Ethiopia's 106 protected areas trial digital wildlife monitoring system

Digital wildlife monitoring plays a vital role not only in conserving biodiversity but also in developing the tourism sector, as it provides up-to-date data on animal populations and the natural landscapes of tourist destinations. This was stated by Ethiopia’s State Minister for Tourism, Seleshi Girma. His comments were reported by ENA, a partner of TV BRICS.

A digital platform for managing protected areas has been launched on a pilot basis in the country, specifically in the Bale Mountains National Park and the Senkele Swayne's Hartebeest Sanctuary. The project is currently being tested across 106 protected areas.

The platform combines digital, satellite, geospatial and unmanned technologies. It analyses data and helps to predict potential conflicts of interest between different land-use practices. This enables better long-term planning for the development of these areas.

Furthermore, it can act as an early-warning system, enabling the authorities to respond promptly to environmental changes that could affect biodiversity.

The report notes that, previously, natural resource management was largely carried out manually and in a piecemeal manner, with limited coverage. The new project is designed to ensure a more systematic approach to the conservation of the country’s rich natural resources, which form an important foundation for the economy and tourism.

The authorities emphasised the platform’s contribution to the development of tourist destinations, scientific research and data-driven decision-making, noting that it makes the management of protected areas more effective.