#Rift Valley agriculture

[farmerstrend]

Food shortage and rising cost of living are caused by the failure of large-scale agricultural projects and poor governance.

Discover the causes of Kenya’s food shortage crisis, from failed agricultural projects to corruption in subsidy programs, and explore solutions for achieving food security through better trade policies, irrigation expansion, and climate adaptation. Kenya faces a severe food shortage and rising costs. Learn how mismanaged irrigation schemes, corruption, and poor governance have exacerbated the…

[yokowan]

The bus is late. You tug uncomfortably at the mask of your pressure suit. This isn't your first time wearing one by any means, but it certainly doesn't help make the walls of the city leaning in around you feel any less stifling. An old man lowers himself onto the bench next to you. "Y'on't look like yer from here. Mariner Valley?" You reflexively jump in your seat a little, alarmed by the unprompted attempt at conversation. "Y-yeah. How could you tell?" "Ah, all you communists look the feckin same." You open your mouth as if to speak, before electing not to respond.

WELCOME TO MARS MOTHERFUCKERS

It is two hundred and fifty-odd years in the future. Mars, once a cold dead husk, is now a developed world with bustling industry and a contested legal status that hasn't become a problem yet because everyone chooses to ignore it. The planet has slowly been gaining a breathable atmosphere, not through any concerted terraforming effort, but instead because oxygen is produced as a byproduct of many metal refining processes. After over a century of heavy industry, the parts of the planet's surface at low elevation have a high enough atmospheric pressure that crops can be grown in the open air, and humans can survive without needing a pressure suit.

Which parts of the planet become breathable first has a huge impact on Martian socioeconomics, leading me to perhaps my strangest science fiction writing project yet:

THE REGIONAL STEREOTYPES OF MARS

EAT MY TAINT YOU GODDAMN MARINER HIPPIES

Hellas

Hellas is a large impact basin surrounded by the southern highlands. Its very low elevation means it was one of the first parts of the Martian surface to have arable land, and provided the majority of the planet's food before most agriculture moved north. The height of the surrounding terrain traps in moisture, resulting in it being the most lush part of Mars, containing its only wild grasslands. Hellas is the most populous region of Mars, and is home to the planets colonial administrative capital of Badwater.

Hellas' habitability and developed infrastructure means it is the region of Mars most frequently visited by outsiders. Its culture and general appearance have become Earth's main conception of the planet.

Hellas is positioned on the opposite side of the planet to Mars' other major population centers, so overland travel is inconvenient and uncomfortable. This has made it quite culturally isolated, with much of the planet seeing the region's citizens as stuck up, backwards, and blind to the plight of the average Martian. Having the planet's oldest settlements, Hellas' residents view themselves as being the "real" Martians, and hold some resentment towards the rest of the planet for being so weak-willed and forgetting their roots.

Chryse

Chryse is a large, flat plain in the northern hemisphere. Its elevation is mostly not low enough to be habitable to humans without pressure suits, but genetically modified plants thrive in the nutrient-rich alluvial soil. Though Chryse's population is quite small, only having a couple of dense towns located in deep craters, it provides a majority of the planet's food.

Chryse's inhabitants are commonly perceived as easygoing, hospitable and a bit simple-minded. That is, if they are perceived at all. Despite its importance, the region is often forgotten in discussions of Mars.

As its exports are mostly local to Mars and occasionally to the outer solar system, the region finds itself largely isolated from Earth politics. This is a point of pride for its inhabitants, who consider themselves for this reason to be truest Martians, embodying a spirit of independence and self-reliance.

Mariner Valley

Mariner Valley is a system of rift valleys near Mars' equator. Its higher elevation means that it became habitable slightly later than Hellas, but the moderate climate and abundant water make it highly desirable as a place of habitation. Originally it served as a staging point for people and cargo moving to and from mining settlements on Tharsis, but it slowly evolved into a highly developed center for manufacturing and industry.

The region's value as a manufacturing hub which is easily accessible to the outer solar system makes it highly desirable to Earth corporations, who have long been vying for political influence in the area. This is met with resistance from many of the locals, upset that the fruits of their labor are largely spent on the interests of Earth instead of bettering their own planet. Mariner Valley is the nucleus of a socialist independence movement, and is currently under partial administration by the Martial Coalition. This is allowed to exist as it serves to take some administrative burden off of the colonial government and doesn't inconvenience them, though any acknowledgment of its existence is completely informal and under very vaguely defined terms.

Depending on who you ask, Mariner Valley is either a place for well-meaning but starry-eyed and unrealistic idealists, or a rotting trench full of communists. Its anyone's guess, really. Broadly, Mariner Valley sees itself as the future of Mars: real, red-blooded Martians who truly believe in their people.

Tharsis

Tharsis Rise, often simply "the rise", is a massive plateau around the Martian equator. Its high altitude and harsh winds render it uninhabitable. Its valuable deposits of highly accessible ore minerals mean that people live there anyways. A pressure suit is needed to be outside here. At moderate altitudes, a partial counterpressure suit to assist with breathing is sufficient. In the mountains, full body pressures suits are necessary to prevent bodily fluids from flash boiling.

Settlements in this region are largely run by Earth corporations and structured entirely around resource extraction. Despite the huge value of the area's resources, it remains among the planet's poorest. Escaping poverty proves particularly difficult when your boss sets the price of oxygen. Public perception is largely divided, with some people seeing the struggles of Tharsis as a symbol of Mars' oppression, and others seeing it as their just comeuppance for being lazy and reliant on handouts from Earth.

The population of Tharsis is spread out, and apart from a few large settlements with good transportation, isolated from the rest of the planet. They are not linked by kinship nor ideology, but are together in their misery. They're born in the dirt, they work in the dirt, and they die in the dirt. In the dirt, they're one people, and what's more truly Martian than that?

All elevation maps were made with MOLA data using JMARS

[homosexuhauls]

Neha Wadekar in Baringo county, Kenya

Susan Chomba glares out the window of the Prado Land Cruiser at dozens of motorcycles speeding in the opposite direction. Each motorcycle carries at least five bags of charcoal and for every bag, at least three medium-sized acacia trees must be chopped down and burned. Charcoal production is banned in Kenya, but is still widely used for domestic heat and cooking.

Chomba loves trees. She can rattle off the scientific and local names of countless species and detail their ideal growing conditions. She holds a PhD in forest governance and master’s degrees in agriculture development and agroforestry. She is director of food, land and water programs, continent-wide, at the World Resources Institute (WRI), a global environmental research non-profit. She manages a portfolio of $20m and a staff of 100.

She is a rarity.

Roughly 12% of the world’s top climate scientists are women and fewer than one percent are from Africa – a continent hard hit by climate change. “If you look at the way the world operates, it’s almost blind to the fact that women bear the biggest burden and brunt of climate change,” Chomba says. That Chomba is an African woman in such a key role is potentially revolutionary, especially because she goes out of her way to solicit the views of those most affected and often most unheard – local farmers, community elders and, notably, women.

“The way climate is seen in the world, it’s seen very much from a masculine perspective,” Chomba says. For example, while male climate scientists focus heavily on developing renewable sources of energy to replace fossil fuels like oil and gas, Chomba believes they pay far less attention to the hundreds of millions of women worldwide who are burning wood for tasks like cooking. Incorporating the perspectives of women – particularly poor, rural women – would better ensure comprehensive solutions, she says.

Chomba is 40 years old but still remembers the hunger pangs she suffered as a child when the land failed to yield enough food for her family. More people, most likely women and children, will suffer the same fate, or worse, if wise and profound changes aren’t made soon.

Today, she is traveling with a team of WRI experts from Nairobi to Baringo county in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley, home to mountainous forests that supply 75% of Kenya’s water. But the expansion of agriculture into previously natural environments, deforestation for charcoal and logging, urbanization and climate change have ravaged the land, leaving it thirsty and bare. Locals say they haven’t had a yield of maize or beans, their staple crops, in three years.

Chomba and her team visit a giant gully that has split the ground into two in the middle of the farmland. The area has been overharvested and overgrazed, with few natural grasses or indigenous trees left to hold the soil together. That, combined with climate change and an intense dry season, has left the earth looking like parched, cracked skin.

An elderly farmer points to a tree and says cooking oil can be extracted from the native species.

“How can we do this through the Terrafund?” Chomba asks her team, referring to the WRI’s lending program to support businesses addressing land degradation and restoration. “We have a muze [an elder] with knowledge, a fund that wants to invest and a place that needs seedlings.”

There’s an urgent need for community-driven ideas, but hasty, half-baked “solutions” can exacerbate harm, Chomba argues on the drive to Baringo county. At the end of last year, for example, Kenya’s newly-elected president, William Ruto, announced his intention to plant 15bn trees in Kenya by 2032. But Chomba says the plan fails to specify which species will be planted (native or foreign), where they will be planted (forest reserves or communal farms), why they will be planted (for timber, carbon, fruit, or soil fertility), and who will actually grow them.

“The devil is in the details, and that’s lacking,” Chomba says. “If you don’t address deforestation causes, forget about your tree planting. It’s useless.”

Chomba grew up in Kirinyaga county in central Kenya, where her mother cultivated a small plot of land owned by a step-uncle. Chomba’s mother grew capsicum and french beans and formed cooperatives with other farmers so they could pool their products for export. Because her mother was a single parent and was always working, Chomba was largely raised by her grandmother.

“She used to tell me that if she could have gone to school, she would have studied so much that knowledge would be smoking out of her nostrils,” Chomba says. “She made sure that I knew that education was my only path out of poverty, out of the life we had back then.”

When Chomba was nine, her mother wanted to send her to a local boarding school, but the admissions staff in Kirinyaga took one look at her shabby clothes and turned her down.

“I’m not ashamed of my childhood poverty,” Chomba says today. “It’s what propelled me back then and what makes me sensitive to-date.”

Instead, Chomba traveled alone on a bus to a different boarding school in Western Kenya. A few years later, when Chomba’s mother ran out of money, Chomba returned to the provincial high school in Kirinyaga. Each student was given their own small patch of land to farm, and Chomba grew cabbage because they thrived in Kirinyaga’s cold climate. She experimented with organic farming, opting to use garlic and blackjack instead of chemical pesticides.

Chomba flashes a broad smile: “My cabbages were absolutely massive.”

In the late 1990s and early 2000s, when Kenyans were pushing back against the dictator Daniel Arap Moi, Wangari Maathai was pressing for forest conservation and fighting for multiparty democracy. Maathai, the first African woman to win a Nobel peace prize, inspired a generation of young, female Kenyan environmentalists.

“We just admired Professor Wangari,” Chomba says. “She taught us that nature belongs to all of us.”

Chomba wanted to study law, but she missed the university cut off by a single point. Her second choice was agricultural economics, but by a strange twist of fate, she was placed in a forestry course. It wasn’t until her third year, when Chomba took an agroforestry class, that she realized she had found her calling.

“The gods chose my life for me,” she says.

While Maathai was protesting in the streets, Chomba chose another path more aligned to her strengths – research.

“I have a lot of respect for activism, I think we need activism,” Chomba says. But she opted instead for a job that relies on evidence-based data as the basis to change systemic structures.

Chomba joined the International Centre for Research in Agroforestry (ICRAF) and led an eight-country land restoration program, called “Regreening Africa,” which restored one million hectares of Africa’s degraded lands. By now a single parent, Chomba had to leave her son at home with her mother to pursue dual master’s degrees in Europe.

“[S]he had to really fight,” says Tom Vandenbosch, one of Chomba’s first mentors at ICRAF. “Her having a young son when she had to move to Europe to finish her studies – that’s not something which is so easy to do.”

Chomba returned to ICRAF as a climate change researcher advising some of the brightest diplomatic minds in Africa convened to tackle climate change at the Conference of Peoples (COP). Chomba called it “the most humbling space I ever occupied as a young researcher,” and says the job “touched the social justice part of my soul.”

This experience convinced Chomba to get her PhD at the University of Copenhagen.

Chomba married her husband in 2009 and gave birth to their son in 2010. Both her sons seem interested in the environment, but “kids never do what their parents want them to do”, Chomba admits.

Chomba's team pulls up to the Baringo county government offices after a five-hour drive, enters a tiny office and crams around a table occupied by local officials. She will need their staff, resources and approval to operate in the county.

She strategically mentions budget numbers for Terrafund and as she utters the amount set aside for the Greater Rift Valley region – $6m – the officials straighten up, their interest piqued.

But challenges remain. Chomba broaches the issue of illegal charcoal production. One government official waives aside her concerns, citing Kenya’s struggling economy. “They are selling charcoal because they have no other option,” he says.

Chomba rolls her eyes.

The following morning, Chomba spends hours in the stifling heat speaking with women who are part of a grassroots gender-empowerment cooperative. Florence Lomariwo fled her home as a child to escape female genital cutting and child marriage and became a college-educated teacher. She describes how the drought is causing armed clashes between male herders, who are ranging farther from home to graze and water their livestock. Left alone, women are bearing the brunt of this.

“Most of the women are suffering deaths because of lack of water,” Lomariwo says. “For our family to survive, a woman [must] travel, even if it is 100km.”

Monicah Aluku, a 37-year-old widow, speaks up.

“Feel our pain,” she says. “There is no water. Women are walking so far to get water that they are miscarrying. There is no healthcare system. Kids are drinking dirty water and getting typhoid. We are really suffering.”

Chomba leans forward. She nods intently with a serious, steady gaze. Chomba and her team were scheduled to head back to Nairobi around 1pm, but they don’t leave until hours later. And only after Chomba has heard from every woman in the room.

This story was produced by the Fuller Project, a global newsroom dedicated to groundbreaking reporting that catalyzes positive change for women

[mycorrectviews]

Beyond the Carnage: Credo of a democratic Zionist

October 2023

No Monopoly on Barbarism

We buried our cousins in four freshly dug graves at Kibbutz Revivim, 40 miles as the crow flies from the killing fields of Kibbutz Beeri where they made their home.  Chen, a burly farmer, the kind of guy you want in your corner;  Rinat, a veteran social worker;  17 year old Alon and 14 year old Ido.  Two smaller siblings survived when Rinat and Alon spread their bodies over the little ones, like a blanket at bedtime, taking the bullets in a final act of love.  Hundreds of people wept in silence, an extended family of farmers from agricultural communities across the Gaza envelope, dozens of them young men and women on "funeral" leave from their reserve units, rifles slung over their civilian clothing.  Rinat had texted the family that dark October morning, as I huddled with my partner and nine-year-old son in our own safe room, just 10 miles north of Beeri.  We were sure that Chen – veteran of an elite IDF reconnaissance unit – would get them out.  Electricity and cell phone service were down all morning at our kibbutz as fighting raged on the perimeter fence.  By the time we received her message, she was likely dead, as scores of heavily armed killers hunted for Jews -- Gazan civilians in tow, rounding up livestock and home appliances like shoppers on black Friday.  Did the Hamas warn them that their own homes would soon be reduced to rubble by the inevitable IDF response?   For 21 hours I stood at the threshold of our safe room, listening for sounds of the battle raging at the edge of our own kibbutz, knowing that if they broke through, we'd be next.  Only the resourcefulness and bravery of a handful of volunteers kept the killers at bay until we could evacuate.  At Revivim, rows of fresh graves extended beyond the funeral site, waiting to receive another hundred members of Kibbutz Beeri. It was a scene to be repeated throughout the country for other communities who shared the same fate.  At Kibbutz Nir Oz, a quarter of the population was murdered. A day before I had debated a friend about whether the massacre resembled the German Einzatzgruppn or 19th century Russian pogroms.  Either way, I reflect, Islam has no monopoly on barbarism.  And Israelis are not immune either.   

The Jewish State or the Boer State

Siblings and schoolmates eulogized the Even-Segev family in a quiet ceremony, closed to the press, soft Hebrew music playing in the background.  The grief was palpable, but the word "revenge" was not to be heard.  No room in their hearts for gratuitous hatred or racism.  Never was.  These folk work with Bedouin farmers and colleagues on a daily basis, and many remember a time when personal and commercial interaction with the Gaza Strip was routine.  Here in the Negev, civil society has a depth and breadth that crosses ethnic boundaries and ideological preconceptions.

Elsewhere, however, things look different.  Right wing groups have draped banners from overpasses around Israel demanding revenge, as if a dose of their sickening screed could reverberate through a society already numbed by atrocity.   They may be right.  Just over the Green Line in the West Bank, nationalist fanatics are already creating their own, violent fantasy world.  Since October 7th, at least seven Palestinian farmers have been shot dead by Israeli settlers.  The occupation of this swath of Palestinian territory was once justified by the need to secure a defensive line along the Jordan rift valley, a formidable geographic barrier against invasion from the east. No longer. Today the IDF is tasked with protecting the 460,000 Israeli settlers who live between the Jordan and Israel's internationally recognized boundaries to the West under a separate and unequal legal regime designed to preserve and extend their hegemony; and controlling their 2.6 million Palestinian neighbors who subsist in a legal twilight zone, bereft of political rights, their civil liberties and freedom of movement curtailed and their land often confiscated for Israeli use.  Former Mossad chief Tamir Pardo, has called this apartheid. Indeed, today's West Bank might be properly described as a kind of Boer state, where armed colonists are the law and even the Israeli army treads lightly for fear of incurring settler wrath. Israel's infantry provides the muscle that keeps armed Palestinian groups at bay. But security coordinators in the settlements – settlers who are deputized, armed and trained by the IDF – often call the shots on the ground. A pervasive atmosphere of lawlessness invites violence against Palestinians. Brutal and primitive in its tactics, it has included defacing mosques, burning fields, destroying olive groves and vandalizing property. In the Palestinian village of Hawara, perpetrators set 200 buildings and 30 cars ablaze, killing one resident.  Now, with the armed force of the IDF massed on Israel's northern and southern borders, their wildest fantasies may seem within grasp.

Hamas or no Hamas, the Boer state is a dilemma of our own making.  No Israeli government, save those of Yitzhak Rabin and Ariel Sharon, has had the courage – or the incentive – to defy settler political clout. This must change.  Once this war is over and the IDF eradicates the Gazan terror regime, Israel must be asked to choose:  advanced American weapons systems or housing developments on the West Bank. Israel needs robust US military aid to survive.  But every home, industrial zone, municipal subsidy, road, streetlight, or sewage pipe for Israeli settlements in the West Bank should be deducted from that sum. Put these funds in an escrow account to help relocate settlers to new homes within within the Green Line. Or use them to compensate Palestinians for loss of income due to restricted access to farmland.

Always a Reason to Kill Jews

Some folks insist on seeing Palestinian victimhood and Jewish malfeasance whenever innocents are killed, like some uncontrollable, Pavlovian response, no matter how Orwellian the logic.  Thus on October 8th, with the killing still in progress, Mohammed R. Mhawish explained in 972 magazine that "for us [Palestinians]. . . It is the moment when we defend our very existence and right to live peacefully in freedom."  UN Secretary General Antonio Gutteres ruffled a few feathers when he proclaimed that the October 7th massacre "did not happen in a vacuum.  The Palestinian people have been subject to 56 years of suffocating occupation."  Without justifying the murder spree itself, Gutteres seems to have identified its cause as the 1967 war.  More often than not however, critics of Israel point to the blockade imposed on Gaza in 2007, after the Hamas took over the enclave, as the proximate source of violence. "The international community has for years neglected the plight of the 2.3 million Palestinians living under a 16-year-long Israeli siege," explains Jonathan Kuttab of the Arab Center in Washington, DC.   Indeed, back in 2008, the Red Cross had already warned that 70% of Gaza's population suffered from food insecurity and chronic malnutrition as a result of Israeli policy.  Perhaps mass murder is a natural response from people who have been starving to death for 15 years, though one wonders if it is biologically possible to starve for so long while building an arsenal of tens of thousands of rockets, hundreds of miles of military tunnels, and highly trained death squads.  Or perhaps one might ask why food was lacking, if it was lacking, with such plentiful military resources on hand.  But the ultimate reason Hamas does its thing, according to some observers, is the Naqba, the displacement of 700,000 Palestinians by Israel in the war of 1948, ground zero – we are told – of the Arab Israeli conflict.  Historian Ilan Pappe sums up the events of October 7th with the pithy insight that "[Israel's] present genocidal policy towards Gaza are [sic] part of the ongoing Naqba."  2007, 1967, 1948, take your pick. But don't stop there.  In 1929, long before the Naqba, Palestinian marauders killed 133 Jews in Hebron, Safed, Jaffa and Jerusalem, most of them ultra-orthodox, with no connection to the Zionist movement, many of them neighbors with whom they had lived for years.  As Hillel Cohen painstakingly explains in his landmark study, Palestinians had come to see all Jews as representatives of the same Zionist enterprise. So it was and so it is.  Any organized Jewish national presence in this land, apparently, is a legitimate cause for "armed struggle." Perhaps it is time someone reexamined the causal relationship between this culture of death and the Naqba, occupation and blockade that followed.

When a Zionist Sees Palestine in the Mirror

Palestinian nationalism may be irredeemably poisoned by nihilism, but Palestinian identity itself defines the very humanity of millions of people, some two million of them Israeli citizens.  If our democracy is to rise again after the war, we must learn to distinguish between the two and embrace the latter – nuanced as the idea may be.  I have devoted my own career to building a more inclusive paradigm of shared culture for Jews and Arabs in the Negev.  Below the surface, civil society may now be laying its foundation.  In the midst of the crisis, dozens of grass roots initiatives are mobilizing Jews and Arabs for collective action to help everyone in need, from Jewish farmers in the Western Negev to the unrecognized Bedouin villages in the east. Some 15 Arab citizens have been killed by Hamas rockets and another dozen were murdered or kidnapped on October 7th.   In this wartime emergency, even the most innocuous display of Palestinian colors can lead to arrest, termination at work or suspension from university.  This will have to stop.  In the end, Jews must be able to see in the pain, pride and determination of the Palestinians a reflection of our own.  No, we cannot bridge the unfathomable political gulf that separates us.  But a dose of mutual respect would serve us well. 

Rethinking Ukraine

The international show of support for Israel so far has been impressive.  Biden, Macron, Scholz, Sunak, Ursula Von der Leyen – leaders from across the democratic world have rushed to embrace Netanyahu, a man whose signature contributions to Israeli diplomacy have been to drape Likud headquarters with a massive poster of Vladmir Putin, embrace Victor Orban and glorify Donald Trump.  It must be humiliating for Bibi to bend the knee in gratitude to the liberal order he has done so much to disparage, but this is no mere personal matter. America's massive resupply of military hardware – a replay of Nixon's strategic airlift in 1973 -- and the deployment of two carrier strike groups to protect Israel against a regional conflagration, should be a stark reminder to Israel's political class as a whole that sometimes you have to choose sides.  Israel's flirtation with Russia and the Visegrad bloc was, perhaps, the product of Bibi's own delusions of self importance, but Israel's shameful failure to support Ukraine in its struggle to survive was an act of cowardice that crossed political lines.   Biden's Oval Office address linking aid to Ukraine and Israel was a formative statement, and something this country would do well to ponder.  Israel turned a cold shoulder to Ukraine, it is widely assumed, for fear of provoking Russia to launch its S-300 antiaircraft rockets in Syria against Israeli jets, thereby limiting our ability to strike Iranian proxies in that country.  Those rockets are a serious consideration, to be sure, but if Biden is willing to take political risks for Israel, we can show a little moral fiber as well.  Russia has interests at stake in Syria too, and striking Israeli jets would put those at risk.  In 1970 Soviet personnel manned Egyptian anti-aircraft batteries that fired on Israeli planes, and Israeli jets held dogfights with Russian pilots over the Suez Canal.  Not a few Russian servicemen paid with their lives.  When the present crisis is over, the time will come for Israel to take a stand – for Ukraine, and for the democratic prospect writ large.

Going Home

No, I'm not a farmer. Everything I know about wheat comes from the back of a cereal box.  For the past six years I've been at Kibbutz Nir Am, never of Nir Am. It was simply where I slept and parked my car before heading off to work in the morning.  But something has broken in my own suburban, residential paradigm.  The government says kibbutzim such as Nir Oz will take years to rebuild.  Nir Am, we hope, will bounce back sooner.  While my family is settling in to its temporary refuge in Jerusalem, we are eager to get back to our community on the Gazan border fence, replant and rebuild.  Rehabilitating the kibbutzim and the towns of the Gaza envelope, caring for the orphans and shattered families, reconstructing the homes, nurturing devastated communities back to emotional health, and weaving the multicultural fabric of life back together in the Negev will be the final challenge of my generation, and the first one for that of my son.  We owe it to our country.  We owe it to Chen, Rinat and their kids.  

[thxnews]

Discover the Hidden Gems of Ethiopia: A Cultural Expedition

  Discovering Ethiopia

Ethiopia is a country located in the northeastern part of Africa and it is known for its rich history and cultural diversity. It is bordered by six neighbors: Eritrea to the north, Djibouti to the northeast, Somalia to the east, Kenya to the south, South Sudan to the west, and Sudan to the northwest. The country has a population of over 100 million people and is home to more than 80 ethnic groups who speak different languages. Ethiopia has a long history dating back thousands of years; it was one of the oldest civilizations in Africa and developed its own unique script and calendar. The country is also famous for being the only African nation that successfully resisted colonization by European powers in modern times. Despite its long-standing place in history, Ethiopia remains relatively unknown to many tourists. However, its unique blend of traditions and modernity has recently gained attention from international travelers seeking an authentic cultural experience. With so much to see and discover, Ethiopia is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for those looking for something different.  

