About HoA-REC

What is the Horn of Africa Regional Environment Centre?

The Horn of Africa Regional Environment Centre and Network (HoA-REC/N) focuses on environmental concerns and sustainable development options within the Horn of Africa. The Centre is an autonomous institution under Addis Ababa University. It facilitates, strengthens and advocates for initiatives related to environmental conservation and natural resource management. The Network, hosted by the Centre, promotes more than 40 local member organisations – civil society organisations and institutions of higher learning and research –  and facilitates intensive cooperation and the exchange of experience and knowledge. HoA-REC/N links these initiatives and its various partners in order to enhance environmental governance and management, contribute to sustainable development, and improve livelihoods within the region.

Where is the Horn of Africa Regional Environment Centre located?

The Horn of Africa Regional Environment Centre is currently located in the new building of the Science Faculty of the Addis Ababa University. After the initial phase, it is envisaged that the Centre will move to the Gullele Botanic Garden. This unique area, one of the last green spaces of the city of Addis Ababa, is currently being developed jointly by the Addis Ababa University and the Municipality of Addis Ababa. In addition to a botanical component, the garden will contain an extensive forest sanctuary of indigenous tree species, a eucalyptus arboretum, a natural history museum and an eco-village. The eco-village will simultaneously promote culture as well as environmentally friendly technologies, such as solar power, mini-hydropower and eco friendly building. The garden will serve both as a conservation, education and recreation area for residents of Addis Ababa and tourists from Addis Ababa as well as from the rest of the Horn of Africa.