A joint venture of FARM-Africa and SOS Sahel Ethiopia, the BERSMP brings several Bale Massif communities into a central role in sustainably managing their region’s unique biodiversity and ecology. The project also enhances the social and economic well-being of various communities dependent on the Bale Massif’s natural resources.
BERSMP activities began in 2006 and cover an area of approximately 22,000 Km2.This project will phase-out at the end of 2011 and, by this time, local institutions and key relevant offices will have the capacity to sustain the results of the program in the long-term.
The BERSMP is currently providing training courses to local officials inParticipatory Forest Management (PFM), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), business skills, carbon trading, and eco-region planning. It has also established the BaleWild natural products brand, and developing and promoting Trout Sport Fishing as well as sustainable trout fish farming.Furthermore, the BERSMP is fighting climate change by promoting the introduction of improved fuel-saving stoves.
The project is organizing community-to-community exchanges and is currently providing internship opportunities to 22 young women who, while continuing their studies, will gradually see an increase in their programme implementation role.
The BERSMP is funded by: