The ongoing conflict in northern Ethiopia has impacted frankincense production, affecting both the forest and local communities relying on it for income. The civil war and drought have devastated the area, causing farmers to harvest very little during the past four years. Many locals have turned to harvesting frankincense to earn a living and despite the increased demand, they receive only a small portion of the profits.
The trade’s exploitative nature has encouraged overharvesting, threatening the Boswellia trees from which frankincense is sourced. Discussions around listing Boswellia trees under international protection could impact thousands relying on this trade, risking their income. Rather than banning trade, the focus should be on supporting these harvesters to avoid harming already vulnerable communities.