Hot springs in the Danakil Depression in Ethiopia's Afar region. Photo by Jorge Tung. Unsplash.  

Ethiopia's Unique Climate

The country experiences two main seasons- the rainy season and the dry season. The rainy season runs from June to September, while the dry season lasts from October to May. The highlands of Ethiopia experience a temperate climate due to their altitude, with temperatures averaging between 10°C and 20°C throughout the year. However, as one moves towards the lowlands or deserts (like the Danakil Depression) temperatures can rise up to 50°C during the day whilst dropping significantly at night due to the desertification. The Rift Valley region also has unique weather conditions that are hot and humid throughout most parts of the year. If you're looking to explore the Simien Mountains National Park or trekking in Lalibela, then the dry season months between October and March would be an ideal time for you. During these months, the days are warm with clear blue skies which make it perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking and photography.  

Australopithecus afarensis fossil hominid, the Lucy skeleton, from the Hadar area, Afar Triangle, northern Ethiopia. Photo by James St. John. Flickr.  

The Amazing History of Ethiopia

Ethiopia has a rich and diverse history that spans thousands of years. The country is believed to be one of the oldest civilizations in the world, with evidence of human habitation dating back to around 4 million years ago. The earliest known human ancestor, "Lucy," was discovered in Ethiopia in 1974 and is believed to be over three million years old.  The region was also home to some of the earliest forms of agriculture, with crops such as coffee and teff being cultivated there for thousands of years. The early history of Ethiopia is shrouded in mystery, but it is known that several powerful kingdoms emerged in the region during ancient times. One such kingdom was Aksum, which rose to prominence around 100 AD. Aksum was a major center for international trade and played an important role in spreading Christianity throughout Africa. Another notable kingdom was Abyssinia, which emerged around 1270 AD and lasted until the late 20th century. This kingdom played a key role in Ethiopian politics and culture for centuries. Today, visitors can still catch glimpses into Ethiopia's past through its architecture, art, and cultural traditions.  

Top Attractions in Ethiopia

  Bete Giyorgis, the Church of St. George, in Lalibela, Ethiopia. Photo by Jialiang Gao. Wikimedia.   Lalibela One of the most popular attractions in Ethiopia is Lalibela, a small town known for its incredible rock-hewn churches. These beautifully crafted structures were carved out of solid rock over 800 years ago and remain some of the most impressive examples of religious architecture in the world today.  

Simien Mountains, Kingdom Of Gondar. Photo by Rod Waddington. Flickr.   Simien Mountain National Park The Simien Mountains in Ethiopia are a stunning natural wonder, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the northern part of Ethiopia, the mountain range stretches for about 160 kilometers and is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna. The Simien Mountains are known for their deep gorges and dramatic waterfalls that cascade down rocky cliffsides. Beyond its natural beauty, the Simien Mountains are also home to unique wildlife such as Gelada baboons, Ethiopian wolves, and Walia ibexes – all of which can only be found within this area.  

Great Rift Valley, Ethiopia. Photo by Scott Edmunds. Flickr.   Rift Valley This geological feature stretches approximately 6,000 km from Syria to Mozambique and bisects Ethiopia into two halves. The Ethiopian Rift Valley is home to several lakes, hot springs, volcanoes, and unique flora and fauna that form a rich ecosystem. The Great Rift Valley was formed by the movement of tectonic plates over millions of years. As the plates moved apart, deep fissures were created in the Earth's crust, forming valleys where water collected and created lakes. In Ethiopia's case, there are seven crater lakes within walking distance from each other in the region around Bishoftu city. These lakes provide an excellent opportunity for visitors to experience nature at its best while enjoying activities such as birdwatching or boating.  

Hamer in Logara, near Turmi, Ethiopia. Photo by Alfred Weidinger. Flickr.  

The Rich Culture of Ethiopia

This East African nation has over 80 ethnic groups, each with its unique customs, language, and way of life. Its history dates back over 3,000 years and is rich with mythology and legend. The country boasts many archaeological sites that reveal its long-standing civilization. Ethiopian culture is vibrant and colorful, celebrating everything from religious festivals to traditional dances. One of Ethiopia's most significant cultural treasures is its religious heritage. Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity has been practiced for sixteen centuries and has greatly influenced the country's art, music, literature, and architecture. The churches carved out of solid rock in Lalibela are a testament to this rich tradition. The Ethiopian Orthodox Church plays a significant role in the country's culture. Its practices are deeply intertwined with Ethiopian traditions; many religious celebrations involve music, dance, and feasting. Despite Ethiopia's deep roots in ancient culture, it remains a modern nation with thriving cities like Addis Ababa. The capital city blends traditional and contemporary cultures through its architecture and cuisine making it an exciting destination for travelers seeking to explore both sides of this fascinating country. Music and dance are also an integral part of Ethiopian culture. Traditional music often features instruments such as the masinko (a one-stringed fiddle) or krar (a six-stringed lyre). Meanwhile, unique popular dancing styles include eskista (shoulder dancing) or amhara kemis (woven cloth dancing).  

Injera with Shiro Wot. Made with Teff flour. Photo by David. Flickr.  

People of Ethiopia and their food

Ethiopia is known for its rich history and strong traditions that continue to shape its people's lifestyle today.  The majority of Ethiopians belong to various ethnic groups such as the Oromo, Amhara, Tigray, and Somali. The economy of Ethiopia is largely based on agriculture, which employs over 80% of the population. The main crops grown are coffee, cereals (such as maize and teff), oilseeds (such as sesame and sunflower), pulses (such as beans and lentils), fruits, vegetables, and flowers.   Traditional Teff Flour Teff flour is a gluten-free flour that grows in Ethiopia, where it has been used for centuries as a staple food. It is made from the tiny seeds of the teff plant, which are ground into a fine powder. Teff flour has a slightly nutty taste and can be used to make a variety of dishes, including bread, pancakes, and porridge. One of the main benefits of teff flour is its high nutritional value. It is rich in protein, fiber, iron, calcium, and other essential vitamins and minerals. This makes it an excellent choice for people who are looking for healthy alternatives to wheat-based flour. Additionally, because it is gluten-free, teff flour can be enjoyed by those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance without causing any adverse reactions. Injera is the most popular food in Ethiopia. It is a flatbread made from teff flour and has a sourdough taste to it. Injera can be eaten on its own or used as an accompaniment to different stews, curries, and vegetables. Wat is another famous Ethiopian dish that consists of meat or vegetable stew accompanied by injera bread. Wat comes in different varieties each with their distinct flavor profiles depending on the type of meat or vegetables used in preparing it. Aside from agriculture, there are other industries that provide employment for Ethiopians. One such industry is textiles, which produces clothing made from cotton grown in the country. Ethiopia's leather industry is also growing rapidly due to the high demand for quality leather products worldwide. Also, the constru ction sector has been booming in recent years due to increased government investment in infrastructure projects like building roads and accommodation.  

Blue Nile falls. Photo by Katie Hunt. Flickr.  

Conclusion

Ethiopia is a country that has much to offer to visitors. From its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and wildlife, there is always something new to discover in this magnificent nation. One thing that stands out about Ethiopia is the warmth of its people. Ethiopians are friendly, hospitable, and always willing to help visitors navigate through their cities. You will also find a variety of delicious traditional dishes such as injera (a sourdough flatbread) served with a variety of stews known as wats. The music and dance performances are also unique experiences that showcase the diverse cultures found throughout Ethiopia. Ethiopia is a country known for its diversity of wildlife, including numerous species of birds. With more than 800 identified bird species, Ethiopia's avifauna is one of the richest in Africa and the world. The country's varied topography, ranging from high mountains to lowland plains, has created diverse habitats that support different bird communities. With so much to see and discover, Ethiopia is a brilliant destination for those looking for something different.   Sources: THX News & Ethiopia. Read the full article

[rainbowriderjt]

Oh! There It Is!

Of Course The MSM Like Google Maps & Wikipedia Don't Show It! Just In Case This Get's Taken Down Here's The Whole Article!

The existence or non-existence of a place called “Hawaii, Kenya” is an interesting geographic question that many people may have wondered about before.

