DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sjavs.2026.v13i05.002

Pages: 95-106

Forest resources are often well managed by local communities either through their own initiatives using traditional institutions or being organized with assistances from development actors such as non-governmental and governmental organizations. The study aimed to assess forest management institutions practices and its challenges to forest conservation in the Yabello forest of Oromia Regional State. Secondary and primary data were collected from household survey and forest management groups. About 130 households’ heads were randomly selected from three villages and used for this survey. Group discussion were also used with selected key informants and local administrators. SPSS version 24 software was used for data analyses. Results showed that informal institutions of the Oromo ‘Gadaa’ systems and formal institutions like SOS Sahel Ethiopia were collaborated and played to manage the Yabello forest. The results indicated that, all of the respondents agreed (100%) that there is strong traditional institution in managing natural resources and forests among the Borana community at Abbaa Warra, Abbaa Ollaa, Abbaa Ardaa, Abbaa Reeraa, Abbaa Maddaa, Abbaa Dheedaa and Raaba Gadaa level. However, there are also obstacles to the strengthening and implementing of traditional forest management practices of the study area. Hence, in order to address the forest loss situation in the Borana lowlands SOS Sahel established the modern Borana Collaborative Forest Management Project (BCFMP) towards the end of 1999/2000. Thus, the integration between the different sectors offices and the customary institution (the Gadaa) was a break through to prove the key roles of communities in the modern management of forest resources. This project has brought significant change on forest management and forest conditions in Yabello forest. Thus, SOS Sahel Ethiopia is certified for its contribution in forest management through forest guarding, seedling planting and establishing a joint forest managem