TRUSTED IBIS Stories of nature, culture, and knowledge from Ethiopia and beyond
The African Sacred Ibis (Threskiornis aethiopicus)—its beak echoing the form of a scribe’s pen—has long been associated with knowledge, writing, and the pursuit of truth across Northeastern Africa.
Inspired by this legacy, Trusted Ibis is the Trust’s editorial and multimedia platform. It brings together articles and features that explore Ethiopia’s conservation work, cultural heritage, and the dynamic relationship between nature and society.
Through research, storytelling, and critical reflection, the platform highlights themes ranging from environmental stewardship and historical landscapes to contemporary challenges in climate, architecture, and sustainable development.
We welcome contributions from researchers, practitioners, and writers engaging with Ethiopia and the wider region. To submit a proposal or article, please contact: trustedibis@ethiopianconservationtrust.org
The early Trust days
In 1995, a group of volunteers climbed the slopes of Entoto to plant indigenous trees and restore a landscape that had long been degraded by eucalyptus plantations. Along the way, they were joined by a group of street children who, despite having almost nothing, chose to give their time freely to help create something for future generations.
This is the story of how a shared belief in stewardship, community, and voluntary action transformed an ambitious idea into one of Ethiopia's most inspiring conservation initiatives.
From Entoto to Yerer
Growing up in Addis Ababa, Ensermu Workneh always knew the mountains that surround the city. But it was only through his work with the Ethiopian Conservation Trust that he came to understand the profound ecological changes taking place across these landscapes. Reflecting on the restoration of Entoto and the Trust's expanding work on Mount Yerer, he explores how indigenous tree planting, ecosystem recovery, and community stewardship are helping restore balance to some of Ethiopia's most important natural environments.
Humanity’s place in the natural world
Collected across Ethiopia by author and folklorist Elizabeth Laird, these remarkable stories offer a different perspective on humanity's relationship with the natural world.
More than entertaining stories, these folktales invite reflection on stewardship, coexistence, and the wisdom embedded within Ethiopia's rich oral heritage.