At first glance, it may seem unlikely that such a place exists, since Hawaii and Kenya are separated by thousands of miles of ocean. However, a deeper dive reveals that there is in fact a locale in Kenya with the unusual name of “Hawaii”. Keep reading to learn all about this uniquely named village in the Kenyan countryside.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: There is indeed a small village called Hawaii located in Kenya’s Rift Valley province. It was given this name due to its physical resemblance to the Hawaiian islands.

The Origins of Hawaii, Kenya How the Village Got Its Name The name “Hawaii” may bring to mind images of beautiful beaches and tropical paradise, but did you know that there is also a village named Hawaii in Kenya? The origins of the name can be traced back to the early colonial era when British settlers arrived in the area.

The village was named after the Hawaiian Islands, which were gaining popularity at the time due to their exotic appeal.

The settlers were inspired by the natural beauty and cultural richness of Hawaii, and they wanted to bring a touch of that enchantment to their new home in Kenya. Thus, the village of Hawaii was born.

Geographic Location and Description The village of Hawaii is located in the western part of Kenya, in the Nandi County. It is situated in the highlands region, surrounded by lush green landscapes and rolling hills.

The village is known for its picturesque scenery, with breathtaking views of tea plantations and expansive fields. The climate in Hawaii is generally mild, with warm temperatures throughout the year.

The village is home to a vibrant community, with residents engaged in agriculture, particularly tea farming.

The village of Hawaii in Kenya may not be as well-known as its namesake in the Pacific, but it has its own unique charm and beauty.

If you ever find yourself in the western part of Kenya, make sure to pay a visit to Hawaii and experience its natural wonders and warm hospitality.

Life in Hawaii, Kenya When most people think of Hawaii, they envision a tropical paradise in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. However, there is also a place called Hawaii in Kenya, which offers a unique and fascinating experience.

Let’s take an in-depth look at the life in Hawaii, Kenya, exploring its local economy, livelihoods, community, and culture.

Local Economy and Livelihoods The economy of Hawaii, Kenya is primarily based on agriculture, with a focus on coffee and tea production. The region is known for its fertile soil and ideal climate, making it perfect for growing these crops.

The coffee and tea plantations not only provide employment opportunities for the local population but also contribute significantly to the country’s export industry.

Aside from agriculture, tourism is also an important sector in Hawaii, Kenya. The pristine beaches, coral reefs, and diverse wildlife attract visitors from all over the world.

This influx of tourists has led to the development of resorts, hotels, and other tourist-related businesses, providing additional job opportunities for the locals.

Furthermore, the fishing industry plays a vital role in the local economy. The coastal communities rely on fishing as a source of income and food security. The rich marine biodiversity in the area provides ample opportunities for fishermen to sustain their livelihoods.

Community and Culture The community in Hawaii, Kenya is known for its warm hospitality and strong sense of community. The locals take pride in their cultural heritage and are eager to share it with visitors. Traditional dances, music, and art are an integral part of their daily lives, showcasing the vibrant and diverse culture of the region.

The community also places great importance on sustainable practices, particularly in relation to their natural resources. Conservation efforts are in place to protect the environment and preserve the unique ecosystems found in Hawaii, Kenya.

This commitment to sustainability not only benefits the local community but also contributes to the preservation of the region’s natural beauty for future generations.

Visiting Hawaii, Kenya offers a wonderful opportunity to immerse oneself in a different way of life. Whether it’s exploring the lush coffee plantations, enjoying the stunning beaches, or experiencing the rich cultural traditions, Hawaii, Kenya has something to offer for everyone.

For more information about Hawaii, Kenya, you can visit the official website of the Kenya Tourism Board: https://www.magicalkenya.com/.

[why5x5]

They've done it again.

"Sallon said it was possible that the tree could be the source of the biblical “tsori,” a medicinal plant extract associated with the historical region of Gilead north of the Dead Sea in the Jordan Rift Valley, a mountainous and forested area that was intensely cultivated and is now part of Jordan."

"To germinate the specimen, study coauthor Dr. Elaine Solowey, a researcher emerita at the Center for Sustainable Agriculture at The Arava Institute for Environmental Studies in Israel, used a process perfected during previous research led by Sallon on 2,000-year-old date palm seeds. The approach involved soaking the mysterious Judean Desert seed in water mixed with hormones and fertilizer before planting it in a pot of sterile soil."

The Judean date palm

The plant was nicknamed “Methuselah,” after the longest-lived character in the Bible. Methuselah is remarkable in being the oldest known tree seed successfully germinated, and also in being the only living representative of the Judean date palm, a tree extinct for over 1800 years, which was once a major food and export crop in ancient Judea.

More info HERE

(Fact Source) Follow Ultrafacts for more facts

[badbishop999]

Exploring Lake Naivasha: Top Activities for Adventurers and Nature Enthusiasts

Nestled in Kenya's Great Rift Valley, Lake Naivasha beckons travelers with its serene waters, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you're seeking thrilling adventures or tranquil moments amidst nature, Lake Naivasha offers a variety of activities to suit every interest. Here's a trendy guide to the top activities visitors can enjoy at this picturesque destination:

1. Birdwatching Extravaganza: With over 400 bird species, Lake Naivasha is a paradise for birdwatchers. Grab your binoculars and head out on a boat safari or stroll along the shores to spot iconic species like the African fish eagle, flamingos, pelicans, and countless other waterfowl. Capture stunning photos of these feathered residents against the backdrop of the lake's tranquil waters.

2. Boat Safaris and Hippo Spotting: Explore Lake Naivasha's pristine waters on a guided boat safari. Glide past floating papyrus islands and watch hippos wallowing lazily in the shallows. Your knowledgeable guide will point out other wildlife sightings, from giraffes grazing on Crescent Island to zebras quenching their thirst at the water's edge.

3. Hiking Adventures in Hell's Gate: Just a short drive away lies Hell's Gate National Park, where adventurous souls can embark on thrilling hikes amidst towering cliffs and volcanic rock formations. Trek through the dramatic gorges of the park, spot wildlife along the trails, and marvel at the unique geological features that make this park a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts.

4. Cycling Escapades: Rent a bike and explore Hell's Gate National Park on two wheels. Pedal along scenic trails that wind through the park's diverse landscapes, offering up-close encounters with wildlife and panoramic views of the Rift Valley. Cycling allows you to cover more ground while immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the surroundings.

5. Rock Climbing Thrills: Daredevils can test their skills on the rock faces of Hell's Gate National Park. The park boasts challenging climbs with varying difficulty levels, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced climbers. Ascend natural rock towers and enjoy sweeping views of Lake Naivasha and the Rift Valley from the summit.

6. Cultural Encounters: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the region with visits to local communities like the Maasai and Kikuyu tribes. Participate in cultural tours to learn about traditional lifestyles, enjoy dance performances, and shop for handcrafted souvenirs. Engaging with local communities provides insight into their customs and deepens your connection to the area.

7. Relaxation at Olkaria Geothermal Spa: After a day of exploration, unwind at Olkaria Geothermal Spa, where natural hot springs offer therapeutic bathing experiences. Soak in the healing waters while enjoying panoramic views of Lake Naivasha and the Rift Valley escarpment. Treat yourself to spa treatments that rejuvenate both body and mind in a serene natural setting.

8. Photography and Sunset Cruises: Capture the beauty of Lake Naivasha through your camera lens. Join a sunset cruise for the perfect vantage point to witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. Photographers will find endless opportunities to capture wildlife in their natural habitat and stunning landscapes bathed in golden light.

9. Flower Farm Tours: Explore the vibrant flower farms surrounding Lake Naivasha, where you can learn about the cultivation of Kenya's renowned cut flowers. Marvel at fields of colorful blooms stretching to the horizon and gain insights into sustainable farming practices. Flower farm tours offer a unique perspective on the region's agricultural heritage.

10. Dining with a View: Wind down your day with a dining experience overlooking Lake Naivasha. Many lodges and restaurants offer al fresco dining options with panoramic lake views, allowing you to savor delicious meals while soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and reflecting on the day's adventures.In conclusion, Lake Naivasha caters to adventurers, nature lovers, and cultural enthusiasts alike with its diverse range of activities and natural splendor. Whether you're embarking on a thrilling hike, observing wildlife on a boat safari, or relaxing at a geothermal spa, Lake Naivasha promises an unforgettable journey immersed in Kenya's breathtaking Rift Valley scenery. Plan your visit and embrace the allure of Lake Naivasha for an experience that combines adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery in one extraordinary destination.

