Title
EWNRA | Ethio Wetlands and Natural Resources Association| NGO in Ethiopia |Ethiopia – Ethio Wetlands and Natural Resources Association (EWNRA)Â has emerged from three years of research collaboration between Addis Ababa University and Huddersfield University from UK). Â Initially, EWNRA was established to bridge the gap between research and development by disseminating the research findings of the Ethiopian Wetlands Research Program and implementing its recommendations. However, as a learning organization, EWNRA has broadened its operational scope, both in terms of geographical coverage and thematic areas, driven by the perceived needs of its constituents and insights gained from past experiences.<br>Presently, EWNRA is actively engaged in four Regional States in Ethiopia: Oromia, SWEPRs, Gambella, and Amhara. EWNRA has also diversified its thematic areas of development. Initially, efforts were directed solely at addressing wetland issues in isolation, resulting in sectoral interventions. However, EWNRA later recognized that wetlands are integral components of broader ecological systems, encompassing forests, wildlife, farmlands, soil, communities, institutions, and socio-economic and cultural contexts.<br>Consequently, EWNRA transitioned its wetland development and management approach towards a more integrated and participatory model, linking natural resources management with socio-economic development. In this pursuit, the organization has undertaken various activities and implemented projects supported by both domestic and international donors. Embracing a landscape/watershed approach in all its projects, EWNRA has achieved notable results, establishing it as a promising avenue for decentralized and community-owned development, as well as sustainable natural resources management. With over two decades of experience, EWNRA has been dedicated to the objectives of environmental conservation and development in Ethiopia<br>Â <br>Over the past 23 years, EWNRA has implemented small-scale projects, particularly in Ilu Ababora Zone and Fogera District, contributing to wetland wise use and restoration. Notably, the restoration of Wichi Wetland in Metu District stands as a success story. EWNRA has also developed and distributed technical wetland documents in local languages and actively collaborated with government and NGOs for policy development and implementation.