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Periodical article Periodical article Leiden University catalogue Leiden University catalogue WorldCat catalogue WorldCat
Title:Villagisation in Ethiopia's Arsi Region
Authors:Cohen, John M.ISNI
Isaksson, N.-I.ISNI
Year:1987
Periodical:Journal of Modern African Studies
Volume:25
Issue:3
Period:September
Pages:435-464
Language:English
Geographic term:Ethiopia
Subjects:villagization
resettlement
Politics and Government
Peoples of Africa (Ethnic Groups)
External link:https://www.jstor.org/stable/160830
Abstract:The government of Ethiopia has decided to move all rural inhabitants into newly established villages as part of its strategy for promoting economic growth through agrarian socialism. Known as 'villagization', this programme started in 1978 in parts of Bale Region and continued in Hararghe Region in 1984. Based on this experience, the government began a nationwide campaign in late 1985 designed to move some 33 million rural people into consolidated settlements by 1995. This article describes this gigantic programme, and outlines its organization and implementation in the Arsi Region. Particular attention is given to its impact on land use patterns, agricultural productivity, marketing practices, and human services. Although it is acknowledged that villagization was effectively organized and implemented in Arsi Region, and that no evidence of the use of physical force during the programme was discoverd, it is concluded that the programme is 1) badly timed; 2) likely to prevent Arsi from increasing its vital contribution to national agricultural output; 3) unlikely to lead to improved economic well-being; and 4) a prelude to the eventual forced collectivization of Arsi smallholders. Notes, ref.
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