[aksiasacademy]

Geography Important Topics for UPSC Exam

Geography is a vital part of the UPSC Civil Services Examination, contributing significantly to both the Prelims and Mains. It encompasses both physical and human geography, requiring a comprehensive understanding of the earth's processes, human activities, and their interrelations. Here’s a detailed guide to the important topics you should focus on for your UPSC preparation.

1. Physical Geography

A. Geomorphology

Earth’s Structure and Interior: Understand the layers of the Earth, seismic waves, and their role in studying the Earth's interior.

Plate Tectonics and Continental Drift: Study the movement of plates, their interactions, and the resultant landforms such as mountains, rift valleys, and oceanic trenches.

Volcanoes and Earthquakes: Types, causes, distribution, and effects. Case studies of significant events.

Weathering and Erosion: Types and processes, and their impact on the landscape.

B. Climatology

Atmosphere: Composition, structure, and functions.

Weather and Climate: Definitions, differences, and factors affecting them.

Heat Budget of the Earth: Incoming and outgoing radiation, greenhouse effect.

Temperature and Pressure Belts: Distribution and impact on global climate.

Winds: Types (planetary, trade, westerlies, local winds), jet streams, and their impact on weather.

Monsoons: Mechanism, theories (Indian monsoon), and significance.

Climate Change: Causes, effects, and global initiatives to combat it.

C. Oceanography

Oceans and Seas: Distribution, the topography of the ocean floor.

Ocean Currents: Types, causes, and their impact on global climate.

Tides and Waves: Causes, types, and effects.

Marine Resources: Types, distribution, and sustainable use.

D. Biogeography

Ecosystems and Biomes: Types, characteristics, and distribution.

Biodiversity: Importance, threats, and conservation efforts.

Soil: Types, formation, and conservation.

2. Human Geography

A. Population and Settlement

Demographic Attributes: Birth rate, death rate, fertility rate, mortality rate, population growth.

Migration: Types, causes, and effects.

Urbanization: Trends, causes, and problems of urban areas.

Rural Settlement: Patterns, types, and problems.

B. Economic Geography

Agriculture: Types, major crops, and agricultural practices in India.

Industry: Types, and distribution of major industries in India and the world.

Resources: Types (renewable, non-renewable), distribution, and sustainable management.

Trade: Patterns and impact on the economy.

C. Cultural Geography

Language: Distribution and linguistic diversity.

Religion: Distribution, major religions, and their impact on culture.

Ethnicity: Ethnic groups and their geographical distribution.

3. Indian Geography

A. Physical Features

Himalayas: Origin, structure, and significance.

Peninsular Plateau: Characteristics, major hills, and rivers.

Coastal Plains and Islands: Features, significance, and economic activities.

Great Indian Desert: Features, climate, and life.

B. River Systems

Himalayan Rivers: Indus, Ganga, Brahmaputra – their courses, tributaries, and significance.

Peninsular Rivers: Narmada, Godavari, Krishna, Cauvery – their courses, tributaries, and significance.

C. Climate

Seasons: Characteristics of Indian seasons (winter, summer, monsoon, post-monsoon).

Monsoons: Mechanism, impact, and regional variations.

Climate Regions: Classification and characteristics.

D. Natural Resources

Mineral Resources: Types, distribution, and economic importance.

Energy Resources: Conventional (coal, oil, natural gas) and non-conventional (solar, wind, hydroelectric) – distribution and utilization.

E. Agriculture and Industry

Agricultural Practices: Types, major crops, Green Revolution, and issues in Indian agriculture.

Industrial Regions: Major industries, their distribution, and significance.

4. Environmental Geography

A. Ecology and Environment

Ecosystems: Structure, function, and types.

Biodiversity: Importance, threats, and conservation.

Environmental Degradation: Causes, effects, and measures.

Sustainable Development: Principles, practices, and global initiatives.

B. Environmental Issues

Pollution: Types (air, water, soil, noise), sources, effects, and control measures.

Climate Change: Causes, effects, and mitigation.

Disaster Management: Types of disasters, vulnerability, risk management, and response.

Study Tips

Understand Concepts: Focus on understanding the core concepts rather than rote memorization.

Use Diagrams: Geography involves a lot of visual learning. Use maps, diagrams, and flowcharts.

Stay Updated: Read newspapers and magazines for current environmental issues and geographical phenomena.

Practice Previous Years' Papers: It helps in understanding the pattern and type of questions asked.

Revise Regularly: Make concise notes and revise them frequently.

Conclusion

Geography for UPSC requires a balanced approach to both physical and human geography. A clear understanding of concepts, regular practice, and staying updated with current events will ensure a thorough preparation. 

[bbumtravel]

The gemstone in the Negev Desert ?

The Dead Sea, located at the lowest point on Earth's surface, is a remarkable destination for tourists seeking unique natural wonders and therapeutic experiences. Here’s a comprehensive introduction to this iconic salt lake:

Location and Geography: The Dead Sea is situated in the Jordan Rift Valley, bordered by Jordan to the east and Israel and Palestine to the west. It is renowned for being the Earth's lowest elevation on land, approximately 430 meters (1,410 feet) below sea level. The region is known for its arid climate and stark desert landscapes.

Saltiest Water Body: The Dead Sea is famous for its incredibly high salt content, around 30% salinity, which is about ten times saltier than the ocean. This high concentration of minerals, including magnesium, calcium, potassium, and bromine, gives the water its unique buoyancy and therapeutic properties.

Historical and Cultural Significance: Throughout history, the Dead Sea has been associated with various biblical events and ancient civilizations, including the story of Lot's wife and the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. It has also been a source of minerals and natural resources for thousands of years, contributing to the local economy and cultural heritage.

Tourist Attractions: Visitors to the Dead Sea can enjoy a range of activities that capitalize on its unique properties. Floating effortlessly on the water's surface is a must-do experience due to the high buoyancy provided by the salt content. The mineral-rich mud found along the shoreline is used in therapeutic treatments and spa therapies known for their skin-rejuvenating benefits.

Environmental Challenges: Despite its allure, the Dead Sea faces environmental challenges such as water depletion due to diversion for agriculture and industry. This has led to shrinking water levels and the formation of sinkholes along the shoreline, posing risks to local ecosystems and infrastructure.

Preservation Efforts and Future Outlook: Efforts are ongoing to conserve the Dead Sea and its surrounding ecosystems through international collaboration and sustainable water management practices. Projects like the Red Sea-Dead Sea Conveyance seek to replenish the sea and stabilize water levels while promoting regional cooperation.

In summary, the Dead Sea offers tourists a unique blend of natural wonder, historical significance, and therapeutic benefits. Whether floating in its buoyant waters, indulging in mineral-rich mud treatments, or exploring its cultural heritage, visitors can immerse themselves in an unforgettable experience at this extraordinary destination.

Worth to visiting 8/10

Thanks for reading ♥

[travel-to-jordan]

Hiking in Jordan: best trails to do while visiting Jordan.

Filled with beautiful mountains, valleys, and hills, Jordan is renowned for its incredible hiking and trekking trails that provide guests not only with special outdoor experiences but also with immense culture and history. 

Either you prefer hard long hikes or short easy trails through the nature, Jordan is your best place to think of, hiking through Jordan gives you the opportunity to live a cultural and historical experience.

Samples of trails to do in Jordan:

Δ Ajloun Soap House Trail: takes you through the picturesque landscapes of the Ajloun region, showcasing the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the area. The trail is known for its diverse vegetation, stunning views, and opportunities to explore historical sites along the way.

Starting from the village of Orjan, the trail meanders through olive groves, fruit orchards, and terraced hillsides. You’ll pass through traditional villages and enjoy panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside, including rolling hills, deep valleys, and distant mountains.

As you hike along the Rassoun Trail, you’ll encounter various points of interest. One highlight is the Ajloun Castle, perched on a hilltop overlooking the region. This historic castle dates back to the 12th century and offers a glimpse into the area’s rich history.

Throughout the trail, you’ll also have the opportunity to explore ancient olive presses, traditional water mills, and rural agricultural practices that have been passed down through generations. This provides insights into the local culture and the traditional way of life in Ajloun.

Δ Siq Trail in Wadi Mujib: is a popular hiking route within the Wadi Mujib Nature Reserve, located along the eastern shore of the Dead Sea. The trail takes you through a narrow, deep gorge, offering a unique and breathtaking experience. As you start your hike, you’ll be immediately immersed in the natural beauty of Wadi Mujib. Towering sandstone cliffs surround you, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring landscape. The sunlight filters through the cracks, creating fascinating patterns on the rock walls. One of the highlights of the Siq Trail is the opportunity to wade through water. The trail follows a riverbed, and at times, you’ll find yourself walking in shallow water. Be prepared to get wet and wear appropriate water shoes or sandals that provide a good grip.

