Landscape Change, Land Degradation, and Sustainable Land Management in the Central Highlands of Eritrea

This study deals with environmental challenges in the central highlands of Eritrea, a semi-arid region and the most populous part of the country. We use three thematic lenses to focus on landscape change, land degradation, and land rehabilitation. First, we look at deforestation and afforestation since the beginning of the colonial era in 1890; second, we examine soil erosion and soil and water conservation; and third, we consider dam and reservoir construction for the provision of water for domestic use and irrigation. The paper recommends an integrated watershed planning approach to promote regional development and sustainable land management.