GLI contributed to the regeneration of local plant species: The case for restoring biodiversity in Ethiopia

Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative (GLI) aims to reverse land degradation, expand green cover and restore biodiversity. Though criticized in favor of a few exotic species (Grevillea robusta, Vachellia deccurens, Pinus patula, and Cupressus lusitanica), our findings suggest that these plantations effectively support the regeneration of native species in GLI sites.

This underscores GLI’s potential in biodiversity restoration, climate resilience, environmental health and socio-economic gains. However, challenges—open grazing, seedling loss, technical gaps, low community participation and weak law enforcement—threaten sustainability. Urgent action is needed to address these issues and scale successes regionally.