Sustainable Frankincense Value Chain and Forest Conservation in Tigray, Ethiopia

This project, jointly implemented by Mendel University in Brno and Mekelle University, aims to enhance the sustainable use of Boswellia papyrifera (frankincense) forests in Ethiopia’s Tigray region. Through capacity-building and technology transfer, ten local cooperatives—comprising primarily young women and men—will be trained in improved frankincense collection practices and value-addition techniques, particularly hydrodistillation for essential oil extraction. These interventions aim to increase household incomes, reduce reliance on unsustainable raw resin exports, and strengthen local entrepreneurship through partnerships with soap producers and trade fair exposure.

By promoting sustainable harvesting and providing tools for processing and marketing, the project contributes to forest conservation and climate adaptation. It addresses critical environmental and economic challenges by curbing overexploitation and encouraging regenerative practices. The initiative directly supports five Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): No Poverty (1), Zero Hunger (2), Climate Action (13), Life on Land (15), and Partnerships for the Goals (17), and demonstrates an effective model for local empowerment through nature-based solutions.