care international in ethiopia – pastoral drop out study - ELMT Home

The survey also revealed that the use of the social support network by the respondents is
low (Table 11). One of the most important wealth distribution mechanisms among the
Borana is Bussa Gonofa. This mechanism allows Borana with no livestock asset to petition the
wealthy to re-distribute cattle. The overall decline in livestock asset of clan members and the
increasing number of livestock destitute pastoralists, and the increased frequency of drought
are some of the reasons for no receipt of Bussa Gonofa. The respondents did not receive
(83%); did not give support (89%) to clan. Overall the survey showed that only 40%
contributed to Bussa Gonofa, and 30% received from Bussa Gonofa. Some (40%) did claim
Bussa Gonofa prior to moving. Others (33%) also claimed Bussa Gonnofa following their
arrival in the new location. A higher proportion (65%) indicated that they do not expect
Bussa Gonofa contribution.
Table 11. Use of social support net work
Parameters % responding
‘Yes’
Is cash support received from clan now? 16.7
Do you give CASH support to clan? 20.7
Did you claim for bussa gonnofa prior to moving to this location? 39.3
Did you claim for bussa gonnofa following your arrival in this location? 33.3
Have you ever contributed to bussa gonnfa? 40.0
Have you ever received from bussa gonnfa? 31.3
Do you still expect a bussa gonoffa contribution? 34.7
Pastoral diversification is defined as the pursuit of any non-pastoral income-earning activity,
whether in rural or urban areas. This definition includes: (1) any form of trading occupation
(e.g., selling milk, firewood, animals, or other products); (2) wage employment, both local
and outside the area, including working as a hired herder, farm worker, and migrant laborer;
(3) retail shop activities; (4) rental property ownership and sales; (5) gathering and selling
wild products (e.g., gum arabica, firewood, or medicinal plants); and (6) farming (both for
subsistence and cash income). Risk is an important factor why herders might wish to
48