Urban Expansion and Displacement: Effects on Peripheral Farming Communities’ Livelihood in Burayyu Town, Finfine, Ethiopia

Rapid urban expansion in Ethiopia has produced profound transformations in the livelihoods, land-use patterns, and socio-economic structures of peri-urban communities. Burayyu town, located on the periphery of Finfine (Addis Ababa), has experienced accelerated spatial growth driven by population pressure, investment demand, and administrative restructuring. This study examines the extent to which the expansion of Burayyu town has displaced farming households and reshaped their livelihood strategies. Using mixed methods household surveys, key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and document analysis the study analyses changes in landholdings, income sources, employment patterns, and social networks among affected households. The results indicate significant livelihood disruption: loss of agricultural land, inadequate and delayed compensation, limited access to alternative employment, and erosion of traditional socio-cultural systems. While some displaced households pursue new strategies such as informal trade, wage labour, and rental housing, these opportunities remain unstable and insufficient for long-term livelihood security. The paper argues that urban expansion without inclusive planning exacerbates poverty, marginalization, and socio-economic vulnerability. It concludes with policy recommendations for more equitable land governance, livelihood restoration programmes, and sustainable peri-urban development.

Economics

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