West Arsi Zone AdministrationWest Arsi Zone AdministrationWest Arsi Zone AdministrationThe West Arsi Zone is named after a subgroup of Oromo people called the Arsi Oromo. They are one of the Barento Oromo branches, specifically of the Sikkoo Mandoo group. Parts of Arsi, Bale, and East Shewa zones were reorganized into the zone now known as West Arsi. According to one source, the current territory was formed in 1998 E.C. from districts formerly under Arsi, Bale, and East Shewa zones.
Total area of the zone is about 11,700 to 12,700 km² depending on measurement. Altitude ranges broadly from about 500 metres to over 3,200 metres above sea level. The area has three main agro ecological zones: Highland (Dega), Moderate climate (Woinadega) and Lowland (Kolla).
The economy of West Arsi Zone is primarily driven by agriculture, which employs the majority of the population and forms the backbone of local livelihoods. The zone practices mixed farming, combining both crop cultivation and livestock rearing. The dominant crops include wheat, barley, maize, teff, sorghum, and haricot beans, alongside vegetables such as potatoes, tomatoes, and cabbage. In highland and midland areas, potato and wheat farming are especially important, with potato production contributing significantly to household income in districts like Shala and Shashemene. Recent studies indicate that potato farming in the region is expanding due to increasing demand and favorable agroecological conditions, though productivity is affected by access to inputs, extension services, and market infrastructure. Barley and wheat are also part of emerging value chains that involve producers, collectors, wholesalers, processors, and retailers. Cluster farming approaches are being adopted in some areas to strengthen market access and productivity
Livestock farming is another major economic activity, closely linked to the agricultural calendar and cultural practices of the people. Households typically raise cattle, sheep, goats, donkeys, horses, and poultry. In the highland regions, small ruminants are especially common due to their adaptability and economic value. Beekeeping is also practiced in forested or semi-forested areas, providing honey for local consumption and markets. Additionally, many rural households engage in home-garden agroforestry systems, where they grow vegetables, root crops, fruits, and trees around their homes. These gardens serve multiple functions—supplying food, generating income, providing firewood and fodder, and supporting biodiversity. Forest products and non-timber resources like medicinal plants and spices are also collected in some areas. In parts of the Bale–West Arsi eco-region, participatory forest management is helping communities protect and sustainably utilize forest resources, contributing to both conservation and income generation.
Emerging sectors such as coffee and specialty crops are beginning to play a role in the zone’s economic development. For instance, the Riripa village in Nensebo Woreda is recognized internationally for producing high-quality natural coffee, exported through washing stations. Tourism, particularly ecotourism, is also growing in areas like Lephis Ecotourism Village and around the west Arsi Mountains, although it is still underdeveloped. These new income sources, combined with traditional agriculture and livestock activities, are creating opportunities for diversification. Despite this, challenges remain, including market access, infrastructure gaps, limited value addition, and climate-related risks. Overall, West Arsi’s economy is rooted in its natural resources and rural labor force, with great potential for growth through improved agricultural practices, value chain development, and sustainable natural resource management.
West Arsi Zone has seen significant infrastructure development, particularly in road construction, water access, and electrification, though some gaps remain. The zone is connected by existing major asphalt roads, such as the Shashamene–Dodola–Adaba road, Shashamane-Aje, Asasa-Dodola which facilitates trade and movement between key towns and surrounding rural areas. Recently, new roads like the 72.25 km Edo–Serofta–Warka asphalt road, linking Dodola and Nensebo woredas, have been under construction to further improve connectivity in remote areas. In water and sanitation, projects by organizations like Amref Health Africa and the Austrian Development Agency have improved access to safe water in districts including Shashamene, Kofale, and Negele Arsi. Access to electricity is expanding through national programs such as ELEAP and ADELE, targeting both grid and off-grid solutions.
To ensure sustainable socio-economic development through improved agriculture, natural resource management, and equitable access to basic services for all residents.
To deliver efficient and inclusive public services, promote sustainable development, strengthen good governance, and enhance the livelihoods of the community through participatory and accountable systems.