Spatiotemporal climate variability and trends in UNESCO designated Cultural Landscapes of Konso, Ethiopia

Rainfall in the UNESCO-listed Konso Cultural Landscape, Ethiopia, shows contrasting trends between seasons: annual and summer (Kiremt) rainfall increased by 3.16 mm/year and 0.42 mm/year respectively, while spring (Belg) rainfall declined by 1.12 mm/year from 1983 to 2016. This spatiotemporal variability, analyzed using satellite-gauge data, the Mann-Kendall test, and Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI), reveals a growing frequency and severity of droughts—particularly in rainfed farming areas—threatening food security for smallholder farmers. The findings underscore the need for agroecological adaptation strategies to safeguard both socioeconomic resilience and the integrity of this unique cultural landscape.

Gashure, S., & Wana, D. (2021). Spatiotemporal climate variability and trends in UNESCO designated Cultural Landscapes of Konso, Ethiopia. African Geographical Review, 42(2), 107–124. https://doi.org/10.1080/19376812.2021.1997611