Δ Wadi Dana Trail: full day hiking down from Dana reserve to Feynan .Dana is Jordan’s largest nature reserve, covering some 320 square kilometers of spectacular mountains and Wadis along the face of the Great Rift Valley. Such a combination of natural communities in a single area is unique in Jordan, and many of Dana’s animals and plants are very rare. So far, a total of 700 plant species, 190 bird species, 37 mammal species, and 36 reptile species have been recorded in the Reserve, of which 25 are known to be endangered, including the Sand Cat, the Syrian Wolf, the Lesser Kestrel, and the Spiny Tailed Lizard. 

Grade: Moderate / Distance: 14 km/ Time: 6-7 hours

Δ Backdoor hike to Petra: Petra via ‘The Back Door’ go pleasantly down Wadi Ghurab amidst sandstone mountains guarding the approaches to Petra. This way follows a Nabataean route out of the valley and skirting round the last mountain on a natural rock terrace. it narrows slightly before reaching a hidden plateau high above the impressive chasm of Wadi Siyyagh. Just beyond, carved into the cliff face, ‘The Monastery’ comes into view. Continue hiking and lead down into ancient Petra, before exiting past ‘The Treasury’ and through the famous ‘Petra Siq’ to the Visitor Center.

Grade: Moderate-Hard / Time: 6-7 hours

Planning for the trip?

Do you want to experience the luxury tours of Jordan like never before? Then look no further than YOLO Jordan Tours and Travel. We offer the best Jordan travel packages that will allow you to discover the enchanting hidden gems of this incredible country. From the historical sites of Amman to the breathtaking desert landscape of Wadi Rum, our expert guides will offer customized journey planning to let you experience an adventure you will never forget!

Click here to book your trip today!

[migratorybirdday]

Encouraging flyway-friendly practices in energy, agriculture & waste management sectors.

Of the 39 migratory bird species that use the Rift Valley/Red Sea flyway, 6 are threatened. Learn how the GEF, United Nations Development Programme - UNDP & BirdLife International are encouraging flyway-friendly practices in energy, agriculture & waste management sectors.

[farmerstrend]

Potato Farming in Kenya: Exploring Furrow and Ridge Planting Techniques

Potato farming holds a significant position in Kenya’s agricultural landscape, contributing to both food security and economic growth. With its adaptability to various agro-ecological zones and high nutritional value, potatoes have become a staple crop for many Kenyan households. The favorable climate and soil conditions in regions like the Rift Valley, Central, and Western Kenya make them ideal…

[sunmarketing]

Masada and Red Sea, Israel Plus eSIM cards, screenshot your map, money belts

This episode's FAQ is: Do I need a local SIM card?

Today’s Destination is The Dead Sea and Masada, Israel

Today’s Misstep- Screenshot your MAP before you travel

Travel Advice: Wear a money belt.

FAQ: Do I need a local SIM card?

Response: When you travel abroad, you don’t need a local SIM card anymore. It’s found in nearly every airport and is expensive, but you get your own phone number. It does involve opening your phone up.

  Read the show notes if you want to try an esim and need help. I’ve been using an esim called Airalo for a year, and I have a referral code for you to save $3.00. It is MARY2856.

  https://www.airalo.com/blog/roaming-vs-international-sim-card-vs-local-sim-card-heres-what-to-know

    Today’s destination: Israel (split into three parts, Jerusalem, Dead Sea/ Masada, and Tel Aviv. This episode is part 2 of three.

  Because I was a solo female traveler, I booked a full-day tour of the Dead Sea and Masada. On my tour, I asked, “Where is the West Bank”?

  I learned that it originally meant West of the Jordan River. Now, it is a shared space between Israelis and Palestinians. There are three settlement types here. Palestinian, Mixed, and total Israeli control has about 13 million people living there.

  The land also has date trees, vineyards, and olive trees. With advances in agriculture, the soil has been cleansed from salt, so trees grow abundantly. There are many vegetables and greenhouses with drip irrigation, and I was told that cherry tomatoes were invented here.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A6UxvYeH_v0

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bno1m1zhIWs

  Masada is part of Rift Valley. Masada is the last Judean stronghold not taken by Romans. In 70 AD, the temple was destroyed and never rebuilt.

Nine hundred thirty-two people went to Masada to escape the Roman Empire and lost. How did the Romans win? They built a ramp, had a catapult, and knocked down the wall.

A gondola brings you to the top of the mountain now. You see storage rooms with places where date trees grew. There were plenty of touristy things to do here in Masada, but the history made it come alive today for me.

  The lake is dried up, mostly, with remnants of where the water used to be. Jordan Valley is 450 meters below sea level. Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered here.

  https://library.gordonconwell.edu/Old_Testament/Texts/DSS

  Want to ride a camel? You may pay 20 shekels to ride and another 50 to get off.

West of the Jordan River, 13 million people, primarily Arab, Jews, and mixed.

  Businesses are harvesting minerals and creams from the Dead Sea. For example, we stopped at a factory where Ahava is sold; sunscreen is $50. Mud is also sold here for $13.60. The mud comes directly from the Dead Sea in a bag. They say it is suitable for your skin. I did not purchase any.

  https://www.ahava.com/pages/about-us

  People from around the world travel to the Dead Sea to bathe in its water and to cover themselves with its mud to relieve symptoms of skin conditions, including psoriasis and eczema, as well as rheumatoid arthritis, cardiac disease, respiratory illnesses, and more. 

  https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g293979-i8272-k5751280

The Dead Sea has no fish. That’s not a joke because it’s poison.

Spend 20 minutes maximum in the water—no splashing, drinking, or tasting. Don’t get in your eyes. Don’t wet your head. Dangerous. My genital area was burning, so I think I was more sensitive than others. I didn’t stay in very long as my private parts were uncomfortable. While getting in and out of the water, I got two minor scratches on my hand. The mud felt oily and slick. 

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dead_Sea

  https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1040/

  Rick Steves two minutes on Masada

  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JXQg-H4GsWA

Today’s Misstep- Screenshot your digital MAP before you travel

  Today’s Travel Advice- Wear a money belt.

  Connect with Dr. Travelbest

5 Steps to Solo Travel website

Dr. Mary Travelbest X

Dr. Mary Travelbest Facebook Page

Dr. Mary Travelbest Facebook Group

Dr. Mary Travelbest Instagram

Dr. Mary Travelbest Podcast

Dr. Travelbest on TikTok

Dr.Travelbest onYouTube

In the news

  Check out this Dr Travelbest episode!

[entomoblog]

Un éclairage sur certains arbovirus peu connus dont l'incidence, la distribution et l'impact sur la santé humaine ou animale sont en augmentation

See on Scoop.it - EntomoNews

Arboviruses (arthropod-borne viruses) are a class of viral pathogens that are transmitted by arthropod vectors in nature. They are responsible for many vector-b

  Ary Faraji, Goudarz Molaei, Theodore G. Andreadis

  Emerging and lesser-known arboviruses impacting animal and human health Ary Faraji and others Journal of Medical Entomology, tjad140, https://doi.org/10.1093/jme/tjad140

Ary Faraji (Data curation [Equal], Writing—original draft [Equal], Writing—review & editing [Equal]), Goudarz Molaei (Writing—original draft [Equal], Writing—review & editing [Equal]), and Theodore Andreadis (Writing—original draft [Equal], Writing—review & editing [Equal]) We hope that ...

  The known unknowns of Powassan virus ecology Doug E Brackney and Chantal B F Vogels Journal of Medical Entomology, tjad095, https://doi.org/10.1093/jme/tjad095 Powassan virus (POWV; Family: Flaviviridae, Genus: Flavivirus ) is the sole North American member of the tick-borne encephalitis sero-complex. While associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality, POWV has historically been of little public health concern due to low incidence rates. However, ...

  Everglades virus: an underrecognized disease-causing subtype of Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus endemic to Florida, USA Nathan D Burkett-Cadena and others Journal of Medical Entomology, tjad070, https://doi.org/10.1093/jme/tjad070 Everglades virus (EVEV) is subtype II of the Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV) complex (Togaviridae: Alphavirus), endemic to Florida, USA. EVEV belongs to a clade that includes both enzootic and epizootic/epidemic VEEV subtypes. Like other enzootic VEEV subtypes, muroid rodents are ...

