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Severe Drought Threatens Myrrh Trees in Ethiopia's Somali Region

4/12/2026

44 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Somali region of Ethiopia faces severe threats to myrrh trees from a historic drought.
Water scarcity and livestock grazing hinder growth of these trees.
Researchers advocate a direct market to ensure fair prices for local harvesters, noting resin sells for $3.50–$10 per kilogram.
Drought forces villagers to travel long distances for water.

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Story summary

The Somali region of Ethiopia faces severe threats to myrrh trees from a historic drought.
Water scarcity and livestock grazing hinder growth of these trees.
Researchers advocate a direct market to ensure fair prices for local harvesters, noting resin sells for $3.50–$10 per kilogram.
Drought forces villagers to travel long distances for water.