Farming assets in North Wälo: statistics, maps and impressions from a travel to North Wälo, October 2000

The report is based on information collected in the aftermath of the 1999 famine. It presents some basic information on North Wälo, as well as relevant impressions from the authors journey. Statistics from the Disaster Prevention and Preparedness Commission show that all of North Wälo is exposed to famine, but the picture varies much from year to year. The famines in the late 1990s hit the bälg-producing highlands in particular, and in 2000 up to two thirds of the rural population was registered as needy of relief in some districts.

The report includes an account of a visit to Baba Säat, one of the most highly affected areas. It was a society in distress, but due to successful relief, people did not actually starve. Agricultural resources are scarce in North Wälo, and this is commonly identified as the root cause of famine. In fact little is known about these resources and the local production system.

The report presents available statistics and on this basis seeks to assess some common theories about causes of poverty and famine. The ‘ox argument’ is tentatively dismissed, since there appears to be enough oxen to plough the land. Land is a scarce resource, but data on farm holdings are very weak and can easily be misinterpreted. The juxtaposition of several source types show inconsistencies, the solution of which may significantly increase our understanding of the land tenure system. [author]