Institutional Performance and Resilience in Ethiopian Botanical Gardens: Promoting Sustainable Biodiversity Management

Botanical gardens in Ethiopia function as vital socio-ecological systems supporting biodiversity conservation, cultural heritage, environmental education, and climate resilience. This study conducts a multi-dimensional evaluation of three major botanical gardens Gullele (GUBG), Shashemene (SHBG), and Dilla University (DUBEG) using mixed methods involving 300 stakeholder surveys, 15 interviews, and field observations. Six performance domains were assessed: governance, research, education, infrastructure, health and well-being, and cultural integration. Quantitative results indicate that Gullele achieved the highest performance score (mean 4.08), attributed to effective governance and strong infrastructure. Shashemene performed best in cultural integration, while Dilla University excelled in research. Logistic regression highlighted governance and infrastructure as key predictors of institutional success. Qualitative analysis revealed persistent challenges, including fragmented mandates, unstable funding, low community participation, and infrastructural deficits limiting long-term sustainability. Despite these barriers, Ethiopian botanical gardens show substantial potential to advance the nation’s Climate-Resilient Green Economy and Sustainable Development Goals. Strengthening coordinated governance, diversifying funding sources, and promoting local knowledge systems are essential for improving institutional resilience. Enhancing these gardens’ capacities will reinforce their contributions to sustainable land management, biodiversity protection, climate adaptation, and public well-being within Ethiopia’s diverse ecological and cultural landscapes.