Migration, habitability and climate change in Ethiopia in 2030 - Abdi’s story | HABITABLE

This video tells the story of Abdi, a farmer from the Oromia region in Ethiopia. As he and his family seek to cope with the impacts of increasing rainfall variability in the years up to 2030. His story shows that as the impacts of climate change intensify, those on the frontlines are using a variety of strategies to adapt and survive. Their effectiveness depends on many factors, including access to education and healthcare, social support networks, and remittances sent by family working elsewhere.
This video builds on research undertaken by the EU-funded HABITABLE project, which examines the interactions between climate change, habitability and migration. As the impacts of the climate crisis combine with other risks, migration may serve as an effective adaptation strategy. However, it can also lead to increased vulnerability, and for many it is not an option, either by choice or due to a lack of resources. The links between climate change, habitability and human mobility are complex and highly context specific, with the reasons for and outcomes of migration dependent on a variety of social, political, economic, environmental and demographic factors.
Developing plausible future scenarios of how global warming may shape migration in different contexts can aid the planning and implementation of measures to support adaptation, strengthen resilience and reduce vulnerability. The video here was co-developed with experts on climate change adaptation, migration, and sustainable development in Ethiopia, and aims to support the development of people-centred solutions to the climate crisis. Strengthening coping capacities - particularly of the most vulnerable - can empower people to make the right choices for them and their family in the face of escalating climate hazards. Let's work to build a future where no one is left behind.
This video is part of a series of scenario stories produced as part of the HABITABLE project. For more videos, please see here: • HABITABLE
For more insights and recommendations from the HABITABLE project, please visit our website: habitableproje...
Produced by: Joshua Knowles
Directed by: Emily Wright-O’Kelly, adelphi research
With special thanks to Prof. Eshetu Gurmu and Dula Etana at the Addis Ababa University for their contributions.
adelphi research is an independent think tank for environmental and development policy research and analysis. Our mission is to enable transformative change and to create a sustainable future for generations to come.
adelphi research (adelphi-resear..., established in 2001 in Berlin, is a non-profit and independent institution. Our team of over 100 researchers specialises in analysing environmental, energy, and climate policies at both national and international levels. We're passionate about conducting transdisciplinary research projects that delve into environmental, development, and social policy matters. Additionally, we actively promote knowledge dissemination through lectures, publications, and events. Our aim is to reach a wide audience, sharing insights and raising awareness on topics related to nature, environmental and resource protection, as well as development cooperation on a national scale.
adelphi research plays a crucial role in advancing environmental protection, social development, poverty reduction, peace-building, and fostering economic, political, and social participation in countries of the global South. We achieve this through the implementation of practical projects and the provision of scientifically grounded recommendations for action. Our aim is to make a meaningful impact and drive positive change in these regions.