traditional practices and formal governance: Aligning customary management of Sacred Natural Sites (SNS) with formal governance mechanisms has been identified as a key area for strengthening.
- Integrating Sacred Natural Sites into public policies: SNS should be fully integrated into environmental policies, education and planning at the national level.
This event is part of MELCA’s efforts to promote innovative, community-based approaches to biodiversity conservation and build local resilience to climate change.