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USAID Funding Cuts Threaten Ethiopia's Conservation Efforts

5/31/2025

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Summary

Story summary

USAID's funding cut has put a stop to vital conservation efforts in Ethiopia's expansive 197,000-hectare Tama Community Conservation Area. This project, which began in 2022 with an $8.5 million investment, not only curbed illegal hunting but also fostered job creation. Now, community members are losing hope, reverting to harmful practices, and grappling with land-grab threats that endanger both their rights and the environment.

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Story summary

USAID's funding cut has put a stop to vital conservation efforts in Ethiopia's expansive 197,000-hectare Tama Community Conservation Area. This project, which began in 2022 with an $8.5 million investment, not only curbed illegal hunting but also fostered job creation. Now, community members are losing hope, reverting to harmful practices, and grappling with land-grab threats that endanger both their rights and the environment.