Soil Erosion and Land Suitability in the Womba Watershed: Policy Directions for Sustainable Land Management

Abstract

Soil erosion is a major environmental challenge threatening agricultural sustainability in the Womba watershed, Southern Ethiopia. Recent findings show that the average annual soil loss rate is 10.84 t ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹, while severely affected areas experience losses exceeding 163.58 t ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹. These alarming rates indicate the urgent need for effective soil and water conservation measures. This policy brief explores the major findings of the study and proposes practical recommendations to reduce land degradation, improve land management practices, and promote sustainable agriculture. Implementing these measures will help enhance agricultural productivity and strengthen long-term food security in the study area and surrounding regions.