  La Crosse virus neuroinvasive disease: the kids are not alright Corey A Day and others Journal of Medical Entomology, tjad090, https://doi.org/10.1093/jme/tjad090 La Crosse virus (LACV) is the most common cause of neuroinvasive mosquito-borne disease in children within the United States. Despite more than 50 years of recognized endemicity in the United States, the true burden of LACV disease is grossly underappreciated, and there remain severe knowledge gaps ...

  Emerging tickborne viruses vectored by Amblyomma americanum (Ixodida: Ixodidae): Heartland and Bourbon viruses Alan P Dupuis and others Journal of Medical Entomology, tjad060, https://doi.org/10.1093/jme/tjad060 Heartland (HRTV) and Bourbon (BRBV) viruses are newly identified tick-borne viruses, isolated from serious clinical cases in 2009 and 2014, respectively. Both viruses originated in the lower Midwest United States near the border of Missouri and Kansas, cause similar disease manifestations, and are ...

  The increasing threat of Rift Valley fever virus globalization: strategic guidance for protection and preparation Seth Gibson and others Journal of Medical Entomology, tjad113, https://doi.org/10.1093/jme/tjad113 Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) (Bunyavirales: Phlebovirus ) is a prominent vector-borne zoonotic disease threat to global agriculture and public health. Risks of introduction into nonendemic regions are tied to changing climate regimes and other dynamic environmental factors that are becoming more ...

  Colorado tick fever virus: a review of historical literature and research emphasis for a modern era Emma K Harris and others Journal of Medical Entomology, tjad094, https://doi.org/10.1093/jme/tjad094

Colorado tick fever virus is an understudied tick-borne virus of medical importance that is primarily transmitted in the western United States and southwestern Canada. The virus is the type species of the genus Coltivirus (Spinareoviridae) and consists of 12 segments that remain largely ...

  Culicoides-borne Orbivirus epidemiology in a changing climate Amy R Hudson and others Journal of Medical Entomology, tjad098, https://doi.org/10.1093/jme/tjad098 Orbiviruses are of significant importance to the health of wildlife and domestic animals worldwide; the major orbiviruses transmitted by multiple biting midge ( Culicoides ) species include bluetongue virus, epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus, and African horse sickness virus. The viruses, insect ...

  Cache Valley virus: an emerging arbovirus of public and veterinary health importance Holly R Hughes and others Journal of Medical Entomology, tjad058, https://doi.org/10.1093/jme/tjad058 Cache Valley virus (CVV) is a mosquito-borne virus in the genus Orthobunyavirus (Bunyavirales: Peribunyaviridae) that has been identified as a teratogen in ruminants causing fetal death and severe malformations during epizootics in the U.S. CVV has recently emerged as a viral pathogen causing ...

  Jamestown Canyon virus comes into view: understanding the threat from an underrecognized arbovirus John J Shepard and Philip M Armstrong Journal of Medical Entomology, tjad069, https://doi.org/10.1093/jme/tjad069 This review examines the epidemiology, ecology, and evolution of Jamestown Canyon virus (JCV) and highlights new findings from the literature to better understand the virus, the vectors driving its transmission, and its emergence as an agent of arboviral disease. We also reanalyze data from the ...

  Snowshoe hare virus: discovery, distribution, vector and host associations, and medical significance Edward D Walker and Thomas M Yuill Journal of Medical Entomology, tjad128, https://doi.org/10.1093/jme/tjad128 Snowshoe hare virus (SSHV), within the California serogroup of the genus Orthobunyavirus , family Peribunyaviridae , was first isolated from a snowshoe hare ( Lepus americanus ) in Montana, United States, in 1959. The virus, closely related to LaCrosse virus (LACV) and Chatanga virus (CHATV), ...

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Unlocking the Hidden Gem: Where to Find the Cheapest Land in Kenya

When it comes to property investment and land ownership, Kenya offers a wealth of opportunities that are both promising and diverse. The lure of owning a piece of this beautiful East African nation is undeniable, but for many, it has seemed financially out of reach. In this blog post, we will embark on a journey to unveil Kenya's hidden gem—the cheapest land in Kenya available.

The Growing Demand for Land in Kenya

Kenya's land market has been experiencing remarkable growth in recent years. With a rapidly expanding population and a booming urban landscape, the demand for cheapest land in Kenya  has never been higher. As a result, prices in some prime locations have skyrocketed, leaving aspiring landowners in search of alternatives.

Regions with Affordable Land

Did you know that certain regions in Kenya offer land at remarkably affordable prices? Whether you dream of a serene countryside retreat or strategic urban development, there are options to suit your budget. From the fertile lands of Eldoret to the scenic landscapes around Nakuru, we'll explore these pockets of affordability.

Factors Influencing Land Prices

Understanding what drives land prices is crucial for the discerning investor. Factors such as proximity to infrastructure, accessibility, and land size play a pivotal role. 

Additionally, local development initiatives and government policies significantly impact land affordability, making it imperative to stay informed.

Understanding the Demand for Land in Kenya

Kenya, a nation known for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture, is also witnessing a remarkable surge in demand for the cheapest land in Kenya. This demand is driven by a confluence of factors that directly affect Kenyan citizens and investors alike.

Population Growth and Urbanization

Kenya's population has been on a consistent upward trajectory, with estimates placing it at over 50 million people. Nairobi, the capital, has been growing at a particularly rapid pace, making it one of Africa's largest and most dynamic cities. This population boom has spurred urbanization, as more people move to cities in search of better economic opportunities and improved living standards.

Real Estate Investment Opportunities

Investors have recognized Kenya's potential as a hub for real estate development. The demand for Cheapest Land in Kenya for commercial and residential properties continues to rise, particularly in urban centers. This has led to numerous opportunities for investors, both local and international, to participate in Kenya's burgeoning real estate sector.

Agriculture and Land for Farming

Agriculture remains a vital component of Kenya's economy, and land is a fundamental resource for farmers. As a result, there is a constant demand for agricultural land. Regions such as the Rift Valley and Western Kenya are known for their fertile soil and are prime areas for agricultural activities.

Government Initiatives and Infrastructure Development

The Kenyan government has initiated various infrastructure projects aimed at improving transportation and connectivity across the country. These projects, such as the Standard Gauge Railway and new highways, have a direct impact on land demand. Areas along these infrastructure corridors are experiencing increased interest from investors and developers.

Exploring Regions with Affordable Land in Kenya

If you've ever dreamed of becoming a landowner in Kenya, you'll be pleased to know that affordable land options exist in various regions across the country. Whether you're considering agricultural investments, residential properties, or commercial ventures, these regions offer enticing opportunities.

1. The Fertile Lands of Eldoret

Eldoret, often referred to as the "City of Champions," is known for its rich agricultural potential. With its fertile soils and a favorable climate, it's a hotspot for farming ventures. Affordable agricultural land can be found in areas surrounding Eldoret, making it an attractive destination for aspiring farmers.

2. Nakuru's Scenic Landscapes

Nakuru, situated in the Great Rift Valley, boasts stunning natural beauty. The region offers a blend of picturesque landscapes, including the famous Lake Nakuru National Park. Affordable land deals can be found around Nakuru, presenting an opportunity for those seeking to build homes or lodges in a serene environment.

Quote: "Nakuru's real estate market has witnessed steady growth due to its strategic location and tourism potential," notes [Real Estate Expert].

3. The Emerging Opportunities in Machakos County

Machakos County is gaining recognition as an emerging real estate destination. Its proximity to Nairobi and ongoing infrastructure developments, such as the Konza Technopolis, have ignited interest in this region. Savvy investors are exploring the affordability factor here.

4. The Coastal Charms of Kilifi

Kenya's coastal region, particularly Kilifi County, offers not only stunning beachfront properties but also more affordable land compared to other coastal destinations. Kilifi is a treasure trove for those seeking a coastal retreat or tourism-related investments.

Reference: Explore the unique charm of Kilifi in this [YouTube video] showcasing the beauty of the Kenyan coast.

5. The Green Haven of Kericho

Kericho, known for its lush tea plantations, provides opportunities for agriculture enthusiasts. The county's tea farms, rolling hills, and cool climate make it an attractive destination for those interested in agribusiness.In conclusion, Cheapest Land in Kenya's diverse landscape offers a spectrum of affordable land options. These regions, each with its own unique characteristics, beckon both local and international investors and dreamers. Whether you seek the tranquility of Eldoret's farmlands, the beauty of Nakuru's landscapes, the emerging potential of Machakos, the coastal allure of Kilifi, or the green haven of Kericho, there's a piece of Kenya waiting for you to make your mark.