Review on invasive rate, impacts and control measures of <i>Prosopis juliflora</i> in eastern Ethiopia

Abstract

Since its introduction into Ethiopia during 1970s, <em>Prosopis juliflora</em>, became an environmental issue in areas where it was first introduced to combat desertification. This review paper was aimed at reviewing some adverse effects of the plant on socioeconomic, environmental and biodiversity with its control practices in the eastern Ethiopia. Contrary to its purpose of introduction, this plant has been found to be highly invasive and, it imposed adverse effects on the native plant species. The plant is declared as an invader which has put impacts on socioeconomic, environment, and biodiversity of the eastern region of Ethiopia especially afar region and Dire Dawa; which became alarm for pastoralists, development agents, scientists, and policy makers. Though cultural practices such as burning and cutting were mainly practiced, the invasion could not be stopped.