Traditional famine coping mechanisms of Semada Woreda, Amhara people, Northwestern Ethiopia

This study examines the traditional famine coping mechanisms employed by peasants of Semada Woreda, Northwestern Ethiopia, during protracted times of drought and famine. Using a qualitative research approach, data were collected from archival sources, key informants, and written documents. The gathered data highlights the strategies developed and practiced by local communities to survive recurring food crises. An irregular monsoon caused insufficient rainfall in the study, resulting in widespread crop failure and subsequent drought and famine. The people of Semada Woreda have endured such crises for generations, and as a result, they possess extensive experience, knowledge, and indigenous methods to overcome the hardships associated with food scarcity. Common coping strategies adopted by peasants include reducing daily consumption, altering dietary habits, and consuming famine foods such as wild plants. Besides, many peasants were forced to sell personal belongings, household materials, livestock, and even land. Temporary migration to nearby districts or commercial farms in search of employment was also one of the key survival tactics of the peasants. Moreover, in more extreme circumstances, some individuals engaged in theft or robbery in markets and along roads. When all self-reliant strategies were exhausted, families often moved to relief shelters. Typically, women and children were sent ahead, while men remained behind in the hope of cultivating their fields while rainfall resume. Generally, this study aims to unveil the adaptive strategies and resilience mechanisms of peasants in Semada Woreda employed in response to chronic food insecurity in 1980s. Key words: Drought, famine, coping mechanisms, Semada

Adaptive strategies · Famine · Food insecurity · Food security · Indigenous · Livelihood · Psychological resilience · Qualitative research · African history and culture analysis · Hydropower, Displacement, Environmental Impact · Rangeland Management and Livestock Ecology

• Food security

  Open Access•Simon Maxwell•Food Policy•1996

  Add to list

• The politics of famine in Ethiopia

  Open Access•Hailu Lemma•Review of African Political Economy•1985

  Add to list