|
Ethiopia has the largest bamboo resources in Africa, hosting a total bamboo growing area of 1.47 million ha of two indigenous bamboo species, namely lowland and highland bamboo. Bamboo resources are concentrated in seven regions of Ethiopia, namely Amhara, Benishangul Gumuz, Gambela, Oromia, Southern Nations Nationalities Peoples, Sidama and Tigray regional states. An estimated 750,000 people depend on bamboo-based economic activities. Market studies and property test reports of indigenous bamboo indicate that a huge domestic market (import substitution) for timber substitute, energy, pulp and paper, furniture and lifestyle exists in addition to the export market which is valued at USD 2.2 billion in 2018.
|
