The Wof-Washa Forest has been a protected natural treasure for centuries, dating back to its designation as a royal forest in the 16th century.
Over time, it has remained under the watchful care of various leaders, including Emperor Menelik II and Emperor Haile Selassie, and later, the Derg government. Conservation efforts have evolved, from strict timber control and reforestation programs to community-driven restoration approaches.
Today, the forest’s preservation depends on the dedication of local forest guards, participatory forest management cooperatives, conservation workers, and residents who continue the mission of safeguarding this historic landscape.
The Role of Forest Guardians
Throughout history, Wof-Washa has been protected by forest guards who play a vital role in preventing illegal activities and maintaining its integrity. At its height, more than 92 guards patrolled the area, with 28 stationed in Wof-Washa kebele alone. Now, the number has decreased to 46, with 12 participatory Forest Management Cooperatives working in collaboration with them in their duties with a synergy created by WeForest.
Despite facing harsh conditions, these guardians remain committed. Their work is physically and mentally demanding, requiring them to patrol the forest through rain, heat, and challenging terrain. They rely not just on their eyes and ears but on an instinctive understanding of the forest, developed over years of experience. Intelligence gathered from surrounding communities helps them stay ahead of illegal logging operations. However, they lack adequate equipment and their modest salary offers little incentive.
Considering the challenge, WeForest has been providing needed materials and equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skill on protecting and managing the forest, always in close collaboration with the participatory forest management cooperative operating in the area. The synergy created among the different community groups has been revitalizing the protection and management efforts of Wof-Washa forest.
Reviving the Forest Through Natural Regeneration
Beyond protection, Wof-Washa’s restoration has taken a new approach with Assisted Natural Regeneration (ANR) with the support of WeForest. In addition of planting new seedlings, ANR focuses on allowing the forest to heal naturally. The community helps by clearing obstacles, removing debris, lifting fallen trees that block young plants, and reusing dried trunks to enrich the soil.
Native and important local tree species such as Afrocarpus falcatus, Euphorbia, Olea europaea, and Bersama abyssinica are starting to flourish under this method. Dead trees are used as mulch, compost, or fencing rather than being removed entirely. This method ensures that regeneration happens in harmony with nature.
Forest ranger Ato Fikade Haile explains: “ANR is especially effective for species that regenerate naturally. While Olea trees renew themselves easily, the African juniper Juniperus procera trees struggle due to wildlife interference”.
Recent research confirms what Ato Fidalko Haile sees on the field. The critical African juniper faces significant barriers to natural recovery in parts of the Wof‑Washa forest landscape. In response, WeForest has implemented direct seed sowing of juniper across 34 hectares in the middle and upper zones of the forest, with the approach tailored to the species’ ecological requirements.
However for most plants, ANR presents the best option. Participatory Forest Management (PFM) member Ato Melsi Mekonnen also supports the ANR approach, emphasizing its advantages over traditional planting. “It’s naturally adapted to the environment, grows faster, and benefits from existing soil and shade,” he says.
WeForest was initially introduced on 99.7 hectares, the ANR model has now expanded to Zembo and Mescha kebeles in Ankobre Woreda, helping restore 346.5 hectares. Once fully implemented, a total of 446.2 hectares will be restored and the results will provide valuable insights for future conservation initiatives.
A Shared Responsibility for the Future
Despite significant progress, threats to Wof-Washa remain, particularly illegal deforestation, which is largely driven by economic struggles. Many individuals who cut trees do it out of necessity rather than intent to harm the forest. Forest guard Ato Wendesen believes that offering sustainable job opportunities to young people would significantly reduce deforestation.
“This forest is our legacy,” Wendesen says. “If we work together with all (guards, PFMs, villagers, leaders) we can ensure that it survives and thrives for future generations.”
Ultimately, Wof-Washa’s future depends on collective action. The involvement of local communities, participatory forest management cooperatives, authorities, and WeForest is crucial to its long-term conservation.
