The announcement was made during the 5th World Congress of Biosphere Reserves, where 26 new sites across 21 countries were added to the prestigious global conservation network.

Located in the Gambella region, the Anywaa Forest Biosphere Reserve becomes Ethiopia’s latest contribution to global biodiversity conservation efforts. The forest is home to unique ecosystems and indigenous communities, including the Anywaa people, whose traditional knowledge and sustainable land use practices have played a vital role in preserving the region’s biodiversity.

This designation highlights the importance of Ethiopia’s southwestern forests, which are increasingly under threat from deforestation, land conversion, and climate change. The biosphere reserve model promotes a balance between conservation and sustainable development, offering a framework for protecting natural ecosystems while supporting local livelihoods.

Ethiopia joins five other African nations in celebrating new biosphere reserve designations:

Angola (Quiçama Biosphere Reserve)
Djibouti (Seven Brothers Archipelago and Ras Siyyan, Khor Angar, and Godoria)
Equatorial Guinea (Bioko Island)
Madagascar (Mantadia and Tsimembo)
Sao Tome and Principe (Sao Tome Island, now the first country to have its entire territory designated a biosphere reserve)

Notably, this is the first time Angola, Djibouti, and Equatorial Guinea have had areas recognized under the program, signaling growing continental commitment to environmental stewardship.

The UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves now spans 785 sites in 142 countries, covering over 8 million square kilometers, or approximately 5% of Earth’s surface. These sites serve as “living laboratories” for sustainable development, combining conservation science with community engagement and policy innovation.

For Ethiopia, the Anywaa Forest’s inclusion is not only a conservation milestone but also an opportunity to elevate local voices, attract global research partnerships, and boost eco-tourism in the region.

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Ethiopia’s Anywaa Forest Named UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Global Conservation Milestone