ABSTRACT
This chapter analyzes agricultural land-use suitability in the Abbay basin using Analytical Hierarchy Process and Geographical Information Systems based Weighted Overlay Analysis techniques. Multiple criteria for agricultural land-use suitability mapping were derived based on literature reviews, field investigations and following Food and Agriculture Organization guidelines for agricultural land-use evaluation. Identification and mapping of agricultural land suitability is especially important in the basin given the some of the considerations. There are: the pressing need to increase agricultural productivity to meet growing food demands; and the growing risks of increased rainfall variability due to climate change in already water limited agricultural systems. Results of the land suitability analysis show that suitable and moderately suitable agricultural lands remain available in the Abbay basin, yet marginal and unsuitable lands are being used for agriculture leading to land degradation and soil erosion: a paradox for policy makers.
